Classroom Decor and Organization: Decorating Ideas and Tips

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Designing a classroom layout that supports student-centered learning is not just about arranging furniture or decorating walls—it’s about creating a space where students feel empowered, engaged, and inspired. Well-implemented classroom decor and organization can make a significant difference in how students interact with the material, collaborate with peers, and take ownership of their learning. Let’s explore some additional strategies and ideas to help you create a well-organized classroom that fosters both creativity and efficiency.

Maximizing Wall Space for Learning

One of the most underutilized areas in many classrooms is the wall space. Walls can serve as more than just a backdrop; they can be a dynamic part of the learning environment. Use command strips to hang math posters, alphabet posters, and visual timetables without damaging the walls. These visuals not only reinforce learning but also make the classroom feel more inviting. For example, a small bulletin board at the back of my room displays student work, giving learners a sense of pride and accomplishment. You can also dedicate a section of the wall to a pocket chart for classroom jobs or a daily schedule, helping students stay organized and on track throughout the school day.

In addition to posters and charts, consider using your wall space to create interactive learning zones. For instance, a whiteboard can serve as a hub for group brainstorming sessions or problem-solving activities. You can also use number posters or days of the week displays to reinforce key concepts in a visually appealing way. If you’re teaching kindergarten or second grade, these visuals can be especially helpful for young learners who benefit from repetition and visual cues.

Organizing Supplies for Easy Access

A well-organized classroom starts with having a place for everything. Use file folders, binder covers, and folder holders to keep papers and materials neatly sorted. For art supplies, consider using clear bins or tidy tubs so students can easily see what’s inside. A file cabinet or milk crate can store extra supplies like notebooks, pencils, and glue sticks. If you’re working with a tight budget, dollar tree finds like plastic bins or baskets can be a great way to keep things tidy without breaking the bank. Assigning classroom jobs, such as “supply manager,” can also help maintain order and give students a sense of responsibility.

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One of my favorite tips for staying organized is to use hot glue to attach labels to bins and containers. This ensures that labels stay in place and are easy to read. You can also create a specific place for everything, from school supplies to digital files, to minimize classroom clutter. For example, designate a shelf for book bins and another for art supplies, making it easy for students to find what they need without wasting time.

Building a Classroom Library That Inspires

A classroom library is a cornerstone of any student-centered learning environment. Organize your bookshelves with book bins labeled by genre, reading level, or theme. This makes it easy for students to find books that interest them and encourages independent reading. If you have a lot of books, consider rotating them throughout the year to keep the selection fresh and exciting.

Adding cozy seating options, like bean bags or floor cushions, can transform your library area into a favorite spot for students to relax and read. Don’t forget to include student recommendations or a “book of the week” display to spark interest.

To make your classroom library even more engaging, consider incorporating student names into the design. For example, you could create a “reading wall” where students can add their names to a chart after finishing a book. This not only encourages reading but also fosters a sense of community and accomplishment. If you’re short on space, a small bulletin board can serve as a mini-library display, showcasing new arrivals or student favorites.

Incorporating Flexible Seating Options

Flexible seating is a great idea for promoting movement and comfort in the classroom. Instead of traditional desks, consider incorporating options like yoga balls, standing desks, or even floor seating with pillows. This allows students to choose where and how they work best, which can lead to increased focus and engagement. For example, some students may prefer sitting at a desk for independent work, while others might thrive while standing or lounging on the floor. If you’re worried about classroom clutter, use organization hacks like labeling seating areas or creating a sign-up system for popular spots.

One of the benefits of flexible seating is that it encourages movement throughout the school day. Research shows that students who are allowed to move around and change positions are more likely to stay engaged and retain information. To make the most of this approach, consider arranging your classroom space into zones. For example, you could have a quiet reading area with bookshelves and floor cushions, a collaborative zone with table groups, and a standing area with high tables or counters. This allows students to choose the environment that works best for them, whether they’re working independently or in groups.

Have a little room in your budget?
Check out the amazing, collaborative classroom furniture from Smith System

The Research Behind Classroom Seating

Believe it or not, a lot of extensive research has been done over the past several decades to determine if the layout of a classroom and good classroom themes truly make a difference in student learning. From creating a calming effect to adapting a color scheme with a fun classroom theme, there’s no wrong way to do this…it just needs to fit in with today’s Generation Z and Generation Alpha students.

A lot has to do with the classroom space itself. When the concept of the traditional classroom was created, with rows of seating where everything was done as if in an assembly line, we were an industrial society, preparing our students for the assembly line.

We aren’t doing that anymore. We are doing our students such a disservice if we do. Remember, the world that awaits them is not the same world that awaited us, so the best ways to function in the classroom for them are drastically different.

In 2011, Amanda Careena Fernandes, M.ed., Jinyan Huang, Ph.D., and Vince Rinaldo, Ph.D. of Niagra University studied seating arrangements and their effect on student achievement. You can read the results of the study here. After their study they concluded:

“The classroom environment is a very diverse and highly dynamic setting. Teacher perceptions about students are often influenced by the conditions which are presented to them. One of the most obvious and constant factors is that of seating location. In turn, students’ seating locations are greatly affected by the seating arrangements provided to them.”

Fernandes, A. C., Huang, J., & Rinaldo, V. (2011). Does where a student sits really matter? The impact of seating locations on student classroom learning. International Journal of Applied Educational Studies, 10(1), 66-77.

They legitimately proved that student achievement is directly affected by an efficient, well-thought-out classroom layout, classroom organization, and creative ideas to execute classroom rules.

Even more recently in 2016, Mariola C. Gremmen, Yvonne H. M. van den Berg, Eliane Segers, and Antonius H. N. Cillessen completed a study titled, “Considerations for classroom seating arrangements and the role of teacher characteristics and beliefs“.

This article focused heavily on classroom management and the effect a seating arrangement has on student achievement and students’ attention.

This article is amazing because it takes into account all the different factors and variables in play for our classrooms on a daily basis…factors that weren’t issues when our predecessors were in the classroom.

They compiled all the data they found with these factors in mind and concluded that:

“Using more well-considered seating arrangements can improve students’ behavior and learning. It can thus be concluded that teachers need to become more conscious about seating arrangements as an important part of classroom management. Teachers need to be informed about the possible preventive and intervening effects of a seating arrangement on students’ academic and social behaviors. It can be a helpful tool for teachers, who have the difficult task to place all students in the classroom. In addition, it can help teachers in achieving the goals they have to achieve within their education nowadays.”

Gremmen, M. C., van den Berg, Y. H., Segers, E., & Cillessen, A. H. (2016). Considerations for classroom seating arrangements and the role of teacher characteristics and beliefs. Social Psychology of Education, 19(4), 749-774.

Educational researchers are now taking note of what classroom teachers are saying (often exasperated) about the needs of our classrooms and what we have to work with. It doesn’t take much to find a blog post or podcast (or even just a conversation) to know the struggles.

And they’re agreeing with us through research and careful observation.

Using Technology to Enhance Learning

Technology can be a powerful tool in a student-centered classroom. Incorporate online games and interactive tools to make learning more engaging. For example, platforms like Edpuzzle allow students to learn at their own pace while providing teachers with valuable data on their progress. If you’re teaching a subject area like math or science, consider using digital resources to supplement your lessons. A whiteboard can also serve as a hub for interactive activities, whether it’s solving problems as a group or brainstorming ideas for a project.

One of the best ways to integrate technology is by flipping your classroom. In a flipped classroom, students learn foundational content at home through videos or readings and use class time for hands-on activities and discussions. This approach not only saves time but also allows you to focus on deeper learning and critical thinking. For example, students could watch a video about Renaissance architecture at home and then use class time to build models with toothpicks and Play-Doh. This not only reinforces the material but also allows students to apply what they’ve learned in a creative way.

Creating a Sense of Ownership

One of the best ways to foster student engagement is by giving students a sense of ownership over their learning space. Display student names on a small bulletin board or whiteboard to celebrate their achievements and contributions. Encourage students to personalize their own space, whether it’s a desk, cubby, or locker. This not only makes the classroom feel more welcoming but also helps students feel valued and respected. Assigning classroom jobs, such as “library helper” or “tech assistant,” can further reinforce this sense of responsibility.

Another great idea is to involve students in the design and organization of the classroom. For example, you could have a class discussion about how to arrange the furniture or what kind of decorations to include. This not only gives students a voice but also helps them feel more invested in the space. You could even create a “classroom design committee” that meets regularly to discuss ideas and make decisions. This is a great way to build community and encourage collaboration.

Designing Your Classroom Layout

As fantastic as it would be to have some type of formula to know exactly what your individual classroom needs, it’s just not plausible.

Every single class that walks into our rooms is unique. You know how different the dynamic of students can be from one class to the next. Our rooms, classroom decoration ideas, and even our bulletin board borders need to reflect that.

On that note, here are some ideas to keep in mind:

1. Students need to move. There is so much research about why our students today need more movement in the classroom than generations before them (and it’s a bit alarming, to be honest). We need to make sure we consider that when coming up with a classroom design (and yes, that includes every grade level).
2. No two students learn the same way. Think of yourself. You may work well sitting at a desk…or you may work better sitting on your couch. Our students are no different. Consider looking into some inexpensive flexible seating options to help facilitate this (ad) when designing your classroom decor theme.
3. You may not get it quite right the first time…and that’s okay! I can’t tell you how many times I think I’ve gotten my classroom layout perfect for the first day of school, and then I realize that it’s just not quite right for my students. Tweak as you go!

Preparing for the New School Year

The beginning of the year is the perfect time to set up your classroom for success. Start by decluttering and organizing your classroom space. Use file holders and big binders to keep important documents and lesson plans in order. If you’re working with a messy desk, take the time to clear it off and create a system for staying organized. Consider using a sub tub to store emergency lesson plans and materials, ensuring that your classroom runs smoothly even when you’re not there. Finally, don’t forget to add some personal touches, like a cute idea for a welcome sign or a decor bundle that ties the room together.

One of the best ways to start the new school year is by creating a great start routine. This could include a morning meeting where students share their goals for the day or a quick activity to get everyone energized and focused. You could also use the beginning of the year to introduce classroom jobs and establish routines for things like turning in homework or organizing supplies. By setting clear expectations and routines early on, you can create a smooth and productive learning environment.

Additional Tips for Classroom Decor and Organization

• Use number posters, days of the week displays, and student names to create a welcoming environment.
• A decor bundle can save you time and money while adding a cohesive look to your space.
• Organize your bookshelves with book bins labeled by genre or reading level. This makes it easy for students to find books they love.
• Use tidy tubs or a file box to store headphones and prevent tangles.
• Keep art supplies in a designated area with easy access.
• Use hot glue to create DIY storage solutions.
• Keep your teacher desk clutter-free with file holders and a big binder for important documents.
• Start the new school year with a great start by organizing your classroom space and setting up visual timetables. Use dollar tree items like milk crates and pocket charts for affordable storage solutions.
• Display student names on a small bulletin board or whiteboard to foster a sense of belonging.
• Minimize classroom clutter by assigning a specific place for everything, from school supplies to extra supplies.
• My favorite tip is to use command strips to hang decorations without damaging walls.

By implementing these ideas, you can create a well-organized classroom that supports student-centered learning and makes the school day more enjoyable for everyone.

Actual Classroom Examples and Classroom Theme Ideas

Designing a student-centered classroom is a rewarding process that can have a profound impact on your students’ learning experience. By incorporating flexible seating, organizational systems, and engaging decor, you can create a space that fosters creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Remember, the goal is to move away from the industrial model of education and embrace a dynamic, student-focused approach.

Whether you’re teaching kindergarten or second grade, these strategies can help you create a well-organized classroom that inspires learning and makes the school day more enjoyable for everyone.

A few summers back, we showcased various teacher classrooms from all over the world. Each of them was unique in their own way, and yet all encompassed the same ideas behind doing what is best for their students. Below are each classroom and the rationale of each teacher behind why they chose to customize their classroom layout as they did.

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Amy Skillicorn: Latin Classroom Transformation

Amy Skillicorn is no stranger when it comes to a good classroom transformation. As a matter of fact, on her website amyskillicorn.com, she has an entire section devoted to the topic and what she’s done in her classroom! Make sure you check it out here.

Describe your classroom setup and classroom theme ideas:

When I prepare a classroom transformation, my favorite desk setup is with 2-3 desks lined up together pushed against the wall. This way, the students can work effectively in groups without becoming distracted. 

Why did you choose this particular classroom setup?

I did not like what I had originally planned for my January Pirates Classroom Transformation, and so I asked a colleague his thoughts. He shared that during History DBQ Labs, he sets up his desks in this way, and so I tried it out. It was a complete success! I love that it creates so much free space!

What is your favorite part of your design?

The atmosphere of the room is everything. When you walk into one of these setups, there is peace afforded by the empty space and group workstations. While the students know they are about to use their brains and everything they have ever learned in my class for 50 minutes straight, the setup makes them excited to do it!

Did anything surprise you about how your students reacted to your classroom setup (behavior, enjoyment, etc.)?

Classroom transformations are the most joyful days for both my students and for me as a teacher. I try to complete a new classroom transformation every month, and I always include several WOW factors. Latin can be so tedious as a subject; I love creating experiential learning whenever possible! I think what students love most about this particular design (What I call “grammar labs”, in which the desks are in lines 2-3 desks wide against the wall) is that there is a balance of excitement and productivity.

In an everyday classroom, it’s hard to get students excited without them becoming distracted and it’s hard to get them productive in a way that makes them excited. What this classroom transformation setup allows is students to experience a new atmosphere that has a built-in wow factor (the decorations and prizes) while they are working productively with their peers. 

What is the biggest piece of design advice you can provide for someone who is just starting to think “outside of the box” in terms of classroom design and classroom theme ideas?

My biggest advice is to watch what other out-of-the-box teachers are doing. I watched 12 other teachers this year, in classrooms for students aged 5-15, and I walked out of every observation with new ideas!

For more inspiration, make sure you check out Amy’s Classroom Transformation Photo Gallery

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Katie Fields

Describe your classroom setup and classroom theme ideas:

We are a 100% flexible seating classroom. Collaboration and movement are the foundation of our learning space for both teachers and students. Utilizing tables instead of traditional desks allowed for student interaction and discussion.

All unused materials were removed from the classroom so that we were able to have as much space as possible for learning. If we needed to drag out math manipulatives to work through problems, we did it. If we needed indoor yoga for PE, we did it. When we needed to get into book clubs, we spread out through the room.

Most of our tables were dry-erase top so students had the opportunity to work through their thinking right in front of them. Placing the tables around the edge of the room gave us an open space in the middle for small group work, floor seating when students felt comfortable, and a spot for class meetings where all students could sit and see each other.

Why did you choose this particular classroom setup?

I believe that flexible seating leads to increased student work, engagement, and success. Flexible seating options allow students to make choices in the classroom to decide what type of learning environment fits them best.

Having a variety of seating options involves them in the classroom decision-making process, fostering skills of independence, and good choices regarding learning. They will feel safe to take risks and improve their skills in all subject areas, both academically and socially.

What is your favorite part of your design?

My favorite part of our classroom design is the open and uncluttered space created by the tables. I never imagined that removing the desks would free up so much space.

Did anything surprise you about how your students reacted to your classroom setup (behavior, enjoyment, etc.)?

My students loved to come to class. As the days went by they truly saw our classroom as their own. Room 216 became more than a classroom, it became a home. Somewhere that risks were taken, encouragement flourished and students shined.

What is the biggest piece of design advice you can provide for someone who is just starting to think “outside of the box” in terms of classroom design and classroom theme ideas?

Make your classroom about your students. Give them a place to identify with, to feel comfortable in, and feel that they have a voice. Try new things and know that they may work and they may not. The risk is worth taking for your students.

Katie Fields is a 5th-grade self-contained teacher in California. You can follow her on Instagram @lilbug13.

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Jeysel Vento

Describe your classroom setup and classroom theme ideas:

In design, it is a modern farmhouse feel. There are desks that are grouped together to make the appearance of tables and gives the ability for each pod to collaborate. We can quickly move the desks around if the activity warrants it and it creates a flexible feel.

There are also elements of flexible seating in various places within the room.

Why did you choose this particular classroom setup?

I wanted my classroom to feel like home. The decor naturally gives a home-like atmosphere and the way the students are located creates a sense of community within the classroom.

What is your favorite part of your design?

My reading nook. It was such an easy idea to come up with but is definitely outside-of-the-box when it comes to classroom decor. It helps add to the ambiance of the home-like feel that I go for within my room.

Did anything surprise you about how your students reacted to your classroom setup (behavior, enjoyment, etc.)?

My students couldn’t believe there was a ”bunk bed” in our classroom. They work extremely hard to earn a turn to visit the book nook. This helps so much with classroom management, student participation, and work ethic within the room.

What is the biggest piece of design advice you can provide for someone who is just starting to think “outside of the box” in terms of classroom design and classroom theme ideas?

Think big! Creativity has no limits. You’ll be surprised what you can create from nothing. Also, it takes time to build your dream classroom. You’ll collect things throughout the year.

Also, the Facebook marketplace and offer-up are GREAT tools to find things for your classrooms. Many sellers are extra kind to teachers, after explaining what I’d be using the items for they’ll often lower the cost.

Jeysel Vento is a 3rd-grade ELA teacher in Florida. You can follow her on Instagram @teach_and_uplift.

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Jaclyn Hariri

Describe your classroom setup and classroom theme ideas:

My classroom set-up is unique in the sense of my room’s layout. The room used to be the old computer lab back in the day. Next, it was split into two rooms and finally, it was turned into one room when it was given to me. I coach speech and debate so the large room has been helpful for my performers.

It’s longer than it is wide so I can only set up the desks a number of ways, but the extra space has been great for collaboration, movement, and creativity. The student’s desk is set up into groups of four and is closer to the front of the room. My back area is open with a couch area and additional space for working on projects.

Why did you choose this particular classroom setup?

I love it when students are able to work in groups. Collaboration is a huge component of my lessons and student class time. Groups also work best for the layout of the room. it allows me to move freely throughout the classroom when I’m speaking or reach a student more easily. This layout also works best for my AVID and Speech & Debate classes. These classes work together in groups a lot.

What is your favorite part of your design?

I love the little college corner that I have been working on for the last year. It’s also a place students can use for collaboration assignments and projects. I use it for silent reading sessions or during literature circles as well. I also love this area because it’s such a safe place for my students to sit when they need to calm down or have a tough day at school.

Did anything surprise you about how your students reacted to your classroom setup (behavior, enjoyment, etc.)?

I was surprised by how effective the couches and pillows were to help my students deal with anxiety and feel more secure. It’s been a great safe space for my students for the last two years. I was also surprised by how excited my students have been when they see me put up their work on the wall. They love pointing out work and when parents come to visit the classroom, that’s the first thing they want to point out to them.

What is the biggest piece of design advice you can provide for someone who is just starting to think “outside of the box” in terms of classroom design and classroom theme ideas?

First, always ask for help. Use your community of friends and family. I’m not a crafty person a lot, but I have family and close friends who are always willing to help me bring my visions to light or help me hang out stuff.

Second, gather information online to get inspired! Pinterest, Instagram, and teacher articles have helped me so much come up with fun ideas to add to my classroom design. Teacher Pay Teachers has been wonderful as well! There are some super creative and cute posters to check out!

Also, don’t be shy and visit your co-worker’s classrooms. Some of my favorite elements I have added to my classroom were from co-workers’ rooms! We are part of such a helpful, caring, and creative community of teachers! Use them! Lastly, trust your gut. Don’t try to become to next big “Intsa-Teacher.” “You do, you boo!” Trust yourself and create a classroom that makes you happy and comfortable because students feel that when they walk in.

Decorations only do so much for the climate of a classroom. Teachers are what matters most when it comes to the design of the room. I remember I had a student tell me that they love my classroom, not because of the colorful posters or awesome couches but because of the light and energy I provided as a teacher. Decoration will all do so much, so trust your gut, and don’t forget you’re the key to how students feel in the room.

Jaclyn Hariri is an 8th Grade ELA, 6th Grade AVID, and 6th-8th Speech & Debate Team in California. You can follow her on Instagram @jaclyn_hariri.

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Matthew Kulasiewicz

Describe your classroom setup and classroom theme ideas:

My room has desks in rows that can easily be moved around for group work or station work.

Why did you choose this particular classroom setup?

I’ve been a middle school teacher for 21 years now and found that for me, starting out class with everyone facing the same direction alleviates the time lost getting students’ eyes to be focusing on what I want them to focus on. Plus, I’ve had many students in wheelchairs over the years and this made getting into class so much easier for them. Like I mentioned, we can get the room rearranged in a different configuration in two minutes for activities.

What is your favorite part of your design?

My favorite part of my design is the 12-foot-long rustic standing workstation I built for our classroom a few years ago. Desks and chairs aren’t always the most forgiving for the growing bodies of my students and this has given them a way to work and stretch out a bit.

Did anything surprise you about how your students reacted to your classroom setup (behavior, enjoyment, etc.)?

Last year I built a two-person tall table with wooden stools that is in the back of my classroom. I thought it would be fun to experiment and see if students would want to sign up for a day to sit at the table with a friend of their choice. Every single hour of every single day the first question I get is, “Mr. K, who had the table today?” 🙂

What is the biggest piece of design advice you can provide for someone who is just starting to think “outside of the box” in terms of classroom design and classroom theme ideas?

The best advice I can give about setting up your classroom is that what you have on your walls, the borders of your bulletin boards, or whatever Pinterest/Instagram deluxe room you see that you wish your had will not ever come close to meaning as much as the connection you make with the students you see.

That being said, make your room work for you. My desks start out in rows, which to some may seem old-fashioned, but it works for me and the way I do things with my students. As far as room decorations go… I only add something to my room decor if I can use it as a conversation starter with a student. Think about them first and the rest will fall into place and you’ll find what works for you.

Matthew Kulasiewicz is an 8th-grade US History teacher in Wisconsin. You can follow him on Instagram @survivingsocialstudies.

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Mikaelah Cash

Describe your classroom setup and classroom theme ideas:

I have a mat space with stars for students to sit on as last year I struggled to get students to sit in the right area, this removes the “option” for them to sit behind desks, etc. I have a bug double whiteboard with storage behind it and under it which is really handy.

Then there’s a little whiteboard in front of my mat space and a library area that has double-sided storage so one side books for the students and the other I keep things like resource books and colored paper. All of our classrooms also come with a tv screen and Chromecast but I’m also lucky to be the only classroom with a projector screen as well which I prefer over the tv!

We have collaborative learning furniture and I’m currently trialing letting students choose their seats each day. I have an area for students to hand in work or collect marked work as well as keep work that isn’t completed. Students use tote trays to keep their personal items in but their books go in subject boxes under the big whiteboard.

Why did you choose this particular classroom setup?

In New Zealand we don’t get a choice in classroom furniture it just comes with the room and stays with the room. When I arrived at my school to set up my room I had a lot of random bits of furniture that didn’t seem to go together.

I struggled all of my first year to figure out a good layout and then finally over the summer break I found a layout I love. I don’t think I’ll ever change it now! It flows well, I can see all the students easily enough from all areas of the room, and they’re split so students have the option of working in a smaller or bigger group.

What is your favorite part of your design?

I love all the bright colours, the fabric on the walls, the displays, and carpet spots. It makes the room feel bright and welcoming. I also really like my projector and all the storage!

Did anything surprise you about how your students reacted to your classroom setup (behavior, enjoyment, etc.)?

My students from last year have come to visit and they were really amazed when they saw the different layouts. My students have told me how much they love our classroom and the bright colours which makes me so happy!