When you count all the crayons, pencils, papers and books necessary for a classroom, it quickly adds up to an overwhelming amount. There are great choices for classroom organization solutions using storage and display items that make it easy to find what you need. Classroom organizers reduce the time it takes to look for papers and supplies.
Use Wall Space Wisely
By the time your classroom is filled with desks, bookcases and a group gathering spot, it’s easy to run out of space. One way to solve this problem is to maximize blank wall space using display rails and tiered wall pockets. These are especially helpful to display student art, showing your pride in their work. Consider purchasing a variety of rails to place around the room so you can change the display as students turn in new assignments.
If you teach multiple groups of students each day, use wall-mounted pockets to organize both classwork and homework for each period. This is another way to enhance classroom storage. Label each pocket with the appropriate period number, and have students place their completed assignments in the proper pockets. Install the pockets near the door as a reminder to students to turn in their work upon entering the classroom.
For those classrooms that have the same students throughout the day, assign one wall pocket to each child. File graded papers and notices that need to go home in the pockets, and have students collect these documents when they pack up for the day.
Capture Items in Containers
It takes a lot of crayons to create the latest masterpieces, and you don’t want to waste time hunting for everyone’s favorite colors. Keep fragile art supplies in sturdy containers to prevent loss and breakage so your materials last an entire school year or even longer. And consider smaller and more decorative bins and baskets so smaller items won't wander off. Store supplies in clear containers so it’s easier to see what’s inside.
An added benefit of using containers to hold supplies is that students know exactly where everything is located. As a result, they can easily help set up for an activity and clean up after it’s finished. Consider keeping certain items in small portable containers you can remove from the desks so students stay focused during their lessons.
Design Dramatic and Attractive Displays
Is reading a significant part of your curriculum? If so, you can enhance your students’ interest with book racks that capture their attention and make it easy to find the latest book in a series. Rotate the books on display periodically to keep it interesting. This way, your students will always have new titles to view.
Colorful bulletin boards make your classroom more visually appealing to students, which in turn helps them remain engaged in their lessons. Vibrant calendars help students track upcoming tests or field trips, and weekly charts help ensure they remember their classroom responsibilities. Select write-on/wipe-off boards and charts for cost-effective displays you can use year after year.
There’s literally so much time spent in the classroom that it’s almost like a second home. Make the learning environment comfortable and productive with classroom organization tools and techniques to enhance the time you and your students are together.
While the beginning of school year is generally the best time to try out new tools and systems, a mid-year update or refresher also goes a long way toward keeping students active and engaged in learning.
Don't forget a little something for yourself!
We now offer a new line of limited edition TUL pens and Teacher Planners that will help you stay on your organization game. With unique accessories, you can outfit your planner to suit your style.
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