5 Steps for How to Organize a Classroom

Below are 5 steps for how to organize a classroom at the start of a new calendar year.

1. Complete the Classroom Cleanup Challenge

The first step for how to organize your classroom is to do this Classroom Cleanup Challenge. It is a simple 5 day challenge that takes 20 minutes per day. It will give you the jump start you need to start the new year on the right foot.

2. Download the Classroom Organization Course

This Classroom Organization Course for elementary teachers includes everything in the classroom organization guide plus videos that will walk you step-by-step through the decluttering and organizing process to get an organized and systematized classroom environment. This is a great option for visual and auditory learners who prefer a more structured approach.

3. Join the Clutter-Free Classroom Facebook Group

The third step for how to organize your classroom is to join the Clutter-Free Classroom Facebook Group. This community of thousands of teachers are eager to share ideas and answer your questions. This is a great resource as you tackle organizing your classroom.

4. Complete the Classroom Organization Course

This course was designed for you to work through the course in tandem with organizing your classroom. There are 7 sections of the course: welcome, preparation, decluttering, storage solutions, paper organization, organizing, and maintenance.

5. Maintain Organization Systems

During the course, you will establish systems for maintaining your organized classroom. The final step is to continue to implement these systems so that you can continue to have an organized learning environment for your students and a tidy working environment for yourself.

In closing, we hope you found this post about how to organize a classroom helpful! If you did, then you may also be interested in these other posts:

• How to Declutter Your Elementary Classroom
• Paper Organization Ideas for Elementary Teachers
• Teacher Desk Organization Ideas

The post How to Organize a Classroom at the Beginning of the 2024 New Year appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.

How to Use Less Paper in Your Classroom

Before we get into classroom paper organization ideas, let’s first ask ourselves: How can we reduce paper? We know reducing it will simplify our lives, save us time and money, serve students’ parents more effectively, and that it is better for the environment.

We also know that the education system is moving that way with the waves of technology that are entering the classroom and the strict school budgets. School districts are even restricting the amount of paper teachers can use by tracking the number of copies they make. Some districts even go as far as to require teachers to get copies pre-approved and/or sent through a copy center.

Below are some simple ways to use less paper, so you will have a lot less to organize.

1. Communicate with Parents via Email

Set up an email group and use that in place of newsletters and general notes to the families. I don’t recommend sending a parent any negative news, confidential information, or any message where your tone could be misinterpreted through an email. Email, however, is a great way to send “happy updates” along with reminders.

2. Utilize Technology Tools to Send Parents Reminders

There are also some great sites that will allow you to send text reminders to your families without giving away your personal cell phone number. This is a highly effective method of communicating things that would normally need a paper reminder. My favorite is Remind101.

3. Assign Online Homework Assignments

Creating online homework assignments will eliminate the need to manage paper back and forth and also saves you tons of grading time. Sites like xtramath, IXL, studyisland, and spellingcity allow you to track student progress for accountability. If you are not familiar with a “flipped classroom” approach you may want to look into it as another method of saving class time and paper.

4. Use Online Platforms to Assign Work

Set up Google Docs, Google Classroom, Dropbox or another “cloud-based system.” You may want to offer a workshop for parents explaining how to use this. This will allow you do distribute and collect assignments electronically. It’s also a great option for storing extra copies of worksheets and homework in the event a student is absent or loses an assignment.

5. Substitute Task Cards for Worksheets

Task cards are a great substitute for worksheets when students are working in centers. They are a lot easier to store and reuse year after year as well.

6. Repurpose Page Protectors

Make only a few copies of a worksheet and have the students use dry erase markers and page protectors to complete an assignment. There are really nice plastic ones out there, but simple page protectors that usually go into a binder work just fine.

7. Use Small Individual Dry Erase Boards

Have students use dry erase boards during whole group instruction in the classroom. It’s a great way to keep them engaged and show their thinking during learning time.

8. Embrace Project Based Learning

Engage your students in hands-on project based learning experiences. Having students document their thinking and work on paper is not the only way to show evidence of student learning. Take photos and videos of student work. Oftentimes, this provides even better evidence. Be sure to check your school’s policy on taking pictures and videos in the classroom.

9. Utilize Electronic Devices

Use a computer or iPad for all of your teacher resources, lesson plans, anecdotal notes, etc. One great strategy is to bring an iPad or other tablet to all of your meetings so your notes are all in one place and stored in your device. This makes it so you can reference all your notes with ease.

10. Store Resources Electronically

Don’t keep hard copies of anything that you can access online. Instead, keep everything in organized folders on your desktop computer so you can find what you need with ease.

How to Organize Specific Types of Papers

Below are tips and resources for organizing specific types of paper commonly found in classrooms. These classroom paper organization ideas are a game changer!

Photocopies and Worksheets

The first classroom paper organization ideas are for photocopies and worksheets.

Do you have stacks and stacks of photocopies on your desk? It can be overwhelming! Luckily, this is a problem that can be fixed. You just need a solid plan, a little bit of time, and some cheap materials.

Pick a Location

First, establish a location for the copies and materials you’ll need for the day. I recommend setting them up for the next day each afternoon before you leave school. This will make your morning run much smoother and everything will be accessible for a sub in the event of an unexpected absence. Some ideas include laying them out in sequential order on a shelf at the front of the room, placing them by subject in stacking trays, using plastic drawers to sort by subject, and housing them in a vertical pockets.

Create a System

The second step is to develop a system for holding your copies for the upcoming week. I am currently using cardboard boxes from IKEA that I decorated for each day of the week. I like these because they are open at the top which makes it easy to add papers and they are wide enough to hold everything I need.

When the copies are made, I simply slide them into the appropriate box for the day I plan to use them. I love this method for a few reasons: a) Everything is at my fingertips; b) the vertical design makes it easy to flip through and find what I need; c) in the event that I am out unexpectedly or need to leave the room, someone can step in and take over; d) if we have a snow day or don’t have time to get through everything that had been planned, it is very easy to shift the materials over to the next day.

I have additional boxes labeled for homework, next week and the week after next. This allows me to get ahead in my copying by up to 3 weeks. I used to use plastic drawers for this purpose, but I just prefer the boxes.

In the past, I also used hanging file folders. I had labeled 31 folders with numbers 1-31 with each representing a day of the month. I would then file my copied papers into the folder for the day I planned to use them. I didn’t hate this system, but I found the folders weren’t big enough and if we had an unexpected snow day it thwarted my system.

Teacher Meeting Notes

The second set of classroom paper organization ideas are for teacher meeting notes.

As you know, teachers teach. Teachers inspire. In addition, teachers go to meetings. Lots and lots and lots of meetings. These meetings all have different purposes. Sometimes you listen. Sometimes you contribute. Sometimes you leave with a list of things to do. Sometimes important information is shared. Sometimes some not so important information is shared, but you may still need to follow-up or reference those tidbits of info at a later time. Because of this, it is important that you create a system for documenting the meetings and their outcomes. Like all methods of organization, it really comes down to what works best for you and your style. Read to learn a few ways to do this below.

Multi-Subject Notebook

You may wish to use a multi-subject notebook and designate each section to a different type of meeting.

Journal

Some teachers get a journal and write everything sequentially into that one little book and flip back by date to find what they need.

Paper Agenda

Another option is to take your notes on the back of the paper agenda that is passed out, hole punch it, and keep them all in a binder.

Binder

If you have an all-in-one teacher organizing binder then you may want to just be sure you’ve included a section for meetings. You may also prefer to develop a separate system for keeping your meeting notes organized. In the past, I used a binder. I liked the organization of the separate sections and the ability to add 3-hole punched papers to it.

You could start by listing all of the different meetings you attend. Some suggestions include: staff/faculty meetings, student study team meetings, grade-level planning meeting sessions, special committees, data meetings, etc. or you could just keep them all in one section (and perhaps use a different color pen for different types of meetings). You’ll also want to include a section for “other.” For each section create a tab and include paper for meeting notes. You might also want to include an empty page protector that you can slide agendas and other handouts into. Include simple calendar pages for easy reference on dates. I typically jot things down that are related to future meetings and follow-ups and then add them to my master calendar afterwards.

Folder

At times, I felt the binder seemed a bit too bulky for its purpose. I found that using a pocket folder met my needs in the same way a binder did, but took up far less room in my bag.

I’ve created printable templates for each of the types of meetings that I need to attend each year. I made several back to back copies of each and slid those copies into plastic page protectors (with each type of meeting having one designated page protector). This means I have one page protector labeled “faculty meeting” with 5 two-sided copies inside, I have one page protector labeled “grade-level meeting” with 8 two-sided copies inside, etc. I place these in my teacher binder.

During any given meeting, I take out the corresponding template, write in the date and any important info (location, special presenters, etc) and use that page to take notes. If there is a “call to action” that must be addressed after the meeting I make note of it in the follow-up column. I keep the most recent page on top and store the others underneath in order. The reason for doing it this way is that it keeps all related meeting notes together without adding extra pages to flip through in my teacher binder.

Post It Notes

The third set of classroom paper organization ideas are for sticky notes.

Raise your hand if you heart Post-Its! I love-love them! I love the colors. I love the way they stick and unstick. I use them for oodles of purposes. However, I found that I was often jotting down “to-dos” and then never doing those things because they were stuck in random places. When I created my new teacher binder for the upcoming school year, I decided to finally put an end to the post-its surrounding my computer monitor fiasco which made me feel not-so-Clutter-Free.

I created a resource that includes 8 different templates for teachers. This Post-It Organizer Packet will help you organize and manage all of those little post-it notes that accumulate. The printables can be used as-is or you can laminate them. Simply hang them on the wall, insert them into page protectors in a teacher binder, or insert them into a frame placed on your desk. They look fantastic when copied and printed on colorful cardstock. Learn all about my system for organizing Post It notes in this video: How to Organize your Post-It Notes.

If you are curious about the list of items on my sticky notes, you can learn more about them here:

• Plan Back-to-School lesson plans
• Update my Teaching Procedures & Routines manual for my classroom aide
• Copy my Writer’s Idea Banks for 1st week
• Copy applicable pages from my Parent Teacher Conference Packet for Curriculum Night
• Copy Judy Moody activities and First Day Jitters activities for the 1st week of school.
• Laminate and Cut Spelling Centers to use with any word list.
• Create the Mystery Reader Sign-Up Book for Curriculum Night

Papers from Your Teacher Mailbox

The next set of classroom paper organization ideas are for all those pesky papers that come from your teacher mailbox.

Is your teacher mailbox constantly overflowing with magazines, notes, and forms? These are the most challenging pieces of paper. They are the ones that come at you and require you do something. However, they can also be the most important papers and, therefore, it is necessary that you establish a procedure for handling them. I struggled with this influx of papers until I researched classroom paper organization ideas and created a simple system for how to organize them. Learn all about that system below!

Recycle

Stop as many papers from coming into the classroom as possible. If you have a recycling bin near your teacher mailbox I suggest sorting your mail before leaving the area. Recycle anything you don’t need so it doesn’t end up in your classroom needed sorting later.

Establish an Inbox Organization System

Get yourself an inbox to temporarily hold all of these papers that come at you. A basket, bin, folder or box is a perfect until you can give them the proper attention. You want to avoid walking into your room and dropping them on your desk. I love using accordion folders. I love this system because it makes my action papers portable. I can take the folder to the copier to go through while the machine is printing or easily slip it into my bag.

Pick a Time

Establish set times to address these papers. Begin by designating a time to sort through the papers in your inbox and divide them into the following categories: read, file, respond. Then structure a specific time during the day to address the individual categories. I find that sorting at lunch time and addressing them just after dismissal works well.

Utilize an Outbox Organization System

Create an “outbox” for the forms you’ve filled out and papers you need to pass along to someone else. A file tote that fits in your school bag may be a good option for you. This will allow you to drop off completed papers on your way out of school in the afternoon or when you come in the next morning.

Papers You Reference Often

The last set of classroom paper organization ideas are for papers you reference often.

Most papers can be viewed and then the information can be added to your calendar or filed away. However, there are some papers that we find ourselves referencing often. Some examples would include master school schedules, phone extensions, the monthly school calendar or lunch menu, etc. Read below to get ideas about how to organize papers you reference often.

Create a Wall Display

Some teachers create a small bulletin board for their own use next to their workspace. This would be a good place to display papers that you need to reference but your students do not.

Creating a wall display that both you and your student benefit from is a great way to showcase papers you all need. I hang the school calendar and monthly lunch menu on a display in my classroom that also includes our calendar. It is next to the clipboard where the students order lunch so it makes sense for my to keep it all together.

Place Papers Where You Need Them

I use a photocopier to reduce the size of the phone extension list and keep the smaller copy taped to the desktop under the phone.

Utilize a Teacher Binder

If you have a teacher binder, you can add a tabbed section for frequently accessed pages. I keep a digital copy of the master schedule for the school on my computer in a file with my lesson plans and a hard copy in my teacher binder.

In closing, I hope you found these classroom paper organization ideas helpful! If you did, then you may also be interested in these posts:

• How to Declutter Your Elementary Classroom
• Teacher Desk Organization Ideas for Elementary Teachers
• Tips for Organizing Your Teacher Bag (and Keeping It Organized)

Classroom paper organization is such a massive topic, which is why I dedicated an entire module to it in my Classroom Organization Course. Another resource I created that has a section all about paper organization is my Classroom Organization Guide.

The post Classroom Paper Organization Ideas for Elementary Teachers in 2024 appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.

5 Classroom Organization Ideas for Organizing Everything

Below are 5 classroom organization ideas that are great ways to organize everything in your classroom.

1. Numbering

Put your students’ names in alphabetical order and assign a number to each child sequentially based on that list.

Number EVERYTHING in your classroom, including cubbied, folders, binders, mailboxes, etc. Train your students to not only write their name on their work, but to also write their number in the top right corner of their assignments. This will make it easy to put papers and forms in numerical order and quickly identify missing items.

Numbering each individual student supply is a bit time consuming, however you will eliminate lost time throughout the entire year because it will be easy to find and identify misplaced items. It will also decrease disputes between students. If your students are not old enough to do this themselves, look for volunteers to do this for you. Be sure to have a class roster visible that includes the student numbers.

2. Grouping

The second classroom organization idea on the list is to group like items together. This will make it easier for you to keep an accurate inventory of your belongings so you know when you need to replace consumables. Grouping also encourages students and volunteers to put things back where they belong.

3. Labeling

Do not be shy when it comes to labeling. Stick labels on anything and everything you possibly can. Labeling makes it faster to find what you need quickly. It makes it possible to volunteers and students to find things and put them back in the proper location, Labeling items in a classroom can be done in many ways.

• Computer labels or an actual label maker work great for small objects and containers.
• You can print onto paper, cut out labels and attach them with clear packing tape. I tend to print labels on paper so I have more flexibility in the sizing. I then mount the printouts onto cardstock, laminate and attach with tape, hot glue or velcro dots.
• Adhesive label holders work well for containers you plan to keep, but may change out the contents of over time. The labels slide in and out which can be a great time and money-saver.
• You can also just write on objects with permanent marker. Teachers have the tendancy to want to make everything look amazing, but the point of labeling is to help with organization and it is OK for somethings to simply function well without a lot of effort.

4. Using Containers

The fourth classroom organization idea on the list is to use containers. Placing things into containers when not in use helps to keep them together, and also improves the ease of finding them if the container remains in the same location. Putting items into smaller containers within a larger container increases the organization even more.

Use clear bags to house like objects. Store those bags together with other like objects. An example of this concept would be putting all of your pattern blocks, Base Ten blocks, and linking cubes into bags and then putting all three bags into a plastic tub.

5. Color Coding

Color-coding not only creates a cohesive look when like objects are grouped together, it also saves you time as a teacher because it makes things easier to identify at a glance.

• Color code each subject. For example if math were green you could use green folders, green notebooks, write learning goals and assignments on the board in green marker, copy important resources onto green paper, etc.
• Color code groups of students. Some teachers color-code alphabetically, by table, or by another form of grouping (such as reading groups or guided math groups).

3 Classroom Organization Resources

If you are serous about getting your classroom organized, then I recommend checking out these resources!

1. Classroom Decluttering Challenge

This decluttering challenge is a simple project that will take you 1 hour to complete. It will have your classroom feeling less cluttered and disorganized. Sign up for the challenge now!

2. Classroom Organization Guide

The Classroom Organization Guide is a great tool for teachers. It makes the whole process of organizing your classroom super easy. In addition, it helps you get the classroom you deserve with proven tips, systems, and ideas to make your job so much easier!

3. Classroom Organization Workshop

The Classroom Organization Workshop is a comprehensive course that walks you step by step through all of the stages of organizing your classroom. You’ll go through modules for preparing to be clutter-free, decluttering, creating storage solutions, organizing all of the papers, organizing everything else, and then establishing systems for maintaining your organized classroom. This workshop includes the classroom organization guide, as well as videos and printables.

In closing, I hope you found these classroom organization ideas helpful! Head here to learn more about classroom organization!

The post Classroom Organization Ideas for Elementary Teachers in 2024 appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.

What is the Clutter-Free Classroom Organization Bundle?

The Clutter-Free Classroom Organization Bundle is a tool that helps you become an organized teacher and have your room looking and functioning better than ever. It includes a detailed, full-color guide filled with photos, tips and ideas, a companion workbook to help you systematically declutter, organize and set-up your room for success, and a bundle that includes 12 printable resources to complement the ideas in the eBook.

What Does the Organization Bundle Include?

The Classroom Organization Bundle contains a generous collection of tools and resources to help make you a highly-effective teacher! You will find the following included:

Clutter-Free Classroom Guide: Organization Made Easy

This includes 60 pages of tips and ideas based on tried and true methods that have been used by real teachers in real classrooms. It will explain in great detail and with color photos how to declutter a messy classroom, organize the things in your classroom, decide which storage containers work best, set up a classroom, create areas within the classroom with purpose, organize student work and supplies, organize every kind of paper in your classroom, and maintain an organized space and save yourself time throughout the year.

Classroom Organization Teacher Workbook

This 20 page workbook is a companion guide to the eBook. It was designed to help you work through the systems in the book for organizing your classroom in a well-planned manner that will make success easier for you.

Rules for Decluttering List

This printable will simplify the decision-making process and enable you to declutter your classroom faster and more thoroughly. There is a second version included in the workbook that allows you to make your own rules for decluttering.

Classroom Genre Library Labels

These printable resources are great for labeling bins or bookshelves.

Classroom Leveled Library Labels

These printable resources are great for labeling bins or bookshelves. There are two options: Letters A-Z for labeling leveled book baskets and numbers 1-18 for a numbered labeling system.

Classroom Supply Labels

These printable resources are great for labeling school supplies in your classroom.

Math Manipulatives Labels

These printable resources are great for labeling bins, drawers, or other containers holding math tools.

School Subject Labels

These printable resources are great for organizing copies, collecting assignments, or storing extra papers. They fit well on plastic drawers, dishpans, magazine boxes and many other containers.

Days of the Week Labels

These printable resources are great for organizing copies or storing daily work. They fit well on plastic drawers, dishpans, magazine boxes and many other containers. Each sheet contains 5 labels for each of the weekdays and features clipart.

Work in Progress Folder Labels

These printable resources are great for managing student work. The following resources are included: Work in progress folder labels, name labels, numbered name labels, and pocket labels.

Weekly Communication Folder Labels

These printable resources are great for managing parent communication. The following resources are included: Weekly folder labels, name labels, numbered name labels, pocket labels (Leave at Home & Return to School), home to school and back communication pages, and an explanation note for parents.

Find It and Fix It Printables

These printable resources will help you implement the best strategy for keeping your classroom organized every day. The following resources are included: Certificates, winner checklists, and rules poster.

How to Know if You Need the Organization Bundle

Reflect on the questions below to determine if you need the organization bundle.

• Do you often stay later than you would like each day?
• Are you walking into school and instantly feel defeated by the site of your disorganized classroom?
• Do you feel frustrated or embarrassed by the condition of your classroom? 
• Are you not enjoying the time with your students as much as you should?
• Does starting fresh with less clutter sound appealing?
• Would you like to save time and be more efficient in the classroom?
• Do you want to enjoy your nights and weekends doing what interests you?

If you answered yes to any (or all) of these questions, you certainly are not alone. Teachers continuously tell me they are feeling overwhelmed more than ever before. Changes in policy and increased demands certainly are factors but frequently a cluttered classroom is also contributing to stressful days.

10 Steps for How to Organize Your Classroom

Below are the 10 steps for how to systematically and efficiently organize your classroom. I’m excited to share that each of those steps are explained in lots of detail and with photos, examples, and printable tools to make the process super simple in my eBook, A Clutter-Free Guide to Classroom Organization. The guide includes lots of printables to help you get and stay organized. 

1. Take before pictures. 
2. Create an action plan. 
3. Enlist the help of others. 
4. Know where your clutter will go. 
5. Gather supplies. 
6. Make a clean sweep. 
7. Schedule time to work on the space. 
8. Work through the decluttering process. 
9. Organize the items that remain. 
10. Create systems to maintain your new clutter-free classroom.

In closing, I hope you found this post about how to organize your classroom helpful! If you did, I recommend scooping up my classroom organization bundle and reading these blog posts:

• Classroom Organization Ideas for Elementary Teachers
• How to Declutter Your Classroom
• Classroom Paper Organization Ideas for Teachers

The post How to Organize your Classroom in 10 Easy Steps – 2024 appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.

This classroom cleanup will simplify the process of cleaning and equip you with a tried and true plan. By committing to this classroom cleanup challenge, you will rid your classroom of germs that have been circulating all winter, make you feel rejuvenated and organized, and help you make the most out of the final weeks and months of the school year. Read below to learn more!

How to Get Ready for Your Classroom Cleanup

There are two things you need to prepare for your classroom cleanup.

First, gather all of your cleaning necessities. Retrieve trash bags (the more the merrier), cleaning spray (vinegar and water are a great non-toxic option for school), rags or microfiber cloths, and a container of baby wipes. This will ensure you won’t have to stop mid project looking for supplies and ruin your momentum.

The second thing you need to do to prepare for cleaning your classroom is to get in the mindset. Remember this process is not going to happen in one day. Enjoy the process and limit yourself to 20 minutes each day. This will prevent it from becoming overwhelming, while still producing results.

Day 1: Throw Away

We’re simply going to tackle the surface clutter. While I do encourage you to tackle your classroom as a whole for a take-no-mercy purging session at some point, the point of the spring cleaning series is to take only 20(ish) minutes a day to rejuvenate your space.

Today we are going to fill a trash bag and/or recycling bin with anything that can be removed from the area.  Pick a corner.  Any corner will do. Set a timer for 15-20 minutes.  Moving as quickly as possible, travel in a clockwise direction around the perimeter of your classroom and discard of anything and everything that does not need to be there. You do not need to open any closets, drawers or cupboards. Simply go after the surface clutter you see on tables, counters and open-shelves. Make a fast decision on what to do with it if it is broken, torn, or worn. You can repair it, replace it, or throw it away. If it is one of the last two options, then I recommend getting rid of the damaged item as you make your initial rotation around the classroom.

Once you have made it all the way around and back to your starting point head to the center of the room and continue filling your bag or recycling bin with anything else you see that you can part with. Do not get distracted by things that you want to keep but are out of place. We’ll deal with them tomorrow. 

Day 2: Put Things Where They Belong

Once again, the goal is to only spend 15-20 minutes at most to complete this task and I recommend setting a timer to keep you focused and on task. I also suggest that you make the job efficient by enlisting the help of a couple of “runners” to move things along quickly. Make arrangements to have some reliable students come in early, stay after school for a bit or even stay in and give you a hand at recess. They will feel honored to help. It will also allow you to get the job done fast.

You are going to put things where they belong. Pick a corner of the room to start with and move clockwise around the perimeter until you return to your starting point. This time your task is to take anything that is out of place and move it to its designated space in the classroom. When you find something that needs to be relocated, hand it to a runner and have them return it to the proper location. Once you have made it around the room you can work on the areas in the middle.

If you have extra time and eager helpers, you could ask them to assist in the following: organize bins of manipulatives, art materials, and classroom supplies; test markers/highlighters and discard of any that are dry; check glue sticks and toss the ones that are no longer usable or missing caps; sharpen color pencils in community bins

Now that you have put everything back into place be sure to maintain the organization by playing Find It and Fix It with your class each afternoon.

Days 3 and 4: Identify Items in Need of TLC

We are going to spread out this next task over two days with a weekend in the middle. This will give you time to gather anything you need to complete the job.  Today we are going to start addressing the areas of the classroom that looked so great on the first day of school, but have started to look a bit tattered and torn as the year has progressed.  Grab a piece of paper and something to write with and have a seat in the middle of your classroom.  Divide your paper into three columns and label them as: Repair / Replace / Gather. 

You are going to look for items that need TLC. Set your timer for 15-20 minutes. Just like on days 1 and 2 we are going to start in one corner of the room. The difference is that today you are going to travel visually around your room instead of physically. Identify items that could use a little TLC as you look around your room.

Be on the lookout for torn or damaged bulletin board trims, crooked posters and signs, outdated items (i.e. holiday and seasonal displays), anchor charts for concepts that have been mastered, and things that have faded with sunlight or classroom lighting. As you identify these things, categorize them in one of the columns on your paper and jot down what your want to repair or replace as well as anything you may want to gather to complete the job (tape, new bulletin board border, etc).

If you still have time you can remove the items that you plan to take down or take care of quick fixes (i.e. restaple a falling item or straighten a crooked poster). Otherwise, tuck your paper into your purse and head out the door (TGIF after all). Plan to gather anything you need to make your repairs or replace worn items on Monday while you are out running errands this weekend.  

Day 5: Fix Items

On Day 3, we made a list of the items in our classrooms that we need to repair or replace. Today, we are going to spend some time taking care of the items on that list. This is not a complete classroom redesign. Instead, you should just plan to spend 15-20 minutes making the needed improvements.

You are going to fix items. Set your timer. Review your list. Begin by removing anything that is damaged or outdated that you will not be repairing. Next, address the quick fixes (restaple border or tape a torn poster). Cross off the items on the list as you complete them. If time runs out, make a plan to complete the items on your list as soon as possible.

If time allows, take care of the bigger tasks (change out a bulletin board with spring colors/border).

Additional Resources for Organizing your Classroom

I hope this classroom cleanup leaves you feeling rejuvenated and more relaxed. If you are looking for additional inspiration and assistance for cleaning and organizing your classroom, check out these resources!

Related Classroom Organization Blog Posts

• Tips for Organizing Your Teacher Bag
• 5 Classroom Organization Systems that Work
• How to Keep Your Classroom Neat and Tidy
• Reasons Why Having an Organized Classroom is So Important
• How to Declutter and Organize Your Teacher Desk

Classroom Organization Guide

Are you tired of the piles of papers taking over your classroom and sick of wasting time looking for things constantly? If so, consider checking out this Classroom Organization Guide for elementary teachers. It will help you become an organized teacher and have your room looking and functioning better than ever. It includes 650 pages total including an eBook, workbook, and 12 printable labels and resources.

Classroom Organization Workshop

This Classroom Organization Workshop for elementary teachers includes everything in the classroom organization plus videos that will walk you step-by-step through the decluttering and organizing process to get an organized and systematized classroom environment. This is a great option for visual and auditory learners who prefer a more structured approach.

The post Classroom Cleanup: 5 Easy Steps for Spring Cleaning your Room in 2024 appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.

Is your teacher mailbox constantly overflowing with magazines, notes, and forms? These are the most challenging pieces of paper. They are the ones that come at you and require you do something. However, they can also be the most important papers and, therefore, it is necessary that you establish a procedure for handling them. I struggled with this influx of papers until I researched classroom paper organization ideas and created a simple system for how to organize them. Learn all about that system below!

How to Organize Classroom Papers

1. Recycle

Stop as many papers from coming into the classroom as possible. If you have a recycling bin near your teacher mailbox I suggest sorting your mail before leaving the area. Recycle anything you don’t need so it doesn’t end up in your classroom needed sorting later.

2. Establish an Inbox Organization System

Get yourself an inbox to temporarily hold all of these papers that come at you. A basket, bin, folder or box is a perfect until you can give them the proper attention. You want to avoid walking into your room and dropping them on your desk. I love using accordion folders. I love this system because it makes my action papers portable. I can take the folder to the copier to go through while the machine is printing or easily slip it into my bag.

3. Pick a Time

Establish set times to address these papers. Begin by designating a time to sort through  the papers in your inbox and divide them into the following categories: read, file, respond. Then structure a specific time during the day to address the individual categories. I find that sorting at lunch time and addressing them just after dismissal works well.

4. Utilize an Outbox Organization System

Create an “outbox” for the forms you’ve filled out and papers you need to pass along to someone else. A file tote that fits in your school bag may be a good option for you. This will allow you to drop off completed papers on your way out of school in the afternoon or when you come in the next morning.

In closing, we hope you found these classroom paper organization ideas helpful! If you did, then you may also be interested in these posts:

• How to Organize Papers You Reference Often in Your Classroom
• Simple Tips for How to Organize Your Teacher Meeting Notes
• How to Use Less Paper in the Classroom

   

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5 Indoor Recess Tips and Ideas

Below are indoor recess ideas for elementary teachers to use in their classroom.

1. Stock Up on Board Games

When selecting items to use for indoor recess keep the allotted time frame in mind. Your students won’t have time to complete a game of Monopoly. Instead, you want to stock up on games that are quick. Connect Four and  Guess Who are good options.

2. Collect Puzzles

Puzzles are good for students to do collaboratively or on their own. I always put the pieces into a bag and discard the original packaging. This saves a ton of space as many puzzles can then be stored in a plastic shoe box.

3. Store Indoor Recess Materials Together

Keeping all of the recess materials in one cupboard or bin will make it easier for the students to set them up and put them away. I use small trash cans to hold pattern blocks, wooden blocks and Legos. These can quickly be grabbed and taken to an area for a few friends to play with together. The open top makes for a fast cleanup and allows pieces that are found later to be put away easily.

4. Assign “Recess Helper” as a Classroom Job

Assigning a couple of students the classroom job of “recess helper” assists in making sure things get set up and put away efficiently. I strongly suggest picking students who are a good fit for such a role, train them well and have them do the job throughout the year.

In my classroom, two girls are in charge of removing the containers of manipulatives, puzzles, and games from the cabinet where they are stored. They place them onto a nearby table for the students to grab. The students then clean up the activity they were using and return it to the table for the girls to put in the cabinet. This ensures that the materials are always put away neatly in their labeled spots and are ready for the next day.

5. Offer Community Art Supplies

The last on this list of indoor recess ideas is to offer community art supplies. Although my students have their own art supply bags in my classroom, I find it is better to use community supplies if they choose to draw and color during recess. I have baskets of crayons, markers and colored pencils dedicated to recess and choice times.

5 Outdoor Recess Tips and Ideas

The outdoor recess equipment you have will vary depending on your school rules and how much outdoor space your school has available. Below are outdoor recess ideas for elementary teachers..

1. Don’t Store Outdoor Recess Equipment in Your Classroom

It’s important for your students to have quick and easy access to appropriate outdoor equipment and that there is a safe and practical way to store things like jump ropes, sidewalk chalk, balls, hula hoops and more. Try to find a way to get the recess equipment stored somewhere other than your classroom. Many schools now use community equipment. You could write a DonorsChoose request or ask your PTA to fund something like this.

2. Store Chalk in a Closed Container

If your students use sidewalk chalk you’ll want to store that in a container that has a lid. This will keep moisture out which will preserve the chalk. It will also prevent chalk dust from taking over your classroom.

3. Utilize Plastic Laundry Baskets

Plastic laundry baskets are a great option for holding larger items like balls. I like them because you can easily stack multiple baskets into each other when not in use. Also, because recess items have a tendency to get dirty it is nice to have a container that can be hosed down or wiped easily.

4. Containerize Containers

You can keep all your outdoor resource equipment in one large container, but consider having smaller containers within the large container. For example, baskets with handles work well for jump ropes. The handle makes it easier for students to carry it to and from the playground. Containerizing prevents equipment from getting broken or tangled.

5. Establish Clear Recess Procedures and Routines

Establish procedures and routines for getting the equipment to and from the playground. Consider making this one of your classroom jobs. Having consistent expectations will result in quick classroom transitions, which are essential for maximizing their recess time as well as learning time in the classroom. An example of a procedure and routine to plan for is what to do when students bring a ball from home. In my classroom, I have them keep the ball with their coats and other personal belongings.

In closing, we hope you found these outdoor and indoor recess ideas for organizing and storing your materials and equipment helpful. If you did, then you may also be interested in these posts:

• How to Organize Student Work in Your Classroom
• Back to School Read Alouds for Elementary Teachers
• How to End Your Day with a Clean and Tidy Classroom

The post Indoor Recess Ideas for Elementary Teachers in 2024 appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.

5 Tips for Organizing and Managing Whiteboards

Below are 5 tips for organizing and managing whiteboards in the classroom.

1. Create Individual Whiteboard Toolkits for Students

The first on the list of whiteboard organization ideas is to set up individual whiteboard toolkits for your students. Basically each student will need three things: A board, a marker and an eraser. It works really well to keep all three of these things contained in packets for the kids to grab and use as needed, a gallon-sized bag works well for this purpose.

If you number your students consider also numbering a board, a marker and a bag. This increased level of ownership and responsibility will greatly decrease the mistreating of the boards and will preserve the life of the markers. I also find that limiting community supplies keeps your students healthier.

2. Use Dark Colored Cloths as Erasers

Use dark colored cloths as erasers. I recommend fabric over wipes and tissues because they are more environmentally friendly and also it makes for better classroom management as you can keep everything together as a kit. Using a dark color prevents them from looking really gross after just a few uses. 

Some teachers suggest using socks because the students can leave them on the hand they don’t write with and easily erase as they work. Cutting up old shirts or towels works well too. If doing the latter I recommend using pinking shears as they will cut the fabric neatly and limit fraying. 

Ask a parent volunteer to launder them for you every few weeks. Just send them home with a student on a Friday afternoon and ask that they be returned on a Monday morning.

3. Create a Small Group Toolkit

The third on the list of whiteboard organization ideas is to create a small group toolkit. If you use dry erase boards in a small group setting often, you will find it useful to create a basket of boards, markers and wipes specifically for this purpose. It will save you time to have everything at the ready when instructing your group.

4. Get Creative with What You Use for a Board

A class set of dry erase boards can be pricey, so you have to get creative and instead use plastic plates. At this time of year the kind I’m featuring are in abundance at places like Dollar Tree and Walmart. During other seasons Solo plates from party stores work too, but these are sturdier. They come in a bunch of colors. I bought a set of orange because the markers contrast pretty well with that color and I can see my kiddos’ work from afar. I love how easy they wipe clean. If you have little learners, you’ll find the edge of the plate is helpful as it contains the marker on the plate (said the mommy who has little ones who tend to color the paper and onto her table). I also love how they are light and easy to store. The entire class sets stacks and takes up only a few inches of valuable classroom space which helps to keep the room neat and organized. You can also use page protectors and even small trays from the Dollar Store instead of white boards to save money. Check out the whiteboard management and organization ideas below!

5. Clean Your Whiteboards Regularly

Are the dry erase boards in your classroom looking old and worn? This teacher tip will remove ink from dry erase boards and restore them to their original condition. Spray a clean board with WD-40 and wipe dry with paper towels. The WD-40 fills in the dried pores of the board that hold in marker ink, making it easier to erase.

In closing, we hope you found these whiteboard organization ideas helpful! If you did, then you may also be interested in my classroom organization guide as well as these posts:

• Paper Organization Ideas for Elementary Teachers
• How to Declutter Your Classroom
• How to Organize Your Substitute Teacher Binder

The post Whiteboard Organization and Management Ideas for the Classroom appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.

8 Tips for Organizing Classroom Art Supplies

Below are 8 simple tips for organizing craft and art supplies in the classroom.

1. Create Individual Art Bags

Create an “art bag” using clear bags for each student. Use plastic pencil boxes or pencil bags.  I find that the bags are easier to store and easier for the kids to use as they can see everything at once.  Inside, include color pencils, markers, crayons, a glue stick and a Sharpie. I find that these are all the supplies they need for most projects and it’s nice having them easily accessible when they need them. I have noticed a remarkable decrease in sickness too since I did away with community supplies.

2. Store Art Bags by Table

Store each bag in a basket by the table number they sit at. This enables the table captain to grab the basket and bring everyone’s supplies to their workspace at once and also makes it simple for an individual student to find his belongings.

3. Store Speciality Art Supplies Away

Store all other arts and crafts supplies in an area the students don’t have access to because they are just used for special projects.

4. Declutter Your Art Supply Collection

The fourth on the list of tips for organizing art supplies in the classroom is to declutter your existing art supply collection. Go through the supplies you’ve accumulated and see what needs to be tossed: Dried glue sticks, expired paint (trust me, it gets gross), recycled materials that can easily be replaced (paper towel tubes, newspaper, etc) when needed for an actual project. If you are looking to get rid of the recyclables and don’t want to just toss them in the big green bin you could put them out during indoor recess and let the kids have fun creating with them.

5. Containerize Containers

Corral all of those itty-bitty things (googly eyes, beads, glitter, etc) and store them in small containers within a larger container. Spice jars work well for this. You could also just place them into small bags within a larger container. Pill containers are perfect for holding small embellishments.

6. Only Take What You Need

Do you have access to a supply closet at your school for paints, construction paper, etc? If so, consider only taking what you need when you need it and then you won’t need to store as much.

7. Use Art Supplies as Decorations

Unlike most school-related items, art supplies can often be stored in the open. They scream “school” and in a world of bubbles and testing, wouldn’t colorful craft supplies be a great visual reminder of what is really important? Plus they look so pretty. Be sure to use containers that won’t shatter and keep jars of crayons away from heat sources.

8. Repurpose Storage Solutions You Already Own

Plastic shoe boxes (as well as the food storage containers that are marketed as disposable) are great options for storing larger items (pom-poms, pipe cleaners, yarn, ribbon, etc). Make sure to select containers with lids that stack to save space.

In closing, we hope you found these tips for organizing art supplies helpful! If you did, then you may also be interested in our classroom organization course as well as these posts:

• Paper Organization Ideas for Elementary Teachers
• How to Organize Your Math Manipulatives
• Back to School Read Alouds for Elementary Teachers

The post 8 Tips for Organizing Art Supplies in the Classroom appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.

6 Organization Ideas for Your Word Work Center Materials

Below are 6 simple tools for organizing your word study materials.

1. Small Containers

The first of the word work center ideas on the list is to utilize small containers. Store letter beads and small word/letter cards in small containers like these. 

2. Small Hardware Drawers and Craft Sorters

Many teachers find it helpful to sort things like magnetic letters, letter tiles, etc by letters so kids can easily find what they need for word building activities. Small hardware drawers and craft sorters are ideal for this purpose. I suggest labeling the compartments with letter stickers reinforced with a bit of Modge Podge.

3. Index Boxes

The third of the word work center ideas on the list is to utilize index boxes. Word cards can be sorted and stored in index boxes, photo boxes with dividers and accordion files.

4. Plastic Photo Sleeves

Smaller letter cards or word cards can also be stored neatly in plastic sleeves designed to hold photos or baseball cards. These are great because they can then be kept in a binder.

5. Ice Cube Trays

The fifth of the word study center ideas on the list is to utilize ice cube trays. Letter stamps are a popular manipulative, but can get messy. Using ice cube trays to hold each letter is a great solution.

6. Small Pouches

Create folders for each student using small pouches such as the ones designed for use with business cards or baseball cards. This would be perfect for a making words center or independent work.

In closing, we hope you found these word work center ideas for organizing all the different word study materials helpful! If you did, then you may also be interested in my classroom organization workshop, as well as these posts:

• How to Organize Math Manipulatives in the Classroom
• Word Study Ideas for Elementary Teachers
• Classroom Paper Organization Ideas for Elementary Teachers

The post Word Work Center Ideas: 6 Ways to Organize Your Materials in 2024 appeared first on Clutter-Free Classroom | by Jodi Durgin.