Classroom norms: What they are & why they matter
A new school year is upon us! As an educator, this is my favorite time of year. There’s just something super special about a new beginning that brings me lots of hope & joy. This read is all about classroom norms, what they are and why every classroom needs them.
What is a classroom norm?
When I think about a classroom norm I think about something that is usual, typical, or standard.
Why do we need norms?
Having classroom norms gives students an understanding of what to expect from the culture and environment of the classroom AND it gives them an idea of how to contribute to the space. Norms are different from rules & procedures. When I think about rules, I think more about control & compliance or having a set way to do things that aren’t focused on student identities and who they are as individuals.
Norms are about structuring the classroom environment for everyone to show up and be able to work, learn and thrive.
The norms I use in my classroom:
This is a safe space. Everyone supports everyone. We will always try our best.
What do these norms mean?
This is a safe space: This honors diversity, inclusivity & belonging. This means that you can show up in the space and it is safe for you to do so as your whole self. There are no conditions or standards around how to dress, write, speak, etc. It is safe for you to show up honoring and celebrating who you are.
Everyone supports everyone is all about supporting everyone in the class community and accepting them as they are without any conditions. Everyone supports everyone means that there may be some days when a community member lacks motivation, is having a difficult time understanding concepts, had a rough start to the day, feels sad, etc. That’s when your class community members step in to support. That support may look like a check-in, a head nod, sharing a pencil, proximity, etc. Because it’s a safe space and everyone supports everyone it is OK to show up and be honest about how you are and it is OK to ask for support from your community.
We will always try our best: showing up as ourselves, supporting one another, always giving our best.
IMPORTANT NOTE: this norm also means that we understand some days our best may look different from other classmates' best. Our best some days may be just simply showing up. Students define “best” and “success” differently based on their experiences and backgrounds. Honoring that truth is important and steering clear of competitiveness and grind culture is part of the purpose of this norm.
When to introduce classroom norms:
It is important to introduce the norms on day 1 and continue to review them throughout the first several weeks of school. Making them a part of the everyday language in the classroom reminds students of their importance.
Takeaways:
All of the norms flow together!
Students deserve to be seen & heard (when this is true, they’re more committed to working and learning and growing… which allows them to win!)
