The Essential . . . 3

Well, I have finished reading "The Essential 55" which chronicles a 5th grade teacher in Harlem's journey to establishing control of his classroom. In the book he outlines all of the rules his kids follow in order to foster learning and fun. Yes, he has created 55 rules by which to run his classroom. Well, in good ole Ron Lewis fashion, I decided to create rules for the community center at which I tutor. So, I got out a piece of paper and created . . . drum role please . . .

The Essential . . . 3

Rule #1 - No hitting, biting, slapping, spitting, kicking, or physical abuse of any kind - to me or any other kid at Sterling.

Rule #2 - Be quiet during homework time. Quiet means no talking, humming, whispering, whistling, gesturing wildy, yelling, screaming, banging your hands on the table, tapping your feet loudly on the floor, complaining verbally about how you hate the quiet rule, moaning, etc.

Rule #3 - Stay seated. When I say "seated" I mean seated on your bottom - not on your feet, or your knees, or your head. That does not mean run around the room, crawl under the table, or roller skate around the stage. It does mean sit with your feet on the floor and your bottom on the chair.

So, according to Ron Lewis' book, after I impliment these magic working rules I should have a perfect class that loves learning, could never bear to interrupt or disobey or bring me any discomfort as a tutor, and will self-run and discipline themselves in a matter of weeks. I'll keep you updated on our progress.

Some of Ron Lewis' "these make sense to me" rules:

Rule #8 - Do not smack your lips, tsk, roll your eyes, or show disrespect with gestures.

Rule #21 - Do not get our of your seat without permission.

Rule #36 - If you approach a door and someone is following you, hold the door.


Some of Ron Lewis' "he's out of his mind and just likes to make rules" rules:

Rule #24 - Flush the toilet and wash your hands after using the rest room. When in a public rest room, get a paper towel before washing your hands. After washing your hands, use the paper towel to turn off the faucets and to press the dispenser tot get another paper towel to dry your hands.

Rule #31 - When we stay in a hotel room, it is appropriate to leave a tip on the pillow for the hotel workers who are responsible for cleaning the room after our stay. Two to three dollers per night is an appropriate amount, depending on the cost of the room.

Rule #41 - When you answer the phone at your house, you must do so in an appropriate manner.

Rule #47 - Do not bring Doritos into the school building.

Does he go home with these kids and make sure they follow HIS rules after they leave his classroom?