Tip #1 All supplies are community supplies. I don't fool around with individual pencil boxes. It save so much time.
click on pic to download free labels
Do
you use organizational binders? I have always had some sort of reading folder
and reading bag but a couple of years ago I switched to a 3 ring binder. This
was the BEST tip/Organization idea I’ve ever done for my classroom. Before binders, I was using plastic folders. I
had folders for reading, folders for spelling, folders for homework. It was complete
CHAOS! It was too confusing for the kids. I have found that I really like using
the flexible plastic binders rather than the hard ones. I like using all one
color and have found them for under 2 bucks at Wal-Mart and Office Depot. The only downfall is a
cute spine and cover but not to fear you can still print out cute labels.
Either way a 3 ring binder is the way to go! Many teachers have short catchy
names for binders. I use B.E.E binders. BEE stands for Bring Everything
Everyday. My students are great at remembering to bring their binders every day.
When they arrive each morning, they take out any notes/money and homework and
put their binders in the filing cabinet. I call it my Stop It and Drop It table.
Now what goes in this great binder?
Now what goes in this great binder?
3
hole Binder Pouch: I always find mine at Wal-mart for around .59 cents. This
pouch is great for holding money, notes, and even small leveled books.
Plastic
Folders-This is where their reading log is stored along with their guided
reading book for the night.
Page
Protectors- I have their monthly lunch menu, spelling lists, class list, and
any other important information in page protectors.
How
do you store 18 plus binders? I have a small 2 drawer filing cabinet that
stores mine but you could easily use file folder storage crates. I put hanging
file folders inside of the filing cabinet so the students place their binders with
the spine facing upwards. My students know exactly where their binder belongs because they each have a specific color hanging folder with their number on the front. I also put their class number on the spine of their bee binder.
Click on the picture to download my BEE intro.
More BEE items
Tip #3 Teacher Tool Box
I also just love the teacher tool box. This year I decided to keep it pretty simple. I love using no more than 3 colors to decorate my classroom. I think it keeps it simple, clean and crisp.
Tip #4 Page Protectors are your friends
Page Protectors-They work wonders. The possibilities are endless and did you know you can still make copies even if the originals are in page protectors? I love page protectors as little cheat sheet necklaces. Here is a cute alphabet one. They are great for wearable signs and posters. My students love to be "green" by using them in my word work station with dry erase markers. You can also cut them and make them any size!
Tip #5 Try out Planbook.com- It's super easy to embed Common Core Standards. I LOVE planning NOW that I have a year subscription which says a lot.
Tip #6 Reminder Board and What's the Buzz board to remind me of student's important things happening in their life.
Tip #6 Label items for subs and parent volunteers using clohthespins!
Can't wait to find some neat ideas. I'm always looking for organizing tips. It's my weak point!
