Establishing and Communicating Team Expectations (Monday)

Create, teach, and consistently enforce a common code of conduct across teamed classrooms. When students understand that similar expectations, consequences, and rewards exist for all team teachers, behavior improves and a positive learning climate is created. During the initial team meeting, agree on three to five classroom rules, and develop a hierarchy of both consequences and rewards. Prominently post these rules, and teach them to your students. Consistent, fair enforcement of these basic classroom rules by all team teachers is key to effective classroom and team management.

Sharing Team Responsibilities (Tuesday)

Divide labor equally among team members. Successful teams are composed of members who share contributions of time, ideas, and energy and who assume responsibility for team progress. When planning an upcoming activity, brainstorm specific actions that must be taken to ensure the success of the event. Divide duties among team members, and establish a deadline for completing each action. Monitor progress in reaching each goal. Keep notes regarding the action plan to be shared with team members when planning future events.

Participating in Productive Team Meetings (Wednesday)

Maintain focus on agenda items during team meetings. Team meetings must follow a well planned agenda which produces results, or team members will ultimately view them as unnecessary. Gather and study any relevant reports or paperwork prior to meetings. Arrive on time, and be prepared to discuss specific issues. Help create a professional climate by taking notes, being involved in the discussion, and avoiding complaining or gossiping. Volunteer to handle specific action items, and suggest topics for the next meeting’s agenda.

Being Part of a “Dream Team” (Thursday)

Recognize and appreciate the skills, strengths, and viewpoints members bring to the team. Team members with different competencies and approaches can combine resources to reach students with diverse needs and learning styles. Take time during team meetings to learn about the opinions and teaching methodologies employed by other team members. Discuss approaches used by team members that encourage success for specific students. Make notes, and utilize these methods when practical in your classroom.

Mining Team Gold (Friday)

Brainstorm possibilities for providing additional student growth and learning experiences. The team approach provides unlimited opportunities for curriculum integration. Work with team teachers to develop lessons or units that relate across subject areas. Utilize the inherent scheduling flexibility to extend laboratory activities, project presentations, or computer research. Coordinate quiz, test, and major assignment dates across classes to prevent overlap. Have teamed classes meet as a large group for team meetings, speakers, or special events. Teamed class time can also be used to provide occasional rewards for student achievement.