Classroom Library Label

Classroom Library Label Library Checkout

Loved this organizational tidbit.  In my student teaching my cooperating teacher had a writing folder for each student.  On one pocket there was a label that had a stop sign and said "STOP! I'm finished."  On the other pocket it had a green dot and said, "Go!  I'm still working."  I loved this idea but now I have something to add, a little tip I got from the Write Tools e-mail list call it: "The Little Red Writing Folder!" Cute and the kids will remember!

Check out The Write Tools!

Really Good Stuff

For those who don't already know about it, reallygoodstuff.com really does have just that: really good stuff for teachers.

Organization tips from the pros.

Another idea I plan on stealing from my masterful co-teachers: make-up work folders.  After doing attendance the teachers or the students put "green folders" on the desks of the students who are absent.  Throughout the day missed work is placed in the green folders for the absent students.  It's waiting on their desk when they return!  Tip: pick up folders and other supplies at Staples during the summer for huge discounts!

Enlightenment from Day 1

A few weeks ago I had my first day of substitute teaching, and despite all the build up it was rather peaceful and enjoyable.  The joys of being prepared.  Here is the advice I gleaned for myself after day 1.

Use the teacher's behavior management system.  I was totally confused by the teacher's behavior management system (there were sticky notes involved, a chart, red, white, blue, and green cards in little pockets, and a jar with marbles...).  In her notes it said: "look at the behavior chart, it's pretty self-explanatory."  While I was familiar with some of the elements, this system took it to a-whole-nother level.  I found it cumbersome and decided, whether consciously or unconsciously I'm not sure, not to use it.  While this class had relatively good behavior, they kept encouraging me to use the class system and made it clear that they would appreciate it if I would.  Lesson learned.

Learn names, when possible.  Classes that switch for multiple subjects makes this very difficult!  This class switched for reading, and math, and many of the kids come and go for Spanish or other special classes.  While I really like the seating chart idea I used (below), it was not practical in this situation.  With students coming and going and new students entering and sitting in different desks, the seating chart was ineffective.  In this situation I should have had the students wear name tags.

Intercept the first misbehavior, and react with consistent and sensible behavior management.  When students see that others are getting away with misbehavior they will join in.  Start with the first act, react quickly, firmly and sensibly.

Enjoy the small things in life.

Student gem of the day: "Are you our guest teacher!?  You're too pretty to be a substitute!"  While her assumption that substitute's aren't pretty was troubling, it was a nice gesture, none-the-less.

Renaissance Academic Planner

I recently began a new endeavor and created an academic planner for Renaissance Public Academy in Molalla, OR.  A great little charter school.  If your interested in a custom planner, let me know.

I also scrapbooked the cover of this planner for myself last year: