As I was sitting in my barber’s chair today, I couldn’t help but wonder what it’d be like for my students to feel as calm as I did in the chair as they did in the classroom. I went in for a specific haircut, and left with that haircut. I knew that he was going to start by trimming my sides, and that he was going to end it all with a hot towel on my face. He’s predictable and consistent. He doesn’t throw me off by doing things out of order.
How powerful would it be for our students to feel the same way about their classes? Students and families want to feel safe and want to know what to expect every single day. Teachers and administrators have the power to do just that with their students. If they’re predictable and consistent, our students will feel comfortable and safe.
The primary vehicle by which we can do that is consistent routines and procedures. There should be consistent entrance and exit procedures for each class. Students shouldn’t have to wonder what to do if they don’t have a pen or pencil. Students should know what the protocols are for them to get their lunch when they’re in the cafeteria and what they need to do if they want to go to the restroom. In order to be consistent with routines and procedures, they need to be thought through and planned in advance. This way, you’ll be able to follow through with them with fidelity. The work you do on the front end will make it easier for kids to go through about their day. They won’t have to worry about any surprises, because they know what’s coming and they know they can count on this routine.
I love the feeling when I leave my barbershop knowing that my hair looks exactly how I wanted it to look. I love the fact that I don’t have to worry about anything when I’m in that chair, because I know what my barber is going to do. Those are the feelings that I want our students to have as they walk through the halls and work in our classrooms. I want them to be able to trust in us that we are looking out for them and are doing our best to support them. That just doesn’t come out of thin air, as it has to be built through predictability and consistency.
If you want a great cut, check out Gabe at Crist-D Barbershop (8901 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77063).
