Episode 377: Monday Mindset: Winter Break Won't Save You If You Don't Do This

Looking for simple, high-impact routines that make teaching feel lighter and your classroom run smoother? In today’s episode, Caitlin shares five of her favorite practical routines that help create calm beginnings, peaceful endings, predictable pacing, better student behavior, and effortless paper management.These are routines you can implement tomorrow and use for the rest of the semester to save time, reduce stress, and help your students thrive.In this episode, you’ll learn:How a “Silent Start” routine sets the tone for the entire classA simple end-of-class reading ritual that makes transitions peacefulThe 15-Minute Classroom Management system that students can run for youA paper turn-in routine that eliminates missing work and confusionHow to use a daily timed agenda to improve pacing and structurePerfect for teachers heading into a new semester or looking to reset their classroom routines with confidence and clarity.✨ LINKS MENTIONED:Hanging Pocket Folders → https://www.amazon.com/Godery-Signatory-Cascading-Organizer-Classroom/dp/B075DCTJVR/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?...YouTube Video 15-Minute Classroom Management Strategy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZkdeEZL8rw

In today’s Monday Mindset, is your cozy little reminder that winter break alone won’t magically refill your cup—unless you do one simple, powerful thing. We’re diving into the mindset shift that helps you feel lighter, calmer, and genuinely restored long before break even begins.If you’re craving clarity, breathing room, and a gentler pace this season, this episode is your warm nudge in the right direction. Tune in and treat yourself to a few minutes of calm and encouragement. 💛

In today’s episode, we’re talking about the uncomfortable truth most teachers don’t want to hear: skipping planning doesn’t save time—it drains it. When you plan day-to-day, you’re making hundreds of decisions while already exhausted, and that’s what’s stealing your energy, your evenings, and your peace of mind.  You’ll also learn how batch planning works, why it’s flexible (not rigid), and how a few focused hours can give you back your nights and weekends. This episode isn’t about doing more.It’s about planning smarter—so teaching feels predictable, peaceful, and sustainable again. Grab Your Free Batch Planning Tips Here: https://www.ebteacher.com/free-10-tips-for-Batch-Planning

Today’s Monday Mindset episode is a powerful reminder that being an incredible teacher doesn’t mean sacrificing your evenings, weekends, or well-being. The best teachers aren’t the ones who stay the latest—they’re the ones who protect their energy, set boundaries, and show up refreshed and present for their students.Tune in for a mindset shift that gives you permission to step away… without guilt. 💛

Today on the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast, we’re joined by our very own Membership Manager, Genevieve Chavez, who’s sharing the incredible story of how one teacher got her most reluctant writers begging to revise—yes, even right before winter break!It’s an inspiring, practical, feel-good episode you won’t want to miss. Tune in and let Genevieve’s insights spark new ideas for your own writers! ✨Gingerbread House Activity: https://www.ebteacher.com/gingerbread-house

In today’s Monday Mindset episode, we’re reminding ourselves that rest isn’t a reward—it’s a necessity. When we intentionally slow down, we give our minds and bodies the space they need to reset, refocus, and show up stronger. This week, choose rest with purpose and watch how it transforms your energy, clarity, and joy. 

Before break energy hits full chaos mode… we’ve got you covered.In today’s episode, we’re bringing on Pat from our curriculum team to share a pre-break activity your students will beg to do again — and yes, it’s sneakily building their understanding of setting too. Fun, meaningful, and totally classroom-ready. 

Today, we’re talking about staying calm amidst the chaos — especially during this busy season when everything feels louder, faster, and more overwhelming than usual.In this episode, Caitlin shares quick, practical mindset shifts to help you ground yourself, protect your energy, and move through the week with more ease (yes, even when life is wild!).Perfect reset to start your Monday strong. Please like and follow us on Instagram @ebacademics

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving can feel chaotic — high energy, low focus, zero attention span. But what if it didn’t have to be survival mode?In today’s episode, Caitlin shares a simple gratitude writing project that transforms that busy pre-break day into one of the most meaningful moments of your school year. It’s low-prep, highly engaging, and helps students practice real writing skills while connecting from the heart.If you’ve been searching for a lesson that brings calm, purpose, and heart into your classroom before break… this one’s for you.You can learn more at ebteacher.com/portal.

This week’s Monday Mindset episode dives into one of the hardest parts of personal growth: facing the truths we’ve been avoiding. Caitlin opens up about the “mirror moments” in her life — times when uncomfortable honesty led to deep healing, stronger leadership, and real transformation. Whether you’re a teacher navigating what’s not working in your classroom, a leader owning your blind spots, or someone simply trying to grow, this episode will meet you exactly where you are.Reflection for the week: What truth have you been avoiding that might actually be the key to your next level?