Teachers spend the entire school year filling other people’s buckets. Every day, you pour your time, energy, patience, and creativity into helping students learn and grow. You support struggling learners, celebrate successes, solve problems, answer endless questions, and somehow keep everything running even when the day feels impossibly full. Now it’s your turn!
After a year of showing up for your students, colleagues, and school community, you’ve earned a summer that’s all about refilling your own bucket. Whether that means finally tackling the cabinet that’s been collecting clutter all year or simply enjoying some quality time with friends and family, summer is your chance to focus on you.
This ultimate teacher summer bucket list is filled with a mix of productive projects, fun adventures, self-care ideas, and meaningful ways to connect with the people you love. Pick a few favorites, challenge yourself to try something new, and don’t forget to celebrate everything you’ve accomplished this year. After all, you can’t pour from an empty bucket.
About the Author
Samantha Lundberg is the Associate Director of Content Development at PDI. She holds a B.S. in School Health Education, as well as a M.A. in Special Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis. Samantha draws on her extensive knowledge to develop and refine engaging, research-based courses. Her work centers on helping educators create inclusive, supportive learning environments where social-emotional growth is prioritized and both students and teachers feel seen, supported, and mentally well.
Fun fact: Samantha has been to all of the U.S. Disney parks, as well as 3 of the international parks! She hopes to visit all of the parks someday.
