Consistency is Key Life can get pretty monotonous, but the routines that we have to provide structure and purpose to our lives. They give us a foundation, ground us, and keep us focused on our goals.
Consistency is Key What is consistency? Consistency is being intentional about your routines and expectations. It is building habits through everyday actions and then fine-tuning them over time.
Why is consistency important? Students thrive in environments that are safe and secure. When classrooms have consistent routines, it encourages students to learn and be successful.
How do we create consistency? We all need to work together to help students feel safe. Creating schedules, setting expectations, and working together can create environments where learning is a top priority.
Schedules Posted schedules allow students and parents to plan and eliminate surprises. When students are aware of changes ahead of time, they can still feel prepared for the day. As teachers, we can build a little flexibility into the day but still have guidelines. When we create a community culture in our classrooms, schedules are an integral part of increasing our students’ confidence. Through PLC meetings, teachers and administrators may align their schedules and resources to provide fidelity in their classrooms and content instruction.
Expectations and Handbooks Setting clear expectations for students in our classrooms and schools creates consistency. When behavior rules and expectations are consistent across schools and districts, all staff members speak the same language. All stakeholders should be included when revising handbooks, which may be on a yearly cadence. These handbooks should have explicit expectations as well as consequences.
Partnerships Involving various stakeholders should not be overlooked when planning for the coming year. These stakeholders should include administrators, teachers, parents, and school board members who have an equal voice. They should collaborate to develop schedules, calendars, and even events, such as open houses that impact families and communities. Each is an excellent opportunity to bring parents and caregivers into the school and continue to build partnerships. In turn, this creates consistency for students.
Staffing Lack of consistency may be a key factor contributing to frequent vacancies or high turnover rates. New employees must be provided with ALL expectations upfront. No one likes not knowing what’s expected when it comes to discipline, extra duties, or a daily schedule. All of these things could leave someone feeling unsupported in their job. Successful PLCs offer a place for discussions and can promote a feeling of belonging in the school. Mentorship programs are another way staff members can learn and support one another.
Conclusion Over the past few years, there has been no shortage of inconsistencies. As we move into a post-pandemic world, we must be mindful of this and overt in our teaching. Educators provide structure for students from daily routines to school and district expectations that incorporate partnerships among various groups every day.
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