School Vibe: how does your teaching environment 'feel'?

The folks at Different Roads have another great article: Tip of the Week: Could Teaching Environments Affect Solving Problem Behaviors?​

Additionally, the culture and "vibe" of your room and building impacts people, too! When I visit schools I am aware of this: ​How does this place 'feel'?

In the special education classroom consider these elements:

• The literal climate: lighting and temperature is just right or readily adjusted for individuals and areas of the room or building

• Visual clutter is minimal

• only a few necessary posters or artwork

• desks and group tables are orderly

• Adults organize and declutter student work spaces throughout the day

• The right amount of visual support is in place and accessible

• Students have their own schedules to know what their day looks like

• Staff schedules are posted so everyone can find each other (very helpful for specialists and other staff!)

• Tension is minimized

• There's a "go with the flow" vibe

• People are on time to relieve each other for breaks, etc.

• Personal conflicts are handled privately

• Stress is managed appropriately

• people recognize stressful situations and work to reduce pressure

• escalated students and staff are given space and support to calm down

• people are taking care of themselves and using strategies to manage stress in healthy ways

• The space is welcoming to all students and guests

• Specialists, administration, volunteers and parents are frequent visitors to classrooms

• They can find a place to sit or offered a seat

• All visitors are greeted and acknowledged courteously

• There is proactive acceptance of diversity

• People are friendly and courteous

• Positive language is frequently used by staff and students

• Respect and dignity is maintained through out the day and across settings

• Materials are easy to locate even if they are stored out of sight

• Furniture and materials are in good working order and maintained regularly

• The space feels clean and safe even if the items are older

Collaboration is evident

• Everyone makes efforts to contribute their talents

• People are encouraged to use their talents

• People are encouraged to learn new or strengthen skills

#learning #teachingstrategies #schoolclimate #culture #welcome #friendly #supportive #collaboration