Classroom Management: A Survivors Guide to Character Education

1
Classroom ManagementA Survivors Guide to
Character Education

• Sharon Waller
• Sherman ISD
• Rusty Waller
• Texas AM University - Commerce

2

• What is classroom management?
• Classroom management is the ability to CONTROL
  and MAINTAIN a learning environment within the
  classroom.

3

• Down Home Reality
• Extensive differences exist between theory and
  practice!
• PPR vs. Day One

4

• Absolute Reality
• Classroom management is the first great
  requirement of teaching!!!!

5

• Questions to Ask Yourself
• How much do I value the learning environment?
• What are I willing to do to maintain it?
• Can I transition to an effective classroom
  manager?

6

• Holistic Nature of Classroom Management
• Students
• Parents/Guardians
• Teacher Peer Group
• Administrators
• Community

7

• What to Expect from Students
• Come from varied backgrounds
• Search for the boundaries and limits
• Seek approval and acceptance of peers
• Define reality from their viewpoint

8

• Dealing with Students
• Easier to loosen up than tighten up
• Be proactive vs. reactive
• Keep your composure
• Face the problem
• Never threaten Do it!
• Do not be awed by group dynamics

9

• What to Expect from Parents/Guardians
• Expectations often contrast with reality
• Vary greatly from individual to individual
• You can make no assumptions about them

10

• Dealing with Parents/Guardians
• Always listen completely
• Utilize documentation
• Calmly maintain your position
• Elicit their help in correcting the problem

11

• What to Expect from Administrators
• Generally want a good school
• Have a lot going on
• May vary in supportiveness
• Must be kept informed

12

• Dealing with Administrators
• Try to correct problems first
• Document your actions
• Communicate difficulties with administrators
• Respect the chain of command
• Be persistent

13

• Keep in Mind that
• Your goal is to help students by maintaining an
  appropriate classroom environment. That
  environment will only be maintained by your
  ability to plan and act.

14

• Remember
• Once you obtain your desired classroom
  environment, maintaining it becomes easier.