Classroom Management
I believe that classroom management begins on the first day of school and continues every day that follows. Creating expectations as a class will hold students responsible for their choices and behavior. I believe that classroom and behavior management needs to be implemented as a class, but also on an individual basis.
Classroom management as a whole begins with my behavior. I must model that behavior that I expect to see from my students. I believe that focusing on the positive is the best way to reach students. Giving behavior specific, positive praise towards a student doing the expected behavior is the best way to encourage other students to engage in the same behavior. This could include simply praising the student verbally, or implementing a sticker chart. Additionally, for behavior in the halls, the whole class can earn tallies towards a desired activity whenever they are complimented by an adult in the school. For example, if my whole class gets a compliment for quiet walking in the hallway, I may give them a handful of marbles. When their jar is full of marbles, our class will earn something fun like a pajama party.
Some students may need more specific behavior management strategies to keep them on task. I have created token boards which encourage students to stay on task, and in turn, they earn time doing a desired activity.