Classroom, Elementary, Junior High, school

The Ultimate Classroom Organisation Checklist

Are you tired of walking into a chaotic and disorganised classroom every day? Research shows that a cluttered environment can hinder learning potential and productivity. Not to mention the old adage that a cluttered space is indicative of a cluttered mind.

In this post, we will explore the ultimate classroom organisation checklist to help you declutter, arrange furniture efficiently, create designated spaces for supplies and materials, and organise resources effectively. Join us as we dive into the key steps to transform your classroom into a well-organised and efficient learning space.

First, let’s tackle the first step in creating a well-organised classroom: decluttering. Removing unnecessary items and streamlining your space is essential in creating a conducive environment for learning. 

Begin by clearing out any broken, obsolete, or unused items, organising supplies into designated areas, and getting rid of any materials that are no longer needed. Right away, you’ll feel better by having less clutter overwhelming the space. Having more open and streamlined space will help you better decide how to move forward in organising.

By decluttering your classroom, you not only create a more visually appealing space but also make it easier for both you and your students to navigate and find what they need.

When arranging the furniture in your classroom, consider the flow of traffic and how students will move around the space. Start by placing desks or tables in a way that allows for easy movement to eliminate any potential bottlenecks. 

Consider creating different learning zones within the classroom, such as a cosy reading corner or a group work area, to accommodate various activities. Depending on the age of your students, the grade(s) and subject(s) you teach, and the ways in which you tend to structure your lessons, you will want various different areas in the classroom.  

You will also want to ensure that you are being mindful of the placement of the teacher’s desk to ensure visibility and accessibility to all students. By strategically arranging your furniture, you can create a more functional and organised classroom that facilitates a smooth learning experience.

Creating designated supply areas will further enhance the organisation of your classroom, making it simpler for both you and your students to locate and access materials when needed.

You may want to consider setting up designated supply areas within your classroom to streamline access to materials and resources. This will not only make it easier for you and your students to find what you need quickly, but it will also help maintain a clutter-free and organised learning environment. 

By having specific areas for supplies like pencils, markers, paper, and folders, you can ensure that everything has a proper place and is easily accessible when necessary. This will enhance the overall efficiency and functionality of your classroom, setting the stage for a successful and productive academic year.

I find that having an area of the classroom in which I have an “I’m done, now what?” Poster with suggestions for learning activities is also convenient for storing supplies. In this one section, students can come to grab all the supplies they may need for classroom assignments, as well as what they may need if they finish their work early.

Another key aspect of classroom organisation is arranging materials and resources in a way that promotes efficiency and accessibility. By organising your supplies into specific areas within your classroom, you can ensure that everything has a designated spot and can be easily located when needed. 

Consider creating stations for different types of materials, such as writing utensils, paper, and textbooks, to streamline the process of finding and using classroom resources. This strategic setup will not only save time and reduce frustration but will also help maintain a clean and tidy classroom environment conducive to learning and productivity. Properly organising your materials and resources is essential for setting the foundation for a successful academic year.

Consider the timeline of your day, how you move around the classroom, and which materials you need where and where. For example, if you always do math centres in the morning, ensure resources are ready the evening before and keep those you always use (such as manipulatives at the math with the teacher station) stored nearby and always accessible.

Overall, organising your classroom is not just about tidying up – it’s about creating an environment that fosters learning and productivity. By decluttering, arranging furniture thoughtfully, designating supply areas, and organising materials efficiently, you can transform your classroom into a well-oiled machine of educational success. 

As you implement these strategies, remember that the effort you put in now will pay off in the long run. So, roll up your sleeves, get organised, and watch your classroom thrive. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “For every minute spent organising, an hour is earned.” Start organising now and reap the rewards of a well-structured learning space.

Leave a comment