Setting Your Expectations

What are Classroom Expectations?

Classroom expectations, or rules, are clear guidelines established to help students understand how to behave and interact respectfully in the learning environment. They promote a positive and productive atmosphere for everyone.

Why are Classroom Expectations important?

Classroom expectations are crucial because they create a predictable and safe learning space, minimizing disruptions and maximizing the time students have to focus on learning and growth. When students know what is expected, there is a sense of security and allows for more of a focus on teaching.

How to implement establishing Classroom Expectations? 

1. Reflect on your teaching philosophy and identify core values you want to see in your classroom, such as respect, responsibility, and effort.

2. Brainstorm a few broad, positively stated expectations based on these values (e.g., "Respect yourself and others," "Be responsible for your learning," "Always try your best").

3. Involve students in the process by discussing why these values are important and collaboratively generating specific, observable behaviors that demonstrate these expectations. This fosters buy-in.

4. Keep the number of rules manageable, typically 3-5, so they are easy for students to remember.

5. Clearly communicate the expectations to students through visual aids, discussions, and regular reminders.

6. Model the expected behaviors yourself, showing students what the expectations look like in practice.

7. Consistently enforce the expectations in a fair and equitable manner, with clear consequences and positive reinforcement.

8. Review and revise expectations as needed throughout the year based on classroom needs and student input.