CHECK OUT THE ULTIMATE NEW TEACHER AMAZON WISHLIST

How to Fit In with Your Grade Level Team at a New School (Even if They’re Already Tight)

beginning elementary teachers making friends at a new school new teacher

Click the play bar below to listen to this week's show now:

Show Notes:

Stepping into a new school as a teacher can feel a lot like being the new kid all over again—uncertain, a little nervous, and silently wondering where you’ll sit at lunch. But just like students, teachers crave connection, belonging, and a sense that they’re part of something bigger. With the right mindset and a few intentional steps, that lingering question of “Do I fit in?” will soon be a thing of the past.

While building connections with students might come naturally, forming those same bonds with colleagues can be a bit more challenging (especially if you’re the newbie on an established team!). In today’s episode, I’m sharing practical advice for how you can fit in at a new school or with your grade-level team. Whether you’re just starting out and hoping to make new teacher friends, or a few years in but still feeling like an outsider, these simple and actionable strategies will help.

The tips I’m sharing today are designed to help you build genuine relationships with your colleagues through small, intentional actions. I’ll walk you through real-life examples that show how simple efforts can lead to stronger connections and a greater sense of belonging. And of course I’ll also offer advice on what not to do if you want to make a good impression with coworkers and parents.

I know that building relationships at a new school can feel tricky at first, but with a little patience, a positive outlook, and the right strategies, you won’t just fit in, you’ll start forming relationships that will carry you through even the toughest days. It’s worth being intentional now, because just like with your students, the time you invest in building connections will pay off all year long.

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

Six tips and strategies that will help you build relationships with your fellow teachers, specifically with your grade-level team.
How aligning yourself with positive teachers helps you grow as a teacher and create a good reputation at your school.
The number one way to keep your professionalism, which is the best way to build trust.
Two simple yet powerful ideas for creating opportunities for connection that are intentional and take no time.
A reminder that relationships take time, so it’s important to be patient, consistent, and authentic.

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode:

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 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.

Want to listen on a different platform? Here are the links:

Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts.

Click here to listen on Spotify.

Click here to listen on YouTube.

Click here to listen on iHeart Radio.

Click here to listen on Audible.

Click here to listen on other apps.

Related episodes you might enjoy:

Follow:

Are you following my podcast? I release fresh, new content every single week and I don't want you to miss out! 💛 Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts.

Leave a Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you are loving the podcast, I would be so grateful if you would leave me a review over on Apple Podcasts or on Audible. Each time you leave a review, Apple Podcasts or Audible recommends my podcast to other new teachers so they feel a little less alone as they navigate their first few years of teaching.

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know how this podcast is helping you inside your classroom!

To leave a review on Audible, just click here. Under "More Options" you can select "Write a review." I so appreciate your support in helping me get the word out to new teachers around the world.