I’m Barb Flowers—a certified life coach and former elementary principal with eight years of experience. This podcast is your go-to resource for practical leadership strategies, self-care, and fostering resilience as a school leader.

Today, we’re diving into how to navigate a productive December before the holiday break.

December can be a tricky month for educators. Excitement builds, routines get disrupted, and emotions run high—for both students and staff. While many look forward to the break, others may feel anxious or unsettled. Some students even worry about their basic needs being met during the time off.

When regular routines are disrupted, behavior challenges tend to increase. If you’ve worked in schools for even a short time, you know: December brings its own unique challenges.

But with the right strategies, we can navigate it purposefully and productively.
Today, I’ll share seven practical strategies to help you maintain a positive, supportive environment all month long.

Before we jump in…
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Strategy 1: Maintain Consistent Routines

Routines are critical—especially during chaotic times.
Identify your building’s essential routines and keep them consistent throughout December. For example, even if your specials schedule shifts for events, keep lunch and recess at the same time daily.

Consider a visual schedule or weekly calendar posted in the lounge or hallways to keep everyone informed.
Also, emphasize to staff how critical it is to maintain structure for behavior management and student success.

Strategy 2: Over-Communicate with Staff

When schedules change frequently, clear communication becomes even more important.
Use multiple platforms—like Google Calendar, Remind messages, and weekly bulletins—to update staff on events and expectations.

Double-check dates and details before sending updates, and if possible, have someone else review them too.
You might also host a quick 10–15 minute check-in meeting each week to address any questions or last-minute updates.

Strategy 3: Support Students in Need

Collaborate with local organizations to connect families with community resources, such as food banks.
Use surveys, newsletters, or direct outreach to identify students who may need extra support over break.

Consider setting up holiday assistance programs where staff or local businesses “adopt” families in need—helping to provide food, gifts, and essentials. Confidentiality is key to preserving students’ dignity.

Strategy 4: Be Proactive with Behavior Management

Behavior challenges are common in December, so reinforce expectations frequently.
Use your PBIS systems or positive behavior frameworks to celebrate good choices—through ticket systems, good news calls, or monthly rewards like sweet treats with the principal.

Also, offer teachers professional development or refreshers on proactive classroom management techniques.

Strategy 5: Maintain Perspective and Empathy

The holidays can be a joyful season—but also stressful.
Take time to check in with staff individually. Be mindful that everyone is carrying their own burdens, whether it’s family stress, grief, or general overwhelm.

Promote a culture of empathy, flexibility, and grace within your school community.

Strategy 6: Participate in Holiday Activities

Lead by example!
Make a conscious effort to engage in fun events—whether it’s spirit days, concerts, or classroom parties.

Even if “fun” isn’t your natural leadership strength (it’s not mine either!), showing up matters. It builds community, lifts morale, and strengthens relationships with students, staff, and families.

Strategy 7: Take Care of Yourself

Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a leadership responsibility.
Prioritize healthy eating, adequate sleep, movement (like aiming for 10,000 steps/day), and positive thinking.

Envision everything going smoothly through December. Manage your mindset and emotions, and remember:
You can’t pour from an empty cup.

Let’s Recap the 7 Strategies for a Positive, Productive December:

1. Maintain consistent routines

2. Over-communicate with staff

3. Support students in need

4. Be proactive with behavior management

5. Maintain perspective and empathy

6. Participate in holiday activities

7. Take care of yourself

Bonus Opportunity:
I’m hosting a free December Support Group for Educators on Instagram!
Find community, get ideas, enter giveaways, and make this the best December yet.
Follow me on Instagram: @barbflowerscoaching — I’ll drop the link in the show notes!

Thanks for tuning into The Principal’s Handbook!
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And stay tuned for next week’s episode!