5. Make sure you are at the top of the salary ladder for your years of service and units.
   I think teachers should be well compensated. It's a good feeling knowing you are being compensated at the highest possible level. Take a look at your salary schedule and start earning units now to move up the ladder. Take a course to earn units for salary advancement and to gain some new ideas.

   This might be the perfect time to take a quick course. If you’re looking for courses that offer incredible flexibility while you’re gaining new skills and ideas, consider taking them online. Online courses are designed to fit your schedule without losing valuable time commuting to and from universities. Of course, I encourage you to take a look at our 100% practical courses for teachers.

6. Pamper yourself!
   Go for it! Paint your nails a wild color. Light some candles and soak in the tub. Treat yourself to a facial or massage. Sit on the couch and read silly magazines while demolishing a bowl of popcorn! You’ve worked hard this school year! You deserve to pamper yourself!
7. Read, read, read!
   Get lost in a really good book. Winter break is the perfect time to snuggle up and dive into a book you’ve been anxious to read!

   Are you one of those teachers who really enjoys spending time during breaks in your classrooms? Here are some thoughts to consider if you just can’t stay away.

8. Limit the time you spend in your classroom.
   Set a reasonable schedule for the amount of time you’re willing to work in your room. You might decide that one or two mornings is enough. Don’t spend every waking moment in your classroom. Don’t miss this chance to take care of yourself and to truly step away from school and unwind.

Spend some time getting organized.
If you’ve chosen to spend some of your valuable break time in your classroom, why not spend it getting organized? This could be the perfect time for a file cabinet clean out or the reorganization of your teaching materials. You’ll be surprised at the wonderful resources you rediscover!

Fine-tune classroom procedures and routines.
Take some time to reflect upon your school year so far. Think about all of the things that go well in your classroom. Analyze any areas that you feel need improvement. Jot some quick notes about things you’d like to change when school starts again. January is the perfect time to make some adjustments! It’s an opportunity to re-start the class that is almost as good as the first day of school. Don’t miss this perfect time to make changes and teach routines that will make things go smoothly and save time.

I feel so fortunate that every winter I have two weeks to rest, relax and recharge my batteries.Make this winter break your best one ever! Go back in January with a smile on your face and the enthusiasm to enjoy the rest of the school year!

Best wishes ~

Sue Gruber
Barbara Gruber Online Courses for Teachers
www.bgrubercourses.com

Copyright 2008: Barbara Gruber Courses for Teachers

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