Hopes and Dreams

I used to start off the school year explaining my rules to the class.  But for the past two years, I've tried something different.  Instead of charging ahead with rules, I ask students to think about their hopes and dreams for the school year.  What do they want to accomplish this year?  It has to be a goal that is realistic, achievable, and school related.  Our kids brainstormed LOTS of dreams, and then each one selected one important goal.  We then studied these goals and asked ourselves, "What rules do we need to have in order to help us reach our dreams?"  This brought about a great discussion about the rules we want for our room - not rules for rules' sake - but rules that help us achieve our goals.  I think there's a big difference there.  Below you'll find each student's hope or dream.  We have big goals for this year!