Want to start the year strong? The key is creating a positive classroom climate that helps your middle schoolers thrive. The key isn’t a fancy new behavior system or reward chart—it’s creating a positive classroom climate from day one.

In this episode of Two Middle School ELA Teachers, Shanon and I dive into one of our favorite topics: how to build a classroom climate your students will love walking into—and one you’ll love teaching in.🎧 Listen now to hear our top tips—Download this episode.

he idea for this episode started when I saw a heartwarming post from TikTok teacher Misty Brock. Her birthday idea? Simple but powerful:

• Post a blank calendar

• Let students add their birthdays

• Celebrate monthly with cupcakes and candles

It’s a small gesture that says, “You matter here.” We loved it so much, it inspired an entire episode on creating a classroom climate that celebrates, supports, and empowers students.

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🎉 The Birthday Wall With a Twist

Here’s another spin on building community: the Birthday Wall With a Twist.

At the start of the year, have students decorate a notecard with:

• Their name and birthday

• One unusual fact about themselves

These cards serve as conversation starters all year! For birthdays, you can say:

“Happy Birthday to Jackson—our reptile expert who has three snakes at home!”

Turn it into trivia later:

“Who’s been to three countries?”
“Whose fun fact was meeting a celebrity?”

It’s connection without the overwhelm.

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🧡 The “School Mom” Philosophy

Classroom climate starts with how you show up. I’m not my students’ friend, but I’m not their enemy either—I’m their school mom.

That means:

• High expectations + high empathy

• Not sweating the small stuff

• Showing warmth, not weakness

• Holding the line with love

Students respect you more when they trust you’re in their corner.

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🛠 Why Creating a Positive Classroom Climate Is the Key to a Great Year

You don’t need fancy systems. Start with these:

1. Greet Them at the Door
   A smile and a “Hey, how was the game?” go a long way.

2. Anchor with a Routine
   A predictable warm-up like our Core Chomp gives students comfort and direction.

3. Use Inside Jokes & Shared Language
   Create phrases and chants that feel uniquely your classroom.

4. Give Personalized Praise
   Celebrate the quiet wins. Sticky notes, whispers, shoutouts—small touches that build belonging.

5. Acknowledge Their World
   Know their snack, show, or sport. It makes them feel seen.

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🧠 Mindset Shifts That Change Everything

• Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer: Set the tone instead of reacting to chaos.

• Don’t Take It Personally: Middle school moods aren’t about you.

• Build Culture, Not Control: Focus on creating a space they want to behave in—not one they fear.

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📣 Freebie + Giveaway

💬 Mentioned in this episode:

• TikTok Teacher: Misty Brock, and us ~ ELA Core Plans!

• Freebie + Giveaway: bit.ly/ELAFreeWeek

• Discount Code: ELAInsiders (good through Sept 8)

Download this episode.