Classroom Management

 

 

 

Our classroom is a small community where teamwork and good relationships are expected.  Establishing good classroom discipline is essential to each child's success, confidence and well-being.  Every child should feel that the classroom environment is safe and secure from all threats of physical or emotional harm.  In addition, it is important that each child learn to develop self-discipline and good work habits, to resolve conflicts peacefully, and to think independently.  It also allows me to put the majority of our energy into academics, as well as emotional and social learning. 

 

An important facet of our discipline plan is the use of positive management.  We believe that by using praise, positivie recognition, and small rewards, the teacher can motivate students to use positive behaviors.  There may be instances when a child does not follow the class rules.  In these cases we use a three strikes system called 1-2-3 Magic.  Dr. Thomas Phelan, a clinical psychologist, developed this program.  It's a program that incorporates specific techniques to stop undesirable behavior as well as encourage positive behavior.  Children will understand when they do not follow the rules they will be given a verbal warning “That’s 1 ” from the teacher.  If the child's behavior does not improve he or she will be given another verbal warning “That’s 2 ”.

 

If the child’s behavior warrants a third warning the child will be told “That’s 3; take 5 ”.  In the event a child receives their third verbal reminder they will be asked to sit in a chair for no more than 5 minutes to think about some ways to make better choices in the classroom.  After 5 minutes the teacher will talk with the child about what they can do to make better choices.  If your child receives “That’s 3; take 5 ” a note will be sent home.  Please review the note with your child and return to school the following school day.  On rare occasions, we may call home if the incident warrants a telephone call.