For my classroom I will want round tables instead of individual desks to optimize on space and to have the student naturally in groups. This allows for easy student collaboration. This also makes it very accessible for me to check in with each group. Ideally, there would be four students to a round table.
I want my desk to be in the back of the classroom. This allows me to talk to students privately without distracting others. Also, this gives me the opportunity to watch over all five tables from the back of the room.
The door must be an easy and accessible area for emergency purposes and for students to walk into an open area. This immediately will alleviate stress and will give the students the ability to move around. Next to the door will be the students cubbies for them to easily be able to unpack and move to their assigned seats gracefully.
I want my square rug out of immediate sight from the students to decrease potential distractions since this is where the calendar will be located along with our "family tree". I want plenty of space around the square rug for students to be able to move freely at particular times.
I also have a spare round table located in the back of the classroom. This table can be used for many purposes such as; parent- teacher conferences, student- teacher volunteer conferences, volunteer work area and an area for students to go when having challenges paying attention.
A classroom library would be located in the back of the room with books that are appropriate for all reading levels.