Idea discovered from: https://www.weareteachers.com/build-a-classroom-escape-room-lesson/ 

In my experience as a student, ice breakers can feel uncomfortable and even silly. However, as a teacher I acknowledge that they are entirely necessary. Ice breakers help students learn each other's names and feel comfortable speaking to eachother. The first day of class is so important for shaping the rest of the semester so having students get to know each other a little bit is really important. For our classroom ice breaker, I have set up an "escape room". The students will still be able to come and go through the classroom door, but they will have to find clues to find the code to unlock a box in the classroom that contains a secret item! This activity will build community by encouraging teamwork and involving all students in our class, while simultaneously teaching the students where classroom supplies are. I will learn a lot about my students during this activity and witness thepositive impact it has on the students throughout the semester. 

On the second day of class, we will fill out a classroom interest poster. I will prompt the students to write down some art projects or concepts they are interested in learning, read them aloud, and write them on the poster. This poster will shape the projects I give lessons on throughout the semester. This practice keeps students engaged in my class and conveys to them that their interests have a place in our class. 

Our first project of the semester will be creating a collage on a 9x12 canvas that represents their personality, interests, culture, values, and artistic style. This will allow students to share about themselves with the class in a visual way. Students will be provided collage materials but encouraged to bring collage materials from home (magazines, photos, wrappers, stickers, etc.) if they would like. I will also print off any images the students choose to include. All collages and any imagery included must be school appropriate. I am so excited to see what the students create!

Assigned seating can be frustrating for students, however it helps keep classroom communities connected and evades the formation of cliques. It help students feel more comfortable getting to know new people and having conversation that forms positive relationships. I also do enforce the requirement that students greet everyone at their table. This keeps all students feeling valued and important in the classroom. This also forms good habits, encouraging students to always say hello to the people around them.