Creating a Shared Culture in Schools: Learning Lab Standards of Operational Procedures July 2014

Safety & Security Concerns Be keenly aware of safety and security for you, residents, and staff at all times. A lot of information has to be kept confidential to maintain security. Report anything to DJS that you feel will help maintain safety and security ASAP. Keep track of, count, and secure all educational materials at all times. This is especially important for items that can be used as weapons. Maintain a safe, productive, low-stimulus environment. Keep residents engaged with high-interest topics, incorporate hands-on activities when possible, and help residents to be academically busy.

Safety and Security Continued... One student up at a time. Help residents keep focused on academics. Redirect as many times as needed. Always manage materials. Do not let students manage materials. Secure everything! Computers are a privilege. DJS has the final say on EVERYTHING. We (education) are a guest in their facility.

Maintain a Positive Learning Climate Residents must be informed very quickly that they are a guest in your Learning Lab and you, the Educator, are the Host/ Hostess. Maintain a positive learning environment firmly and fairly. Be on the look out for small anti-climate situations that can lead to big problems. Address the small situations calmly, quickly, efficiently towards DJS staff. Be proactive, not reactive. Review ALL videos prior to showing them.

Mannerism Be Professional. Be Modest. Be Humble. Be of Service. Be a Good Host. Be Informed. Be Aware. Be Proactive. Be Safe. Be Helpful.

Pedagogy Be a content area expert. Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Always have a bag of tricks that you can use to keep everyone busy. Know your students. Build positive relationships with each student quickly. Get to know them as individuals. Make your Learning Lab safe. Cultivate a positive classroom environment. Share your Learning Lab with everyone. Create lessons that take your students’ minds on a “journey” somewhere else. Keep your students busy. Plan for and use multiple teaching strategies. Always do what is BEST for each student. Sometimes that means making hard decisions on their behalf for their own good.

Important... Read the DJS Handbook. Keep up-to-date on all policies and procedures. If you don’t know? ASK.