There is always that one time of the day that we teachers dislike, I mean really dislike.
For me, that dreaded time is dismissal. Dismissal is a naturally chaotic time but if you add a bunch of last minute transportation changes into the mix it can quickly become a nightmare.
It drives me bonkers when the phone rings off the hook all day long with messages from the office telling me how so-and-so is going home today.
By the time dismissal time actually rolls around my dismissal list is covered with Post-It notes and I’m frantically trying to make sure all 22 or more little ones get where they’re supposed to go.
Think beginning of the year, think 22 four year olds all by yourself- now you’ve got the picture!
Benefits of Using a Dismissal Chart
This super simple magnetic dismissal chart tutorial will help make your dismissal time more organized, less stressful and less chaotic without breaking the bank.
You can also easily customize it to match your theme.
Magnetic Dismissal Chart Supplies
- Cookie sheets {Dollar Tree}
- Ribbon to coordinate with your theme
- Hot glue gun
- Spray paint
- Magnetic tape
- Cardstock
- Laminating film
- Printer
- Digital camera
- Scissors
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How to Make a Magnetic Dismissal Chart
Start by taking digital photos of each child in your class. Next, type the student’s names into your program of choice and insert their photos, then print the cards on cardstock and laminate. Cut the cards out and add a strip of magnetic tape to the back of each card.
In the picture at the top you may have noticed I added a symbol to the cards of the children who ride the bus. This helps the children identify their bus and each bus displays the same symbol in the window.
Next, spray paint your cookie sheets with the color of your choice and let dry. When the cookie sheets are dry, cut a length of ribbon and hot glue it to the back of each cookie sheet. When the glue is dry you can use push pins or sticky 3M hooks attached to the wall to hang your trays.
Simply move students from board to board as necessary. I suggest putting the boards out of their reach in case they decide to switch their own card without telling you!
If you have students who walk home you could also add a cookie tray with a picture of a shoe. These dismissal lists will be very helpful for substitute teachers.
If you have a large class you could use those printable, magnetic business cards since they are smaller or use a large oil drip pan as your magnetic surface.
If your students are older and don’t need picture support you could write their names on craft sticks with a permanent marker instead of using picture cards and put the magnetic tape on the back of the sticks.
Follow my DIY Classroom Pinterest board for more great ideas!
Thank you for another great idea. Sharing: I myself made two large apples. One for each class AM and PM and placed them on the exit door to the classroom.
. I made a tiny name strip for each student with their first name and picture, laminated them, velcro soft tabs. On each apple I placed two large rough velcro strips running from north to south. On a card placed above each line I wrote “in” and the other “out” They learn to recognize their name and their daily responsibilty. Helps when you taking attendance too!