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Tips on Mentoring Classroom Management Skills. Jane Levin Escondido Adult School/ROP. Teachers/Mentors. A good teacher remembers..... What it felt like to know nothing about their subject . A good mentor remembers.... What it felt like to know nothing about teaching .
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Tips on Mentoring Classroom Management Skills Jane Levin Escondido Adult School/ROP
Teachers/Mentors • A good teacher remembers..... What it felt like to know nothing about their subject. • A good mentor remembers.... What it felt like to know nothing about teaching.
In the beginning.... I thought teachers just “taught”! And many other myths.......
New Teacher “Myths” • Learning is all about the lesson plan and a solid curriculum. • I will be respected as the teacher because of my position and my knowledge. • If I have discipline issues, they are caused by troubled students. When I am able to get rid of them, my class will run smoothly.
New Teacher “Myths” • If I am an expert on my topic, my class will be successful. • If I am a friend to my students, the class will be a fun and successful learning environment. • Discipline issues are the result of purposefully disruptive students.
In the beginning.... I didn’t even know the term “classroom management”!
Classroom Management What in the world is it and why do I care?
“Classroom Management” includes.... All the things a teacher does to organize space, time and materials to ensure student learning takes place in a safe environment.
What does Good CM Look Like? • Students involved in their work • Students know what is expected of them and are generally successful • Little wasted time, confusion or disruption • Climate of classroom is work oriented but relaxed and pleasant
What is a Mentor To Do? 10 Tips for Getting New Teachers Moving Toward Great Classroom Management
Tip #1 Define the Goal • What does CM mean? • What does a well managed class look like?
Tip #2 Emphasize Importance • Get the “buy in” – • Question: “What’s in it for me?” • Answer: “This will make your life easier!” • Out of 28 Factors that control learning, Classroom Management #1 BEFORE Instruction!!
Tip #3 Know Your Instructor • What does your teacher know/understand now? • What is their background? • Are they already in a classroom? Not yet?
Tip #4 Assess Your Starting Point • Individualize the needs of class • Consider student population • Consider teacher’s background/personality
Tip #5 What Do They Need Now? • Don’t drown them in data • Distill down to essentials • Quick useful resources • Keep it simple!
Tip #6 Don’t Use Jargon • How do I make the topic of classroom management less daunting? • Use examples of true stories when teaching the techniques
Tip #7 Be Present in the Process • Don’t assume “resources” have provided all they need • Watch for things to praise and “reconsider” • Visit often
Tip #8 Reinforce Your Role as Mentor! • We are coaches, not evaluators • Share your failures and successes • Steer clear of the “all wise” sage
Tip #9 Don’t Expect a Cry for Help DON’T assume that your new teacher... • understands the concepts of classroom management • Will ask you for help with problems • Will let you know when things are not going well in class
Tip #10 Help New Teachers “Connect” • There is always something new to experience • You aren’t alone! • I am learning with you
In Review, Before You Begin.... • Remember your past when mentoring. • “What do I wish I had known when I was a new teacher?” • “What would have helped me most right away?”
Consider the tips: • Define the goal – Classroom Management • Explain its importance • Get to know your teacher and their class/subject • Assess their immediate needs • Provide simple materials ASAP
More tips..... • Don’t use jargon • Be ever present in the process • “Mentor”, don’t “assess” • Don’t expect a cry for help • Look for ways to connect your new teachers
Resources for Classroom Management • The First Days of School. Harry and Rosemary Wong • The Effective Teacher (video series) by Wong • CTE Teach online – www.cteonline.org • Professional Development Module 2 • Contra Costa COE - www.cccoe.k12.ca.us - search for “New Teacher” page - gives good suggestions on rules/procedures
Up to Speed Fast • Hold initial workshop! • Allows for teachers to • Receive material quickly • Gives them a chance to connect • Visit classes as often as you can • Meet with teachers individually
Inspirational Thought The greatest sign of success for a teacher...is to be able to say “The children are now working as if I did not exist.” ~Maria Montessori Educator and Physician 1870-1952