Imagine turning your classroom into a hub of creativity and efficiency with just a few clever tweaks. These classroom hacks aren’t just about organizing supplies; they’re about saving time, reducing stress, and making learning more fun for everyone. Ready to unlock the secrets to a smarter, more effective classroom? Let’s dive in!
General hacks
Painter’s tape: Put painter’s tape on the wall, desks or bulletin boards before attaching Velcro or even using hot glue. It makes it so easy to remove everything when you’re done.
Shrink-it and laminate: Reduce your schedule and your class list(s) down to a tiny size. Laminate and wear them behind your badge for easy access.
YouTube edit: Add a dash after the “T” in the YouTube link and you’ll get access to the ad-free version of your videos.
Rubber band: Fasten a rubber band under the hand sanitizer pump (or any other pump) to limit the amount that comes out. You can adjust the placement as needed.
Organization and storage
Backpack hooks: Get those backpacks off the floor with hooks that fasten right on the back of students’ chairs. The extra wall space and maneuverability will make your classroom seem larger.
Magazine racks: Organize papers in magazine racks or file boxes. Label them so you know which is which. This way, they’re also easy for students to access as needed.
Hanging shoe rack: These are perfect to store supplies, from multiples (like headphones) to basics (scissors, tape and more). Get one with clear pockets so you can easily see what’s inside. Pro-tip: Keep one slot for errant marker tops that could then be used for markers suddenly missing tops.
Shower curtain rod: Once you set up this rod, you can use hangers with clothespins to hold plastic packets with papers.
Classroom management
Coloring tablecloths or murals: Allow students to color when they finish work early or while awaiting transitions.
Tap lights: Place the lights next to the descriptions of classroom noise levels (e.g. playground voice, table talk, whisper, and no voice). Then tap the light corresponding to the appropriate level. For a fun alternative, try this website to alert students when they’re too loud.
Mystery rewards: Write down a series of rewards, such as extended recess or no homework. Then cover those rewards with Post-it notes. Write a desired behavior on the Post-it, such as lining up quietly. When students do it successfully, remove the Post-it to reveal the reward.
Mirror: Hang a full-length mirror horizontally and at an angle above the white board, smart board, or blackboard in your classroom. This works as a rear-view mirror so you can see student behavior while you’re facing away. Pro tip: One teacher uses extra-large binder clips to attach to mirror corners, then runs a cord through the black part between the clip and mirror for a no-tools way to secure the mirror.
Quiet spray: Fill a spray bottle with water. Colorfully and clearly label it “quiet spray.” When you need the class to settle down, spray the mist in the air. You will automatically grab student attention and generate lots of smiles.
Arts and crafts
Soap dispensers: Store paint in old, clean soap dispensers so students can pump to get the paint.
Salt shakers: Fill salt shakers with glitter for an easy way to dispense. Pepper shakers will work too but they have fewer holes.
Laundry drying rack: These racks are perfect for drying student artwork overnight, without taking up that coveted counter space.
Duct tape marker caps: Take a box of new markers and duct tape the caps together in a set. That way, students can pull out the markers, use them and replace them in the set. It’s an easy way to make sure none are missing.
Small groups
Stadium seating: These seats have backs, which make sitting on the floor comfortable. Students love them and they are perfect for small group work when you don’t have an extra table and chairs.
Rolling carts: Long the domain of traveling teachers, rolling carts are wonderful self-contained storage units. Use them to store the essential supplies, from books to manipulatives, for small group work.
Dry-erase clipboards: These eliminate the need for a desk and can be used again and again. For a tip on storage and erasers for these markers, see the next section. Pro Tip: Not enough white boards to go around? Use a plastic plate. You’d be surprised at how well it works.
Number assignments: If you have a Chromebook cart, assign each student a laptop number for the year. Make sure there’s a corresponding number on the cart. That way, you can easily track that the Chromebooks are returned and plugged in to charge.
Independent work
Socks and pom-poms: Use old socks to store dry erase markers. The socks also make great erasers. Alternatively, glue pom poms at the end of dry erase markers for automatic erasers.
Dry erase pockets: Place worksheets in dry erase pockets so students can work on problems again and again.
Silverware tray: Get an inexpensive silverware tray and use it to organize writing utensils in your writing center.
Highlighter basket: Place a basket of highlighters by the place where students turn in work. Have them highlight their name before they place their paper in the bin. This helps reduce no-name papers.
Check out our blog on Design Tips for more ideas of how to organize your classroom. Our Welcome Back to School blog offers tips on the first 10 days of prep and plans.
Do you have a classroom hack that’s not on the list? Share it with your fellow educators in the comments.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
California Casualty has delivered $1,000 Thomas R. Brown Athletic Grants to educators at 13 public middle and high schools across seven states to help support their school sports program(s). Since its inception in 2010, the Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant Program has helped fund burdened athletic programs in 763 public schools across the nation.
Named in honor of Tom Brown, an ardent sports enthusiast and California Casualty Chairman Emeritus, the Thomas R. Brown Athletic Grant reflects his conviction that the values cultivated on the field—such as teamwork, trust, communication, and confidence—extend far beyond sports, enriching academic and personal development. Athletic programs play a pivotal role in shaping students’ character, fostering well-rounded individuals who excel both in the classroom and in life.
“The athletic departments mission is to provide our students who come from an underserved community the opportunity to develop sport skills by maximizing participation and focusing on fundamental skills. El Camino Jr. High School sports focus on developing positive values, learning sportsmanship, teamwork, communication and cooperation. This grant will go towards purchasing equipment such as volleyballs, basketball, ball racks and nets…. to enhance the lives of our student athletes,” said CTA Member and applicant Ashley Sandoval.
California Casualty recognizes the vital role of youth sports in promoting children’s physical and mental well-being. We are delighted to announce that the 2023/2024 Athletic Grants will support the following initiatives:
Angevine Middle School, Lafayette, CO – Basketball, Flag Football, Soccer and Track
Burley High School, Burley, ID – Wrestling
Challenger Middle School, Tucson, AZ – Boys and Girls Soccer
CY Middle School, Casper, WY – Boys Soccer
Del Campo High School, Fair Oaks, CA – Girls Flag Football
Del Mar High School, San Jose, CA – Football
El Camino Jr High, Santa Maria, CA – Basketball and Volleyball
Hillsboro High School, Hillsboro, OR – Cheerleading
Montebello High School, Montebello, CA – Girls Golf
Scappoose High School, Scappoose, OR – Bowling
Shadow Hills High School, Indio, CA – Boys and Girls Soccer
Syringa Middle School, Caldwell, ID – Boys Basketball
Turner High School, Kansas City, KS – Boys and Girls Golf
Congratulations to all of our 2023/2024 grant recipients!
Angevine Middle School, Lafayette, CO
Scappoose High School, Scappoose, OR
Hillsboro High School, Hillsboro, OR – Cheerleading
It’s time for a well-deserved break and a chance to catch up on your reading. Whether it’s for professional development or relaxation, a summer reading list is a staple for educators. Let’s explore some must-reads to make the most of your summer downtime.
If you struggle with organization and efficiency in today’s information-laden, hi-tech world, imagine how your students must feel. This book seeks to provide the strategies that help you, and them, navigate the demands of school and life effectively. These are the skills and resources that can help prepare students for future success.
Adaptable to any subject area, this book offers activities, resources, and ideas to bring energy, engagement, and motivation to teaching and learning. The author provides strategies to build relationships with hard-to-reach students. The author is a trainer who runs “unforgettable” courses for educators.
As Utah English Teacher of the Year, author Mike Roberts has been successful in creating a learning environment that engages students. His tips help maximize teaching time, reduce behavior issues, and enhance student ownership. From year-long future planning to quick tips to implement tomorrow, he offers the principles and practices that make a difference in classroom management.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how we work, think, create, and learn. It’s already in the classroom, and teachers must be able to navigate this new tool in largely uncharted waters. From interactive learning to assessments, this book offers a practical guide toward integrating AI in the classroom while retaining academic integrity.
This quick read might just revolutionize your in-service training next year. It offers quick training sessions with practical strategies that offer high-impact results. Even the best teachers can find ways to improve. If you find this book helpful, share it with your principal.
There are tiny changes that you can make in your life that can have big and lasting results. That’s the idea behind Atomic Habits. Author James Clear uses biology, psychology, and neuroscience to help make good habits inevitable. Despite being time-crunched or having a lack of motivation, you can be successful with this innovative approach.
As the author states, “Burnout isn’t a failure. It’s a wake-up call.” Dr. Sangwan explains the five levels of burnout—physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual—and how to address each one. She will help you align your decision making on what matters most to you, and as a result, connect to your colleagues and your job in a new way.
The author is a former teacher and instructional coach who understands the challenges to mindfulness that can be present for educators. She walks you through a process that helps you reflect on your life through Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, using positive psychology as a guide toward developing a personalized plan for self-care.
Henry Winkler is an Emmy award-winning actor, author, comedian, producer, and director. He achieved these successes despite severe dyslexia. His memoir offers a vulnerable look at the challenges he faced, including the pressures of his signature role that took a life of its own and what to do when it seems your best years are behind you.
This global bestseller inspired a hit television series. It follows the journey of chemist Elizabeth Zott in the early 1960’s as she navigates a male-dominated society where women are supposed to be homemakers. When she finds herself a single mother, she has to improvise. As the host of America’s beloved cooking show, she turns chemistry into delicious results.
This charming and uplifting novel is a fun read for those who love books. It follows the stories of three strangers who discover a vanishing bookstore in Dublin. In search of a long-lost manuscript, the characters find themselves transported to a world of wonder where nothing is as it seems.
Do you have a book suggestion that’s not on the list? Share it in the comments.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
It’s a tradition in teaching to reach into your own pocket to cover classroom supplies and those fun ‘extras’ that make learning memorable. Educational grants can help. From pencils to white boards to field trips, these grants can offset your expenses and, in some cases, boost your school’s budget.
Unlike other types of funding, grants do not have to be repaid. Most grants require an application, and a report on how the money was spent. Some can be competitive. If you meet the criteria and the deadline, however, you’re on your way to earning free money.
We did a deep dive to discover some of the best and most innovative grants for educators, both on the national and state levels. Here’s what we found.
National
Colibri Special Project Grant
Up to $5,000
These grants fund projects that significantly advance student learning and create engaging student experiences. Grants are for grades K-12 in public schools. Please note however: these grants do not fund textbooks for schoolwide use, technology or A/V equipment, travel, admission fees, or field trips.
Dollar General offers youth literacy grants to help students below grade level. The grants can be used to implement new or expand existing literacy programs, purchase new technology to support literacy initiatives, or to buy books, materials, or software.
The Supply a Teacher program seeks to provide necessary resources for teachers in underserved schools. These grants are open to teachers at schools where 50% or more of students qualify for the National School Lunch Program. Applications are accepted year-round.
NEA Student Success Grants are meant to elevate and improve student development through project-based learning in public schools. Funds may be used for materials, equipment, transportation, or technology. To be eligible for this grant, you must be a member of the NEA.
Grants are available for PreK through 9th grade teachers to purchase and maintain small animals in the classroom. There is also a Dogs in the Classroom program that supports animal-assisted therapy.
These grants are for project-based learning in science, technology, engineering, and math. Note however that the Foundation does not fund computers, laptops, or tablets.
Voya funds innovative projects for K-12 classrooms, both public and private. Project areas span the curriculum, and include history, social sciences, psychology, economics, political science, career technical education, English, music, art, physical education, nutrition, and wellness.
Each quarter, the ASBA awards grants to enhance PreK-12 classroom learning. Teachers must describe how the project will impact student achievement and how it reflects the priorities of their district. Grant winners must attend a board meeting where they will be recognized.
This organization provides funds for teachers to use in their classrooms however they like. There also are local CalRTA divisions that offer direct support for local schools.
PACE Classroom Grants may be used for a variety of projects and materials, including but not limited to books, software, calculators, math manipulatives, art supplies, audio-visual equipment, and lab materials. Awards are competitive and PACE members are given preference.
These grants are for PreK-12 teachers in Idaho. The funding is to be used for specific and innovative educational classroom projects and school programs. Projects should enhance the state or district curriculum for the grade level.
These grants cover physical improvements, material needs, professional development, and community engagement. Applicants must be a K-12 public or nonprofit private school in Casey’s 16-state footprint, which includes Kansas. Submissions are due in the fall and awarded in the spring.
These grants may be used for a variety of projects and materials, including but not limited to books, software, calculators, math manipulatives, art supplies, audio-visual equipment, and lab materials. Awards are competitive, and preference is given to members of the Kansas Association of American Educators.
These grants are designed to help students meet basic, urgent, and immediate needs so they can succeed in school. Importantly, these needs must be unmet by any other source. California Casualty has proudly worked with the Oregon Education Association (OEA) as their exclusive auto & home provider since 1974, and regularly donates to the Foundation.
This funding is available for Wyoming educator professional development, and can include attending workshops or seminars, hosting events or activities, purchasing materials for use in the classroom or out-of-school educational settings, continuing education, and other related activities.
The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant was established to provide support for K-12 public schools negatively impacted by reduced budgets. To apply for this grant, you must be a member of an education association that partners with California Casualty. Learn more at the link below.
This namesake program was established 2010 based on California Casualty Chairman, Emeritus Tom Brown’s belief that lessons learned through athletics – teamwork, trust, communication, and confidence – translate in the classroom and beyond. The program is open to middle and high school employees who are members of participating education association. Learn more and apply using the link below.
Do you have a grant that’s not mentioned here? Share it with your colleagues in the comments.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Ask any teacher. They love getting gifts, but there’s a limit to the number of coffee mugs and candles that any one person can enjoy. We’ve asked teachers what they really want, and they’ve answered. Here’s the definitive guide on the best gifts for teachers this holiday season.
Fun Classroom Supplies
Most teachers spend their own money on classroom supplies, so these are sure to be a big hit. Consider putting together a gift basket with a few items. Package them in a plastic container like a shower caddy that also may be used for organizing supplies for a practical twist.
We love these pens for their inspirational sayings and vibrant colors. But any set of quality pens for grading and notes will work. Don’t forget the Expo markers, too.
Post-it notes come in so many fun shapes and sizes. Not only are they useful for teachers’ organization, but they are also ideal for students sharing ideas in large group activities.
Personalized notes, including those that depict the subject area that teachers teach, can be fun. You can find personalized stamps and stickers, too.
Self-Care Items
Here’s how you can provide thoughtful gifts that promote self-care in the classroom and beyond. These useful items can make a teacher’s life much easier. For higher ticket items, consider going in with a group of parents or the class.
Elevate the teacher’s chair with this ultra-comfortable cushion.
Food & Snacks
Chocolate, baked goods, and gift baskets of food and snacks are always appreciated. Just be aware of any food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Gift Cards
Choose gift cards for the places that teachers shop, such as Target, Amazon Prime, Michaels, or Teachers Pay Teachers. During a busy holiday season, teachers would also appreciate gift cards from Door Dash, Starbucks, Dunkin, grocery stores, gas stations, and local restaurants.
These fun lanyards add some pizzazz to an everyday badge. Find one with your teacher’s subject area or interest.
Personal Notes of Thanks
Handwritten notes by students cost nothing but mean so much. They are among a teacher’s favorite gifts.
What to Avoid
In searching for the perfect gift, you will want to stay away from the following.
Avoid alcohol unless you know the teacher enjoys wine, beer, or spirits.
Let the teacher choose his/her own beauty products from hand creams to perfume/cologne, jewelry, and makeup. These are highly personal choices.
Stay away from apple motif items and desk display items that are essentially “dust collectors.” Chances are your child’s teacher already has more than they need.
Teachers also get a fair number of mugs, candles, and ornaments. They probably don’t need any more.
Do you have other great ideas for teacher gifts? Share them in the comments. See our blog on teacher stocking stuffers and how to thank a teacher for some more great ideas.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Congratulations to all of the recipients of the 2023 California Casualty Music & Arts Grants! Our field team had the opportunity to do in-person presentations to award all the very deserving recipients with a check for $250 to put towards supporting their schools’ music or arts program.
Local President Melissa Funk, recipient Mckenzie Pollano, and Dee Dee Templeton from California Casualty.
Tenaya Middle School
Music & Arts Grant recipient Nickie Seno and Chris Nieto from California Casualty
Adams City High School
Jason Malmberg – District 14 Classroom Teachers Association President, Brendan Parker – Recipient, Jolie Spence – California Casualty, and Chris Garcia – Principal
Stonecreek Junior High School
Chris Nieto from California Casualty and Music & Arts Grant recipient Kimberly Aguayo
Edith Teter Elementary School
California Casualty Music & Arts Grant recipient Kim Green
Topeka High School
Paula Reilly, Associate Principal; Dustin Dick, Principal; Josh Davis, Grant Recipient; Angela Neuroth, Topeka NEA President; Lindsay Buck, KNEA UniServ Director; Rebecca Stumpf, California Casualty
South Elementary School
Jolie Spence, California Casualty; Jessica Bush, recipient; and Kathey Ruybal, BEA President
Liberty Elementary School
Dee Dee Templeton from California Casualty and Music & Arts Grant recipient Stacy Ryan
Sabin Middle School
Daniel Carragher, Principal (it was pajama day); Megan Langdon and Jessica Medina, recipients; and Jolie Spence, California Casualty
West Putnam Elementary School
Patrisa Espinosa, principal at West Putnam Elementary, and recipient Stephanie Adegbenro
Woodglen Elementary School
Jolie Spence from California Casualty and Music & Arts Grant recipient, Devan Willis
Joli Ann Leichtag Elementary School
California Casualty Music and Arts Grant recipient Lindsey Sparacino
Joe Stefani Elementary School
Jessica Coronado, recipient of the California Casualty Music & Arts Grant
Ella B. Allen Elementary School
Chelice Gilman, California Casualty Music & Arts Grant recipient
Bear Creek K-8 School
Jolie Spence from California Casualty with Music & Arts Grant recipient, Angelina “Crow” Medina
Hugh J. Boyd Jr. Elementary School
Nancy Corsaro, recipient of the California Casualty Music & Arts Grant
Midway Elementary School
Mitzi Hull, recipient of a 2023 Music & Arts Grant from California Casualty
Cheldelin Middle School
Music & Arts Grant recipient, David Blake and Dee Dee Templeton from California Casualty
Koelsch Elementary
Lara Luthy, Boise Education Association president; Marci Greear, Music & Arts Grant recipient; and Layne McInelly, Idaho Education Association president
Owyhee Elementary
Lara Luthy, Boise Education Association president; Charles Diemart, Music & Arts Grant recipient; and Layne McInelly, Idaho Education Association president
Hillside Junior High
Lara Luthy, Boise Education Association president; Emily White, Music & Arts Grant recipient; and Layne McInelly, Idaho Education Association president
Miano Elementary School
Monique Mowad, recipient of a California Casualty Music & Arts Grant
Powell Middle School
Amanda Crosby, LEA President; Mindy Enley, recipient; and Jolie Spence, California Casualty
Diablo Vista Middle School
Chavonta Edington, Music Teacher Ben Loomer, Principal Jeffrey Osbom, and Angie Rajczyk from California Casualty
Olympic High School
Angie Rajczyk from California Casualty with Grant recipient Unjoo Chang, and Principal Courtney Lyou
Mark West Charter School
Angie Rayczyk from California Casualty with Music & Arts Grant recipient Lisa Chapman, and Principal Michelle Franci
Valley Verde Elementary School
California Casualty’s Angie Rajczyk with grant recipient Criag Yen, and Principal Mignon Perkins
Tynes Elementary School
Music & Arts Grant recipient Mary Stuckmeier, APLE President, Linda Manion and Principal, Tonya Gordillo
Barton Elementary School
Principal, Sandy Bartoldus, and Music & Arts Grant recipient, Rosa Guzman
Locke College Prep Academy
Music & Arts Grant recipient, Larry McDuffie with Principal, Peggy Gutierrez
Lindstrom Elementary School
Principal, Dr. Olga Rios, Jana Charles from California Casualty, and grant recipient, Lara Cummins
Madison Elementary School
AVP, Vivian Hanson, Santa Ana USD Trustee, Katelyn Brazer Aceves, Principal, Sara Marin, Grant Recipient, Maria Hollingsworth, (student aide, unknown) and President of SAEA, Sonta Garner-Marcelo
