Ways I'm Building a Community in my Classroom

One of the most challenging aspects of teaching in an urban high school is building relationships with students and building a positive classroom community among them. My students come to school from all over the area-- from a few blocks away all the way to across Milwaukee. One thing I've been proud of in my first year teaching was that some of my classes became really close knit and even administration noticed how great of an environment it was. Though I don't feel as content with my classroom environments this year, I am going to continue to work to foster positive relationships with my students and among my students.

Below are three ideas I have or have already put into place:

1. I ask students to reflect more than before.
In all the education-related book clubs I've participated in, one common buzzword seems to show up in all of them-- REFLECTION. This is a practice that is beneficial to both teachers and students. Part of being positive members of communities is being in touch with your own strengths and weaknesses, and thus, being a person who is working toward constant improvement. This helps build the important character trait of empathy, which many teenagers (and adults!) lack. I hope by giving my students opportunities to reflect on their behavior, performance, and interests, I will help strengthen empathy in them. I can't speak to my success so far, since I don't have any measurable results, but so far I'm feeling encouraged!
To learn a little more about Empathy vs. Sympathy, check out this video on Youtube.

2. I have students work in groups and partners
One good way to get to know someone is to work with them. When working on projects in my U.S. History class, I have students work with partners, sometimes of their choice, sometimes assigned. I do this so that students don't just work with the same person all the time, and so that shy students can make some connections with other classmates without as much anxiety. Collaboration helps students get to know each other, and hopefully build community.

3. Community Building/Restorative Classroom Circles
I have not implemented these into my classroom yet, but I've been part of them several times both at the administrative and building levels in my district. At first I was skeptical about how they may be able to help build community, but in the circles that I've joined, I really do think I've been able to better get to know my co-workers, and vice versa. From answering "harmless" questions about favorite meals, stores, etc. and working up to more personal questions, I believe that using these will be a powerful tool to create and grow bonds between the individuals in my classroom.
If you are curious about Restorative Classroom Circles, I highly recommend this website.