Classroom Management Plan

Melissa Conner

Classroom Philosophy
I will conduct a classroom environment which utilizes the student-centered approach, and
students will be assessed by their individual efforts demonstrated through various art projects. I
will work with students as a whole but I will also work individually providing guidance and
instruction. As an educator influenced by Kohn I will seek to create a classroom environment in
which students will be active participants in control of their education. I will additionaly conduct
a democratic classroom environment in which students have choices concerning the projects
attempted as well as grading criteria. Many projects will be completed independently however I
know the importance of cooperative learning and this strategy will be utilized so students
recognize the importance of working together on a common goal. Students learn the most from
their peers therefore it is imperative for students of various levels of learning and cultural
backgrounds to work together.
I also hope to teach values through the curriculum. I will introduce students to artists who
have made purposeful and meaningful works of art and were active in movements towards social
justice. As an educator I feel it is my responsibility to teach beyond the curriculum requirements
and encourage not only critical thinking but encourage students to be catalysts of change. It is
my responsibility as the educator to make learning an experience that is enriching and captures
the interest of each student therefore I will employ strategies which encourage students to
actively participate. I am a firm believer that learning should also be its of reward therefore the
only time rewards will be given is when as a class we are engaged in educational games
incorporating art history(Art Jeopardy or Art Bingo).

Ginotts theory concerning verbal communication with children and students has
influenced how I will communicate with students. I will be conscientious when communicating
with each and every student. This promotes the ideal of respect that will permeate throughout the
classroom. Students will be expected to demonstrate respectful behavior within my classroom. I
will encourage a classroom environment which is safe and free of personal criticism although
when discussing artwork constructive criticism will be permitted. As a class we critique the
artwork not the artist.
The expectations for all students will be discussed in greater depth on the first day of
class as well as posted in the classroom to serve as a reminder for student behavior standards.
Students and their parents will sign a contract agreeing to the conditions which will guarantee the
students success in my classroom. The contract will inform the parents and serve as a reminder
for the students of their expectations in regards to preparedness, grading criteria, and behavioral
standards and consequences. I believe by discussing the classroom standards it will create a
desirable environment for both the students and the educator. Although I have listed
consequences and classroom regulations to be followed adjustments can be made by the educator
with student input. By utilizing the approach indicated the classroom will represent a respectful,
safe, encouraging, and creative environment in which students are productive and cohesively
contribute to class discussions and activities.
Arrangements
The classroom will represent and environment which encourages creativity and
collaboration. Seating arrangements will encourage group interaction therefore there will be
tables instead of separate desks. Students will be able to work with their peers when needed or

ask one another questions when the opportunity presents itself. Student artwork will be displayed
throughout the classroom. Space will be available for student critiques also. A list of classroom
rules and regulations will be displayed as a reminder of standards in the classroom.
Goals for Success
To succeed in the classroom each and every student must be an active participant. There
are times when students must work collaboratively and independently. When students are
working in teams each student will have a job and grades will reflect each students participation.
There will be written components to most projects and students will be expected to complete
each component. As an educator my goal is for my students to gain an understanding of the
principles of art and design as well as an appreciation for different artistic processes. As a
teacher I want every student so succeed in class and carry their learning experience beyond the
classroom.
Success in a visual arts classroom is dependent upon these primary factors:

Art production The artwork that is created

Art criticism Critiques of art work

Art Histroy Significant artists in history discussed

Aesthetics - The basic principles of art and design as well as the elements of art that
make artwork intriguing or compelling

To be active participants students must:

Create artwork

During critiques or class discussions be active participants

Listen and pay attention during presentations or lectures about pertinent artists

Apply knowledge through various projects that demonstrate a knowledge of aesthetics

Classroom Rules and Regulations

The basic classroom rules will be discussed on the first day of class.

Students are expected to work at all times

No Foul language or Profanity will be used in the classroom

Student must show courtesy and politeness at all times(to peers and the teacher)

Follow classroom procedures

No smart phones/cell phones will be used in class

Students MUST stay in their assigned seat

Students may NOT throw objects around the classroom

No Food or drinks are permitted in the classroom

Practice courtesy and Respect. There should be no talking when the teacher is speaking

This will be posted in the classroom as a reference for the students. All basic rules are
included in three brief words. Everyday this is what I need from my students:
Respect

I need your respect, no talking when Im talking. Your peers need your respect, think
before you speak. Respect the room, no tagging and clean up your area

Alert

I need you to be awake, there isnt nap time in high school. I need the phones put
away so you can learn and be an active participant.

Prepared

ALWAYS be prepared to create art work!

Consequences

Step 1 A verbal warning from the teacher and behavior documentation

Step 2 one page essay and behavior documentation. Seating arrangement will be
applied

Step 3 Student/teacher conference about behavior that is disruptive, inappropriate,

or unacceptable

Step 4 - Referral

Things to remember

Clean up your mess before you leave the classroom- creating artwork can be messy but
remember you must clean up after yourself that is your responsibility

Teacher releases class NOT the bell

Be positive in the classroom to transfer a positive energy around the classroom

Student who doesnt follow classroom procedures and/or shows negative behavior,
privileges will be revoked, until student shows improvement
Contract

I agree that in addition to any rules set forth by the school district, I will also abide
by classroom standards in Ms. Conners class. I acknowledge the expectations and accept
consequences listed above and explained in class.

Student Name:

________________________________

Student Signature: ________________________________

Parent/Guardian Name:

________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ________________________________