I got to meet most of my 1st graders tonight at our annual ice cream social. This is the kickoff to the new school year. Students/parents get to come meet their new teachers. This year I am trying something new. For many years I have been using a behavior chart to manage behaviors. It has been very functional. However, I was reading Matt Gomez's blog post about his one class rule. He listed a couple posts "Too high a price: why I don't do behavior charts" and "Behavior Management: not systems but relationships" that were both written by his good friend Miss Night. The two posts resonated with me on how much emphasis is put on building relationships. I have retired the behavior chart and will be focusing on my students being brave. Both Miss Night and Matt Gomez have greatly influenced me to be brave as I go down an unfamiliar path with classroom management. Below is one of my bulletin boards that will help not only my students but me as well to Be Brave!! I know there may be ups and downs as I implement this new system to fit my teaching style and my students' needs. I look forward to fostering relationships and building independent students that make positive choices based on intrinsic motivation.
What are your thoughts? Do you manage your students in a "stop light chart" free classroom? Any suggestions?
3 Comments
Michelle
8/19/2013 12:35:04 pm
It's always great to try something new! I hope you find you love the change in your classroom. Your kids will.
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Andrew Fenstermaker
8/21/2013 02:29:30 pm
Thanks. The first day was a little challenging. Laid the foundation though and will continue to build each day.
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8/5/2014 02:19:31 pm
This makes my heart so happy! Thank you so much for sharing your own bravery at trying something new. I am honoured to have inspired your courage. Please keep us posted on how your year is going.
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Andrew FenstermakerInstructional Technology Coordinator | Innovation Coach | Google Certified Innovator | Presenter | Blogger | Adjunct @UiowaEducation | Owner @kids_f_i_r_s_t |