Setting High Classroom Expectations in the First Weeks of School
As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, we teachers know the whirlwind of preparation ahead. There’s a lot to juggle, from setting up classrooms, creating IEP binders, organizing data sheets, and mapping out that crucial first week! All that happens before we even welcome our students through the door! The goal is always the same: we want that first week packed with fun, engagement, and positivity for everyone involved. We must also establish high classroom expectations that set the tone for the entire year. When our students walk into a space that feels welcoming yet structured, they’re more likely to thrive. So, let’s dive into how we can set those high expectations right from day one!
Real Talk About Classroom Expectations
As we gear up for that exciting first week, it’s important to strike the right balance between setting high expectations and keeping things fun. After all, the first week is like a training ground for the entire school year. It’s the perfect time to establish the standards that will carry us through, and believe me, a good pairing of fun and structure works wonders!
This week is all about laying the groundwork. Not just for the students, but also for the staff as well. It’s a time to get everyone on the same page, from classroom procedures to those all-important dos and don’ts. No matter what grade or subject you teach, there are routines and rules that need to become second nature to our students. By setting these expectations clearly during the first week, you’re setting up your classroom for success for the rest of the year.
You don’t have to sacrifice fun to do it! In fact, weaving in some engaging activities while reinforcing those classroom expectations can help students internalize them even better. So, let’s make that first week not just a foundation for learning but also a time when our students start building positive connections with their new environment and each other.
Benefits of Having High Classroom Expectations
When we set high classroom expectations, we’re not just aiming for order and routine. We’re setting our students up for success in so many ways! High classroom expectations create a clear roadmap for what we want to achieve together. They send a powerful message: I believe in you, and I know you’re capable of great things.
One of the biggest benefits of having high expectations is that they help build a strong sense of responsibility in our students. When they know what’s expected of them, they start taking ownership of their learning and behavior. This doesn’t just happen in isolation. When students see that we hold them to high standards, they start holding themselves to those same standards.
High expectations create a positive and productive classroom environment. When everyone knows the rules and routines, things run smoothly. This leads to less time spent on managing behaviors and more time focused on learning. Plus, students tend to rise to the challenge when they know that we believe in their potential. It’s amazing to see how much they can accomplish when they feel supported and motivated to meet those expectations.
Let’s not forget the sense of pride that comes with meeting high standards. When our students achieve challenging goals, it builds their confidence and encourages them to keep pushing themselves. It’s like a cycle of success that keeps feeding into itself, creating a classroom culture where everyone feels empowered to do their best.
Where to Start with Classroom Expectations
Before the kids arrive, take some time to get everything organized. Think about where you want things to go, how you want the kids to do things, and even where you want them to sit. Trust me, figuring this all out ahead of time is a game-changer. It shows your students that you’re in charge and that you have a plan. We can all agree that winging it during the first week just isn’t an option. Once you’ve got your layout and activities planned, you’ll be ready to welcome your students with confidence.
Setting aside a good chunk of time each day to go over classroom expectations and routines is also super important. Actually, make this part of your schedule! Make sure your staff is in the loop so they can assist and even model alongside you. One of my favorite strategies is to have students demonstrate how to do something. It could be sitting quietly on the carpet or lining up. Then, I flip it and have someone demonstrate how not to do it. After that, we get the whole class to practice. It’s all about building those habits. If they don’t nail it the first time, that’s okay! Just keep practicing until it sticks.
Consistency is key when it comes to classroom expectations, but remember, consistency doesn’t mean everything has to be the same for every child. Each student is unique, and sometimes, we must tailor our expectations to fit their needs. For example, if I have a child with autism, I know that expecting them to do everything exactly like a child without autism isn’t realistic. However, I can still maintain consistent expectations for that student. They might just look a little different. The goal is to support every student in a way that works best for them while keeping those expectations steady across the board.
Helping Students Understand Classroom Expectations
No matter how old our students are, it’s important to explain why our teaching procedures matter. Let’s face it, we all want to know the reason behind what we’re doing. When we provide that context, it makes the whole process more motivating for our students.
For example, if you expect students to put books back in specific book bins, let them know it’s because you want to keep everything organized. Everyone will be able to easily find the book they’re looking for. If you want them to line up in alphabetical order, explain that it’s so you can quickly take attendance during a fire drill. When students understand the reasoning behind these expectations, they’re more likely to follow through with them because it just makes sense!
Resources to Try for Classroom Expectations!
There are so many great resources and management strategies out there. Finding the ones that fit your style and your classroom is key. What works perfectly for me might not be the best fit for you, and that’s totally okay! The goal is to pick what feels right and make your classroom run smoothly. Here are a few suggestions that have worked wonders for me:
Visuals of Classroom Expectations
These classroom posters are a fantastic resource for setting clear expectations in the classroom. What I love about these posters is that they use real photos, making them super relatable and easy for students to connect with. The set includes posters that display common classroom rules. They also come with worksheets to reinforce the expectations. The visual support helps my students grasp the rules quickly and remember them throughout the day. Plus, the variety of formats allows me to use them flexibly across different settings in the classroom.
Classroom Rules File Folders
The Classroom Rules File Folders with Real Photos are a must-have in my classroom! These file folders use real photos to visually reinforce expectations. This makes them perfect for students who need that extra bit of support. What I love most is how versatile they are. There are opportunities for matching pictures and sorting activities. These folders help my students grasp the rules in a hands-on way. They’re especially great for reviewing classroom expectations at the start of the year.
Classroom Rules Task Boxes
I love using the Classroom Rules Task Boxes with Real Photos (both Level 1 and Level 2) in my classroom! These task boxes make it super easy for my students to grasp our classroom expectations through hands-on activities. Whether it’s matching pictures, sorting, or using clip cards, these tools help reinforce the rules in a fun and engaging way. I find them especially useful for students who need that extra visual support.
If you are interested in all the above resources, make sure to check out my Classroom Rules Activities bundle!
Give Me Five
One of my favorite listening strategies to share during my classroom expectations is the “Give Me Five” technique. It’s a simple yet effective way to grab students’ attention and ensure they’re ready to listen. When I say, “Give Me Five,” my students know it’s time to switch on their listening ears, place their hands in their laps, focus their eyes on me, keep their legs still, and close their mouths. This clear, consistent cue helps create a calm and focused environment. It makes it easier for everyone to stay on track and engaged with the lesson. Plus, it’s a strategy that works across different grade levels, making it a versatile tool in any classroom!
Reads Alouds for Classroom Expectations
I love using books to set the stage for classroom expectations because they make lessons about behavior, kindness, and teamwork relatable for students. Some of my go-to books help spark important conversations and make it easier for my students to understand what’s expected in our classroom. Plus, they’re a fun way to kick off the year with engaging stories that everyone can enjoy! If you want to see which specific books I recommend and how I use them, I encourage you to check out 5 Children’s Books You Must Read At the Beginning of the School Year.
Clear Classroom Expectations Lead a Successful School Year
Clear classroom expectations are the key to a successful school year! As you kick off that first week, I hope you connect with your students and show them how fun and engaging your classroom can be. Remember, setting high expectations is crucial, but having some grace is also important. If they don’t get it right the first time, don’t worry. Practice makes progress! High expectations will help your students learn more and keep you sane along the way.
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