Why Classroom Management Matters

Paper airplanes flying through the air. Students talking to their neighbors. A teacher saying over and over “Okay, Listen up. Quiet down”, but no one listens or quiets down until the teacher yells.  If this sounds familiar then you may need to re-think your classroom management.

If you have read other articles on this site, then you know that I am passionate about helping teachers manage their classrooms.  You may be asking yourself if this is truly an important aspect of your teaching repertoire. I have several reasons why I think this is your priority and your teaching will not be as impactful until you get your classroom under control.

1. Creating Excitement.

You are setting the stage for excitement.  You spend lots of time on your lesson plans and making certain that topics are covered in an interesting and engaging manner.  If you cannot be heard above the din in your room, then your students are missing out on the incredible lessons you planned.  When you have your students in their seats and paying attention, you can now take them on the journey that you so carefully planned.

2. R-E-S-P-E-C-T

You need to create a classroom atmosphere that is based on respect.  There needs to be someone in charge who is monitoring that everyone is treated fairly. That is your job as a teacher. You are not trying to be just another member of the class; you are in charge of the class. When you have disorder and randomness, then hurtful things can be said and done before you can stop them.  Do not misunderstand; I am not saying that all my students are loving and nurturing towards each other without ever displaying malice, but I am saying that it happens less frequently due to the clearly defined boundaries I have put in place.

3. Providing a Safe Place

And speaking of boundaries…boundaries make students feel safe.  They know what to expect when they come in to your classroom and it makes them feel valued.  The rules of the class are like guardrails on the side of a curvy, mountainous road.  The builders knew there could be trouble, so they thought ahead and put a structure in place that would keep you from getting hurt; or perhaps lessen the trauma if you do swerve off the road. Your classroom rules are based on that same principle; thinking ahead to the dangers that could occur under your watch and putting measures in place to avoid as many as possible.

4. Building Relationships

Also, a well managed classroom allows you to get to know your students.  You will have a mix of personalities in every school setting.  Some will be extroverts and some will be introverts.  You will undoubtedly get to know your extroverted students first.  However, if your classroom is disorganized and chaotic, it will be difficult to get to know your introverts.  They will be extremely uncomfortable and may never feel safe enough to show very much of their personality.  This is a shame.  You will miss out on some incredible human beings!  It is your job to provide an atmosphere that is conducive to learning for all personality types. I know this seems like a tall order, but making certain that there are times for quiet and reflection are just as important as the louder, exciting game and group times.

(I am currently reading the book “Quiet in a world that can’t stop talking” by Susan Cain. It gives much insight into the differences between extroverts and introverts and how their brains function.  I will be writing more about this in later posts. It has been fascinating reading.)

You only have a limited number of days in which to build a relationship with the students who have been placed in your class. When you center those days on trying to get to know each individual – their hopes and dreams and wit and curiosity- then they begin to see that you care about them and you want the best for them.  The rules begin to make sense and most students eagerly await the journey you have planned for them each day.