The first step to managing a classroom is to consider the students' needs and meet them.  Young people (of all ages) need a positive and engaging learning environment.  I begin classroom management by being sure I deliver relevant, active, integrated, and comprehensible content to the students.  Community building is the other part of a positive learning environment.  Responsive Classroom style Morning Meetings are part of the daily routine.

The second step in classroom management is making sure students know the expectations, procedures and routines.  The first six weeks of school are spent building community and establishing expectations.  Routines and procedures are practiced and practiced again.  Expectations are firm and high, and are held with respect and understanding for each student.

Students are co-creators of Classroom Agreements and Consequences.  The chart below shows an example from third grade.

I've recently attended a talk by Carol Dweck, the Stanford/Columbia researcher who developed the theory of Mindset.  I intend to teach my students that a "growth" mindset enables them to grow any skill or ability.  Brains are elastic and can be trained to improve any area with practice and dedication.  My classroom will be one that nurtures a growth mindset.

Misbehavior has many identifiable causes.  Student behavior goes off-track when any of a range of needs goes unmet.  In order to think and learn well, students need to feel they are welcome and appreciated at school. They need to know their teachers like them and think they are special. This sense of well-being is foundational, and if it is not present, mistaken goals will emerge (see chart linked below).  Attention seeking, power seeking, revenge seeking, and displays of inadequacy are motivated by a sincere but misguided attempt to feel safe and welcomed.

The purpose of discipline is to help students assume responsibility for their learning, provide an environment that encourages their success, and respects the dignity of the learner.  Discipline should help meet identified student needs.