In my classroom I utilize best practice to inform my instruction, as well as reflect on past lessons in order to help build a strong classroom community, that utilizes high expectations. My classroom uses frameworks such as Webb’s, Marzano’s Big 9 and Blooms Taxonomy to help guide my classroom management and instruction. In an elementary classroom, it is important to use various means of engagement and instructional strategies to help support student learning. I am always looking for professional opportunities to build on my knowledge and strengthen my instructional practices. My learning never stops, as I am a lifelong learner.

Building relationships with your students is a big part of being an educator. I do this by establishing consistent routines and maintaining positive high expectations. All students have the ability to succeed when they are in a safe and respected environment and part of my role as their teacher is to facilitate those feelings. To do that I understand my role as a role model as well as a professional, these values help build trust between the parties. All students are treated equally and with respect and with dignity when behaviors need to be addressed. These values help create an equitable classroom for all my students, where they have the opportunities to grow and succeed.

When teaching I plan my instruction to teach for mastery through developmentally appropriate strategies. I plan my instruction using standards, backwards design, and through planned and purposeful and planned assessments which inform my instruction. My lessons utilize scaffolding through modeling, guided practice, and the gradual release of responsibility. These strategies help support student learning as well as incorporating technology into my lessons and creating opportunities for hands on learning, to meet the diverse needs of my students.

When working in stations is important to have effective group management so stations go smoothly. In my classroom I use cooperative learning, flexible groupings, and learning stations to help students build skills, and develop both communication and teamwork skills. Establishing clear routines and procedures helps set all students up for success with minimizing confusion and the need to micromanage. Being consistent in these expectations will help create a productive learning environment.

My strong behavior management system supports all individuals in the classroom, teachers and students alike. I establish clear and consistent discipline plan that is aligned with WCPP. I maintain an authoritative approach while remaining calm and respectful of students. I do this by modeling appropriate behaviors, using positive reinforcement to encourage my desired behaviors, and providing discipline to students while maintaining their dignity. This approach helps my young students develop personal responsibility and self-regulation skills.

Finally, I believe in lower elementary you need to be proactive rather than reactive with classroom management. Part of knowing your students is anticipating possible situations that may come up and be proactive in your response.  At the beginning of the year, spending a lot of time on expectations and procedures will help prevent issues before they arise. This proactive approach creates a predictable, structured, and caring environment where my students feel safe, confident, and ready to learn.