This is Mr. Funky Teacher with BeAFunkyTeacher.com. I'm coming to you with another Be a Funky Teacher podcast. Today we're going to be talking about the first day of school—tips for teachers building relationships from day one. I am so excited because today my students come. After a week and a half of showing up without students, today is the day where my group of students will be showing up. I think they’re nervous and excited too, but I’m nervous and excited as well. There are lots of emotions on both sides. I’m excited to begin working with students—that’s what it’s all about. Before we go further, I want to share my three things I’m thankful for. One thing I’m thankful for is a good hug from one of my sons—the kind of hug that makes everything feel right in the world. My youngest son told me he missed me and gave me a hug that melted away any trouble. My older two are kind of at an age where hugs are quick or half-hugs, so this moment meant a lot to me. I’m also thankful for extra sleep. I woke up a little later than normal, not oversleeping, but giving myself just a bit more rest. Teachers need all the sleep they can get early in the year because the first days are exhausting. That extra rest gave me a bit more energy. And the third thing is a warm bed. Such a simple thing, but it’s a gift to feel your worries melt away and wake up refreshed. Let’s get into the meat and potatoes—the first day of school. The energy is real. There’s excitement and nerves for students and teachers. Kids wonder what their teacher will be like, and since I’m new to the district, they don’t know me at all. The fourth-grade team shared a bit about me in the spring, but there are still lots of unknowns until you meet in person. The first impression matters more than a perfect lesson plan. My goal today is to make every student feel seen and safe. I want to learn something personal about each student and set the tone for how our classroom community will work. A few connection-focused tips: greet students by name and use the name they prefer. If a student says, “Call me this,” then call them that. Names matter. They help students feel recognized and welcomed. Use good icebreaker questions that give every student something to share. Keep them low-stakes so any student, even one who had a tough summer, can still participate confidently. Be aware of your body language. If I stand with crossed arms or look annoyed—even if I’m not—students will feel that. Nonverbal communication is powerful, especially on day one. The vibe you give off sets the tone. Keep early activities low-pressure and collaborative. Student-centered and interactive tasks help build community right away. I like grouping kids, giving them a shared prompt, and having each person contribute something small. It helps them feel part of something bigger from the start. After school, I will reflect on what I saw, what I said, and how students responded. This helps me prepare and teaches me what students might need moving forward. Ultimately, the first day isn’t about cramming in every procedure or jumping straight into heavy academics. It’s about relationships. It’s about making sure students know the classroom is a safe place and that they belong there. That’s our job as educators. Wherever you are, I hope you have a wonderful school year. I love the first day—it’s like an adult version of Christmas morning. I get to meet the students I’ll spend the year with, learn who they are, and watch them grow. I know it’s going to be a great year. Remember to inspire greatness in young people. And don’t forget to be a funky teacher. Bye now.