Now that the end of the school year is in sight, it’s time to plan the party. New teachers who are beginning to feel at “home” will find a party a good excuse to celebrate. After all, it’s been a tough year and you deserve some time out of the classroom. Still not sure? Here are some ideas to help you get started.
Plan party themes
Party themes are entertaining and great fun for all teachers. A party theme also makes planning easier because the concept is there. They allow for a great deal of creative planning and all teachers can get involved with the details of party planning. Some ideas for party themes include:
- Oscar night party theme complete with red carpet and stars on walk of fame
- summer beach party theme
- taste of italy
party activities
If you don’t go the theme party planning route, you can plan a nice party on an open deck with just a few nice party activities. Or plan a barbecue or other special treats, which isn’t bad either. Some of these parties are actually the best year-end personal memories.
Music is a great way to connect. You can ask each teacher what music they would like to hear, just one song, and hold a contest to see who can guess which teacher requested which song. It’s also a great icebreaker for the classroom, and especially right before the holidays.
other party activities include:
- karaoke
- end-of-year speeches, poems, songs, riddles, games. An adult scavenger hunt or twenty questions is also a good idea.
- go on a trip, or to a restaurant. Less cooking and preparation. This can also be a great way to celebrate the end of the new year in style!
party favors for teachers
What’s a party without a special gift for teachers who are retiring or taking a gap year? Gift certificates are a good first option. Other ideas include:
- a book by a teacher’s favorite author
- a certificate for a massage or spa or health club membership
- a good journal
- a photo album containing special photos taken throughout the year
Party time
Consider planning a party event at night instead of a daytime event. An evening event gives teachers time to unplug. However, please note that some teachers may not be able to attend, especially if they have toddlers and babies at home.
Have a great party! Whatever party ideas you bring to the staff meeting, your contributions are important, so don’t be afraid to share them. After all, a party is a good excuse to simply share each other’s company and recharge for the next school year.