Project Organization Phase 6: Substitute Info

Now that you have created an organized spot for your plans, it's time to focus on plans for a substitute.  Most classroom teachers I know use a binder.  As a substitute my favorite class to sub in was Mrs. Dunn's class.  She taught kindergarten and was well prepared for a sub.  I opened her sub binder and it walked me through her entire day.  For the morning meeting, I had...

Project Organization Phase 5: Planbook

This project is creating an organized planbook which is really more than just a planbook.  This is something that you should have fun with - make it your own because you should be spending a lot of time with this through the year. Materials: -Binder with view pockets in the front for a cover (2" is probably good) -Set of dividers -Page protectors (optional) -Zippered pouch (optional) -3 whole...

Project Organization Phase 4: Desk Files

Materials: Stacking letter tray (5 or 6 slots) Colorful/decorative file folders If you think back to phase 1, I had a warning at the bottom.  We end up with piles for a reason.  Unless we change our habits, we will still end up with piles.  Having a stacking letter tray on your desk (I like to have 5 or 6 slots) will make a small dent in this.  I bought colorful file folders...

Project Organization Phase 3: Special Ed Binder

Materials: -Binder -Dividers I remember sitting in new teacher orientation at my district.  At least 5 times the mentors said, "If you have any questions or you need help with a student or lesson, talk to a special ed teacher."  That's when I knew I was in trouble.  I was just as new as everyone else yet I was expected to be able to fix problems for everyone.  Chances are, you...

Project Organization Phase 2: Student Records

For this project, you need to choose how you will keep student records as well as what you keep.  The what might determine the how.  You will use either binders or file folders to store your students records.  Choose what you are more comfortable with and what you think you can maintain. Materials: Binder and dividersor File Folders and a crate or file cabinet I currently keep student...

Project Organization Phase 1: The Piles!

I just spent the past 3 hours reading another teachers blog which promised to organize me.  It wasn't helpful.  I did get a new behavior chart idea that I may use for next year but overall this wasn't a good use of my time.  I liked her concept: giving everyone assignments each day to complete projects (ultimate plan book etc...).  Here is my quick organization guide: 1. Get...

Group Names

I was giving practice ELA exams all day today and it gave me a lot of time to think.  With my new planbook format (planbook.com) I've had to name all my groups.  I now have several groups that could have the same name 3rd Grade Reading Group for example.  I've decided that I want to give the groups names, just as you would reading groups.  Most teachers in my schools use colors...