Every year the school routines take shape during the first few weeks of the year. Teachers generally come to school with a plan, but when we meet the students, our plans change somewhat to match the children and families we serve and partner with.
On this first day of October, our routine is in good form including the following elements:
Homework
Students are expected to read, write, and practice math for about 60 minutes a night--30 minutes of reading, 10 minutes of journal writing, and 20 minutes of math practice. Math packets are passed out on the first day of the week and due the first day the next week. This gives students and families some flexibility with how they plan to tackle the assignment. Students are always welcome to work on other school tasks at home. Our online learning menu is a good source of study connections for in-school or out-of-school study and practice.
The Weekly Routine
Specialist subjects including art, tech, physical education, library, music, and instrumental are set. Our routine of reading, writing, and math instruction is also set. Social studies and science lessons will vary for many reasons including weather which impacts outdoor learning, field studies, big projects, and more. While we thought we could set a good schedule for those subjects, it seems that we'll tackle that scheduling week to week instead.
Class Protocols
I try to keep the class protocols simple and routine. Students are expected to read the schedule, gather their supplies, ask questions, and get started with the morning assignment each day. Later they're expected to carry their headphones, ELA binder, pencil, and chromebook from class to class. Math supplies are housed in their math drawers. There's no hitting, bad language, or hurtful behavior allowed, and if that happens, a teacher has to get involved. We encourage students to help one another and want them to know that the teachers are there to help them learn and have a happy experience of school.
Professional Learning
Goals have been set and shared. Professional learning events chosen and scheduled. There's little room for any more additions as the teaching/learning schedule is full.
Analysis, Reflection, Assessment, and Meetings
This week students will work more on their showcase portfolios as they prepare to lead their family member-teacher-student conferences. Students have taken a number of assessments to help teachers pinpoint areas of academic need and interest. Together we have a good pattern of collegial meeting and class meetings so that we can work together to lead the teaching/learning environment in ways that matter.
I love the excitement of the beginning of school, but by the end of September, I'm happy to have a positive routine for good learning and teaching--a routine that fosters the best that we can be and do.
