Taking over class... should I act as if it's first day of school?

I will be taking over a class. School has been in session for two weeks already. Right now, I have no clue what they covered or anything about the class. I'm wondering if I should act as if it is the first day of school and go over rules and routines and read my No, No Bono book. I never took over a class before so I really don't know. Thanks! BTW, I will be teaching kindergarten.

 

I would go with first day of school - DEFINITELY! It will be for you and might as well be for them. Start it the way you want to!!!
Good luck!

 

I would maybe ask the students questions, like "How did your teacher do snack time?" Then say, "Wow! That sounds like a good idea, but we are going to try something different!", or if you like that routine, "Oh Wow! That is a great idea, let's keep doing it that way." Or, at the very least ask them what things they like about their classroom the way it is now.
It makes them feel like they helped you, and doesn't confuse them!
Good Luck and Congratulations!

 

RIght. That's what I was worried about was confusing them and causing more problems. I could also talk to the sub who's in their now and get some ideas. I am visiting the school tomorrow. Thanks!!

 

What happened to the first teacher..... or have they had a sub the entire two weeks?

 

Yep...I would definitely start as if it is the first day of school...god in K they need it!

 

I didn't formally hear you got the job!!!

Congratulations!!

 

If you can sit and observe the sub for a day or two. I took over a class in November. I observed and slowly started to take over during two weeks. The children in the class have a routine started probably not too attached to it but it is good idea to change the routine slowly not all in one day if possible. You should start your behavior management as if it is day one but start the routine as it is and slowly alter it. It will help the children acclimate to the change and you.

 

The original teacher is out on maternity leave so a sub has been in there.... I don't know if she's been in there the whole two weeks though.

 

That sounds good.

 

Thanks... it kind of happened yesterday, but they asked me last week if I would be interested in this kinder position. They want me to start on Friday but I don't know if that'll be possible seeing as how I still need to be fingerprinted..... well, we'll see.