STANDARD 4: LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

Description: In my class we have develop a system for tracking and rewarding positive behaviors. This is our whole classroom reward system. However, we have 1:1 students with their own individualized and personal reward board.  

Connection: 4A) understands principles of and strategies for effective classroom and behavior management; Implementing a classroom management reward system can effectively motivate students, reinforce positive behavior, and create a positive learning environment. You want to ensure the rewards are tangible and appropriate for the reward system to be effective. A reward system not only outlines the expectations you want to see but also helps teach students self-regulation skills and positively manage their emotions, behaviors, and reactions. I believe this also promotes personal growth. Since having this system, my student's behaviors have decreased drastically. 

Learned: Having a reward system is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It works in my class for some of my students. However, I do have students with their own individualized token reward system. If it's one thing Ive learned, you must be willing to make adjustments. I have had to adjust for various reasons, including consistency or not motivating students. Effective classroom and behavior management is an ongoing process that requires flexibility and continuous reflection. Educators must create a positive and inclusive learning environment that promotes student success.

Description: This picture displays our classroom rules. We voted on our classroom name and theme at the beginning of the year. The majority of the students chose Superhero. So, I found superhero-themed rules for our classroom known as the Superhero Creed. The Zones of Regulation check-in board is at the bottom of the rules to help with emotional intelligence skills. It supports students to recognize and better regulate their emotions and self-awareness skills.

Connection: 4J) creates clear expectations and procedures for communication and behavior and a physical setting conducive to achieving classroom goals; Implementing classroom rules allows for clearly defining and communicating your expectations for behavior in your classroom. Doing this allows your students to understand what is expected of them. It's essential to encourage, reinforce, and portray the desired behavior you expect from them. Also, allowing students to have some input into the reward system, such as choosing the theme Superhero, reward pictures to match, and what they choose to work for, such as computer time, sensory room break, or playdough use, enhances their ownership of the process and increases motivation to follow the expectations.

Learned: When I say rules, my students will redirect me and tell me it's the Superhero Creed. It is important to involve them in classroom-related decision-making. By doing this, I know they are aware of their actions and behaviors. Although I enjoy extrinsic motivational rewards, teaching intrinsic motivation is also essential. Both can coexist, and a balanced approach that considers both forms of motivation can be valuable in fostering a well-rounded and motivated individual.