3 Days and Counting

Teachers report back to school in 3 days. I have worked on the physical part of the room off and on all summer on the weekdays I was in town. Now, however, I'm beginning that obsession I have to organize thoughts and plans. It's very hard to relax because I am continually thinking about the school year:

Who are my students? I've already looked up their pictures in the yearbook.
How many students will I have?
Where do I need to seat each student?
Do they work well in groups?
What are the differences of inclusion/push-in?
Will I have "push-in" support on Day 1 or will I be on my own for 3 weeks while SPED gets started?
Will I have planning time with the teachers that will be "pushing-in" to my room?
Are there any good resources to read for this "push-in" model?
What will my class schedule look like?
What will I have the students & parents do during meet and greet?
What will we do on the first 2 days of school?
What changes have been made in the curriculum?
How will I ever squeeze all the curriculum in?

I think the list can go on and on, but these have been the most pressing. I am forcing myself to stay away from my classroom even though I know the doors are unlocked from 6:30 - 4:30 right now. I'm also trying to relax at the pool, read a book, spend time with my family, etc. Once school gets rolling, I have a hard time finding free time during the first month.

Can I be more balanced this year with my personal and professional obligation? How well will I keep up with my reflections? Will these reflections help me become a better educator?

Stay tuned for answers to all these questions and more!