This classroom rules poster reflects a lot of what I value in a classroom, but practicum definitely changed how I think I would implement it. Instead of creating the rules myself, I would want students to help build them together so they feel more connected to the expectations and understand the purpose behind them.

 

There are also some expectations I would now adjust to better reflect real classrooms and real students. For example, instead of “hands still,” I would probably use something like “hands to my space” because many students need movement in order to focus and regulate. I would also want students to help explain what active listening looks like to them because it can look different for different learners.

 

The ideas of kindness, safety, and being ready to learn are still really important to me. I want students to feel comfortable asking for help, supporting each other, and understanding that learning is not a competition. One thing I really tried to build during practicum was a classroom where students cheered each other on instead of comparing themselves to each other.

 

The most important rule to me is still “Own Our Oopsies.” I think students learn best when mistakes feel normal and safe instead of embarrassing. I constantly reminded students that their best effort will not look the same every day or the same as someone else’s, but what matters is continuing to try, reflect, and grow.