Teachers should always strive to create community in the classroom. Even more than just community, teachers should be creating a safe space where all parties involved feel connected to the community and invested in safe learning for others as well. The initial way I would like to attempt on the first day, by way of a set of classroom norms. Instead of calling them norms or rules, the term I will use is “Classroom Constitution.” As the name suggests a classroom constitution is a living document that is created with all the class participants. This document will be amenable to fit the needs of the class as we progress through the school year. By allowing the entire classroom community to have autonomy we are helping foster a safe space for students but also allows the teacher, who may be new to the area and not fully understanding of the customs. As a teacher, this information is invaluable; it helps foster a “growth mindset” (Dweck 2006) within the classroom. 

Along with building a healthy classroom dynamic teachers should strive to be members in the community.