How to Start the School Year: A Guide for Middle School Teachers and Students

When kids know what you expect, they can be prepared. And, that can make for a more harmonious classroom. A smooth running classroom means a symbiotic relationship between teacher, student and parent. However, it is the teacher's clear expectations verbalized from the very beginning that push this relationship in the right direction.

Teachers need to communicate with parents from the first day. When working with middle school students, you can establish that initial relationship with pupils. But, you can't depend on them to verbally relay your words home. Take the time to print up clear information that students and parents can go over together. First, however, discuss these ideas with your students. Give them time to ask for clarification, motivation, and consequences for the inevitable times your goals aren't met by them.

1. Outline your procedures for entering the class. Some of this may sound obvious, but if it is in print, no one can challenge you later, saying, 'But I didn't think you meant". Sample entering procedures might look like this:

- Greet me at the door
- Walk into the room quietly and head to your assigned seat
- Have all materials for this class with you (homework, pencil, notebook, etc.)
- Begin the warm-up immediately/if no warm-up, read silently until class starts

2. Outline classroom procedures. Again, even middle schoolers and high schoolers need to be reminded of protocols:
- Raise your hand to speak

- No side-conversations or off-topic discussions
- Cell phones and music devices must be OFF and invisible
- Stay in your seat when someone is speaking or I am teaching
- You may sharpen your pencil or get water once everyone is working quietly, one person up at a time

3. Outline working procedures. Keep it simple:

- Stay focused, stay quiet
- Raise your hand when you need help
- Do not ask permission to leave the room 10 minutes before the start or end of class
- When you have work to turn in, be sure you have it labeled: name, date, class period, subject, title of assignment

4. Go over the school's bathroom, locker, or hallway policies: