Create Your Own Environment

At the end of the school year, I gave all of my students evaluation forms to assess both my teaching and the overall class experience. I will continue giving these evaluations for years to come because what they revealed was amazing. The students commented that they learned a lot during the year, but what struck me most was their description of the classroom environment. They wrote that they felt safe in class, that they didn't feel stupid when asking questions, and that they felt like part of a team that was learning together.
Part of me wasn't surprised at these comments, because I'd made intentional decisions throughout the year to ensure that my students would feel comfortable in the choral environment. I remember sitting in a high school classroom, not wanting to say anything because the teacher made me feel stupid. This is no way to learn or live, and I was thrilled that my students were learning because they felt safe.
So the question is, how do you achieve this with your students? Can I create the same environment next year? Part of the answer involves how you respond to your students. Show them that you respect them, especially at the beginning of the year. They need to trust your sincerity before you can joke around with them. Don't pressure anyone to answer a question, until you know who you can call on without making them feel isolated. The other part of the answer involves how students respond to each other. It's your job to make sure that students treat each other with respect and listen to their peers. No one wants to participate in a class when they're afraid of being put down by their peers.
It might seem overwhelming, but it's not if you consider this mind-set on the first day of school. The students will take their cues from you, so set the tone, and they'll follow your example.

It's Not Always About You

It's true. Sometimes students can ruin your day by giving you a hard time. The attitude comes out, and you wonder what you did to deserve such treatment. One of the most important things I've learned is that is usually doesn't have anything to do with me as the teacher. Once I looked at student attitudes from this perspective, it changed the way I responded to my students. They have bad days just like I do. Stuff goes on at home and after school, and they don't leave their troubles at the door when they come to class. However, I can help them have a better day once they enter my room. Now, this is not to say that attitudes never have anything to do with me. I've had students who had issues with me and I had to deal with it. But a huge load was lifted from my shoulders when I considered that my job isn't to make my students happy all the time, which might sound strange, but it's true.

Moving On Up . . . to High School

The transition from elementary school to high school was a lot easier than I expected it to be. People ask me how I survived the change, and here's what I answer:
1. Even though you're closer to their ages, don't try to be their friend. It may or may not come eventually, but definately not at the beginning of the school year.
2. Don't take yourself too seriously. Laughing at myself gives them permission to laugh at themselves.
3. Stay ahead of the game. Know what's going on in the school and what your students are participating in.
4. Keep smiling. You know you're ok when they say "hi" in the hallway.

The musical aspects are also important, but building strong relationships with students is the only way to build a truly successful program.