In this series, we will explore three concepts that support leaders as they work to ensure classroom management is effective in their buildings so that all students have equitable learning opportunities. First, and possibly most important, before any initiative will be successful in a school, it is crucial to establish buy-in among the staff. According to Duncan & Magnuson (2005), more than 50 percent of children are exposed to at least one risk factor that is associated with lower student achievement. When students struggle academically, it often bleeds over into their behavior as well. Additionally, “What many students experience inside school walls is so wildly different from what they encounter outside of those walls that they often struggle to adapt to the environment of school” (Goodwin, 2011, p. 85). It is critical that teachers and school staff understand the reasons behind the behaviors they observe to create buy-in for the need to change their classroom management styles. No student comes to school wanting to misbehave. When teachers and staff realize this, it helps to humanize students’ misbehaviors as revealing a root cause deeper than what is happening in the classroom. If teachers and staff understand the reasons behind student behaviors and see the tangible benefits of effective classroom management, they are more likely to buy into the need for change.
Steps to Create Buy-In:
- Educate and Inform: Start by educating the staff about the underlying causes of student behavior. Professional development sessions on the neuroscience of learning and behavior, and how external factors like trauma and stress affect students, can build empathy and understanding.
- Share Data and Research: Present data and research that highlight the positive impact of effective classroom management on student outcomes. Sharing studies that show well-managed classrooms lead to better academic performance and improved social-emotional well-being can be convincing.
- Personal Stories and Testimonials: Share personal stories or testimonials from teachers who have successfully implemented new management strategies. Hearing from peers can be powerful and motivating.
- Collaborative Approach: Involve teachers in the decision-making process. Creating committees or working groups that allow staff to contribute to the development of new management strategies fosters a sense of ownership and commitment.
- Provide Support and Resources: Ensure that teachers have access to the necessary resources and support to implement new strategies. This includes classroom materials, regular check-ins with mentors or coaches, and opportunities for ongoing professional development.
- Recognize and Celebrate Success: Publicly recognize and celebrate the successes of teachers who are effectively managing their classrooms. This can be done through staff meetings, newsletters, or other communication channels. Celebrating success reinforces the positive impact of their efforts and encourages others to adopt similar practices.
Long-Term Benefits
Teachers must understand that effective classroom management not only improves outcomes but also enhances students’ social and emotional well-being. When students feel safe and supported, they are more likely to engage in learning and develop positive relationships with their peers and teachers. Establishing a well-managed classroom has long-term benefits for both teachers and students. For teachers, it can lead to reduced stress and burnout, and create a more positive work environment. For students, consistent and fair management practices can foster a sense of stability and predictability, which is essential to their overall development and success.
