Creating Threshold

From the YSD Staff Handbook: All teachers will follow the same procedures for entering and exiting a classroom. Entering The teacher is at the threshold of the door The teacher greets each student at the door with a professional greeting that is welcoming and joy infused. Why? 1. Your classroom is a sanctuary. 2. The opening minutes of any class are sacred ground for student attention We cant squander them. Tell students verbally and non-verbally: My classroom is different than the other places you go.

What to do: The first minute, when students cross the threshold into the classroom, you should: Remind them of your expectations Build rapport Set positive emotional tone

Questions to consider during the videos:

a. What did you notice teachers doing and/or saying to create a strong threshold? b. What did you notice teachers doing and/or saying to help create strong relationships with students? c. What was the impact of the teachers words and actions on students? d. What did you find was most effective about how these teachers created a threshold into their classroom?

7 Things Greeting Students at the Threshold Can Do: 1. Remind students where they are or where they are going Ready for college today? 2. Remind students what you expect of them Im ready to see your best! 3. Build relationships and rapport with students Great shot in yesterdays game! 4. Tell students what is coming next Are you ready for todays quiz? 5. Correct behavior You can give a stronger handshake than that!, Do It Again 6. Recognize good behavior (e.g., Excellent patience from you today) 7. Reinforce academic material (e.g., Whats 15 divided by 3?)

Plan your Greeting: 1. A standard greeting for most students

2. A student whos having a rough day.

3. A student who deserves praise for whatever reason.

The Order 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Handbook The WHY The Sanctuary What to Do Discussion questions review Videos Discuss The picture Practice