Creating a Positive Learning Environment in the New School Year

In order to begin establishing good FOUNDATIONAL ELEMENTS of an effective classroom, we need to clarify our own beliefs and values about teaching and learning.

PERSONAL ACTIVITY

Pause for Reflection

Take a moment to clear your thoughts and simply reflect on the following:

What are my core beliefs about teaching and learning?

Write them down.

As a professional educator what is my vision for my students?

Write it down.

What will I do this year to put my core beliefs and vision into action?

Write your action steps down.

What answers that I gave do I feel I need to work on in order to generate a strong and positive start to the new school year?

Write your action steps down.

Which of the following messages do you send to your students

"Learning is the key to success."

"Every student is gifted and talented – my job is to help you find your gifts and talents, and let them shine."

"I will always listen to your explanation or your side of the story."

"Because life can be unpredictable and unfair, consequences will depend on ALL information and circumstances."

"If you want difference, you have to do different."

"You can do this. I will help you. I won't give up on you.

"Some decisions are private and will not be shared with the class."

"I will attempt to be as fair as is humanly possible."

These statements are simple, yet powerful. You may want to share them with your students during the first week of school to help you to establish a FOUNDATION of mutual support, trust, and respect in your classroom. You may want to post them around your classroom and refer to them at relevant times during the year.