Faulkner's Fast Five

Creating Classroom Success Stories

  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Group Membership
  • Contact
  • Resources
  • Success Stories

Vintage Rock Star Glam Secondary Classroom Decor for Back to School

It’s typically not a secondary kind of thing to do to have a classroom theme.  And I certainly never have in all my years of teaching in 7-12 classrooms had an all-out classroom theme like, say, they do in elementary schools.  However, I can say there is great value in having a “theme” of sort – even in a secondary classroom.  I like to be super-organized, and a theme/scheme works well for me and the students. My theme is “Rock Star,” and on the first day of school we talk about what my theme is and we have a mini lesson on theme development. I chose the rock star theme because 1) I love music and 2) It sets the “stage” for how we are going to be “owning it like rock stars” every day. Yeah, that may be a little cheesy, but I love cheesy, and it really does work.
I’ve had the rock star theme for several years now, but it was actually pretty “thrown together.” I hadn’t put much effort into the look of it in terms of cohesion or cuteness. It was definitely time to jazz it up a little. I love anything vintage, burlap, pink, and chalkboard, so I decided to put that all together for a shabby chic, glam rock star themed classroom!  I had plenty of items in my classroom with “good bones,” they just didn’t match or have much style.  I picked a few areas to make focal points of the room, and here are the results.
Burlap, Chalkboard, Pink, Black
These curtains could be done a couple of ways. I ordered these ready made inexpensive burlap valances from Amazon and hung them with spring rods. However, there are a number of tutorials out and about for making no sew curtains out of burlap. Everything is better with burlap!
Burlap, Chalkboard, Pink Black
The door is, of course, the first thing students see when they come to your classroom. Like I said before, theme is very important in an English classroom, and we talk about it on day one. So, I wanted them to be aware of it right away – hit them on the head (literally!) Yeah, I did have to pull it up a little higher so my junior and senior boys could walk under it!
Burlap, Chalkboard, Pink, Black
Burlap, Chalkboard, Pink, Black
This little area is much more functional now with the date blocks, sharpener, and journal buckets all in one place. Plus, now it’s all in one place nearby the weekly playlist of assignments, which I really want them to look at often!  I’m so proud of my little chalkboard lamp. It was my granny’s lamp, and I loved having it in my classroom.  However, it was green and the shade was dry-rotted.  I found that ah-mazing burlap shade at Goodwill for $3.00!!!! After a coat of primer and some chalkboard spray paint, I had a shining jewel for about $10 bucks.
Burlap, Chalkboard, Pink, Black
Burlap, Chalkboard, Pink, Black
Keeping with my Rock Star theme, I made song quotes chalkboard prints and hung them above where students store their bags.  My bulletin boards are covered with black fabric (easier and more durable than paper) and fun layered border.  I also smile every time I look at my mirror with the V.I.P. sign above it! I do believe the best boards and walls are student-centered and low-maintenance.  See my post on student-centered bulletin board ideas here!
Burlap, Chalkboard, Pink, Black
I inherited my podium from a teacher friend my first year of teaching! In its former life, it was a wallpaper stand at a paint store. How cool is that? It wasn’t, however, very fancy. I rolled on a couple layers of chalkboard paint, and now my students and I can write new quotes on it whenever we want!  My “I’m Done” box also got a makeover.  Here I wanted to add a little bit more pink to the room, so I just bought this durable basket from Michael’s.  I used the rest of the chalkboard spray paint on the tray where students return handouts.
Burlap, Chalkboard, Pink, Black
It’s not perfect, but I think my classroom is ready — now onto planning.
See MORE classroom decor and organizational pics at these posts, too!
Student-Centered Bulletin Boards 
Formula for Classroom Success Planning
Visit me at Facebook for frequent updates, live events, and even more pictures!
  Sign up for my monthly newsletter – “Teaching Tidbits” – that is delivered directly to your email inbox each month.  Each month you’ll get announcements, tips for teaching, updates on new and revised resources, and, of course, an email-only exclusive FREEBIE!

An InLinkz Link-up
«
»

Filed Under: back to school, burlap, chalkboard, classroom decor, lamp makeover, rock star, secondary classrooms, Uncategorized, vintage 5 Comments

Comments

  1. Presto Plans says

    July 29, 2015 at 9:07 pm

    Your classroom is AMAZING! I am loving the chalkboard lamp. Such a great idea 🙂

    Reply
    • Julie says

      June 28, 2018 at 1:57 pm

      Thank you so much for stopping by!

      Reply
  2. Lauralee Moss says

    August 2, 2015 at 2:52 am

    Adorable classroom!

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Tips for Surviving the End of the Year in a Secondary Classroom says:
    February 6, 2017 at 6:23 am

    […] my pencils, tape, etc. (I do have a classroom design/style/theme that I love, though. You can see that post here). Rather, I think of my day-to-day routine, and what it takes for me to plan, teach, grade, […]

    Reply
  2. Journey Classroom Theme Ideas - Faulkner's Fast Five says:
    July 9, 2021 at 10:00 pm

    […] vintage maps that I rescued from the closet in this room.  On my desk I have my re-purposed lamp. (See the tutorial on how to do that here.) I also grabbed these galvanized picnic bins for holding desk items. I even went all out and made a […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Medium
  • Pinterest

Categories

Latest on Pinterest

  • In this easy-prep writing prompt pack, students will analyze texts that discuss a topic which is a major driving force in the world: the future of fuel in the vehicles we drive. They will then write an essay where they take a stand on the issue of "banning gas-powered vehicles" after reading those articles/texts. If your state requires students to synthesize from multiple sources for state testing, then this prompt meets that requirement.
  • My data program started with just a simple chart years ago where students would color in their scores each time we would write an essay. Now it has grown into a teaching strategy, a method, and a routine embedded into my class structure and student learning process that truly informs instruction. My process for collecting data in the classroom is meaningful for both me and my students.
  • Teacher Planners for Multiple Preps, Middle-High School
  • In this easy-prep writing prompt pack, students will analyze texts that discuss a topic which is a major driving force in the world: the future of fuel in the vehicles we drive. They will then write an essay where they take a stand on the issue of "banning gas-powered vehicles" after reading those articles/texts. If your state requires students to synthesize from multiple sources for state testing, then this prompt meets that requirement.
  • #teacheroutfit #whatsheworewednesday #teacherstyle #teacherclothes #wearitwednesday #style #teacher #highschoolteacher #outfitideas #outfitsforteachers #teacherthreads #teacherwardrobe #TeacherStyle #ootd #teacherootd #stylishteacher #whattheteacherwore #teacherlife #jfaulkneroutfits #instafashion #fashionblogger #outfit #instastyle #outfitoftheday #fashiongram #fashion
  • This student data tracking pack for collecting student data is unique because it is 100% student-directed. That means that it will work! You'll have easy prep tools in printable and digital format for setting goals, weekly reflections, numerical data collection. It's great for RTI, parent night, student portfolios, teacher evals, bell ringers, test prep, new year resolutions, informing instruction, and more. Use it all or just what you need.
  • In this easy-prep writing prompt pack, students will analyze texts that discuss a topic which is a major driving force in the world: the future of fuel in the vehicles we drive. They will then write an essay where they take a stand on the issue of "banning gas-powered vehicles" after reading those articles/texts. If your state requires students to synthesize from multiple sources for state testing, then this prompt meets that requirement.
  • My data program started with just a simple chart years ago where students would color in their scores each time we would write an essay. Now it has grown into a teaching strategy, a method, and a routine embedded into my class structure and student learning process that truly informs instruction. My process for collecting data in the classroom is meaningful for both me and my students.
Follow Me on Pinterest

LATEST ON FACEBOOK

Julie's Classroom Stories

2 days ago

Julie's Classroom Stories
I am a huge proponent of students being aware of their own learning and taking ownership of that process. This article suggest some ways that we can help students evaluate their knowledge and learning processes by guiding them to assess their use of metacognitive skills www.edutopia.org/article/teaching-students-assess-their-learning?fbclid=IwAR2FRlaeVZDrg6VEowY0tZE... ... See MoreSee Less

Teaching Students to Assess Their Learning

www.edutopia.org

Teachers can help students evaluate their knowledge and learning processes by guiding them to assess their use of metacognitive skills.
View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Julie's Classroom Stories

4 days ago

Julie's Classroom Stories
Make your classroom personal with pictures you've taken from your travels - near and far. Kids enjoy the view, and they are often great conversation starters. More on decorating your classroom at my blog. juliefaulknersblog.com/journey-classroom-theme-ideas/ ... See MoreSee Less

Photo

View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Julie's Classroom Stories

1 week ago

Julie's Classroom Stories
New Writing Prompt Pack! Added to my argument writing bundle and curriculum. If you have either of those, you can get this for free. If not, follow the link to grab it. Perfect current events topic for summer school! www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Writing-Prompt-Pack-Argumentative-Essay-on-Gas-Powered-Vehicl... ... See MoreSee Less

Writing Prompt Pack, Argumentative Essay on Gas-Powered Vehicle Ban

www.teacherspayteachers.com

In this easy-prep writing prompt pack, students will analyze texts that discuss a topic which is a major driving force in the world: the future of fuel in the vehicles we drive. They will then write a...
View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Julie's Classroom Stories

2 weeks ago

Julie's Classroom Stories
Have you ever heard of or used task cards with your classes? I use them for reading and writing. Check out this blog post where I explain all about task cards. juliefaulknersblog.com/using-task-cards-in-middle-and-high-school/ ... See MoreSee Less

Benefits of Using Task Cards in Middle and High School - Faulkner's Fast Five

juliefaulknersblog.com

There are plenty of reasons and ways to use task cards in any middle or high school classroom. This post shares practical ways for using task cards.
View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Julie's Classroom Stories

3 weeks ago

Julie's Classroom Stories
18 - the magic number today 🪄6/5/04 is our “marry day” anniversary- that’s what my niece called weddings before she knew that word. If you think about it, though, her way makes so much more sense. A wedding is special, but having a great life with someone is really about focusing on the marriage. I’m thankful God sent me this guy (🦄) and I know he feels the same way about me🤣🤣😜😜 Prayers for 18 x infinity more. ... See MoreSee Less

Photo

View on Facebook
· Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Latest on Instagram

A long, flowy cotton dress always feels like summe A long, flowy cotton dress always feels like summer to me! What things give you #thatsummerfeeling?☀️ Let me know in the comments below. ⁠
...⁠
Dress - #belkstyle⁠
...⁠
⁠
⁠
#teacheroutfit #wearitwednesday #teacherstyle #teacherootd #whattheteacherwore #outfitoftheday #fashion #summerfashion #summerstyle #summerdress ⁠
#styleblogger #outfitinspo #womensfashion #beachday
It's hard to believe that I almost couldn't put th It's hard to believe that I almost couldn't put this book down given that it is nonfiction.  #dontgivetheenemyaseatatyourtable is one of those books that stays with you a while, and by "a while" I mean forever. It is perspective changing and perspective change means life change. Here are my thoughts: ⁠
💡The voice is authentic and engaging.⁠
💡Pacing is on point, but I do think at times the content can be repetitive. ⁠
💡I love the layout of the pages with the blocky font and large pop-out quotes.⁠
💡There are so many real-life examples to explain the points. It is super relatable to people at all stages and seasons of life.⁠
💡The biblical teachings are thoughtful and thought-provoking, and the scriptural usage is sound.
💡 Favorite quote #1: "The Holy One invited you here. Booked the table. Prepared the meal.  Sat down to join you. And this reservation cost Him everything." ⁠
💡Favorite quote #2: "The enemy wants to define you by your scars. Jesus wants to define you by His scars."⁠
⁠
Overall, I give it 5 out of 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⁠
...⁠
#summerbooklist #bookreview #summerreadinglist #summerbooks #selfhelfbook #bookish #reader #booklover #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #currentlyreading ⁠
#bookgram #igreads #bookrecommendations #bookster
#teacherproblemsinsummer #teachersonbreak #teacher #teacherproblemsinsummer #teachersonbreak #teacherhumor #teacherfunnies
#fridayfoodforthought #summertime #summerquotes #fridayfoodforthought #summertime #summerquotes
Pinch and zoom... This dress has lemons on it 🍋 Pinch and zoom... This dress has lemons on it 🍋 - I immediately thought of the caption: "When life gives you lemons..." But, since I'm super interested in the psychology of the #enneagram, I thought it would be fun to explore how each person would respond to a potentially sour situation. So here goes!⁠
When life gives you lemons...⁠
🍋 Type 1 (The Perfectionist): you make the most perfect batch of lemonade #bethechange
🍋 Type 2 (The Helper): you make sure no one else has to taste the lemon #bigheart
🍋 Type 3 (The Achiever): you deny ownership and get rid of the lemon as fast as you can by finding someone else to whom you think it belongs #notmylemon #saveface
🍋 Type 4 (The Individualist): you record a vlog, make a caption for IG, Tweet, and write post blog about how the lemon made you feel ⁠ #sigh
🍋 Type 5 (The Investigator): you research the best way to use lemons and then experiment with a few of those options⁠ #knowledgeispower
🍋 Type 6 (The Loyalist): you wonder if there are more lemons and if this is the biggest lemon you will get. Then you make a plan to avoid the next lemon.  #expecttheunexpected
🍋 Type 7 (The Enthusiast): you plan a fun and adventurous trip and pack the lemons as a snack⁠ #letsgo
🍋 Type 8 (The Challenger): you squeeze the juice in the eyes of your enemies⁠ #nomercy
🍋 Type 9 (The Peacemaker): you keep calm and ignore the lemons⁠ #everythingisfine #lifegoeson
--⁠
Put your #enneagramtype in the comments and let me know if I got close on your response!⁠
...⁠
⁠
⁠
#teacheroutfit #wearitwednesday #teacherstyle #teacherootd #whattheteacherwore #outfitoftheday #fashion #personalitytypes #whenlifegivesyoulemons #psychology #enneagramlife #enneagramtalk
On the blog: Everything you need to know about ess On the blog: Everything you need to know about essential questions in lesson planning. ⁠
...⁠
⁠
#teachingenglish #juliesclassroomstories #classroomsuccessstories #iteachenglish #highschoolenglishteacher #teachinghighschool #highschoolteacher #lessonplanning #teachingtips #tipsfornewteachers #essentailquestions #faulknersfastfive #faulknersfastfiveblog #teacherprofessionaldevelopment
#fridayfoodforthought #summertime #summerquotes #fridayfoodforthought #summertime #summerquotes
My teacher planners are designed exclusively for t My teacher planners are designed exclusively for teachers with multiple preps and are perfect for getting your lesson plans and goals organized! With the PDF and ready-made-for-Google formats, you'll have everything you need to plan successfully. There are options for A/B Block Schedule or up to 4 Preps. Link in bio. ⁠
...⁠
⁠
⁠
⁠
⁠
#teachingenglish #juliesclassroomstories #classroomsuccessstories #iteachenglish #highschoolenglishteacher #teachinghighschool #highschoolteacher #backtoschool #teacherplanners #classroommanagement⁠
#plannergoodies
I wore this outfit to my mother's retirement lunch I wore this outfit to my mother's retirement luncheon. She served our community in education for 45 years as an English teacher and then in administration. That kind of commitment is often unheard of these days. I'm super proud of her accomplishments!⁠
...⁠
Top - #targetfinds⁠
Jeans - #loveloft⁠
...⁠
⁠
#teacheroutfit #wearitwednesday #teacherstyle #teacherootd #whattheteacherwore #outfitoftheday #fashion
Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2022 · Website Design By Jumping Jax Designs

  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Group Membership
  • Contact
  • Resources
  • Success Stories