Finding Joy in the Summer School Hustle

Summer break is usually a time to unwind, travel, and recharge—but for some of us educators, it also means signing up for summer school. While some may think of it as “extra work,” I’ve discovered that working summer school can be both rewarding and fun—yes, fun!

There’s something uniquely refreshing about the pace and vibe of summer school. The days are shorter, class sizes are smaller, and the atmosphere is more relaxed. It gives me a chance to teach with a little more flexibility, try out creative activities, and build strong connections with students who need just a little more time and support.

But what really keeps me smiling through it all? The fun we create along the way. We dance in the classroom to tik-tok songs, make up silly chants to remember ELA strategies, and turn reading comprehension into a full-blown game show. I’ve found that summer school gives me a chance to bring out my most energetic, playful teaching style—without the pressure of high-stakes testing or rigid pacing guides.

I also find joy in the little moments: ice cream Fridays, outdoor lessons under the shade on the picnic tables, and bonding with students who start off shy but blossom with just a bit of extra attention. The smaller setting allows me to see growth in real time, and that’s a powerful feeling.

And let’s not forget the teacher fun! My colleagues and I support each other with morning coffee breaks, group lunches, and daily check-ins that make the days fly by. The camaraderie of working summer school—especially when you’re doing it with a great team—makes even the busiest days feel lighter.

So yes, I’m working while others are vacationing. But I’m also smiling, laughing, dancing, and making a difference. That’s the kind of summer work I can get behind.

Summer school may not look like a tropical getaway, but the joy I find in helping students grow—and having a little fun along the way—makes it one of the most meaningful ways I can spend my summer.