AGRICULTURE EDUCATION RESOURCES TEACHER RESOURCE

Building Tradition In The Classroom

BY: MICHELLE VASBINDER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR AGRICULTURE TEACHERS ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS

Traditions have the power to transform a classroom into a vibrant community where students feel a sense of belonging and pride. Establishing traditions within your classroom and chapters enhances the learning environment and fosters strong relationships and a positive classroom and school culture. Here’s how you can build effective and meaningful traditions in your classroom:

Start With Core Values

Begin by identifying the core values you want to instill in your students. Traditions should reflect the values you want your classroom to embody, such as respect, collaboration, or creativity. You create a sense of purpose and coherence in your classroom culture by aligning your traditions with these values.

Consistency Is Key

For a tradition to take root, it needs to be consistent. Make sure that your chosen traditions are regularly practiced and maintained. Consistency helps students know what to expect and builds anticipation. Whether it’s a weekly “student spotlight shine” or a monthly award, regularity reinforces the tradition’s importance.

Celebrate Success And Milestones

Use traditions to mark achievements and milestones: academic, personal, and program. Celebrating successes motivates students and reinforces the positive behaviors and attitudes that lead to success.

Adapt And Evolve

Be open to adapting traditions as needed. As your class and program change and grow, some traditions need to be updated or replaced. Regularly evaluate the impact of your traditions and be willing to make adjustments to ensure they continue to serve their purpose effectively.

Create A Visual Representation

Visual aids can reinforce traditions and make them more memorable. Create a classroom or building display or bulletin board that highlights, whether it’s a “chapter calendar” of events or a “wall of fame” for achievements. This visual representation keeps traditions at the forefront and reminds students of their importance.

Encourage Reflection

Encourage students to reflect on the traditions and their significance. This can be done through discussions, journals, or creative projects. Reflection helps students understand the purpose behind the traditions and how they contribute to the overall classroom environment.

Model Enthusiasm And Participation

As the teacher and advisor, your enthusiasm and participation in the traditions set the tone for the rest. Your active involvement demonstrates that you value these traditions and believe in their importance. This enthusiasm is contagious and encourages students to fully engage with the traditions.

Building traditions in the classroom and within your chapter is a powerful way to foster a sense of community, enhance student engagement, and create a positive learning environment. By aligning traditions with core values, involving students, and maintaining consistency, you can establish meaningful practices that enrich the educational experience. Embrace the process enthusiastically, and watch your classroom and program transform into a cohesive and spirited learning community.

JESICA THORNBURGH, CHARLOTTE MENTEE SPOTLIGHT

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO APPLY TO BE A PART OF THE MENTOR PROGRAM?

I decided to apply for the mentor program because I did not go to school to be a teacher; in fact, I didn't decide to become a teacher until my last semester of college. After interviewing at several schools, I accepted a position at Charlotte ISD. It was a single-teacher position with a non-existent agricultural program. This is when I knew I needed help.

WHY DO YOU FEEL A MENTOR IS IMPORTANT?

A mentor in your first year is crucial to a teacher's success. A mentor is not only there to guide you in the classroom, but they also understand what you are going through. On my bad days, it was nice to vent to my husband or the other core teachers in my school, but the only person who truly understood exactly what I was feeling and experiencing was my mentor. Teaching is an incredibly rewarding experience. However, there are many trials and tribulations. Having a mentor not only helps you succeed in the classroom but helps you manage outside the classroom as well.

HOW DID YOUR MENTOR HELP THROUGH THE YEAR?

My mentor sent me numerous resources to help jumpstart my curriculum before school started, helped me network and meet other teachers in my area, and connected me with industry personnel.

Not only did my mentor help me become a successful teacher in the classroom, but she was there through every breakdown I had. I'll never forget when I called her bawling because my student's pigs did not place at their first elite show. I was crying, telling her I was not good enough, and she calmed me down and explained that it wasn't about my students placing or winning. She reminded me that I took my students to a show, and showing up for them was winning in itself.

I think a lot of ag teachers get lost and distracted in trying to place or win banners. Although that's nice, it's only a bonus because what truly matters is continuing to consistently show up for your students and being the best role model you can be every day.

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO FIRST YEAR TEACHERS?

I advise first-year teachers to network with other teachers and industry personnel. Even if you are not a part of the mentor program, many teachers, board members, and industry professionals are still willing to help make your program successful. Never be afraid to reach out and ask for help or admit when you do not know something.

Another valuable piece of advice is to create a relationship with your high school secretary. This person can answer any questions regarding how your district operates.

My last advice is to remember why you got into this profession in the first place. You will face many challenges and hardships within your first year, but the most important thing you can do is always remember why you chose this path. It will always be hard before it gets easier. After you make it through your first year, it will get better!