Classroom Management Philosophy

When the students walk into class on the first day of school, both the students and the teacher
embark on a journey. For the next 8-9 months, the students and the teacher will share the same
space and interact with each other. To make this a smooth journey and a positive experience for
my students, I plan on creating a positive, safe learning environment in the classroom. When
students walk into my class they will know that they are entering a space where they are
expected to respect each others person and opinions. When a student fails to meet this
requirement, then it needs to be addressed and the behavior needs to be corrected.

I will manage my class using the golden rule, treat others as you would like to be treated. Would
you like it if someone interrupted you when you were speaking? Would you like it if others
respected your opinion or what your input is? These are the kinds of things Id like my students
to consider as they interact with each other and myself in our environment. I believe that if the
teacher has a long list of rules that students must abide by, then the teacher needs to have a
consequence for breaking those rules, which may not be the most effective way to create a
positive learning environment. One, this method may encourage students to test the limits and
see if the teacher confronts the students about a rule that has been broken. Two, it creates tension
between the teacher and the student, it creates a me versus them environment. And three, this
method outlines what students cannot do, but doesnt give the students a clear expectation of
acceptable behavior.

Successful classroom management calls for getting to know my students, building a connection
with students, and encouraging students to connect with each other. My classroom will be a
close-knit community where students understand what is expected of them when it comes to their
interaction with myself and others. I dont want my students to see me as a distant adult that
they do not feel comfortable communicating with. I want my students to approach me when they
need to. I want students to know that I am a learner just like they are. I want my students to know
that I have been in their shoes and understands some of the difficulties they may be facing. I
want my students to know that my classroom will not be a strict rule/consequence environment,
but when something needs to be addressed, it will. I think once students come to this realization,
many potential classroom misbehaviors/concerns will vanish.