What steps can you take to create a welcoming classroom?

1 Know your students

The first step to creating a welcoming classroom is to get to know your students as individuals. Learn about their backgrounds, interests, strengths, challenges, and goals. Use surveys, icebreakers, interviews, or portfolios to collect information about your students. Use this information to tailor your instruction, activities, and feedback to meet their diverse needs and preferences. Show your students that you care about them and their learning by using their names, acknowledging their contributions, and celebrating their achievements.

2 Establish norms and routines

The second step to creating a welcoming classroom is to establish clear and consistent norms and routines that foster a sense of order, safety, and community. Involve your students in developing and reviewing the classroom rules, expectations, and procedures. Explain the rationale and benefits of following the norms and routines, and model them yourself. Provide positive reinforcement and constructive feedback to help your students adhere to the norms and routines. Review and revise them as needed throughout the year.

3 Cultivate relationships

The third step to creating a welcoming classroom is to cultivate positive and respectful relationships among yourself and your students. Build trust and rapport with your students by showing interest, empathy, and humor. Encourage your students to share their opinions, feelings, and experiences with you and their peers. Provide opportunities for your students to work together, learn from each other, and support each other. Use cooperative learning strategies, peer feedback, and group projects to promote collaboration and communication.

4 Embrace diversity

The fourth step to creating a welcoming classroom is to embrace and celebrate the diversity of your students. Recognize and respect the different cultures, languages, identities, and perspectives of your students. Incorporate diverse and relevant texts, materials, and examples into your curriculum. Provide multiple and varied ways for your students to access, engage, and express their learning. Use culturally responsive pedagogy, differentiated instruction, and universal design for learning to address the diverse needs and preferences of your students.

5 Create a positive climate

The fifth step to creating a welcoming classroom is to create a positive and supportive climate that fosters student well-being, motivation, and growth. Use affirming and encouraging language and gestures to communicate your high expectations and confidence in your students. Provide constructive and specific feedback that helps your students improve their skills and strategies. Celebrate your students' efforts, progress, and achievements. Foster a growth mindset by emphasizing the value of learning from mistakes, challenges, and feedback.

6 Seek feedback and improvement

The sixth and final step to creating a welcoming classroom is to seek feedback and improvement from yourself, your students, and your colleagues. Reflect on your own practices, strengths, and areas for growth. Ask your students for their input, suggestions, and feedback on your teaching and the classroom environment. Collaborate with your colleagues to share ideas, resources, and strategies. Seek professional development opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills. Be open to learning and growing as a teacher and a learner.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?