We’re in the middle of summer here in the US and yet we’re already seeing signs of fall.  Back to school sales are in full swing in every store everywhere. Now that I’ve had a little time to rest and work on a few projects, I’m starting to look ahead to the fall.  I have never been a natural organizer, but I know that being organized makes a huge difference in my mental state and helps me to run my business better.  Here is a massive list of tasks that will help you get ready for fall.  Choose the ones that you think will make your life easier this fall.  A little bit of preparation now will make your transition a thousand times easier!

1. Go through your email and delete any saved emails from last semester and any students who are no longer in your studio. Archive any important ones.
2. Clean out your teaching binder removing any notes or music from past students. File or delete unmarked sheet music.  Do the same with your files if you use a tablet instead of a binder.
3. Go through your bookshelf.  Sort and organize all of your books, removing any books that you no longer use.
4. Collect all receipts and statements from the current year and file them. (You will be happy you did this come tax time!)
5. Do a deep clean of your computer and the cloud, deleting duplicate and old files. Do a full backup of your computer system to an external hard drive.
6. Start files for new students and prepare materials that they might need.
7. Check your current roster. Has everyone been assigned a lesson slot?  Are payments up to date?
8. Check your fall schedule for any conflicts. Are there any holes in the schedule that you can fill?  Are any of your days too busy?  Do you have enough time off?
9. Compare your fall calendar with your child’s school calendar and your family calendar.Are there any overlaps that you can correct now?
10. Do an inventory of your music and supplies.Order books, copy manuscript paper, purchase hand sanitizer, straws and office supplies as needed.
11. Get your piano tuned. (!!!!)
12. Do a deep clean of the studio. Vacuum under the piano, clean your computer screen and keyboard, wash the windows, take everything off your bookshelves and dust under everything.
13. Set your goals and intentions for the fall term.What did you learn from last semester? What goals do you have for you teaching, your business, your students and your own professional development.
14. Make space in your calendar for exercise, breaks, family time and your own musical development. (Schedule it now before you get too busy!)
15. Set some studio-wide goals for your students.More theory, stretching, practice journals, etc.
16. Relax and enjoy the rest of the summer. You’re ready for fall!

How are YOU getting ready for the fall semester?