If you are anything like me you might be wondering at this point, "What is a tenet?" According to my favorite online dictionary, Merriam-Webster the definition of a tenet is as follows:
te·net noun \ˈte-nət also ˈtē-nət\ Definition of TENET : a principle, belief, or doctrine generally held to be true; especially : one held in common by members of an organization, movement, or profession
In other words, what you are about to read are my top five beliefs about education. Some of them are all mine, and some of them are borrowed from some inspirational educational rock stars, either way, there is a place for them in my classroom.
te·net noun \ˈte-nət also ˈtē-nət\ Definition of TENET : a principle, belief, or doctrine generally held to be true; especially : one held in common by members of an organization, movement, or profession
In other words, what you are about to read are my top five beliefs about education. Some of them are all mine, and some of them are borrowed from some inspirational educational rock stars, either way, there is a place for them in my classroom.
Respect is a two-way street.
I firmly believe that you have to give respect in order to receive respect. I promise to honor and respect your children in the same manner that I wish to be treated. In my classroom there is no room for disrespect from either the students or the teacher. Cool down periods are available if needed without penalty or fear of persecution. Students will respect each other and each others property, which includes the property of the school as well.
Leading by example.
I believe in setting the best example for my students. I would not ask them to do something that I was not wiling to do myself. Every expected behavior will be taught by example. We are all in this together and I firmly believe in being a part of the learning process and not just a spectator who dictates what to do. This website is called Teaching Ms. De Lagrave for a reason, as students learn, I learn as well. This is a never ending cycle and I hope to inspire their growth and development just as much as they inspire mine!
Discipline can be part of the problem, not the solution.
Alfie Kohn is somewhat of a pioneer in the education field on his perspective on discipline and after a lot of research, I find that I agree with him on several things. One of the most important things to me about classroom management is to look for the root of the problem and learn to adjust behaviors before they become a discipline issue. Often kids are seeking attention or have energy that they need to channel into other avenues. As an educator I feel it is my duty to get to know my students and adjust things to the best of my ability so that I can better assist them in learning. I chose to become an educator so that I can help guide children into being well adjusted adults. I believe that positive reinforcement when applicable is much more effective than being a disciplinarian for my greater goal. I provide incentive (classroom dollars to spend at the student store) to those who exceed my expectations, not those who meet my expectations.
Creating a safe, warm, and welcoming environment for all.
In graduate school I was once told by a professor something that has stuck with me through out my educational journey, "Never forget the power of silence and a smile, sometimes a smile can be more disarming than the harshness of words." These words lead me to the power of Dr. Robert DiGiulio's book, Positive Classroom Management. Dr Gigiulio talks about a classroom needing to be a well rounded, positive environment, which I completely agree with. It also needs to be a safe and welcoming environment for students. From my use of natural woods, plants, and open floor plans, I hope to create a welcoming environment for everyone, students and parents alike. My intent is to make school a positive experience for all my students to the best of my abilities. It is my goal for students to feel a part of a greater community within our classroom, a home away from home if you will.
Read, read, read, and read some more.
I firmly believe that students can never read to much. You will quickly come to discover that I want them reading when ever it is possible. If they are too young to read the words, I believe in the power of reading the pictures. They should be reading at home, in school, on the way home, before bed... These beautiful young minds are like little sponges and the more that they can read, the more that they will learn. It is a fantastic and powerful way to transition into creative thinking, using their imaginations, and eventually writing as well. It is a beautifully simple way to get them excited about learning. Your children will have the opportunity to share with their classmates books that they are reading. If you haven't done so already, I highly recommend going to your local library and getting you and your student a free library card. There is no tool more powerful than that of a budding imagination! If you are worried about having enough time, you can always peruse books online and reserve them and have them waiting for you when you arrive! And did I mention that it is free? If you have ANY questions about books to read, or how to use the library, please just ask! This is one subject I can never talk enough about! We will be using the Daily 5 in our classroom. Please visit the 2 sisters webpage for more information.
Here are a few books you will find on my bookshelf covered in post it notes: