The classroom environment is an integral part of every elementary school experience. Every year I work hard to build a safe, interactive, and engaging classroom for my students. A classroom that minimizes misbehavior and distractions allows students to be more productive and successful.

 

Every morning I great my students as they enter the classroom and make their way to our morning circle. Circle time is a chance for us to discuss the daily schedule, announcements, and current issues. Students also have the opportunity to share about recent events or feelings in their lives.

 

Each week students are assigned a new classroom job. This helps to maintain classroom productivity. It enforces the idea of responsibility and demonstrates to the students what it means to do their part for the whole of the group.

 

In terms of behavior management, I take an approach that focuses on self-reflection. Even young students need to learn how to control their own behavior and what possible consequences can come from misbehaving. Students regulate their daily behavior through the use of a stoplight chart as pictured to the right. Throughout the day, students might move up and down on the chart depending on the actions they show. If a student ends the day on red, they complete a reflection with me where they describe what happened that day and why. They also write down what would be a better choice next time. They sign the bottom of the page as their commitment to themselves, me, and the class. I notify parents if the child has ended the day on red more than once in a week as this might mean there is a pattern developing that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

 

I believe my classroom is a fun, dynamic, and engaging place for students. I enjoy watching my students grow both academically and socially.