Tajuana Brown

Have you ever sat in a classroom that felt cold and sterile? It may have been the class you dreaded going to the most. On the contrary, do you remember being in a classroom that was filled with vibrant colors? How did you feel being in that classroom? While some teachers may disagree, the decor of our classrooms can impact student learning. Does you classroom need some TLC? Here is a list of items that can help. Why not make your classroom a place that your students enjoy attending?! :-)

Beautify your classroom and make a great first impression on your students and their parents by having an inviting classroom!

Do you want to spice up your classroom with a new spring look? Spring is all about bright and pastel colors. By changing a door sign, adding a new rug, and putting up a bulletin board, you can make your classroom look like spring in a matter of moments. Check out the items in this list and hopefully, they will inspire you!

Teachers need all types of bags to get through the day! Check out this collection of spring backpacks, lunch bags, and rolling bags. Not only will you be stylish, but your arms, back and stomach will appreciate you!

Is your laptop covered with sticky notes of important dates that you need to remember? You need a planner asap for next year! Below is an array of beautiful planners. Whether you're a digital planner type or a paper one, there's something for everyone below. Note: When I first posted these, some were on sale….yes, planners for next year are on sale! Hopefully, there's still a sale on the one you like. :-)

Having just the right items that you can grab at a moment's notice at your teacher desk is always a great idea! Here is a list of must have items that you want on top of or inside of your desk.

Having the tools that you need at your small group table can save you a lot of time and energy. It'll also allow you to give your students the undivided attention that they need.

A teacher's time is valuable and precious, so having tools on hand that help you get things done faster is always a plus.

Does your child have an amazing teacher? Teacher Appreciation Week is the perfect time to show the stellar teachers just how much you appreciate them! Below are a variety of gift ideas that are sure to put a smile on their faces but won't break your bank account. Note: When I posted these items, they were all below $25. Prices may fluctuate due to items going off sale.

Do you want to give your students an end of the year gift that they'll love and will jump start their summer vacation? Below are some cute gift ideas that are sure to make your students smile!

The end of the school year is the perfect time to let your child's teacher know just how much you appreciate all they've done throughout the school year. If you wondering what to get them, here are some great ideas that are sure to make them happy. For additional ideas, check out my list “Best Teacher Gifts Under $25” benable.com/teachingwithexcellence/best-ideas-for-teacher-appreciation-under-25

It's nothing like having on a cute tee with cute colors and a cute saying. When you're looking stylish, it gives you an extra spring to your step. Check out these spring tees. You're sure to find one that you'll love!

The end of the school year is a celebratory time for both teachers and students. So, sport your favorite end of the year tee to commemorate this special moment!

If you have everything you need, Back to School time with go a lot more smoothly. Here are the essentials that are sure to give you a successful start.

Reading to your students is an essential part of building positive relationships. It is especially important to read books at the beginning of the school that will help your students understand your expectations and generate class discussions that are important.

Are you struggling to build positive relationships with your students? Does your classroom feel like it's out of control? The success of every classroom is highly determined by the relationship a teacher has with his/her students. Half the battle of classroom management is won by creating positive relationships with your students….and yes, that even means creating positive relationships with your most challenging ones. :-) This doesn't negate the fact you need to have structure and routines in place for your classroom to function properly. However, you can't have one without the other. Your relationships with your students is extremely important. If you're looking for more in depth guidance in your teaching practices, check out my course, Teaching with Excellence (linked on my profile page).

Rewarding your students is a great way to encourage positive behaviors. There isn't a specific guideline for rewarding them…it's all up to you! I would often reward my students for things such as perfect attendance quarterly, birthdays, turning in completed parent forms the next day, and the list could on…. Of course, you don't want to reward students for everything…some things should simply be expectations. You'd be surprised how offering a piece of candy or a tiny toy as an incentive will make your students jump to work that much harder. Here are some great ideas to help you get started!

Getting ready for state testing can be an anxious time for your students. Even though they've been taught the information, they often worry that they won't remember it and fail the test. Teachers play an integral role in how students approach standardized testing. We can calm their fears or heighten them by putting unnecessary stress on them. It's important that students know we believe in them and that our only expectation for them is to do their best. This is all they can do. Below are some resources you can use to help your students prepare for state testing.