B.E.E. Binder and Homework Policy
Organization can be quite a difficult task for people of all ages. I believe it's important for children to try and keep as organized as they possibly can in order to build good habits. That is why I truly think using a B.E.E. binder is the way to go to transport things to and from school! B.E.E Binders - which stands for "Bring Everything Everyday" - are made up of specific folders and pouches that contain everything from money to library books. While I have seen several different types of B.E.E. Binders, the following pictures and explanations detail the B.E.E. Binder I have developed.
B.E.E. Binder, Communication, and Homework
B.E.E. Binder, Communication, and Homework
Binder
It's purely coincidence that the Bee class will use a organizational tool called a 'B.E.E.' Binder! The binder itself is a 1-inch binder with a clear pocket on the front, as well as pockets on the inside of the binder as well.
Money Pouch
The first item inside of the B.E.E. Binder is a 'Money Pouch'. The pouch is simply a Ziplock bag that is reinforced on all sides with packing tape. The reinforcement allows the bag to be three-hole punched without the worry that it will tear apart. The money pouch is a convenient way for students to carry cash, coins, and checks to and from school. As an extra precaution, I would still ask that parents put money in labeled envelopes so that the cash can go straight into the appropriate 'notes tub' that's in the classroom.
Contacts Page
Behind the 'Money Pouch' is the 'Important Contacts' page. The contacts page is enclosed in a clear protective sheet and includes various phone numbers and email addresses of important school personal. This page is just another convenient tool to ensure quicker communication for parents.
Homework Folder
After the 'Contacts' page is the all-important 'Homework Folder'. Homework is returned in the right pocket of the folder (labeled "RIGHT Back to School.") Checked and recorded homework is returned on the left pocket of the folder (labeled "LEFT at Home.") The mnemonic and pictures on the bottom of the folder is another way to help keep students, parents, and the teacher organized!
Parent Communication Folder
The 'Parent Communication Folder' is another means of keeping parents "in the know". Notes include things like permission slips, conference requests, and general questions and concerns. An additional component to older students' folders is the Agenda Sheet. Older students will record their schedule for the day on the 'Agenda Sheet' that is included in the folder. The 'Agenda Sheet' is signed by a parent and is counted as a part of a student's homework grade. More importantly, it serves as a conversation between students and parents to prevent the default "I don't know" response to the "What did you do in school today" question!
Book Pouch
The 'Book Pouch' is the last component of the 'B.E.E. Binder'. It is similar to the 'Money Pouch' in that it is 3-hole punched and reinforced with packing tape. The only difference is the size of the bag - 'gallon' instead of 'storage' - in order to accommodate different book sizes. The 'Book Pouch' provides a more secure way to transport leveled books to and from school.