This morning on Twitter I saw a link to the ?Top 50 US School Reform Blogs? which includes Flypaper and many of our favorites (go check it out!). After scanning the top education blog list, if you're feeling up for it ? check out the ?50 Great Feng Shui Tips for Your Classroom? link on the same page.
Peter indicated that he was afraid to click on it (if you love the color red or asymetrical designs, be forewarned ? you may be offended) but the link is legit and the list is quite entertaining. Some tips are pretty common-sense and as a former teacher with some rascally children in my room (easily set off by their environment), I'd agree:
16. Cut back on fluorescent lights. Limit the time students are working in this one light by placing activity or reading centers near the windows with natural light or taking these tasks outside under the trees.
24. Get rid of clutter. This is a crucial element in feng shui, as a clear space promotes a clear mind for students to learn successfully. Organize using plastic boxes and keeping classroom excess to a minimum. If it isn't being used, keep it out of sight to avoid items piling up.
Others are just bizarre or impractical:
30. Bring in crystals. For rooms that are closed off from all natural light, crystals can bring in a natural source of positive energy much like natural sunlight or plants according to feng shui.
20. Avoid red. Red is a color known to drastically increase aggression. Students spend a lot of time in the classroom, so while this may seem like a small thing, in the world of feng shui, it isn't healthy for anyone (including yourself) to be exposed to the intense color for long periods of time on a daily basis.
Still others are sure to offend some teachers' personal decorating style:
19. Avoid asymmetry. Whether it's on a bulletin board or with the desks, everything should be in even proportion with no distracting items hanging out on their own.
28. Don't overdo it with displays. Feng shui wants little to no clutter and that includes the wall. There's no reason to put up every assignment or art students work on. Instead, select areas where work can be hung and keep it in a neat manner to avoid clutter on the walls.
Hm. Maybe I'll go into the business of classroom feng shui consulting. There are crazier coaching services out there.
- Jamie Davies O'Leary
