Purposeful Classroom Design

It's that time of year again!! We, teachers, get to set up our classroom. I get so excited for this day, and I am the one that goes up the first day we are allowed to. :)  I'm sure we have all seen the picture perfect classrooms on Pinterst and Instagram, but that kind of classroom is not necessary for student learning to take place and success to occur. 

I put a lot of thought into my classroom design and want my room to echo what I believe as an educator. I have learned over the years that less is more. When planning and setting up my classroom, I make sure to have a focus on a few specific things. 

1. Whole Group Area- 

This is a must in my classroom!  It must be large enough for everyone to sit comfortably on the floor and in a circle if needed. We come together for many things each day; class meetings, read alouds, mini lessons, writing share time, and so much more. This area is where our class grows as a family and builds relationships together. 

2. Small Group Area- 

A lot of my teaching happens in small group, so this area is equally important. I want a place I can easily gather students and store materials, but also see the rest of the class as they work on their other activities. This is also my teacher area. I get rid of my desk to allow for extra room for students and flexible seating.
Lots of selfies happen here!:)

3. Classroom Library-

I believe every classroom should have a library no matter your subject matter. Students should have access to books everywhere. I'm a reading teacher so I have a rather large selection of books for students. I want my library to be assessable, inviting, organized, diverse, and appealing to all my students. My goal for this area is that it is well loved and used daily!

4. Student Seating-

After I have figured out my whole group, small group, and classroom library, I focus on student seating. I make sure students are able to collaborate, are able to move easily around the classroom, and have a variety of seating options. I like to incorporate flexible seating in my classroom to give students choice and ownership over there learning.

Some different options I have in my classroom:

5. Decorations-

Honestly, the last thing I think about is wall decorations. Like I said earlier, less is more. I like to incorporate our school vision, positive messages, and space to hang up the learning that we do together and student work. I incorporate a few colors, which are usually the school colors as well, and try to keep it

6. Class Materials-

When designing your classroom, also think through where students will find and access all supplies and technology. Have a spot for everything and it is organized! Remember that you will need to teach students your routines and expectations for using them all. 

Have fun, be creative, be YOU, and make your classroom an extension of what you believe! Remember you and the relationships you build with your students always trump anything you could decorate your classroom with!

I'd love to see your classroom, leave a picture. :)