There is a mountain of misinformation about how to manage difficult students. It’s on a never-ending loop. Cycling through every school. Wafting down every hallway. And passing from teacher to teacher. At best, it’s confusing, contradictory, and difficult to apply consistently. It also does … Read more
They’re sure used a lot. Visit just about any classroom and within minutes you’re likely to hear one. “Remember to walk.” “Hey, keep your hands to yourself.” “No talking while I’m talking.” But are reminders effective? Do they actually improve behavior? Well, like much … Read more
As the bustle of shopping and holiday parties begins to ebb, and we inch closer to the true reason for the season, I find myself reflecting on all that I’m thankful for. Family is first and always, but right near the top of the … Read more
The questions usually come via email. But I also get them face to face when doing personal coaching. They’re often asked with a hint of incredulity, as if what I write isn’t necessarily how I feel behind closed doors. “Aren’t there some moments that … Read more
There was strong reaction to last week’s article, almost all of it good. But it left a few readers confused, even angry, especially those visiting our website for the first time. Because SCM runs counter to many long-held beliefs about classroom management. It upends … Read more
Effective classroom management is as much about what you don’t do. As it is about what you do. The mere absence of bad habits. The omission of certain teacher traits and behaviors. The removal of common but ultimately hurtful strategies . . . Can … Read more
When it comes to classroom management, you’ve got to pick your battles. So the advice goes. The idea behind the common saying that you can’t have what you really want. You can’t have a consistently peaceful room environment. You can’t have impeccable student behavior. … Read more
Via negativa is a method of improvement whereby one focuses not on what to do to become more proficient. But on what not to do—which, for many, is an easier proposition. It’s a method that is especially effective for improving classroom management. Because, you … Read more