There’s something about the quiet of summer mornings that gets me thinking. No bells, no lesson plans, no grading. Just a cup of tea and a good book. But even in that stillness, the gears don’t stop turning. As social studies teachers, we live in stories—and summer is its own kind of narrative. A preface, maybe, for the year to come.
I used to think summer was strictly for rest. And while that’s still true (please take a nap), it’s also the best time to zoom out and think big. Not just what you’re going to teach, but why.
Last summer, I sat down with a notebook and one question: What do I want students to walk away with? I didn’t start with standards or pacing guides. I started with the big ideas—justice, leadership, conflict, innovation. Then I built everything else around those. It changed how I approached the whole year.
Summer’s also a great time to curate. Found a great article about political cartoons? Save it. Came across a strange historical fact that makes you go “huh”? That’s your opening hook for October. I keep a running Google Doc with links, maps, memes—even questions my own kids ask.
Use the downtime to dream a little. Because once the year begins, we all know it’s game on. Take the time now to prepare a classroom that isn’t just organized—but inspired.
Happy teaching,
Ryan Wagoner The Lyceum of History
“I am indebted to my father for living, but to my teacher for living well.” ~Alexander the Great
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