10 Questions Theatre Teachers Should Ask Themselves at the Start of Every School Year

Are you ready for the new year? Before the games, lessons, auditions, rehearsals, and beautiful classroom chaos begin, it’s worth taking a few minutes to pause and ask yourself: What do I actually want this year to feel like? 

Here are 10 questions you can ask yourself before day one to define and clarify your teaching philosophy, intention, and expectations for the year. You don’t need to have every answer right away, but asking the right questions now can help you build a strong ensemble with your students, a smooth running classroom, and a drama program that feels purposeful from the start.

1. What do I want students to feel when they walk into my classroom?
2. What routines will help balance structure and creative chaos?
3. How will I build ensemble with students from day one?
4. What skills do my students need most right now?
5. Where can I give students more choice, voice, or ownership?
6. What expectations need to be clear before we start performing?
7. How will I support both confident performers and reluctant participants?
8. What lessons, projects, or units worked well last year, and what needs a reset?
9. How will I make space for reflection, feedback, and growth?
10. What can I simplify this year so I have more energy for the moments that matter?

The start of the year is the perfect time to reset, reflect, and make a plan that supports both your students and you. We hope these questions help you focus on what matters most!