How to Stretch Your Classroom Dollars

Today’s Topics 1. Planning 2. Places to Shop 3. Freebies 4. Wow! 5. Classroom Management

Think Smart 1. Plan layout: Where will you teach? Where will your centers be? What technology will you use? 2. Plan routines: How will students turn in work? Sharpen pencils? Occupy themselves when finished with tasks? Ask questions? 3. Plan your theme 4. Look at your room to see how much space you will have.

Look for Bargains Dollar Tree Dollar General Family Dollar Big Lots Target’s Bargain aisle Oriental Trading/Hands on Learning Thrift Stores Used Bookstores Ebay Scholastic Warehouse Sales Rummage sales

Look Everywhere Grants Dollar Tree and Dollar General community donations Retiring teachers Get Adopted: Adopt-A-Classroom and Donors Choose Make friends with the custodians, school secretary and librarian Vistaprint

Completely Free From Adopt-A-Classroom

Use children’s menus and items such as cereal boxes in centers Record your own books on tape Visit the MTSU Curriculum Library Download Cool Timer Download Windows MovieMaker to make an end of the year keepsake

Check with local carpet retailers or Lowe’s and Home Depot for free carpet remnants. Use Engrade to easily calculate grades for FREE Sharpie Don’t be afraid to ask for donations or discounts. All they can do is say “No.”

Add the WOW factor Use gutters for bookshelves Laminate items and use wet erase markers Magnetic paint and chalkboard paint Use electrical tape to divide board into sections Make student dry erase boards out of shower board Make lapboards out of old binders

Use Mahvelous tape or hot glue to secure items without damaging walls Cover bulletin boards with fabric—it doesn’t fade and can be reused. Use tablecloths to add storage and contain clutter.

“MANAGE TO KEEP YOUR SANITY” Use Engrade Use Cooltimer Set and enforce routines Communicate: Webpage, Newsletter, Agenda, Phone, , Podcast Use a reward system: Homeworkopoly Use Vistaprint for Student Contact Cards Recruit Parent Volunteers

Remember that this is a career. You have a lifetime to add the finishing touches.

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