Classroom Mgmt. Changes

Like a lot of people, there are so many things that I wish I could change from how I started the year with my classroom management. I was extremely timid at first to lay down the law and be consistent, and it has cost me in the long run. I've fought hard to get my classroom management at a pretty high functioning level. I think the students know how much I like them though, and sometimes they definitely use that against me. I wish I would've just started the year as a strict, zero-tolerance teacher who will call your mom at the drop of a hat. You know that as soon as you step into Coach Taylor's classroom, "he don't play". Like I said earlier though, I've had a string of good behavior days; however, I still have a few bad days thrown in every now and then, and I firmly believe, that is because they know my weaknesses. It is just so hard sometimes to remain consistent in your discipline. I've been the type of teacher that if we have a string of good days, I'll be a little more leniant as to how I crack down on misbehavior. I forget that I still must be consistent on assigning a consequence with each misbehavior. That is the biggest thing that I wish I would do a better job of. I also need to stay in better contact with the parents of my students. It's so uncomfortable at times, but I think it works in the long run. So in conclusion, I still think I'm doing pretty well with my management, but I think you definitely have an advantage in how aggressive you are at the start of the year and what kind of tone you set for your classroom.