Classroom Culture should be easy to define and even easier to identify but neither could be further from the truth. Many schools have a great climate and nurture classroom culture while others are an "every man for themselves" place and that makes developing culture difficult...but not impossible. The community norms and beliefs in the school district also play into the culture of your classroom. But in the end, as educators we have to focus on what we can control and that resides in our classroom. Here are some general thoughts:
-Make every moment in your class count. Down time is when kids get in trouble.
-Effort can overcome a lack of intelligence. Hard work is praised. I rarely tell a kid they are smart. I tell them they gave great effort.
-Education is purposeful. Kids know if you are winging it or faking it within 5 minutes of class.
-School should be fun. Kids don't choose World History. They have to take it. Make it fun and interesting.
-Finally, I have yet to meet a teacher that says they got in education to yell at kids and pass out worksheets. As educators, don't forget what brought you to the classroom.
