Classrooms That Work: Chapter 1 and 2

These readings reminded me how difficult it is to manage classrooms.  Teachers have to work hard to maintain a flowing classroom.  We know that students are more likely to retain information if they are constantly engaged. This unfortunately is a difficult task to accomplish since students are so diverse and have varying learning needs. It is difficult to accommodate when curriculums are so strict and allow little to no room for change.  It seems like teachers know what needs to be done but do not have the necessary support.  Many teachers have to use their own money in order to provide additional resources. Change will not happen if students are not receiving the appropriate resources.
I appreciate that research has been done on classrooms that are successful. We have to learn from the best if we want to succeed. These teachers run great classrooms but they seem like the people that always go beyond what is expected. They manage time carefully and are great planners. They let students have some say as long as they show responsibility. I believe these methods work because students feel respected and show their respect back. Teachers get to know their students and adapt instruction based on them. This shows how much these teachers truly care and think of students even outside the classroom. I believe anyone can run a successful classroom as long as they really care for students.