What should a new fifth-grade teacher do first when feeling overwhelmed by resources?

The best approach for a new fifth-grade teacher feeling overwhelmed by the available resources is to seek guidance from veteran teammates about prioritizing resources. This strategy is effective because experienced colleagues can provide insights into which resources have been most beneficial in the classroom and help streamline decision-making. Veteran teachers can share their own experiences with various materials, highlight what works well in the context of the curriculum and students' needs, and guide the new teacher in focusing on the most impactful resources first. This collaborative approach not only saves time but also builds a supportive professional network that can enhance the new teacher's confidence and effectiveness.

In contrast, randomly picking resources might lead to a disorganized approach without ensuring effectiveness. Spending a lot of time reviewing all materials can be inefficient and may not yield practical results, especially if the teacher has limited time and experience. Consulting with parents can provide valuable feedback but may not directly address the immediate professional concerns regarding instructional resources.