LA RENTREE!

La rentrée est là! May this new year bring fresh inspiration, joyful moments, and meaningful connections in the French classroom. Merci for all you do to keep la francophonie alive and thriving.

🌟 Looking Ahead: A Fresh Start for French Teachers

Chers collègues,

The rentrée is more than a return—it’s a renewal. A chance to reimagine routines, rekindle curiosity, and reconnect with the joy of teaching French.

Whether you’re guiding Novice learners through their first bonjour or helping advanced students debate global issues en français, your classroom is a gateway to discovery. You are cultivating not just language skills, but empathy, confidence, and cultural awareness.

You are not just teaching a language—you are opening doors to culture, connection, and curiosity. Every interpretive task, every interpersonal exchange, every presentational moment is a chance to spark joy and build confidence.

As we begin a new academic year, let’s celebrate small wins, share resources generously, and lean into the power of community. The AATF of CNY is here to support you—whether through professional development, classroom inspiration, or simply a reminder that you’re not alone.

We wish you an incredible year ahead—may your lessons sing, your students surprise you, and your coffee stay warm! As colleagues, we’re proud to stand beside you, celebrating your creativity, your dedication, and your impact. Merci pour tout ce que vous faites!

Bonne rentrée à tous—que cette année soit pleine de lumière, de rires et de belles réussites.

Avec admiration,
The AATF of CNY Executive Board

🗂️ Back-to-School Checklist for French Teachers

AATF of CNY Fall 2025 Edition

Whether you're teaching Novice learners or AP students, this checklist helps you start the year with clarity, creativity, and community.

📘 Curriculum & Planning

• [ ] Finalize syllabus with clear grading policy, attendance expectations, and performance-based goals

• [ ] Align pacing guide with ACTFL/NYS proficiency targets (Interpretive, Interpersonal, Presentational)

• [ ] Prepare first-week lesson plans that build rapport and set routines

• [ ] Select authentic resources (videos, articles, songs) for early units

• [ ] Create or update thematic units with real-world tasks

• Start planning for National French Week!

💻 Tech Setup

• [ ] Build modules with intuitive navigation and scaffolded tasks using your schools learning platform

• [ ] Link syllabus, grading policy, and key documents in homepage widgets

• [ ] Test embedded tools (Padlet, Flipgrid, Google Forms) for student access

• [ ] Set up gradebook categories and rubrics

• [ ] Back up important course information for safekeeping

🧑‍🎓 Student Engagement

• [ ] Design introductory survey to learn about students’ interests and goals

• [ ] Prepare icebreakers and community-building activities

• [ ] Set up conversational practice routines (consistency=success)

• [ ] Create visuals or anchor charts for classroom norms and proficiency levels

📝 Assessment & Feedback

• [ ] Draft performance-based assessments for Unit 1

• [ ] Create feedback comment bank for interpretive and interpersonal tasks

• [ ] Review rubrics for clarity and alignment with learning targets

• [ ] Plan formative check-ins to monitor progress early on

🧭 Professional & Organizational Prep

• [ ] Mark your calendars for special AATF, NYSAFLT and LECNY events!

• [ ] Update professional bio and contact information to be shared with your membership organizations.

• [ ] Organize materials for PD workshops, conferences, or chapter events

• [ ] Stay informed about advocacy efforts, grant opportunities, and language education policy updates

• [ ] Connect with colleagues for resource sharing and support

🌟 Final Touches

• [ ] Add a welcome message or video to your course homepage

• [ ] Choose a classroom theme or quote to inspire students

• [ ] Print or post your “Why I Teach French” statement

• [ ] Celebrate your readiness—c’est parti pour une belle année 🎉

« Une nouvelle année, une nouvelle aventure linguistique. »