Starting a new school year can stir up a lot of emotions—especially when you don’t know what to expect. Whether it’s a new curriculum, a new class makeup, or simply the uncertainty of how the year will go, this episode is your reminder: you can handle it.

In this episode, Barb shares how to embrace uncertainty with confidence instead of anxiety. You'll learn:

• Why uncertainty triggers anxiety for so many teachers
• Mindset shifts that help you stay grounded and resilient
• The importance of realistic expectations (and how to set them)
• Two powerful mantras: "Progress over perfection" and "Embrace the journey"
• Practical ideas for building routines and preparing for unexpected challenges

Plus, Barb reflects on her own growth as a teacher and principal—and reminds you that uncertainty isn’t a sign of failure, it’s a sign of growth in motion.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. 

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.