Rules and procedures are the backbone of my classroom because they set the tone for everything we do, both in how we treat each other and how we handle daily tasks. Having clear rules helps create a space where everyone feels respected, safe, and valued. These aren't just about keeping order, but about fostering a positive atmosphere where we can all thrive. Procedures, on the other hand, make sure everyone knows exactly what to do and how to do it- from turning in assignments to participating in group work—so we can focus on learning rather than confusion. The key difference is that rules guide how we behave, while procedures guide how we get things done. I start teaching both on day one, making sure students know what’s expected by modeling, practicing, and reinforcing these steps consistently. It’s all about repetition, encouragement, and even role-playing to make these expectations second nature. When students understand the "why" behind them, it builds a smoother, more successful learning environment for everyone
Be Respectful: I will treat everyone with kindness and respect, including my classmates, teacher, and school property. Learning a new culture can be challenging, so I will respect everyone’s differences.
Be Prepared: I will come to class on time, with all my materials, ready to learn.
Stay Engaged: I will actively participate, listen attentively, and follow directions the first time they are given. I will speak in Spanish at all times.
Speak Positively: I will use positive language when speaking to others, whether in English or Spanish.
Maintain a Growth Mindset: I will approach challenges with a positive attitude and understand that making mistakes is part of learning.
*In first person for students*
Ser Respetuoso: Trataré a todo el mundo con amabilidad y respeto, incluidos mis compañeros de clase, el profesor y la propiedad escolar. Aprender una nueva cultura puede ser un reto, así que respetaré las diferencias de cada uno.
Estar Preparado: Llegaré a clase a tiempo, con todos mis materiales y listo para aprender.
Participar: Participaré activamente, escucharé con atención y seguiré las instrucciones a la primera. Hablaré en español en todo momento.
Hablar Positivamente: Utilizaré un lenguaje positivo cuando me dirija a los demás, ya sea en inglés o en español.
Mantener una Mentalidad de Crecimiento: Me enfrentaré a los retos con una actitud positiva y entenderé que cometer errores forma parte del aprendizaje.
*In first person for students*
Arrival
What students will do: Enter the room quietly, sit in their assigned seats, greet me- the teacher, and begin the bellringer displayed on the board.
How I will teach: I will model the expected behavior on the first day, showing students how to enter the room calmly and start their work. During the first week, I’ll practice this with the class, offering reminders and positive reinforcement to build the habit.
What students will do: Raise their hand with the bathroom signal and wait for permission. They will fill out the restroom pass quietly before leaving.
How I will teach: I will demonstrate the hand signal on the first day and practice the process with the students during the first week, ensuring they understand the expectations: walking down the hall quietly, washing their hands, and walking back to class quietly.
What students will do: Raise their hand to speak and wait their turn. They will listen respectfully while others are speaking.
How I will teach: I’ll discuss the importance of participation and have students practice this in small group activities. I’ll emphasize active listening and respectful communication.
What students will do: Place completed assignments in the designated tray before leaving class, or submit online assignments through Google Classroom.
How I will teach: I’ll show the students where the tray is and how to submit online work, explaining why it's important to turn in work on time. I’ll practice this routine with them and provide reminders through Remind.
What students will do: Follow their assigned group, collaborate respectfully, and complete tasks within the given time.
How I will teach: I will assign groups on the first day and explain each role. I’ll model what effective group work looks like, and I’ll give individual group feedback privately on how well they collaborate.
What students will do: Only use technology when instructed. Devices should be put away unless needed for an activity.
How I will teach: On the first day, I’ll explain the rules for using technology, emphasizing digital citizenship and responsible web use. I’ll enforce these rules consistently, rewarding students who follow them.
What students will do: Raise their hand if they have a question, email me, or approach me quietly during independent work.
How I will teach: I’ll model how to ask for help appropriately, giving examples of when and how to ask during class activities. I’ll also teach them how to email me for assistance when needed in or outside of class.
What students will do: Listen to instructions, gather materials quickly, and begin working quietly or independently, depending on the task.
How I will teach: I’ll walk students through the steps of starting an activity, explaining the expectations. I’ll reward groups or individuals who stay on task and begin work efficiently.
What students will do: Stay seated until I signal the end of class with a call out and response. They will clean their area, push in chairs, straighten tables/desks and wait for dismissal by the bell.
How I will teach: I’ll practice the dismissal routine during the first week, showing students how to clean up, call and respond, and prepare to leave. I’ll reinforce this regularly to ensure it becomes a habit.
What students will do: Check the board for homework or Google Classroom, gather materials, and clean their desk area before leaving.
How I will teach: I’ll establish this routine early on, with a checklist posted on the board and Google Classroom. I’ll review it daily until it becomes part of the class habit.