Back to School
Education news, analysis, and opinion about the start of the school year
EdWeek's Back-to-School Reading List
Explore some of our most popular and powerful stories, selected by our editors as back-to-school must reads. Update date: July 25, 2025
Student Well-Being & Movement
Opinion
First Days of School at Any Age Never Lose Their Power
At 62, I started graduate school the same day my grandson began kindergarten, proof that curiosity and growth never retire.
School & District Management
How Principals Can Help Teachers in a New School Year
Teachers say more classroom autonomy is key to boosting morale and job satisfaction.
School & District Management
Opinion
‘Happy New Year’: How to Embrace the Return to School
Every September, teachers and school leaders get something not many other professions offer: a fresh start.
School & District Management
The One Thing Superintendents Want to Change This Year
We asked superintendents at the start of a new school year. Here's what they said.
Teaching
Here's What Most Teachers Prioritize on Day One of a New School Year
This back-to-school advice is also supported by research.
Teaching
Opinion
The Best (and Worst) Teacher Advice for Starting the New School Year
How teachers are reconnecting with their joy of teaching, counseling new colleagues, and decorating their classrooms.
School Climate & Safety
Q&A
How Peer Mentors Can Ease the Transitions to Middle and High School
Advice on how to build peer mentor program.
Teaching Profession
Educators Prepare Early, Spend Their Own Money for New School Year
As back-to-school looms, educators often spend unpaid time and personal funds to prepare for the year ahead.
Student Well-Being & Movement
What Principals Can Do to Make Sure Students Feel Welcome at School
Student anxiety and absenteeism are top of mind for principals as schools reopen.
Federal
Photos
PHOTOS: Take a Round-the-World Tour of the Return to School
Here's what back to school looks like in classrooms around the globe.
School & District Management
Opinion
How Principals Can Start School With a Smile
Here are five ways to stay positive and focus on morale this year.
Teaching
Opinion
Teachers, Don't Take Your Work Home and Other Reminders
Some teaching strategies are tried-and-true, but fresh ideas may add more zest to your classroom and your regimen.
Teaching
Opinion
How to Win Students’ Attention This School Year—and Then Keep Them Motivated
Teachers, principals, and researchers share their best advice, tips, and guiding principles for student engagement.
Student Well-Being & Movement
A New School Year, a New COVID-19 Variant. What Are Schools to Do?
School is starting, a new COVID-19 variant is circulating, and cases are rising. Here's advice for schools.