There is a well-established connection between organization skills and academic achievement. Keeping teachers and students organized helps everyone work more efficiently. Creating a positive learning environment includes a thoughtful layout of the classroom that is conducive to learning.

The classroom is a reflection of a teacher’s personality so make the space say what you want it to say.

Everyone knows that a clutter free classroom is beneficial for teachers and learners. The harder part is figuring out where to store all of the art supplies, learning aids, and craft needs while keeping the aisles free for walking and learning.

Create a routine for kids that features them in the cleanup, put away, and packing up process.

Color coded/labeled storage bins and shelving can make it quick an easy for kids to find what they need. If students can put everything in its spot without prompting, the schedule is freed up for instructional minutes and important business. An efficient routine is a time saver that teaches kids responsibility and how to organize.

Well thought out classroom furnishings can have dual purposes.

If an item deserves a place in the classroom, it should pull its weight and be used in a variety of ways. Add a storage pocket to the backs of chairs for work in progress. Designate a place to turn in finished work and organize take home items in student mailboxes. Classroom libraries can be arranged in tubs. Save space by using vertical storage to store magazines and workbooks.

If stations and rotations are part of your learning, carefully design learning areas that can be repurposed throughout the day.

• Use forward facing book shelves as classroom dividers.
• One space can serve as a reading corner, discussion stations, or small group meeting place depending on the time of day.
• Color code and label bins filled with all of the items needed for a station. Easy to identify tubs let kids organize themselves for grab and go learning.

Take stock of the supplies that you have and create system that makes items easy to locate. A well-organized classroom will make students and teachers feel set up for success!

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Stephanie Standley M. Ed. is a mom, educator, writer, and outdoor enthusiast. She received her undergraduate degrees in Sociology and Psychology as well as a Master of Education-Literacy from the University of San Diego. Stephanie has 12+ years of classroom experience as a teacher and currently supports students in Special Education. She is inspired to use evidence-based practices to educate children in creative and engaging ways.