Your Classroom Plan—Made Simple

If you’re a new teacher, you’ve probably heard that classroom management is everything—but what no one tells you is how to actually get started.

Do you need color-coded systems? Call-and-response routines? Behavior charts? Stickers?

Here’s some good news:
You don’t need to do it all.
In fact, the most effective classroom management plans are often the simplest.

Why Planning Behavior Early Matters

The first week of school sets the tone for your entire year. That’s when your students are learning how your classroom works—how to move, how to talk, how to learn, and how to be with each other.

That’s why your First Week Classroom Plan should focus on just three things:

1. Clear expectations

2. Consistent routines

3. Calm, confident responses

If you can guide your students through those in Week 1, you’re setting up a safe, positive environment from Day One.

Keep It Simple: A 3-Step Approach

Here’s how to get started without feeling overwhelmed:

1. Decide on Your Non-Negotiables

Pick 3–5 classroom expectations that matter most to you (respect, listening, following directions, etc.). You can always add more later—but start small and clear. Don't forget the simple things, like where to keep your pencils or how to set up your desk!

2. Teach the Routines Explicitly

Don’t assume your students know how you want them to enter the room or transition between tasks. Model it. Practice it. Celebrate it.

3. Plan How You’ll Respond

You don’t need a complicated behavior system to be effective. A calm, consistent approach—paired with lots of positive reinforcement—goes a long way.

The Planner That Helps You Do All of This

We’ve created a Free Classroom Management Planner to help you build your Classroom plan quickly and clearly. Inside, you’ll find:

Whether you’re planning in July or the night before school starts, this tool helps you walk in feeling confident—not scrambled.

Download Your Free Planner Here

You’ve Got This—And We’ve Got You

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect system.
You just need a plan that works for you—and helps your students feel safe, seen, and supported.

Start your year with confidence.
Download the Free Classroom Management Planner