Classroom Management
Recommendations for Old North
Academy
Wesley A Morgan (Art Teacher)
This is a
response to Assistant Principal, Ms. Todd’s request for input on Classroom
Management. I’m encouraged that the administration is asking for input from
teachers and staff. The overall atmosphere in the classroom must be a positive
one and one that allows our learners to become scholars in earnest. My input is
relative to my 10 years as an educator (SPED and Art) and informed by my first
year as an Art Teacher at Old North Academy (2023-2024).
I’m not a
fan of rules for the sake of rules. I am however, in favor of treating each
other as we expect to be treated (The Golden Rule).
My two
cents:
1. Let’s
reinforce our PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention and Support) pillars of
Respect, Responsibility and Safety (Each of these areas represent ways that
make our commitment to TEACHING and LEARNING truly a credible statement of our
WHY.
2.
Respect for each other includes iron clad rule of NO BULLYING under any
circumstance. This would include name-calling, teasing, social media, pushing
and shoving, Let’s note strongly that horseplay and “play fighting” can lead to
bad feelings and cause escalation in some. Let’s get in the habit of saying we
are sorry to our teachers, staff and our classmates when we show any kind of
disrespect (real or perceived).
3. Responsibility
includes showing up on time and with an eagerness to work. Let’s recognize
students that help out in the classroom and in public spaces. Let’s honor those
who manage to arrive on time and use their time wisely while in school.
4. Safety
might be the most important pillar of our PBIS program. Accidents happen
and acts of nature happen. We must treat all drills with a level of
thoroughness that makes sure everyone involved understands the safety is
paramount. Intruder Drills, Fire Drills, Tornado Drills of course are critical
but let’s remember that danger is everywhere. The school grounds and adjacent
areas must be safe from all potential harm.
Classroom
routines assure the best chance of managing an orderly learning environment.
Specials and dedicated content area concentrations must be opportunities to
grow as human beings (teachers, staff and students), Let’s consider a culture
of helpful assistance, It is no secret that behaviors are minimized when
students in smaller groups have adequate adult supervision. Specials with 20+
kids can create an opportunity for play and poor choices. Let’s lower the
numbers or at least increase the adult to student ratios.
PHOTOS - Just blocks away from Old North Academy are some sad buildings unused, abandoned or in disrepair. A view down the main hallway showing what students and visitors see inside,
