This morning I worked in my new classroom for a bit. Aside from the mess that is hidden behind the closet doors, the room really doesn't need all that much more work.
It doesn't look like much, but I got the walls covered today so they are ready for student work.
Unlike in years past, I really think I am going to start the year without any posters/visuals on the walls. I've been pouring over my new book on culturally responsive teaching and the brain and the final chapter discusses how to create a culturally responsive environment for learning.
The author's message:
Think carefully about what visuals are displayed on the walls.
They send a non-verbal message about what and who is valued in the classroom.
Rather than prepackaged "multicultural" bulletin board cut-outs or standard ethnic "heroes" posters, find authentic cultural elements that add real value to the classroom.
I am really taking this to heart this year.
I want to authentically create a working and learning environment that represents my students. Therefore I want the walls to be covered in their photos and their work.
While I definitely love me some super cute TPT purchases, I am holding off for now and keeping the canvas clean.
I'm going for "minimalist, yet relevant."
In no way am I trying to be a Debbie Downer, but I am kind of over seeing so many classrooms that are decorated to the gills and theme-based. To each their own, but given my new role, it has just really been on my mind that my students should be able to look around the room and feel as though they are represented, not inundated with tons of thematic chotchkies.
Also, this article mentions how children actually learn better in classrooms that are not as heavily decorated.
So, this year, the beauty of the room will emerge slowly and unfold as I get to know my students and what's important to them.
I do like bright colors and no, my walls are not completely bare, but it's a lot less "decorated" than in prior years.
What's your classroom style? Are you a fabulous decorator or a minimalist?
4 comments:
Yup, totally agree with you. I think I already told you this, but I was so overwhelmed when I first started teaching K thinking I needed a theme and all this fancy stuff. That is so not me, and it turns out I've been able to teach just fine without it! It's great to hear that my way might even be better for kids! :)
Your room looks great! When do you start again?
I agree with you. Our room is pretty simple and I love it. We have one teacher at my school that stuffs her room to the gills with stuff and even has 3D stuff sticking out of her door. I am always overwhelmed and i am sure the kids feel the same way.
I agree. I just saw a post this week and I couldn't believe the classroom decor...it didn't look like a classroom at all! It was way over decorated and not my thing At.All.
I usually display my Thinking Maps because we use them all the time and my genre posters before the kiddos come. Otherwise the spaces are pretty bare (although I did make a space for my CRAFT menu) so I can put anchor charts and kids' work there.
I came on your blog to tell you that at the training I was at this week we talked about culturally responsive teaching and the gal recommended the book by Hollie that you have referenced before :) I had to buy it! Now I won't have time to read it lol but I'll have it :)
Thank you for sharing such a great article. here is href="https://ilovetoteach101.com/teacher-collaboration/ Teacher Collaboration foundation where all teacher can share their reviews here.
Thanks
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