As the school year officially winds down, most students, parents, and educators enter the mode of only doing what is necessary to get to the respite of summer break. To-do lists are typically limited to what is required and necessary–phrases like “survival mode” or “seeing the light at the end of the tunnel” are commonly used to describe the general near-sighted approach and tenor. This kind of thinking relegates big-picture planning or proactive steps to the following school year after summer break. 

Closing out the school year strong is important for organizational, professional, and personal reasons. Finishing end-of-year tasks prevents future crises and getting the checklist done provides a tangible sense of accomplishment.

‍But simply focusing on closing out the current year misses one of the most promising opportunities for these final weeks–building connections for students between the current year and the next and ensuring that they start the year with momentum and confidence. 

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