Setting Up Classroom Rules & Expectations

If you are a teacher you NEED to have your classroom management plan in mind (make it THE priority at the beginning of the year) In order for any learning to take place in any classroom– there has to be rules and expectations. I like to make a list of the behaviors I value– and think about the things that bother me.

A well run classroom will always have a firm classroom management plan. You can create your rules ahead of time, or work with your students to write them (this can also help with student buy in). Ownership = more happiness!

I like to begin the first day of school with these activities (which I have linked below):

Also, it’s important to display your classroom rules for students (and guest teachers) to see. I go over my rules every day for the first few weeks– and then at least once a week as a quick reminder.

Once we establish our classroom rules and have those on display– we move on to what type of classroom environment we want– so we work on creating a classroom pledge!

Your pledge doesn’t have to be long– but you should definitely include the behaviors most important to you and your students.

Here’s an example of a few pledge sentences:

Work with your students to set up the type of classroom you’ve always dreamed of having! Then, and this is important, stick to your rules and pledge. Hold them accountable. Practice, practice, practice. Be consistent and fair. And watch your classroom flourish!

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