Lesson Plan
New Year Kickstart Plan
Welcome middle school students with a rapid, interactive kickoff that fosters community, introduces class norms, and builds excitement for the new school year.
Starting the year with a positive, collaborative activity sets the tone, builds rapport, and makes expectations clear, helping all students feel included and ready to learn.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Review and Setup
5 minutes
Step 1
Warm Welcome & Quick Count-In
1 minute
Step 2
Lightning Icebreaker
1 minute
Step 3
Brainstorm Class Norms
2 minutes
Step 4
Community Pledge
1 minute

Slide Deck
Welcome to Our New Year Kickstart!
Name + One Word for “New Year”
Brainstorm Class Norms
Community Pledge
