New Teacher Hire Onboarding Checklist

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Onboarding a new teacher presents its own set of challenges. There’s paperwork, administrative tasks, and expectations to set, all while ensuring your new hire feels welcome and confident to start their new job. Having some guidelines can be a great place to start. No two hires are the same, and the onboarding process can vary as well. Use this onboarding checklist as a starting point to review your own process. Feel free to add or remove items to fit your specific needs.

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Getting Started

The first step of the teacher onboarding checklist is crucial for making a great first impression. It involves familiarizing new hires with the school district's mission, values, and culture. This initial introduction helps teachers understand their role within the organization and sets the stage for a successful tenure. During this step, teachers will also complete essential paperwork and learn about their benefits and compensation packages.

Start with an introduction to the school/district

• Provide a brief history of the school/district, achievements, and future goals
• Review the organizational chart & any key staff members
• Cover the school mission, culture & curriculum philosophy

Complete Required Paperwork

• Employee handbook acknowledgement
• W-4, State tax forms, I-9
• Any additional forms needed

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Cover any benefits or compensation

• Payment process & documents
• PTO and time off
• All available insurance options
• Incentives or bonus programs
• Employee assistance programs
• Pension & retirement benefits
• Personal development resources
• Salary increase & performance review process

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Setup and Procedures

The second step of the teacher onboarding checklist focuses on equipping new teachers with the necessary tools and resources to perform their duties efficiently. This includes setting up their workspaces, providing access to essential systems, and reviewing critical administrative procedures. Clear guidance during this time ensures teachers can navigate their new environment smoothly and effectively.

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Work through important Policies

• Attendance expectations (student & staff)
• Dress code (staff & student)
• Class assessment and grading procedures
• Safety, security & visitors
• Emergency procedures
• Injury reporting
• Confidentiality & privacy
• Technology, e-mail & internet usage
• Lesson plan expectations
• Behavior, discipline & supervision

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Administrative Procedures

• Desk or room assignment
• Computer username and password
• E-mail
• Keys/access card/ID badges
• Mail (incoming and outgoing)
• Making purchase requests
• Telephones
• Software training

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Meet and Greet

The final stage of onboarding is about building connections and familiarizing new teachers with their physical work environment. This stage involves meeting colleagues, understanding the layout of the facility, and knowing where to find essential resources. A comprehensive tour and introductions help new teachers feel welcomed and integrated into the school community.

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Introduce new hires to their colleagues and important contacts within the building.

• Consider assigning an onboarding “mentor” to answer questions and provide guidance.
• Tour of the school:
  • Restrooms
  • Mailroom
  • Printers etc. (how to use office equipment).
  • Where to find notices and announcements
  • Parking & Buses
  • Show where to find and request office supplies.
  • Break rooms, coffee, water & vending machines

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With this teacher onboarding checklist, schools have a starting point to ensure new hires are well-informed, and confident in their new roles. As with any onboarding there's no one size fits all approach. Be sure to check with all parties involved, legal and compliance to ensure your new hires are ready to take the stage and lead their new classroom.

References

Frontline Education. (n.d.). New hire checklist: A guide for onboarding new employees. Frontline Education. Retrieved August 13, 2024, from https://www.frontlineeducation.com/blog/new-hire-checklist/

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This article is for educational purposes and is not intended to reflect the views/practices of Edustaff or our affiliates.

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