Teaching and Learning 

Welcome back to Term 2! I do hope you were able to get some rest and enjoy precious time with family and friends. I must admit, I get very excited at the beginning of a term when I see smiling faces, dressed in crisp clean uniforms and ready at the classroom door first thing in the morning. It was wonderful again to experience this feeling this week. As you can imagine Term 2 has some very exciting experiences and learning opportunities ahead. 

This week I wanted to highlight work that teachers and students have been establishing over the past term, and this is their Positive Classroom Agreements. Today, your child will come home with their classes Positive Classroom Agreement, we ask that you please take the time to read the agreement with your child, and to send a signed copy back to your child’s classroom teacher. 

I have included some further information on why we use Positive Classroom Agreements here at Karoo PS. You will also notice on the agreement a diagram of our School Wide Positive Behaviour (SWPBS) Matrix, displaying the Always and Learning Spaces section. (See below). This Matrix incorporates expectations, language and phrases that all students and staff use here are Karoo PS.

Positive Classroom Agreements 

Positive classroom agreements are expectations and norms developed collaboratively with students, focusing on how to communicate and work together effectively in the classroom. They emphasise positive behaviours, actions and outcomes. These agreements establish a foundation for a respectful and productive learning environment. 

Here's a more detailed look at what they are and how they work:

What are Positive Classroom Agreements?

• Collaboratively Developed:

Classroom agreements are created with student input, under the guidance of the teacher, to ensure they are relevant and meaningful. 

• Focus on Positive Actions:

They emphasise desired behaviours and actions. 

• Establish Norms and Expectations:

They define the fundamental norms and routines of the classroom, outlining how students are expected to interact and engage with each other and the teacher. 

• Promote a Positive Learning Environment:

By focusing on positive actions and outcomes, these agreements help create a classroom atmosphere that is respectful, cooperative, and conducive to learning. 

SWPBS Matrix (Always and Learning Spaces)

Enjoy discussing your child’s classroom agreement with them and I look forward to seeing you all around our wonderful school.

Warm regards,

Peta Phillips

Acting Assistant Principal