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Hey Teachers, Don’t Miss the Magic of May!

Episode 302: Hey Teachers, Don't Miss the Magic of May

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Hey teachers, don’t miss the magic of may! This month can feel like one of the most exhausting months of the school year. Testing is over, schedules are changing, energy is lowwwwww, and summer break is just around the corner. But even with all the up and down energy, May can also be one of the most meaningful and rewarding times in the classroom.

In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, Sara and Tami remind teachers why they shouldn’t miss the magic of May. How? With a little intention, connection, and perspective.

The final weeks of school create unique opportunities to slow down and notice how much growth has happened throughout the year. Students who once struggled with routines are now independent. Classrooms that felt uncertain in August now feel like a community. Skills that took months to build are finally becoming habits. See what we mean? The magic of May!

The magic of May is seeing how much your students have grown since the first day of school. Teachers often find the magic of May in the laughter, memories, and stronger classroom connections built during the final weeks. Even when the month feels busy, the magic of May is hidden in small moments that remind you why teaching matters. If you slow down and stay present, you might discover that the magic of May becomes one of the best parts of the school year.

Instead of only focusing on to-do lists, end-of-year tasks, or simply surviving until summer, this episode encourages teachers to stay present and make the most of the time they still have with their students.

We also discuss how May can be a great time for teacher reflection. Looking back on what worked, what didn’t, and how your students grew can help you close the year with confidence and begin thinking ahead to next year with clarity.

In this episode, you’ll Tami and Sara discuss:

  • Ways to stay present during the final weeks of school
  • Why student connection matters at the end of the year
  • How to reflect on classroom growth and progress
  • Why May is a powerful time to start planning for next year

If you’re looking for end of school year tips that are more than “print this packet,” this episode is the reminder you need.

Resources Connected to this Episode: 

Enjoyed this episode? Check out these!

  • Episode 288: Choosing Intention Over Perfection with Sara Marye
  • Episode 295: Teaching is a Long Game: A Reminder for Teachers Feeling the Pressure

Stay Connected:

More About Stellar Teacher Podcast:

Welcome to the Stellar Teacher Podcast where we believe teaching literacy is a skill that can be strengthened with the right strategies, systems, and support.

Each week, Sara Marye — along with members of the Stellar Teacher Company team and other special guests — shares practical insights, instructional strategies, and honest conversations from the voices behind the magic of STC. With over a decade of experience as a classroom teacher and school leader, Sara is passionate about helping upper elementary teachers simplify their literacy block and make a meaningful impact.

Tune in on your favorite podcast platform: Apple, Google, Amazon, Spotify, Castbox, and more! If you’re loving this podcast, please rate, review, and follow.

Learn more about The Stellar Literacy Collective:

The Stellar Literacy Collective (SLC) is a membership designed for upper elementary teachers who want strong, effective literacy instruction… without spending hours planning every week.

Inside SLC, you’ll find ready-to-use, research-aligned lessons for reading, writing, and word study that work together to create a cohesive literacy block. From whole group comprehension lessons and vocabulary routines to small group supports and writing instruction, everything is built around consistent systems that support real classroom implementation.

If you’re tired of piecing lessons together or feeling like every week requires a brand-new strategy, SLC offers structure and clarity. It helps you simplify your literacy block, teach with intention, and create meaningful growth for your students!

Click HERE to learn more!

When the energy is low and the school year is winding down, The Stellar Teacher Podcast is here to support you. Each episode is designed to empower upper elementary teachers to simplify lesson planning, strengthen classroom routines, and build confident, capable readers without burnout. Teaching doesn’t have to feel overwhelming to be effective. With practical strategies, honest conversations, and systems that work in real classrooms, you can protect your energy while still delivering meaningful instruction. Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode filled with encouragement and actionable ideas to support your literacy block all year long.

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With over a decade of experience working as a classroom teacher and school administrator, I understand the joys and challenges of teaching. That’s why I’m on a mission to make an impact by serving stellar upper elementary teachers just like you. Get ready, because I’m pulling out all the stops to ensure that you have the tools and confidence you need to build a literacy block that you’re proud of. One that excites you and your students while also meeting the standards. Oh yes, it’s totally possible to have both!

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