The purpose of this guide is to pass on to new teachers keys to opening the school year successfully. The primary objectives for teachers in the first month of school are as follows: (1) to build a sense of inclusion with students; (2) to establish routines and procedures of the classroom; (3) to learn students' strengths and needs; and (4) to set the tone of a love for learning. This curriculum is designed to meet these objectives. Following an introduction, the guide is organized into eight chapters providing activities and suggestions for grades K-6: (1) Creating the Environment; (2) Daily Routines and Procedures; (3) The First Day of School...A Detailed Account; (4) Activities for the First Month; (5) Fingerplays and Songs for Oral Language; (6) Assessment of Students (an overview as well as assessment forms); (7) Parent Communications: Sample Letters; and (8) "Resources," including a bibliography and read-alouds for each grade level (K-6). All student worksheets, model letters to parents, and read-alouds are provided in English and Spanish. (LL)