Starting the school year as an ELA teacher can feel overwhelming, but focusing on intentional actions during the first two weeks can set the tone for the entire year. One of the best practices I've found useful is making a genuine effort to learn all your students' names early on. This simple gesture builds rapport and shows students you value them personally. Establishing clear classroom routines and procedures right away also helps maintain an organized environment where students know what to expect. This consistency increases their comfort and focus, allowing more time for meaningful learning activities. Incorporating a "book tasting" activity is a creative way to expose students to various genres and titles, sparking enthusiasm for independent reading. Scheduling a library day ensures every student selects a book they are interested in, which is crucial for nurturing a reading habit. Setting personalized reading goals for the quarter empowers students to take ownership of their progress. Pairing this with tools like reading and writing notebooks or binders encourages them to track their growth systematically. Assessments, such as grammar pre-tests during the second week, provide valuable insights into individual skill levels. This information enables tailored instruction to support student success. Finally, initiating routines like "First Chapter Friday," where students listen to the beginning of a new book each week, enriches classroom culture and promotes a love for literature. Overall, focusing on these strategies not only enhances student engagement but also creates a supportive learning community. Being intentional with these foundational steps in the early weeks helps build momentum toward a successful school year.