Teachers Light the Way!

Written by: Shaquanta “Shelley” Danjoint, M.S.

Teachers are very valuable in our community. They are often the ones spending a lot of time with our students and become the trusted adults our students feel comfortable going to. The job of a teacher can sometimes be a challenge with expectations we all would like them to meet while having to manage a whole classroom of kids. Many students can fluctuate in their moods and behaviors without any notice. Teachers face the challenge of not knowing what a day could look like for their students and still having to come in to do their job despite going through their personal challenges. This blog is to dedicate support for the school administration team and to give a special thank you for all the work they do. Listed below are some ideas for teachers for all grade levels to aid in maintaining order in the classroom and assist students struggling with behavioral concerns or emotional outbursts. These ideas may be adjusted as needed.

1. Try distracting the class by instructing them to work on something. Avoid signaling the student out in front of the class and instruct the student to go out to the hallway. (You may also have a spot in the back of the classroom for students to calm down. Some teachers refer to this as the ‘Calm down corner.’)

2. If permissible, allow the student to have time to decompress for 3-7mins.

3. Have a list of coping strategies for the student to use while out in the hallway. This list can be as short or as long as you want. (You may also ask your class what three strategies they collectively find helpful). **List of ideas below.

4. Try to remind the student to use a coping strategy.

5. If the student’s behavior or emotions are excessive, it may be helpful to send them to the counselor or front office and remind them to utilize coping strategies there.

Teachers and school administrative staff, we appreciate all you do!! I hope you feel supported and encouraged to continue your hard work.