One of the most critical ways to start your school year strong is to introduce systems that reflect the culture and beliefs you want your students to operate from when they\u2019re inside the classroom. At Rocketship, we help our teachers build systems that help them manage their classroom, bring enthusiasm to the school day, and encourage a culture of persistence and excellence. If you\u2019re looking for guidance on how to bring these elements into your classroom, follow along with Rocketship educators and leaders who have worked diligently on creating highly effective classroom systems and routines.<\/p>\n
What are Classroom Systems & Routines?<\/strong> To dive a bit deeper, the type of systems that teachers might need depends on a few factors. The student\u2019s grade level, the content, and the physical layout of the space are all important considerations. For example, we have all of our teachers and students work on their transitions into the classroom each day. We want that entrance to be done safely, but we also want to ensure that our students get a super warm welcome and know exactly what they need to do to get ready for the day.<\/p>\n Below you\u2019ll find more specific steps on how to establish routines in your own classroom:<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Tip 1: Plan Out Your Routines<\/strong><\/p>\n Think through what routines and systems you might need to do each day. Whether you\u2019re a Pre-Kindergarten teacher or are working with students in AP Physics, there are always systems and processes in your classroom that happen frequently.<\/p>\n How can you ensure that each time students enter, pass in their homework, or line up for recess that it\u2019s a process that runs smoothly? How can you arrange your space to accommodate and support your systems? Think through your classroom and the physical space to see what you can change.<\/p>\n Tip 2: Roll it Out & Practice<\/strong> Introduce your systems early and give students multiple opportunities to practice successfully. Break it down into steps and praise your students when they do it flawlessly. Make sure they get the opportunity to have multiple opportunities, both when you roll out the routine and throughout the year.<\/p>\n Tip 3: Respond Immediately and Positively<\/strong> Tip 4: Get feedback<\/strong> Now that you\u2019ve learned how to develop strong classroom systems and routines, let\u2019s get to the fun stuff. Learn \u2018How to Build a Strong Classroom Culture\u2019<\/a> in this next article.<\/p>\n
\nIn a classroom, routines are necessary for some of those repetitive tasks that students do each day. Whether it\u2019s entering the classroom, walking in the hallway, moving to the carpet, or passing out papers, systems are key to a high-functioning and efficient classroom. At Rocketship, we want our systems and routines to do a few things. First, (and most importantly) they need to keep kids safe. Relatedly, they should save time, be fun and engaging, and be super clear for all of our students.<\/p>\nHow to Establish & Reinforce Systems<\/h4>\n
\nIf you ask us, the key to a high-functioning system is one that the teacher makes sure is done exceptionally well consistently. To do anything well repeatedly takes practice, especially with students who often have their own ideas sometimes!<\/p>\n
\nAs the teacher, you are the key person who is going to make those systems perfect. To do that, you\u2019re going to need to course correct. We have found that staying optimistic and giving bite-sized, manageable steps that students can practice lead to strong outcomes. Relatedly, there should be time set into your class or day to really get those systems down, especially in the first few days and weeks. During that practice time, make sure you aren\u2019t multitasking and you\u2019re being both clear and vigilant about what you\u2019re communicating and what you\u2019re looking for. Of course, there are going to be times where not every student gets it right. That\u2019s okay! If necessary, have the students (or class) repeat it, and praise them when they get it right!<\/p>\n
\nWe love feedback at Rocketship, and it\u2019s something we always use to improve. Ask your Principal or manager to come in and observe you. If needed, try out video, too. Record a transition you\u2019re looking to get better at and share it with a mentor or a teacher you trust. As you probably know, teaching is hard. Just like we have to give our students multiple chances to get it right, we have to allow the same grace for our own work. Making sure we\u2019re constantly thinking about how to run a safer and more efficient classroom is the hallmark of what great teaching is, and it\u2019s a great practice to seek out help from time to time!<\/p>\n