Have you thought about how your classes will change at the end of the coming six weeks with the addition of new students? At this time parents are being asked to choose the instructional model for the second six weeks. We believe that we will have a number of scholars who will be returning to our classrooms.
Keep in mind that structure and consistency are key to your classes now, as well as, with the future addition of scholars. Take each day from today to the end of the six weeks to reinforce your expectations and reward positive choices with PBIS points. It is easy to become lax when everyone is following your plan. Practice every period not matter your current class size.
One of the best ways to help our scholars meet rigorous academic expectations is to set high expectations. Why? In classrooms with clear and consistent behavior expectations:
- Scholars know and understand what’s expected and are confident.
- Scholars take more responsibility for their learning.
- Scholars spend more time on task.
- You can more easily recognize and motivate positive behaviors.
- The classroom culture and school culture become more positive overall.
In classrooms where behaviors vary day to day, teachers struggle to teach and students often learn less. In chaotic– scholars are less likely to ask questions, engage in classroom discussions, and take academic risks in front of their peers. The problem is compounded when struggling learners miss class time because of discipline referrals.
Clear, consistent behavior expectations, combined with positive behavior expectations are key components to building a safe, happy school where scholars and staff thrive. When scholars feel confident, respected, cared for and supported, disruptions and discipline incidents decline, learning increases, and academic achievement rises. Let’s keep our expectations consistent!