Joanna Torreano remembers her first day of teaching like it was yesterday. Thirty-six students greeted her, but there were only enough desks for 33. She wondered what she was going to do with them for six and a half hours.

That was more than 25 years ago. But Torreano never forgot what it was like as a new teacher.

"I remember the frustrations and uncertainties of the first few years of running a classroom," said Torreano, a member of the Niagara Wheatfield Teachers Association, headed by Darlene Fegatilli. "There are some questions that you just don't feel comfortable asking your colleagues, or that you didn't think to ask during your college years."

What should I do if a child forgets his lunch? What about dealing with a student the other kids don't like? The answers to these and many other questions from new teachers can be found in Torreano's book, 500 Questions and Answers for New Teachers: A Survival Guide.

Torreano includes questions on every topic from getting to know your students, how to prepare for the first and last day of class, discipline and time and stress management.

A full-time reading specialist, Torreano received her bachelor's degree in elementary education and her master's as a reading specialist. She has permanent New York state certification in both areas.

Torreano also worked as a mentor teacher and now teaches classes for education majors at Niagara University.

For a copy of her book, write Christopher Gordon Publishers, 1502 Providence Highway, Suite 12, Norwood, Mass. 02062; call (800) 934-8322. Single copies are $18.95 plus $3 shipping and handling.

If you would like to share your ideas and tips for new teachers, Torreano hosts an online chatroom 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays - visit www.aol.com, keyword "schoolchata".

- Clarisse Butler

Top 10 Do's for every new teacher

1. DO ask questions.

2. DO have all letters pre-approved by your administrator before sending them home to parents.

3. DO hang up student work using first names only.

4. DO spend time in the teachers' faculty room for friendship and support. Teachers who have been teaching a while can offer comfort and encouragement.

5. DO request that each child bring in a box of tissues in the beginning of the school year. These boxes will be used throughout the year by all 25 noses.

6. DO keep a supply of paper plates, cups and napkins on hand for birthday treats. Many times cupcakes will come in but no napkins.

7. DO subscribe to educational magazines. Usually your school library has a subscription you can read. Keep current.

8. DO buy holiday decorations after the holiday for next year. You will save a lot of money buying this way.

9. DO keep units for science and social studies together in a box clearly marked for the specific subject area. Keep all experimental materials in this box. It will save you time looking for a magnifying glass or other supplies later.

10. Do enjoy your first year. It does get better and easier.