Walk into almost any teacher workroom during lunch, and you will hear the same confession whispered over a sad microwaved meal. “I totally lost control of second period today.” The teacher across the table nods. They have been there too. Maybe that teacher was you yesterday. Classroom management mistakes happen to everyone who stands in … Read more
One of the biggest challenges plaguing teachers in the classroom today is developing (and implementing) classroom management techniques that actually WORK. The amount of inappropriate behavior and classroom management issues that we are currently seeing is at an all-time high. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported that 87% of schools reported that the … Read more
Utilizing flexible seating in the classroom (properly!) doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you know where to begin. Flexible seating classrooms offer students choices in ways that traditional classrooms lack, moving beyond traditional desks and rows of desks to provide a variety of seating options like wobble stools, bean bags, yoga balls, crate seats, and … Read more
Click above to listen to this podcast episode: “Creating a Classroom Management Plan to Increase Student Engagement” Creating a well-designed and effective classroom management plan is essential to fostering a productive learning environment. For new teachers, particularly those unfamiliar with student-centered models, developing a solid classroom management plan might seem daunting. However, by focusing on … Read more
In our data-driven educational landscape, teachers are increasingly recognizing the importance of tangible, accessible tools like classroom management observation forms. These forms are not just about capturing moments; they embody a deeper understanding of the teaching and learning environment. As educators, we often find ourselves engrossed in the day-to-day teaching activities, making it challenging to … Read more
The foundation of a well-managed classroom lies in establishing clear classroom management routines and procedures. These strategies are crucial at every grade level, from elementary school to high school, and across all subjects. An effective teacher understands that implementing specific routines from the beginning of the school year sets the tone for a secure, positive … Read more
We know that classroom management and discipline go hand in hand, but it is also important to strike a balance that works for all parties involved. When you think about it, discipline is simply an orderly pattern of behavior that helps create a safe learning environment. Students who engage in good behavior are more prepared … Read more
I’ll never forget the look on my juniors’ faces. They filed in, grabbed their daily schedule sheet from me at the door, and sat down. But instead of the usual quiet rustle of backpacks and notebooks, I heard whispers. “What are we doing today?” “I don’t know, but it’s never boring.” One kid actually said … Read more
I still remember the moment in the spring of 2016 when a student raised his hand not to answer a question, but to ask one that stopped me cold. “Mrs. B,” he said, “why are we learning about the Treaty of Versailles the exact same way every single class learns everything else? Read the chapter, … Read more
Finding universal classroom behavior discipline techniques that are effective can be somewhat of a challenge. We have an expectation of what student behavior should look like and can identify inappropriate behavior as it happens, but as classroom teachers, how should we collectively address classroom behavior discipline problems? Truly, disciplinary action in positive learning environments really … Read more
Click above to listen to Podcast Episode 57: “Uses for Technology in the Classroom to Engage Students“ In today’s global society, students want to learn how to use the technology around them while understanding how classroom technology connects to life outside of school. Before exploring how to measure student engagement through digital tools, let’s examine … Read more
As a classroom community, we often begin the year with an icebreaker so students can get to know one another. While some of these are tried and true, others can be, let’s face it, a bit cringeworthy, especially as our students get a little older. However, activities like these should span the school year, not … Read more