How to Pack Up Your Classroom for the Summer (So Next Year Feels 10x Easier)
May 20, 2026Click the play bar below to listen to this week's show now:
In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori Friesen shares a simple but powerful way to pack up your classroom at the end of the year so next year feels easier from day one. She walks you through how strengthening your classroom systems now can reduce overwhelm, improve classroom management, and help you start the new school year feeling calm, clear, and prepared.
Show Notes:
As spring fever sets in and the school year winds down, it’s tempting to rush through classroom pack-up just to be done. But in this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori Friesen shares a powerful shift in thinking that can transform how you end the year so next year feels dramatically easier. Learn how a simple, system-based approach to packing up your classroom can reduce overwhelm, strengthen your classroom management, and help you start the next school year with clarity and confidence.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why end-of-year classroom pack-up is a critical part of effective classroom management
- How to stop saving everything and make intentional decisions that strengthen classroom systems
- A simple strategy for organizing your materials by classroom systems rather than random supplies
- How to “leave breadcrumbs” for your future self so you don’t feel like you’re starting over each year
- The “First Week Box” every teacher should create to reduce stress and set strong routines
Links & Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
- Virtual Teacher Summer Camp
- Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram
- Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok
- Follow Dr. Lori on Facebook
- Learn more about Dr. Lori's programs
Listen & Subscribe:
If you're packing up your classroom for the summer, this episode will help you do more than just organize your supplies. Learn how a few simple systems now can save you time, reduce stress, and help you walk into next school year feeling calm, prepared, and confident.
🎧 Listen to the episode and subscribe to the Beginning Teacher Talk Podcast so you never miss new strategies for classroom management, teacher success, and starting the school year strong.
💛 Lori
Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor
Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast Beginning Teacher Talk and author of Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com.
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Related Episodes You Might Enjoy:
- 8 Thing to Do Before You Leave School for the Summer
- How to Get Planned, Prepped, and Organized Without Working 24/7
- 3 Summer Must-Reads for New Teachers
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