Add Your Bitmoji
I made my Bitmoji to add to my classroom door. I emailed it to myself from cell phone. Then I could access the image on my computer. I saved the image to my computer, and I opened it in the Silhouette Studio. I traced the imaged, and I released the compound path. I printed the image on Oracal 631 Vinyl. I enjoy Silhouette projects, and I enjoy learning new things.
Create Welcoming and Unique Classrooms
I want my students to feel comfortable in our classroom. I use a doormat and awning at the entrance of my classroom. Artificial plants on the window-sills are always nice. Also, I hang curtains up too. I try to use decorations intentionally because I do not want students to find decorations to be distracting. In my classroom, I use a primary color scheme, and I have a lot of little bees around the classroom. The bees are for my students to remember that I bee-lieve in their success! Every teacher has their own unique style. When we create a space that reflects our style then we are sharing a piece of who we are as a teacher with our students. Every teacher has different unique qualities to share with their kids. I think that the best way to create a welcoming classroom is to be true to yourself. Do not worry about what other people think- just be you. Of course, you need to ensure that you are meeting your district requirement for what needs to be in your classroom. Most importantly, create unique and welcoming spaces for kids from your heart. If you enjoy that space then your students will enjoy it too!
Save Wall Space
Every teacher would like to have more wall space and time. I have a wall space saving trick to share with you. I love to display inspirational quotes in my classroom. I hole punch the corners of my posters. Then I attach it to loose leaf rings, and I hang it from command hooks. This allows me to easily flip from one poster to the next. We have a different character trait focus every month so I use this poster trick to display that information as well. I hope this trick helps you save your wall space!
Organize iPads in Your Classroom
Many schools are changing over to 1:1; however, sometimes it is tricky finding a way to organize everything. I use book bins to organize iPads in the classroom. Every student has a numbered bin that can be moved to different locations in the classroom as needed. The bins store their iPads, iPad folder notes, charger, headphones, and stylus. It is nice to be able keep everything together. I spread groups of bins out in different spots in the classroom so that area doesn't become crowded when students need to get their ipads. I purchased my book bins from Really Good Stuff, but you could use bins from the Dollar Store. I love storing the iPads away from student desks to avoid damage.
Use Duct Tape to Color Code Groups
I love differentiating instruction, and meeting with students in small groups. I assign a color to each group. I add duct tape to student math notebooks and reading folders to sort materials quickly into guided math and reading groups. My groups are flexible, and it is very fast to simply add another piece of duct tape when I change groups around based-on assessments. I didn't realize it when I bought it, but the green duct changes color. The kids love it! When looking for duct tape you might want to try different designs or color changing tape to spice things up a bit.
Write On Student Desks With Sharpie Paint Markers!
I no longer use desk nameplates! This works well for me because my students no longer pick at the nameplates, and I do not have to re-purchase nameplates. Plus, it is easy to change and re-write the names when I want to change it. I use Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers! I found a 50% off coupon at a craft store to save money on purchasing a pack. The medium point size worked best. I give my students numbers so I write the even number student's names in blue, and the odd number student's names in red. The easiest way to remove the writing is by using nail polish remover and a sponge. I have been using the same pack of markers now for over three years.
Pom-Pom Dry Board Marker Erasers
Hot glue pom-pom balls to the top of your dry board markers.
You have an easy way for students to write and erase.
Save Money When Printing
Ink
I spend a lot of money printing things at home. I go through many ink cartridges and toners, especially at the beginning of the school year. Plus, I think it is nice to print in color, and color is expensive.
HP Instant Ink
I found a solution, and a way to save money. I bought a printer on the approved HP list, and registered for the HP Instant Ink deal. They have different monthly plans. It is amazing how the new ink was automatically sent to me in the mail. This is not an advertisement, rather this is just a trick that I was excited about because it is saving me money. If interested in learning more check it out at HP Instant Ink.
