CLASSROOM ORGANIZATION THAT CAN SAVE YOU TIME

First, let me start by saying that I in no way came up with these ideas on my own, and if you already use these hacks, then you know just how much of your time and sanity it saves.  The only thing I did differently was tweak it to fit my needs.  Now as a teacher who has taught mostly in elementary school, I enjoy making even something like organization look cute.  By no means do you have to purchase labels like me (although I think my students love it); just do what works for you.

​HANGING FILE FOLDER BOX

This is absolutely one of my favorite organizational hacks I use in my classroom! I use the IRIS portable desktop hanging file folder boxes I bought on Amazon.  They  come in black and clear.  I use  a box for each table or group I have in my  classroom. 

Inside each file box I put a hanging file folder, which I also purchased from Amazon, that has a folder for each student.  I like to color coordinate, so I have a different color file folder for each block that I teach and student folders to match.  Inside each folder is where the students place their incomplete assignments or warm-up for the week.  You could even add work for absent students.

To save time, I also put work that needs to be passed out in each file folder.  When students come into class, the Table Captain passes out folders and any papers that need to be passed out.  I can’t tell you how much time it has saved me each day and how seamless it makes transitioning and getting started with class.

​10 DRAWER ROLLING CART

If you are a teacher, then you have probably seen pictures across Pinterest of the beloved rolling cart.  I’ve tried other systems to try to organize all the papers for the week and other papers I need access to, but the 10 drawer rolling cart works the best for me.  You can purchase the kind I use from Michael’s. They also come in multi-color.  I usually find cute labels that match the theme of my classroom for that school year.  

I print copies a week in advance and put them in the corresponding drawer.  I also like to keep notebook paper, plain paper, extra copies, and notes that need to go home at the bottom of the cart.  Plus, it has wheels so I can easily move it to a different location if I need to.  It works so well for me that I bought another one to use for small groups!

TEACHER TOOLBOX

Okay, so I tried to fight joining the Teacher Toolbox trend.  After all, it would be another thing that I would have to buy and label. This school year, however, I caved in and bought one off Amazon for a good price.  I didn’t spray paint it like I’ve seen in YouTube videos, but I did buy labels for it that matched my Boho Rainbow theme I used this school year.  

It is so convenient to find all the supplies I need like staples, sharpies, and stickers organized in one place.  The only thing I would have done differently is bought a smaller one.  I don’t use all the drawers, but I will probably make use of them next school year.

FOUR SHELF BOOKSHELF

I saw another teacher use this on Pinterest, and I knew I had to get them for my classroom.  Not only does the glossy white just take my classroom environment up a notch, but it makes it easy for students to access the materials they need for class.  I don’t have to use table space or have students get up to walk to where supplies are being kept.  I also like to keep Kleenex and sanitizer on top.  If you are interested in getting them for your classroom, I bought KALLAX shelf unit at IKEA.  They come in other colors as well.  I also bought the 8-shelf one for my classroom library. 

CLEAR HANGING FILE BOX

I honestly think I have a file box obsession.  I have tried several different types through the years, but the Iris Weathertight Portable File Box from The Container Store is my favorite.   I love that it has a handle, so that I can easily transport it.  It also has a caddy on top that you can use to put pens, sticky notes, highlighters, etc.  I use this to file my graded papers.  I put a file folder in for each block that I teach.  If you are self contained, it may be possible to put in a file folder for each student.  

These four organizational tips I shared have worked far better for me than just the traditional filing cabinet or supply caddies.  If you have any questions please feel free to leave a comment.  I’d love to hear from other teachers on what works for them.