Laying It All Out

Dear Cory,
Thank you for the kindness shown in your letter. I am equally as pleased to be your mentor!

I find it extremely comical that the one thing you ask my opinion of is one of the TOP concerns of mine, not only my first year of teaching, but my 17Th year as well! Each year brings new students with unique needs and this should, of course, be a factor as you determine the layout of your classroom.

Thinking back on our book study of Paula Rutherford's, Why Didn't I Learn This in College?, let me remind you of a few key points made in the book and add some personal advise of my own:

• Begin early teaching the students the "lay of the land" so to speak. Show them where the things they may need are located as well as when and how often they may be used.
• Make the room aesthetically pleasing-use plants, posters, calendars, bulletin boards with student work/projects, etc.
• Be sure that you are able to see all students and computers at all times-students should also be able to see you with a very limited amount of physical rearrangement. Stick close to them!
• Dont't get boxed in! Try using different types of seating-pillows, lounge chairs, benches, etc. to appeal to students' need "comfort spaces" that make them feel relaxed and ready to work. Use individual desks and chairs when possible/needed in order to form instant small group areas in which the students may work.
• Let some furniture serve double (or even triple) duty. While the shear size of bookcases, storage cabinets, and file cabinets will most likely determine their placement, often they may also be used a mini bulletin boards or room dividers.
• Once you have prepared your unit(s) begin to think about which areas in the room would be used to expidite learning centers. If space is limited, think about using common items such as folders, boxes, or crates to house materials needed.

Cory, don't be afraid to make changes as they are needed. Teachers should always (from year 1-year 31) remain flexible. Remember that you are the facilitator in the classroom and it is your duty to do whatever you can to make great things happen! I will be there soon to help you PHYSICALLY put this puppy together! We'll make it happen! Best wishes for a "well layed out" year!

Your Mentor and Friend,

Zina Mose