An organized classroom is not only beneficial for the teacher, it is also a great way to help students! In this episode, I’m going to share my top 5 tips for organizing your classroom for you and your students!
Tip #1 - label your drawers and cabinets
This tip is one of my favorites. Each of my drawers and cabinets are labeled not just for me but for my students. When we are working in the lab and a student needs something, I can point to an area of the room and say “look for the drawer labeled ‘tape’” or whatever they are looking for.
Check out my easy to edit labels here!
Tip #2 - make a student supply center
I use the back corner of my room as my student center. I keep paper, scissors, tape, hole punches, pencil sharpeners and art supplies back there for students to use. They don’t have to ask to borrow something but I do have rules about cleaning it up. I have never had an issue with the student station being a mess (it’s not perfect) but it’s always cleaned up well enough.
Tip #3 - create a system for collecting and handing back papers
My collection bins are in the front of my room right by the door. Each basket is clearly labeled with the class period and is large enough to collect papers. Above each basket (on the tack board) is a folder of items to hand back. Once I check or grade something, I place it in there to hand back during our next organization time.
Tip #4 - use a learning management system or other tech application as a calendar
When I was in middle school we used assignment books. While some students still use these, many students (especially middle and high school) lean more towards using apps to help organize their school work. The best part of using an LMS is that students can use this for all subjects. My district uses Schoology which has its own calendar and some great integrations with Google calendar.
Free assignment organizer for those that still love paper! Great for students with IEPs and 504s.
Tip #5 - give students time organize binders and papers
I give my students 10ish minutes every 2-3 weeks to clean out papers, hole punch and organize binders. They don’t all need this time, but the ones that do usually really appreciate it. For those that don’t need it, give them other tasks such as passing back papers, while punching upcoming papers or helping their classmates get organized.