Elsbeth Clarson outlines her classroom management plan for the fall 2009 semester. She emphasizes using kindness with students, maintaining respect between students and teachers, and consistently enforcing rules and documenting any issues that arise. Her goals are to create a safe, positive learning environment where students feel supported. She details a progressive system of addressing misbehavior, from nonverbal cues to developing behavior contracts for serious or ongoing issues. Motivating students through interesting lessons and opportunities to succeed is also a priority. Maintaining open communication with parents is an important part of her classroom management approach.

1. Classroom Management Plan Elsbeth Clarson Fall 2009 My Rules

2. My Philosophy Kill ‘em with Kindness Ma’am and Sir –Respect Document, Document, Document Consistent 1 st day of school- Routine and Rules Parent, Student, Teacher (Trinity)

3. Kill ‘em with Kindness My dad always said “You can attract more bees with honey then you can with vinegar” One of my strengths is that I can see the good in people and get along with most everybody I meet. Some students are not used to having an adult be concerned, helpful, and kind to them.

4. Atmosphere Safe, Positive, Community Talking about and post Community Events Student work displayed in the classroom Model respectful behavior NO BULLYING Ask questions—Never dismiss questions OPEN DOOR---The teacher is there to help

5. Misbehavior First- Teacher “Look” Second- Redirection “Please stop talking” Third- Ask the student to see you after class Explain to them why it is important to be quiet Refer to lessons where there is a appropriate time to converse Ask them why they are talking and If there is something I can do to hinder their talking Last- If Misbehavior continues…Develop a behavior management contract

6. Serious Misbehavior Step 1: Problem Identification Get student’s perspective Describe problem and ask student for reaction Stress that the problem must be resolved NOW Step 2: Identify and selecting a Solution Have the student suggest a solution If they cannot, I will suggest one Step 3: Obtaining a commitment Student and teacher will sign a commitment with consequences entail if misbehavior continues Contract evaluated in a timely fashion (2 weeks)

7. Parents Other Teachers Views LAST RESORT- Assistant Principal

8. Motivation Interesting Lessons!- Boredom is #1 source of misbehavior and apathy Games that give external rewards (points on test) Many opportunities to succeed (review sheets, checking notes, extra credit assignments) Research projects with topics that students pick Structured criteria that ensures success on assignments Teacher attitude- I convey and teach with enthusiasm that the material is worth while

9. Parents are a Teacher’s Best Friend Communicate with Parents early in the year Call them when there student is having trouble AND when they are succeeding Maintain website and E-mail Parents to keep parent’s up-to-date on the classroom happenings