Teacher creativity is always working overtime in August in an effort to design the perfect Pinterest inspired classroom. It is a labor of love to create a visually appealing environment that will be inviting and engaging for students.

I was interested to read a study by Rodrigues and Pandeirada that described an attention and memory test given to 64/8-12 year old children. Students were separated into two sections with one group taking the test in a highly decorated and visually busy classroom and the other group taking the test in a room with bare walls. You guessed it....the students in the bare-wall room performed best.

Terada (2018) gives some great tips about how to create a productive environment without overstimulating students.

Target's Teacher Prep Event will run from July 17th through September 10th. Teachers can save 15% on school supplies and more throughout the eight-week event.

All K-12 teachers, homeschool teachers, teachers working at early childhood learning centers, university or college professors, and teachers at vocational, trade and technical schools are eligible.

Once the event begins on July 17, simply go to https://www.target.com/c/teacher-supplies-classroom-decorations-school-office/-/N-4tf8s to sign up with valid identification. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive a 15% coupon.