Philosophy of Classroom Management
As a teacher, providing a safe, comfortable classroom environment and maximizing
opportunities for student learning are the most important factors in governing student behavior.
In this statement, I will describe my strategies for establishing and maintaining a well-managed
environment to optimize learning opportunities. My strategies are highly influenced by Harry
and Rosemary Wong.
To make the room stimulating and visually appeasing, I decorate it with science/math
materials as well as examples of student work. The plants and animals in my science
classroom are designed to bring in natural life and attract students’ interest. At the same time,
to minimize student distraction, these stimuli are positioned on the periphery or in the back of
the room. Likewise, formulas, equations, and theories are displayed in my math room.
In order to help all students feel welcome and comfortable, I get to know their names and
interests right away and have informal conversations with them. All students’ interests,
strengths, and cultural backgrounds are welcomed and valued. I treat all students equitably and
interact and communicate with them to make them feel cared for, listened to, and respected.
My efforts to respond to all student questions and to remain patient and calm contribute to my
comforting, welcoming classroom environment.
At the beginning of the year, I communicate my rules and expectations clearly and
directly. I require students and their parents to sign a contract stating that they have read and
understand my behavioral and academic expectations and consequences. In addition, my
science students sign a safety contract. These contracts help to create a safe, positive, workoriented environment where students are comfortable and time is not wasted on unnecessary or
preventable events; as a result, there is more time available for quality instruction.
To minimize confusion, I find it helpful to tell students what is expected of them and how
to succeed in the class. For example, daily routines and procedures are implemented and
posted. A weekly calendar of assignments and due dates are also visible. By using these
things consistently, students become familiar with them and achieve a sense of security in my
classroom. I also provide students with objectives and clear, concise directions visually and
vocally. These things help keep students focused, creating fewer behavioral issues and
allowing for more meaningful instruction time.
To prevent students from becoming sidetracked and bored, it is important to have a
continuous flow of activities. To ensure this, I plan all of my lessons with extra activities for
unexpected “free” time. All of my materials are organized in terms of accessibility and
availability so less time is spent accessing them. These efforts help ensure that class time is
used wisely for furthering education.
In sum, a well-managed classroom creates a comfortable, safe place where students
want to learn. It also prevents distracting events and behavioral issues, which allows for more
quality instructional and learning time.