Name Tags
I don’t know about you, but I dread my students wearing name tags. It’s kind of like the way I hate vegetables because I was forced to eat them. I’m sure I would like name tags had I not been forced to make the children wear them each day, and if lost recreate a new one…every day. It’s tiresome and not really helping me become a more effective teacher. Supposedly, the Safe School audit requires all staff and students to wear a name tag while in the building. I guess to ensure no maniacs are running around the building that don’t belong there. However, if the school is going to require such a thing, I think they should provide them. In fact, making the parents liable may help the name tag durability problem. I have yet to find a name tag that withstands the test of time, or really…a week. If students must wear them for 6 hours while they are at school (including PE and recess activities), there is going to be some serious wear and tear. Maybe we should start tattooing student ID numbers onto students foreheads (I’m kidding!!). But really, what’s the alternative?
This summer I am focusing on starting next year off a productive foot. I want to do things even better. Name tags are just killing me and I was hoping someone out there had a solution that I could begin preparing now.
HELP ME OUT!! 🙂
[Update! My dilemma has been fixed! The school now provides name tags for students that include a scanable barcode for checking out books in the library and paying for lunch. How cool? I now only have to make a tape name tag for the first week of school while the name tags are being created. If a student loses it, parents are informed and must pay to have one remade. The period between letting the office know a new name tag is needed and when it officially arrives can be a bit annoying with remaking them daily, but it is nothing like it used to be. THANK GOODNESS!!]
What is your solution to name tags? Does the school help you in this matter?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.