SOME TIPS FOR AN EFFECTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT:

• Post lesson objectives daily and review with the class before beginning the lesson so that students are familiar with what they are going to learn (and why)
• Use grade program software to save hours of calculation
• Grade papers and post grades within 48 hours of receiving them
• Provide progress reports at least every other week (I posted class grades weekly--I got the students' permission to use their names; otherwise, use student ID numbers. This makes the students grade conscious--it works!)
• Provide opportunities for success every chance you get!
• Allow students to make mistakes and assist them in learning from those mistakes
• Use a reward system to promote a positive classroom environment (free time for students earning A's and B's; pizza party; gift certificate to a dollar store...)
• Have a "makeup" day where students who are failing can work on missing or failed assignments.
• Award extra credit when appropriate--students feel really special with this!
• Be consistent with enforcement of classroom rules
• Grow eyes in the back of your head! In other words, KNOW YOUR STUDENTS!

SOME TIPS ON SURVIVING HIGH SCHOOL:

• Maintain a fierce focus on your goals (graduate first and foremost!) 
• Be consistent and genuine.
• Demonstrate confidence and practice resilience and good listening skills. When you listen well, you validate others and learn from them.
• Believe in knowledge, learning, and education not just for yourself, but for everyone. Level the playing field thru education.
• Be passionate about your beliefs; passion cultivates resilience.
• Find support systems wherever you can--school counselors WANT to help you!
• Allow yourself and others to make and learn from mistakes.
• Find a mentor and be a role model. Try to be the change you wish to see in others.
• Never pre-judge.
• Be aware of other cultures and ethnicities but make colorblind decisions.

Excerpt from High School Survival Guide