Miss Thayer's Teacher Webpage

At the start of every school year, we dedicate time and effort to intentionally build a strong, positive classroom community—one where all students feel safe, valued, and supported. We ground our classroom culture in two simple but powerful principles: “Do the right thing” and “Treat people right.” These serve as our shared expectations and guide every interaction.

I believe that behavior is a form of communication, and it’s my role as the teacher to listen, understand, and guide students through their individual challenges. Every child enters the classroom with a unique combination of emotional, social, and academic needs. By approaching each student with empathy and curiosity, I’m better able to build meaningful connections and support their growth.

I implement Conscious Discipline strategies in my classroom to help students develop emotional regulation, resolve conflicts constructively, and take responsibility for their actions. When challenges arise, I partner with the student to repair the situation through reflective conversations, clear expectations, and positive choices. These practices not only address behavior but also promote social-emotional growth.

Additionally, I incorporate Restorative Justice principles to ensure that when harm occurs—whether to a relationship, the classroom environment, or oneself—we take time to repair it. This is done through dialogue, accountability, and understanding. Students are guided to recognize the impact of their actions and consider how they can respond differently in the future.

I also use reinforcement strategies intentionally—to build confidence, increase intrinsic motivation, and connect positive behaviors to meaningful outcomes. Whether it's through earned privileges, natural consequences, or thoughtful one-on-one conversations, every response is designed to support learning and growth. Consequences are never about punishment—they’re about reflection and the opportunity to try again.

In our classroom, every day is a new opportunity. We believe in second chances, continuous growth, and the power of relationships. By creating a safe, respectful environment where all students are supported and held to high expectations, we build a space where everyone can thrive—socially, emotionally, and academically.

Reinforcements:

Classroom Economy - This is an individual system where students can work to earn class money. Students can receive money for a variety of specific reasons but are all encompassed in going above and beyond the expectations. Every 2 weeks students can use their earned money to buy things in our classroom store. Students' classroom money should always remain at school.
Star Jar - This is a class-wide system where students are practicing their team work to fill our jar with stars. Our class can earn stars by going above and beyond inside and outside of the classroom. Stars are mainly given when we receive a class compliment from another adult in the building whether that is in the hallway, lunch/recess, or specials. Once our jar is completely full students can receive the class reward they were working toward. Example class rewards include extra recess, pajama day, special treats, etc. This will be communicated with parents.

Snacks/Water:

We will have snack time around 10:30 each day. If your child chooses to have a snack, they are responsible for providing the snack. Students' snacks need to be individually packaged and ready to eat. I do not allow candy, cookies, or similar items as a snack. Please provide a healthy snack such as: a granola bar, pretzels, trail mix, crackers, etc. Students may bring a water bottle to keep at their desk. I will not allow juices, coffee, or any other beverages. Also, please ensure these are leak free water bottles, so we can avoid frequent messes!

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