The Importance of Doubling Down on Your Back-to-School Classroom Management Plan

You can listen to the "Student Accountability Matters" episode here 

But here's the bottom line, as teachers starting back to school in 2024-25 we need to have a robust classroom management plan to handle in class disruptions and low-level behavior issues ourselves, without relying on "the office" to help us out. We need to double down on taking care of business ourselves because we all know how frustrating it is to send a student to the office, only to have them return promptly with a smile on their face and (maybe) a "reflection" sheet.

The Current State of Classroom Management in 2024-25

Before we dive into strategies, it's essential to understand the context of why classroom management has become increasingly challenging. It's not because your administrators are "lazy" (I mean some could be, but let's give them the benefit of the doubt). For many administrators, their hands are tied.

1. Policy Changes: Many districts are implementing new discipline policies that limit traditional consequences. For example, in California, a law passed on July 1st, 2024, prohibits public schools from suspending K-12 students for "willful defiance" - low-level disruptive behaviors that were previously grounds for suspension.

2. Limited Administrative Support: Administrators often have their hands tied due to various factors, including:

   • Legal constraints

   • Concerns about how suspending students reflects on the district 

   • Limited resources for addressing severe behavioral issues

   • Fear of lawsuits and causing parent friction

3. Post-Pandemic Challenges: Many students are still adjusting to in-person learning after extended periods of remote education, leading to gaps in social skills and classroom norms.

4. Increased Student Dysregulation: Teachers report higher levels of severe behavioral issues and emotional dysregulation among students. There are simply more students needing counseling and other interventions than school resources can acommodate.

Given these challenges, it's clear that teachers need to take more responsibility for managing behavior within their classrooms. But don't worry - you're not alone, and there are some effective strategies for you to consider.

Essential Classroom Management Strategies

1. Advocate for Your Professional Development

If you feel your classroom management skills need improvement, don't hesitate to advocate for yourself. Here's how:

• Research professional development opportunities focused on classroom management

• Approach your administration with specific requests for training or workshops

• Utilize your school's professional development funds

• Be proactive in seeking out resources and support. Looking for a campus mentor may also help.

Remember, there's no shame in recognizing areas for growth. In fact, it's a sign of a dedicated professional.

2. Invest Time in Establishing Rules and Procedures

One of the most crucial mistakes teachers make at the beginning of the new school year is rushing into teaching curriculum (there's so much to cover!) without properly establishing classroom norms. Here's why investing time upfront is essential:

• It sets the tone for the entire year

• Students learn expectations clearly from the start

• Investing time now prevents constant disruptions later in the year

Don't worry if you've already started the year - it's never too late to revisit and reinforce rules and procedures.

3. Create Effective Classroom Rules

When developing rules, consider the following "best practices":

• Limit your rules to 5 or fewer for clarity

• Frame rules positively (e.g., "Stay in your seat" instead of "Don't stand up")

• Involve students in the rule-making process and get their buy-in (with guidance, of course!)

A unique approach to consider is using "standards" instead of rules:

• Develop 4-5 broad standards of behavior (e.g., "Show respect," "Make good decisions," "Solve your own problems," "Take responsibility for your own learning")

• Use hand signals to reinforce these standards non-verbally, this enables you to redirect students without having to lose your "flow." This takes practice, but is so worth it.

• Ninja Teacher Tip : Consider giving students sticky notes and ask them to list behaviors that get in the way of their learning. Once they have a few, they can "stick" them to the appropriate standard. This helps them understand that the standards are their for their benefit. It allows for student buy-in while maintaining teacher control over expectations.

4. Establish Clear Procedures and Practice, Practice, Practice

Procedures are the routines that make your classroom run smoothly. Key areas to focus on include:

• Entering and exiting the classroom

• Transitioning between activities

• Distributing and collecting materials

• Seeking help or asking questions

• Lining up (for younger grades)

Remember to:

• Model each procedure clearly

• Practice procedures repeatedly

• Be consistent in enforcing procedures

• Re-teach procedures as needed throughout the year

5. Implement the "Three C's" of Classroom Management

Adopt these three fundamental principles for effective management:

a) Calm: Maintain your composure, even in challenging situations. Your emotional regulation sets the tone for the class. I did an entire podcast episode on how to maintain your calm when your classroom management plan is imploding. You can listen to it here

b) Consistent: Apply rules and consequences uniformly across all students and situations. This fairness builds trust and respect.

c) Consequences: Establish clear, logical consequences for both positive and negative behaviors. Ensure consequences are:

• Proportional to the behavior

• Consistently applied

• Logically connected to the infraction

8. Implement a Progressive Discipline System

When misbehavior occurs, follow a clear progression of consequences:

1. Verbal warning

2. Written warning or loss of privilege

3. Parent contact

4. Classroom exclusion (e.g., buddy teacher's room)

5. Office referral (for severe behaviors and a s a last resort). 

Ensure students and parents understand this system from the beginning of the year. Again, the critical thing is to follow your program consistently. Every time. With every student.

Remember, every group of students is unique and effective classroom management is an ongoing process. Regularly:

• Reflect on what's working and what isn't

• Seek feedback from colleagues and mentors

• Stay updated on new research and strategies

• Be willing to adjust your approach as needed

How to Not Get Discouraged with Persistent Student Problems

Remember that in education the most effective teachers often find the most challenging student are placed on their roster. This can be discouraging and exhausting. But try not to take student behavior personally. When faced with persistent behavioral challenges, remember:

1. You're not alone: Many teachers are experiencing similar struggles.

2. It's okay to seek help: Reach out to colleagues, mentors, or administration for support.

3. Document everything: Keep detailed records of behaviors, interventions, and communications.

4. Know your rights and responsibilities: Familiarize yourself with school policies, your contractual obligations and legal requirements.

5. Avoid burnout: Maintaining your physical and mental health is essential to staying resilient and effective. Get comfortable setting boundaries and finding ways to fill your own cup. That's what this blog and my podcast are all about.

Recommended Resources

These are two of my favorite resources with regards to classroom management and having a successful back to school:

1. "The First Days of School" by Harry Wong

2. "Setting Limits in the Classroom" by Robert J. Mackenzie

If you haven't read them in a while, they are worth a quick revisit. There are also many episodes on the Balance Your teacher Life Podcast that can help.

You've got this! Classroom management may be challenging, but you are more than capable of rising to the occasion. By doubling down on your efforts and implementing these strategies, you'll not only improve your teaching experience but also provide your students with the structure and support they need to thrive.