What to Do the First Week of School: 6 Must-Do Routines for a Smooth Start

The first week of school is all about setting the tone. It’s your chance to create structure, build trust, and introduce routines that will carry your class through the entire year. The truth is, academics can wait a few days. Strong systems cannot.

If you're wondering what to focus on, here are six high-impact routines every teacher should put in place during the first week.

1. Greet Every Student at the Door

Start strong by connecting with students before they even enter the classroom. A simple "Good morning" or a personalized handshake can make a big difference. This small habit builds community, sets a positive tone, and helps you take the emotional temperature of your class from the very first minute.

2. Teach and Practice Every Procedure

Do not assume anything. Teach students how to enter the classroom, line up, transition between subjects, ask for help, and pack up at the end of the day. Go slow, model exactly what it should look like, and give students plenty of chances to practice.

This takes time, but it saves you hours of correcting behaviors later in the year. Students thrive when the expectations are clear and consistent.

3. Anchor the Day with Predictable Routines

Establish morning and end-of-day routines early. For example:

• Greet students

• Unpack quietly

• Begin a morning warm-up or journal

• Circle up for end-of-day reflection

These consistent moments help students feel secure and focused. I use a daily morning slide with a greeting question to kick things off and give students a chance to connect with one another.

4. Introduce Your Expectations and Norms

Take time to clearly explain your classroom expectations. Focus on the behaviors you want to see, rather than just listing rules. Use simple, positive language and explain why each expectation matters.

If you're looking for support here, I created a Classroom Management Bundle that walks students through expectations, rules, and common procedures. It includes editable slides and visual supports that you can customize for your class.
👉 Check it out here on Teachers Pay Teachers

5. Practice Voice Levels and Attention Signals

Teach what different voice levels sound like in your classroom. What does a whisper voice sound like during independent work? What does a partner voice sound like during discussion? Practice each one and give feedback along the way.

Also, choose an attention signal and use it early and often. Whether it's a call and response or a chime, the goal is to get students' attention without raising your voice. Practicing this in the first week sets the expectation moving forward.

6. Build Relationships and Create a Safe Space

Classroom management starts with connection. Use the first week to get to know your students and let them get to know you. Incorporate community circles, team-building activities, and plenty of chances for students to feel heard.

When students feel safe and seen, they’re much more likely to follow directions, take risks in their learning, and treat others with kindness.

Strong classroom management doesn’t come from being strict. It comes from being consistent, clear, and connected. When you invest in structure during the first week of school, you’re creating the foundation for a smooth, successful year.

Want ready-to-use resources that will help you teach these routines with ease?
👉 Grab my Classroom Management Bundle here and take the guesswork out of your first week plans.