Day 4: Classroom Management

Classroom management... this is something that I feel like I continually grow and change with. For the past 8 years, I have implemented a PBS classroom and had a bank book system for my students. However, this year, I am at a new school and they don't do this. Instead, I will be implementing the Responsive Classroom. Is anyone familiar with it? I have been looking through the books they have given me and learning about it. I am always up for something new and trying different philosophies. I'll have to get back to you on this one at a later date, as I learn more.

My biggest tip for classroom management is setting high expectations and being consistent. That's why I loved my bank books. The students knew exactly what was expected of them and they worked towards rewards. Not to mention, they were counting money and keeping a balance page. Many students chose to save their money, while others bought. This was always an interesting thing to watch!

Along with this, I did a whole class reward where they tried to earn 50 large stars that represented the 50 states. In addition, we used table points! Lots of different management techniques!

I could go on and on about these systems (sorry for the lack of detail), but tonight we are having friends over for the Lions preseason game, so I have to go get ready! As the year goes on, I will revisit the Responsive Classroom and blog about it. Does anyone else do this? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

-Crystal