October Planning Mat Printable and Back to School Snapshots from my Classroom

My desk seems just a little neater since I started creating these desktop planning mats a few weeks ago.  Seeing all the fall-themed decor out and about has inspired me to make October's printable and post for you all to download and use!  (You can download it by clicking the photo.)

And now for some quick snapshots from my classroom...

I've been meaning to post some back to school classroom photos, but September has been insane.  Better late than never!

I use homework record sheets with my students, which are stored by last name in these three binders.  I learned last year that one binder caused an issue on days when multiple students forgot their work.  Hoping this works out better!

Returning papers to over 125 kids can seem impossible when you need every moment of class to teach!  I use these folders and assign students to check them daily and pass out any papers inside before the bell rings.  

I saw post-it exit ticket boards all over Pinterest this summer and decided to use the chalkboard near my classroom door to create my own.  I used BRIGHT STICKS (see below) to create squares where students can place their post it as they leave the room.  These markers are great because they don't wipe off the board unless you use water.  I bought this pack in 2001...no seriously I DID... and I still use them every year to add pizzaz to my chalkboard.  

Thanks to a Vista Print Groupon offer that was too good to pass up, I have new car magnet learning goal and homework board signs!

Here are some science root word posters that you can find in my TpT store.   They make a nice "all year long" display.  

Our first unit is Ecology, so here are the dragonfly friends that I created to add a little color to my walls..  

I hope your school year is off to a great start.  Thanks for stopping by my blog and remember to follow to get updates!

Happy Teaching