My first visit to my room this summer my room looked like this:
I moved some furniture that hadn't been moved in many many years and before the tables each of my students had their own cubbies that lined the walls. More and more students entered my classroom last year and we just didn't have room for more cubbies. Plus, it was difficult to have a whole class discussion when all students, while at their seats, had their back to me. Half way through the year we get smart boards put in and with this new layout I hope to utilize it a lot more this year and I can't wait! Also, this this layout I was able to create a "break room" for my students who may need some alone time away from the other students. And if you can see there are still 3 cubbies for students who need to sit somewhere with fewer distractions to complete individual work.
Anyway throughout the summer I have been buying a bunch of new items for my classroom to help in the change of decor, organization of materials, schedule, and behavior plan. Through this search of items I have fallen in love with Vistaprint buying items such as business cards (turned punch cards for behavior plan), magnets (for rewards), tote bag (for worksites), personalized sticky notes, "completed with teacher's help" stamper, school t-shirt, and even a notebook. All of this for under $10 which just paid for the shipping and handling. I received all of this because they have a bunch of free things which can be personalized. I have attached the e-mail flyer I received highlighting everything free or at a large discount.
You search online for other Vistaprint coupon codes if you order something that isn't free.
I have also purchased a few items from the container store to make supplies easier to access. Last year I would let the students get into my desk for items such as highlighters, erasers, sticky notes, tape, etc. Hopefully this will allow the students to feel free to help themselves and that they don't abuse the access to materials. I ordered the 4 step drawer:
The problem is I have no idea what to do with the hanger organizer. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. This is a nice product and would hate to see it go to waste. Maybe I'll store poster boards, but I will need to collect many more.
On top of these orders Dollar Tree is one of my favorite stores because they have a large area for teachers and school. On top of their good selection of supplies and prizes everything is a dollar or maybe even 2 for a dollar. Much better prices than any other place for items such as bulletin board boarders, posters, die cuts, etc.
This is the last week I have off before I work two full weeks (first time all summer), and start volleyball. So, I'm trying to take advantage of these empty days though I'm bored and trying to focus on my classroom. But before I know it school will be back in session and I'll be begging for my lazy, sleep-all-day life back.
1) What did I learn today? My classroom has changed a lot.
2) What did I accomplish today? Changes to classroom procedures.
3) What can I do better tomorrow? Make it to my classroom, again.
4) What did I enjoy today? Sleeping in
5) What am I most grateful for today? Relaxing evenings
-Cheers-
Good work on the classroom overhaul! Being this is my third year in a row moving classrooms (and buildings!) I can appreciate the effort it takes!
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