My "Student Toolbox"

One of my first "tough lessons" as a middle school teacher was that anything.... I repeat ANYTHING is fair game for the taking in your classroom.  Even if you have your name printed on a tape dispenser in gold leaf... that doesn't mean it won't be taken or wrecked.  Pencils?  Gone.  Pens?  Gone even faster.  Pencil sharpener?  Probably ruined in a few days.

Okay, maybe that is a little harsh.  But honestly, I was shocked within my first week how my supplies were used, abused, and taken in my room.  Within two days the fresh pack of 24 pens I put out for *borrowing* in the *extreme case* that a student forgot to bring something to write with was GONE.  It was horrifying.  Not only because my students didn't recognize or respect that they were not theirs for the taking, but because I quickly saw dollar signs flashing before my eyes thinking about how many pens/pencils I would have to buy to replenish (and how often) if this was how quickly they would be used.

I quickly sought out advice from veteran middle school teachers to see what they did about this issue.  Almost all of them told me that I shouldn't lend out pencils or pens at all because they won't be returned.  I think they were subliminally telling me to not trust anyone, as if my life depended on it  However, when kiddos show up with nothing to write with for the entire 85 minutes that I have them, what am I supposed to do?  I tell them to ask a friend, but typically there are no extras laying around because for some odd reason my middle schoolers don't see the importance of bringing more than one pen/pencil (if they bring on at all).  Making them sit through an entire block without something to write with (thus not participating in the activity, project, or assignment we are doing) doesn't seem productive or motherly... since I feel like mothering is a part of my job as well.

After much debate, I came up with a plan that I implemented within my second week on the job.  

I present, my "Student Toolbox".......!

I bought the tote at the dollar store.  I created the label that says "Please feel free to BORROW supplies from the toolbox.  All items must be returned after use.  Thanks!"  I explained to my students that these were my supplies that I am giving them the privilege to use, and in order to keep that privilege they need to respect my belongings.  I compared the use of this toolbox to them having a friend over in their own bedroom at home.  Of course their friend will use their things (bed, toys, video games, music, etc).  To hit it home further, I asked my kiddos what types of things they would expect their friend to do (return things, treat them nicely, respect them, etc).  Set it up very nicely.

Here's what I put inside the all-magical "Student Toolbox".......

Pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners, stapler, tape, scissors, hand sanitizer, and a ruler.  Eventually, I put funky colored duct tape on each pencil and pen so I would KNOW when a kiddo was using one and they would feel further inclined to return them.  Also, it would hopefully decrease the crime rate going on my classroom.  Basically everything students would need for the usual class.  Extra supplies like coloring supplies and what not are kept safely tucked behind my desk.

I also implemented one more expectation with the supplies.  If students borrowed a pencil or pen, they had to, in return, leave me something of value such as a dollar, phone, school ID, shoe, or MP3 player.  Something I was sure that students wouldn't leave the room without.  I added a red basket next to the toolbox called the "Swap Box" (sorry, I forgot to take a photo!) where they can put the item they are exchanging with me for a pen/pencil.

Both the toolbox and lending system started out beautifully.  Of course, some of them slip through my fingers and I've lost a few pens and pencils, but most have stuck around.  Most of the supplies have remained in tact, with only a few minor injuries.

Although I haven't been able to ingrain the importance of being prepared for class to all of my students, I have hopefully taught them something about respecting property and returning what you borrow.  Maybe.

For now, I'll stick with my magical blue toolbox.

:)  Emily