Student Behavior Contract: In English and Spanish

Classroom management is not merely about maintaining decorum but essentially about creating a conducive environment where each student feels engaged, motivated, and accountable. It's our foundation for fostering an atmosphere of respect, discipline, and academic success.

Key Principles of Classroom Management:

1. Clear Guidelines: It's crucial to set explicit rules, routines, and behavioral expectations from day one. This clarity ensures students are aware of what is acceptable and what isn't, which significantly reduces misunderstandings and disruptions.

2. Consistent Enforcement: Equally important as setting rules is the consistent application of these rules. It's imperative for students to understand that consequences, both rewards, and corrective measures, will always follow their actions.

From my personal experience, beginning each academic year with a clear system aids immensely. I've developed student contracts that encapsulate our classroom expectations. Printing these on colored card stock paper (I optimistically prepare around 50 pages at the start of the year) makes them stand out and signifies their importance.

Features of the Student Contracts:

• Versatility: Whether it's a case of tardiness or a lapse in respectful behavior, the contract covers it all. Students are introduced to these contracts during my initial classroom management presentation, setting the tone right from the outset.

• Categories Covered:

  • Tardiness

  • Classroom Behavior

  • Respect & Respect to Teacher

  • Acceptable Language

  • Harmonious Relations with Peers

  • Abstaining from Put-downs

  • Timely Submission of Homework

  • Efficient Utilization of Class Time

• User-friendly Design: The contract's design ensures minimal time spent by teachers in filling it out, yet it remains clear and comprehensible for students.

Having these contracts in place acts as both a deterrent and a teaching tool. It's a practical way to make students more aware of their responsibilities and the consequences of their actions. I invite you all to incorporate this tool into your classroom management strategy and hope you find it as valuable as I have.

Thumbnail clipart credit: By Prince Padania

Product clipart credit: Purchased from gograph.com

*** Update, this product has now been translated into Spanish!