Back to School

As summer winds down and the start of a new school year approaches, teachers and students gear up for the year ahead, though much of the prep work happens behind the scenes, long before students step foot on campus.

How Educators Prepare

Contrary to popular belief, educators and staff don't enjoy a three-month hiatus during the summer. "I think what people don't realize is that teachers and staff don't just leave when students leave for summer and return when they do. There's a lot of work that happens behind the scenes," shares Laura Saliba, Dual Enrollment Coordinator at Crosstown High.

For the staff at Crosstown High, summer is a critical time for preparing students for their next stages in life. "We have to ensure all transcripts are sent to colleges for graduates, complete incoming freshman's records, and make sure all students' schedules are set," Saliba explains. This involves pulling records from various schools, updating immunizations, and creating schedules for over 500 students.

Recruiting new teachers is another significant task. "We're in a teacher shortage situation, so hiring new teachers is crucial. This includes the recruitment process, interviews, and ensuring teachers are scheduled properly," Saliba adds. "We need to make sure both students and teachers are set up for success."

How Students Prepare

Students also feel the excitement and pressure of a new school year. Madeline Mead, a Crosstown High student, shares her routine: "I get lots of rest and try to fix my sleep schedule in preparation for school." She said she eagerly anticipates her new classes, particularly an AP art class she's excited about.

Ethan Choo loves the back-to-school shopping ritual. "I always find new stuff for the year like books and pencils. It helps me mentally prepare," he says. Ethan also takes the time to organize his supplies, clear out his backpack, and review last year's materials to get back into the school mindset.

Crosstown High

How to Support the Back to School Transition

• Teacher Wish Lists

  Help teachers get the supplies they need by buying something on their teacher wish list. Teach901 has compiled a spreadsheet with links to wishlists from teachers throughout Shelby County. Surprise a teacher with your generosity. Every little bit helps to fuel education for the benefit of our students. 

• Volunteer

  Crosstown High is specifically looking for leaders in their work-based learning program, where professionals from various fields, such as architecture, medicine, and engineering, can offer students hands-on experience and real-world insights. For more information or to volunteer, contact Laura Sailba. 

  There are also volunteer ideas and opportunities for schools on Give901. Check out our suggestions on remote, individual and group volunteer ideas. You could simply write appreciation notes or organize a group outing to volunteer at a school. Either way, Give901 is here to set you up for success.  

• Support Teach901

  The teacher shortage is a real concern for all schools throughout Shelby County. Teach901 addresses these gaps through our recruitment programs by partnering with nonprofits, Memphis Teacher Residency and Teach for America Memphis. Additionally, Teach901 conducts detailed surveys to gather insights on teacher retention, helping schools understand and improve their environments. Help us continue addressing the teacher shortage by supporting Teach901. Contributions are poured straight back into improving our city.