On January 3rd, or 2nd, or 4th, or whatever the first day of classes is THIS year, teachers tend to have an uphill climb. Kids often absent, or they aren't in "learning mode," or they're still burning off excess candy cane energy. For many teachers, the first day back from winter break is just about getting through it. But! The lay-off also offers a couple of unique opportunities. From capitalizing on the time students have spent unlearning bad habits, to taking the opportunity to plan a different kind of lesson, the First Day Back can be an opportunity as much as a challenge.