Lead the Year Before It Starts

Summer might feel like a break, but for school leaders, it’s the perfect time to look ahead.

Before your team returns, there’s a small window to reset systems, clean up routines, and make sure the year starts strong. You don’t need to overhaul everything; just focus on the right moves that will support instruction.

Here are 3 simple ways to lead with intention (without working all summer).

🎯 1. Start With a Clear Vision

What do you want teaching and learning to feel like this year?

Get specific now, while things are quiet:

  • What learning experiences should students have?
  • What supports will teachers need?
  • How will you track progress?

Defining this early helps your team start aligned, not reactive.

👉 Create a Team

⏰ 2. Build Time Into the System

Want your team to plan, reflect, or collaborate more next year? Make space for it before the year begins.

Review your calendar now:

  • Are there pockets for planning and coaching?
  • Is there time to review student work together?
  • Can you protect some space from meetings?

When time is designed into the system, it actually gets used.

🤖 3. Set the Stage for New Tools

New tools shouldn’t mean new headaches. They should simplify.

Speakable is built for exactly that. It helps teachers create speaking-focused assignments in minutes, with AI scoring, instant feedback for students, and real-time progress tracking.

It gives your teachers more time to teach and provides you with visibility into what’s happening in the classroom.

🌱 The Best Year Starts Now

You don’t have to wait for August to lead. The most effective leaders use summer to prepare systems.

Want to start the year with clarity? Try Speakable!

👉 Create a Team

Valentina Garcia
July 15, 2025
5 min read