As a future classroom teacher in grades three through five, my philosophy of teaching is, “don’t sweat the small stuff.”  I plan to teach in a style that is strict, but not mean.  Third, fourth, and fifth graders are capable of being accountable for themselves and their property; therefore, I intend to give the students a good deal of responsibility throughout the class day.  

            I enjoy a buzz in my classroom.  I do not mind the low rumble of students working with partners so long as their discussions are pertinent to the topic being taught.  I love using humor in the classroom as many teachable moments are spawned from a funny story or joke.  I also think that humor relaxes the mind and allows for creativity in student work.  I also have a great deal of patience with students who are unaware of a rule, assignment, etc.  I do not, however, have much patience for those who know what they need to do and choose to do otherwise.  This is where my discipline policy comes in.

            I believe in the ‘three strikes you’re out’ discipline policy and will use it in my classroom to maintain order without becoming a dictator.  The students will be made aware of the policies in the classroom as well as the consequences for each ‘strike.’  After each strike, the students will write in a discipline log their offence and the consequence for such an offence.  Having said that, I plan to ‘not sweat the small stuff.’.   Small problems or conflicts (i.e. talking out of turn or getting out of ones seat) that may be easily resolved will be corrected and no other action will be taken.  If the problem persists, I will conference with the student and begin the three strikes policy just as I would with larger problems.