At the beginning of the school year, students, my mentor teachers, and I created a classroom contract together. We focused on respect, responsibility, and safety, which are also modeled throughout our school. After we agreed upon our classroom community expectations, we all signed our contract to signify our commitment to follow these rules while inside and outside of the classroom. Each morning students were greeted at the door with a smile, and welcomed into a comfortable, safe environment. The students and I also followed daily procedures to maintain a schedule and a daily routine. Students understood what was expected of them each day, and they appreciated our communication. I used love and logic to inspire students to achieve their best. Through creating a classroom that is positive, encouraging, welcoming each day I want to inspire students to strive for their best work.
Above is a picture of our classroom community. After each student is greeted at the door with a smile, they flip over their picture on the board to share that they are present and ready to learn and participate with our classroom family.
Extended Community
Each week a classroom newsletter was sent home informing parents about homework, upcoming events, ways to become involved in our classroom, and any other important information. Parents also received weekly e-mails and were able to visit the classroom website to maintain open communication.
Lunch Bunch
Each week a small group of about 3 students were chosen so that all students and I had a chance to get to know one another better, and be able to talk and share things during lunch time. Since the groups were small, students also had the chance to get to know students that they might not typically talk with at lunch.