Laws of the Land

Today, Ms. G explained to us how she makes and enforces the rules in her classroom, describing them as one of the most important parts of her teaching. Set up across the district are the classroom expectations that are categorized as "Be Respectful," "Be Responsible," and "Be Safe." Ms. G uses these same categories, but in a way that relates specifically to her classroom, with rules such as "Respect others' artwork -- ask permission to touch, hold, etc." and "Clean up after yourself -- work area and materials. It was very important to Ms. G to follow the rules of the district. She said that some staff members are lax when it comes to these rules, and that the students will pick up on that and take advantage of the teachers, causing "chaos," in Ms. G's words. For this reason, she explained that it is very important to be stern with the rules and follow through with discipline when necessary. Students will learn immediately if a teacher enforces their rules or not, and they will become incredibly difficult for those who do not. I have witnessed Ms. G enforcing the rules in her class several times, and it is obvious that it prevents other students from breaking the same rules. In addition to the posted classroom expectations, Ms. G has also written an art contract that the students must sign at the beginning of every trimester in which they agree to rules such as not leaving without permission, not eating in the classroom, and using equipment safely and responsibly. This holds each and every student personally accountable for his or her actions. As far as safety rules go, Ms. G simply expects the students to use the materials in a safe manner as taught by the lesson. For example, when they are carving wood, they must wear protective gloves. If the students break a tool by not using it safely or responsibly, they must pay the replacement cost. Finally, the district gives each student a punchcard in which they are allowed 3 cellphone uses, 3 tardies, and 9 bathroom breaks per trimester. Because of this, students must really consider whether or not they need to go to the bathroom, use their phone during class, or show up late to class. It keeps them from constantly missing out on instruction, but it gives some leeway at the same time. Ms. G says that she is rather understanding in her use of the punchcards. If a student clearly has to use the bathroom but is out of punches, she will allow them to go. If they want to use their cell phones for internet research, that is fine by her. She also allows iPods to be used in the classroom with one headphone only. As long as the students are not abusing these privileges, she will let them remain. I really enjoyed learning about Ms. G's rules, and I think mine will be similar in my classroom. What is mostly important to me is that, like Ms. G, I follow my districts guidelines on classroom expectations. The students need consistency in their expectations to avoid violating them, and the district needs the support of all its teachers in enforcing them. Additionally, I will create and enforce rules that keep my students safe and their artwork safe at all times.