ALIST Spotlight: Rachel Hatton- Normandy Elementary, Centerville

Have you ever walked into a classroom and had an immediate sense of calm? That's how we feel when we visit Rachel Hatton's wonderful classroom at Normandy Elementary in Centerville City Schools. Rachel's room is a great model for other teachers which is why we wanted to feature her on today's ALIST Spotlight.

Having a calm classroom first starts with setting the tone through environmental supports. Rachel uses natural or dimmed lighting which helps her students who are sensitive to the overhead florescent lights.

She also provides a cozy break area for students where they can go for sensory breaks or free time. 

Organization also plays a big part in keeping the classroom calm. Having materials organized and quickly accessible keeps the momentum going while having predictable, consistent routines helps students know what is expected. These consistent routines and schedules also help her staff know exactly what to expect. We have been able to visit Rachel's room even when she is away and everything skill runs smoothly. That is a true testament to a great organizational system!

We love these waiting chairs which are a great routine for transitions. Students can sit in their designated chair and play with the fidgets underneath while waiting for staff.

Rachel is also a great ALIST role model for other teachers because she focuses on skills beyond academics and addresses students social and social-emotional needs through naturally embedding time to focus on these skills into her every day routine.

 

A BIG thank you to Rachel for welcoming us into her classroom and having such great examples of evidence based practices and great systems for us to share with other educators!