Creating a well-structured classroom environment is essential for effective teaching and learning. Implementing clear procedures and routines helps to establish a positive and organized atmosphere that maximizes instructional time and minimizes disruptions. Here are 12 must-teach classroom procedures and routines to consider:

1. Arrival and Dismissal Procedures: Establish consistent procedures for students entering and exiting the classroom, including how they should gather their materials and begin or end their day.

2. Attendance Procedures: Clearly communicate the expectations and consequences for attendance, including how students should report their presence or absence.

3. Bathroom and Water Break Procedures: Set guidelines for when and how students can use the bathroom or get a drink of water, ensuring minimal disruptions to instruction.

4. Classroom Materials Procedures: Teach students how to properly handle, store, and return classroom materials, promoting responsibility and organization.

5. Classroom Library Procedures: Explain how students should check out and return books, as well as how to care for and respect the classroom library.

6. Technology Procedures: Establish rules and expectations for using technology in the classroom, including internet safety and appropriate online behavior.

7. Transitions Procedures: Teach students how to smoothly transition between activities or subjects, minimizing wasted time and distractions.

8. Classroom Discussions Procedures: Set guidelines for whole-class and small-group discussions, including turn-taking, active listening, and respectful communication.

9. Group Work Procedures: Guide students on how to work effectively in groups, including assigning roles, sharing responsibilities, and resolving conflicts.

10. Classroom Behavior Expectations: Clearly define the expected behavior in the classroom and the consequences for misbehavior, promoting a positive and respectful learning environment.

11. Emergency Procedures: Drill students on emergency protocols, such as fire drills, lockdowns, and tornado drills, ensuring their safety and preparedness.

12. Homework and Assignment Procedures: Explain how students should record and complete homework assignments, as well as how to seek clarification or submit work.

These 12 must-teach classroom procedures and routines lay the foundation for an organized and efficient learning environment. By consistently reinforcing and practicing these procedures, you can enhance classroom management, engagement, and student achievement.