Classroom Code |
I like quotes. There are a many quotes adequately expressing that for which I am unable to find the words, but two really stand out to me when I think about children. The first is from Richard Branson: "You don't learn to walk by following the rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over." The second is from Peggy O'mara: "How we talk to our children becomes their inner voice".
I am a strong believer in giving kids room to grow. I want to help them improve, think for themselves, and stretch their boundaries. Therefore, it seems natural that our classroom rules are not limitations, but rather a challenge, or code. As shown to the left, these principles are a driving force in our classroom. They are the general expectation in words, thoughts, and actions for the students and myself. As a parent and a teacher, I believe part of my job is to help both my son and my students acquire these three habits, helping them become happy, successful, 'good people'. Following Richard Branson's thinking, the way to learn these things - is to do these things.
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Brag TagsI'm all about keeping it positive and helping students see that it "feels good to do good". And when they "do good", I want to acknowledge their efforts. This is where BRAG TAGS come into play.
Brag Tags are incentive tags that your child can earn for positive behavior and choices that he/she makes during the school day. The tags are placed on a necklace that is kept at school and brought home at the end of the school year. Brag Tags are earned for student choices, behaviors, or accomplishments that exceed expectations. Some of these include: 100% on a test, helping others, good Listening, etc. One cool thing about Brag Tags is that with all the different categories, all students can be successful. Success is not limited to students excelling academically, those with tons of friends, or students who find it easy to sit still. These tags celebrate ALL students. And to share a little secret, "My teacher is proud of me" is my all time favorite. |
As students celebrate each other and have a tangible reminder of how amazing they are for so many reasons,
I can't help but think that their inner voices are lifting them up and helping them see and believe how wonderful and special they really are. |
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