Need some help setting 6th grade classroom

okay bare with me...I have to give some background info....

I'm returning to work after 6 years of being on childcare. When I was working we were in a different building and I shared one big open space with 3 other teachers. Thus....there was not a lot of space (example for bb boards, centers etc...so we did without).

I was originally told I had to go back as an ATR b/c I got excessed from staying out so long....I was just now told that a teacher left so I'm officially reinstated and have my own classroom. The problem...even though I've taught 6th grade for almost 7 years...I have no idea where to start in setting up a whole class!

I should add I'm in a middle school (6-8), will be teaching 6th and have a self contained classe for literature, math and social studies. I know I have to do bb boards....do I have to do a whole theme at this age..if so can someone give me ideas? I should also add, my school does not really do centers....I don't mind adding one...but they feel that it should be agreed upon the whole grade and the other 6th grade teachers have already agreed to not do them. Since I only have three subjects it will make it a bit easier, but again I'm completely at a loss and with having to start so late to get ready...HELP!

Message edited 8/21/2009 7:04:28 AM.

Re: Need some help setting 6th grade classroom

Congrats on your position!

I teach sixth grade as well, kids are self contained but I teach other classes and travel to other rooms.

I do a bulletin board for every subject even though I only teach ELA. I assume someone else will come in to teach science to your class so I'd do a board for that as well. My boards aren't fancy- I just put up paper and border and have laminated signs for each subject. We don't do themes but I have an "info" board where I post things like the monthly calendar, the bell schedule and the class program, and any other reminders.

We are also required to have a "data wall" which you may need as well if you are in NYC. Your admins will let you know. That takes up one of my bull bds.

I also have the assorted motivational posters and book posters.

You may have a class library to organize, and again, your school may have its own ideas (leveled, by genre, both, etc.). You also may want to set up a small area with dictionaries, atlases, etc.

Hope this helps. Feel free to fm me if you want.

Message edited 8/21/2009 10:20:11 AM.