News Summary
As the academic year approaches, teachers in Metro Detroit provide essential back-to-school tips for students and parents. Insights from experienced educators emphasize the importance of establishing routines, punctuality, and successful study habits. Recommendations include getting adequate sleep, being actively involved in class, and maintaining regular attendance. Teachers encourage open communication between students and educators, promoting a supportive learning environment. Parents are advised to prepare healthy lunches and organize supplies in advance, while also being mindful of traffic safety during this busy season.
Detroit — As the 2025-2026 academic year approaches, teachers in Metro Detroit are sharing valuable back-to-school tips designed to help students and parents prepare for a successful year. A recent roundtable discussion gathered insights from dozens of teachers, with key recommendations highlighted from six experienced educators across the region.
Teachers emphasize the importance of establishing strong routines for both mornings and evenings. A Detroit teacher with over 10 years of experience underscores the necessity of getting 8-10 hours of sleep to combat the exhaustion often caused by late-night activities such as social media and gaming. Similarly, a Novi teacher recommends that families initiate a schedule of going to bed and waking up early in the weeks leading up to the first day of school. This proactive approach aims to ease the transition into the school year.
Punctuality is another critical theme among the teachers. A Hillsdale educator advises that students should make an effort to arrive on time for school and class every day, as it significantly impacts their overall learning experience. Another Wayne County teacher with two decades of experience emphasizes that consistency, effort, and maintaining a positive attitude are key factors in achieving success in school. Encouraging students to come ready to learn is paramount in creating a conducive educational environment.
Teacher insights also indicate that building successful habits takes time and practice. A South Lyon teacher identifies three essential habits for success: paying attention, participating in class, and completing assignments thoughtfully. These foundational practices can develop over time and contribute to a student’s growth and academic performance. Moreover, a teacher from Detroit stresses that regular school attendance is crucial, as missing just 1-2 days per week can adversely affect a student’s progress.
Regarding academic pressure, a Port Huron teacher advises students not to strive for perfection but rather to focus on personal progress, encouraging them to seek help when needed. A South Lyon educator additionally suggests that students limit their screen time and take handwritten notes, as these strategies can enhance focus and retention of information.
In light of physical and mental well-being, a Grosse Pointe teacher highlights the role of adequate sleep and reduced device usage before bedtime in maintaining overall student health. This advice is echoed by another South Lyon educator, who also encourages students to nurture curiosity and explore learning from a variety of sources.
Teachers are advocating for a cooperative relationship between students and educators, where both parties see each other as teammates in the learning journey. It’s important for students to feel comfortable communicating their needs, as being honest about needing assistance is viewed as a strength rather than a weakness. Engaging in brain exercises during the summer and utilizing summer recovery classes are also recommended by a Detroit teacher to maintain cognitive skills during time away from the classroom.
As the school year draws near, parents are encouraged to prepare healthy school lunches and organize their children’s backpacks in advance. It’s crucial for parents to also consider the needs of teachers regarding classroom supplies, which some educators may outline through suggested supply lists. While the Michigan Supreme Court ruled in 1970 that requiring students to bring their own supplies is unconstitutional, many teachers still provide options for donations based on classroom needs.
Financially, a report from the National Retail Federation projects that American households will spend nearly $900 this back-to-school season, indicating the significant economic impact associated with preparation for the new academic year. In light of increased traffic during this period, the American Automobile Association (AAA) reminds drivers to remain vigilant. They advise adding 30 minutes to morning commutes and caution against speeding and distractions in school zones, particularly noting that nearly one in five children aged 14 and younger fatally struck in traffic crashes are pedestrians. Communication about traffic safety, including discouraging the use of earbuds or devices near streets, is also recommended for parents teaching children about pedestrian awareness.
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Additional Resources
- ABC 12: ABCmouse Offers Back to School Tips
- My UP Now: Tips to Return to School Safely with Michigan State Police
- Bridge Detroit: Michigan Experts Back to School Prep Should Start Early at Home
- Detroit Free Press: Back to School List 2025 Supply Guide Michigan Parents & Students
- MLive: Experts Have This School Lunch Advice for Michigan Parents
- Wikipedia: Back-to-school
- Google Search: Back to School Tips
- Google Scholar: Educational Preparation for School
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Back to School
- Google News: Back to School Safety
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
