Classroom Management
Classroom Jobs
Giving students a sense of ownership and responsibility is crucial to a successful classroom. Sometimes teachers have a hard time with letting go and giving the students the reins--even I did in the beginning. With each passing year, I gave more responsibilities to my students. Each year, they rose to the challenge and exceeded my expectations.
Classroom Guidelines
In the first week of school, students discuss what makes the classroom a safe and positive learning environment. Based on what they come up with, they narrow it down to three categories. These become our classroom guidelines with a positive spin.
Classroom Environment
I have always prided myself on building a positive classroom environment; however, morning meetings have solidified my classroom community. To give ourselves a powerful step in the right direction, we say a Scholar's Creed every morning, and we all chant the TEKS through IWBAT (I will be able to..). Then the Teacher's Assistant picks out a greeting and we begin the meeting! During this time, students can share about their personal life or even specific goals.