Back to School for Teachers

Dress || Heels ($50 off with code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE| || Clutch || Earrings

This time of year is supposed to be something special. Across the country, parents, teachers, and students alike clamor for back to school shopping until that epic first day of school. Oh, how different that looks and feels this year. Some districts are already back to school, in person and unable to meet CDC guidelines. Others still, have completely opted out of brick and mortar schools for an experiment in distance learning. Wherever you are on the spectrum, or even if the decision has yet to be made, I invite you still find the joy in this time. Although there are so many questions, we have to trust that eventually things will find their way. For my teachers in particular, I want you to still feel prepared for that first day, whether it’s at home or in a classroom. Here’s my list of must-haves to get back to school ready, teacher edition.

Spacious Tote Bag

If you’re in the teaching world, you know how much you need to tote home each and every day (pun intended). Having an oversized, durable bag can be critical. While many of my teacher friends swear by the Classic LL Bean Tote bag, I’ve always preferred my Longchamp Tote Bag. It’s zips to give you additional security and can really take a beating before even showing a scuff. I’ve stuffed it to the brim with papers and it still looks as pristine as when I first got it.

To-Go Tumbler

Teachers love the whole gambit of caffeinated drinks. From soda to iced tea to coffee, all are accounted for at that weekly staff meeting. I personally love to treat myself with a sweet iced tea (and a squeeze of lemon) at the start of each week. My Yeti Tumbler keeps it ice cold and lets me seamlessly switch to hot coffee if the mood strikes me. Bonus points: it’s also perfect for a celebratory after-work cocktail too.

The Ultimate Teacher Planner

I have been a very loyal planner/agenda user since the 3rd grade. In the past it’s helped me keep of track of my entire life! You can see me jot about my teacher life, blogger life, and personal life. Erin Condren planners have been my choice for the past few years because it has room for everything in one spot. Because they are completely customizable, you can make the planner that best fits your personality and note-taking habits.

Stylish Blue Light Glasses

Since I’ve been working from home for the first batch of distance learning, I’ve invested in a pair of blue light glasses. I already have extremely poor eyesight and an astigmatism, so I need to make eye health a priority. While I can’t swear on the benefits from a professional stand point, I’ve noticed considerably fewer migraines, which I consider a huge victory. There are dozens upon dozens of brands, but I’m partial to Book Club for trendy frame options.

Face Mask Multi-Pack

Whether you personally believe in them or not, wearing a face mask is yet another reality that teachers need to cope with. Different school districts have various approaches on this, depending on where you live. Optimistically, wearing them gives you the opportunity to add more character to your outfit. Get several, like this 3-Pack from Tuckernuck, to mix and match throughout the week.

Personalized Lunch Box

How school lunches will operate this school year still feels up in the air. For both students and teachers, packing from home will be the safest option. Having the perfect lunchbox can be an example of self-expression and keeps my LaCroix the perfect temperature. This sweet option from Mark and Graham can also be monogrammed, to keep your snacks safe.

Shoes to Wear All Day

Teachers are notoriously on their feet all day long. Nothing makes the time go by slower than wearing shows that pinch your feet. This past school year, I’ve sworn by my Sarah Flint heels. They truly make all the different as I pace between my room full of kiddos. To try these high-quality shoes for yourself, you can get $50 off your first pair using the code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE.

ALL of the Hand Sanitizer

This may be one of the most important items on this list!! I don’t need to remind any teachers out there how germ-ridden a school classroom can be. Add in the fact that we’re in a global pandemic, and I want to bathe in this stuff! Always keep a bottle, or two or three, on hand and remind your students of proper etiquette. This 24 pack of Germ-X should last you a while.

One of my favorite aspects of ‘back-to-school’ is the ever important first day outfit. No matter where it is, you can dress the part of a peppy teacher with this darling midi dress from 1901. With two large pockets on the side, you can pull more hand sanitizer and dry-erase markers at a moment’s notice. My teacher friends know exactly what I’m talking about!

Love from Florida,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Palm Trees for the Closet

Tee || Skirt || Sandals ($50 off with code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE) || Clutch || Earrings

If there’s one tree associated with Florida living, it would have to be the glorious palm tree. All over the world, they are one of the the first mentions with visions of a tropical paradise. There are about 2,600 different kinds of palm trees out there, each with a distinct look and feel. Looking in my closet, I have a huge chunk of those palms on dresses, blouses, and jewelry. Since I’m always looking for an eternal summer vacation, I’ve spotted so many adorable pieces to add to your wardrobe.

Vineyard Vines Tiered Midi Dress

This skirt was honestly love at first sight! The colors, the shape, the flow, it’s absolutely a gorgeous piece! When you slip it on, you’ll instantly feel like you’re in vacation mode. If you love the print, it also comes in a boho-esque blouse, a long-sleeve tee, and super casual shorts. The outfit options are endless with just one print. On a completely different note, I’m also a huge fan of of this similar palm midi skirt from Talbots.

Locally Grown Palm Earrings

I recently picked up these earrings from a local boutique, but my love for St. Armands Designs is no secret. They are on trend and, more importantly, very lightweight. I can wear them all day long and have zero issues. Because they are a local-ish (Sarasota) company, they love the palm motif as much as I do! They also offer this subtle pair and this bolder pair. Which ones would you pick?

Customizable Bags and Accessories

Baby print and palm print go together like pineapple and coconut for a piña colada. It doesn’t take much investigating to find anything in this duo like pajamas, or even wallpaper. I’ve talked about Barrington Gifts before, it’s one of my first destinations for buying personalized gifts at the holidays. They just so happen to have a beautiful palm print. It’s called the Bel Air Collection and isn’t that just a perfect name? While it comes in countless pieces, I’m currently partial to the Belmont Cabin Bag. You know me, always planning for the next weekend trip.

Isn’t there just something wonderful about fresh palms to wear? No matter where you live, from the coast to the mountains, you instantly look like a walking vacation. Be sure that your personality and demeanor matches the occasion!

Love from Florida,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.