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Simply Special Ed

Resource Downloads & Teaching Advice

Blog Classroom Setup Organization Simple Classroom

How to Use a Classroom Layout Builder

Anyone who has ever had to set up or redesign their classroom knows that it can be a frustrating task! Knowing how furniture will fit and the room will flow definitely takes trial and error. Luckily, there is a solution! Read on to learn all about how the Classroom Layout Builder can help you out!

A colorful graphic titled "Classroom Layout Builder" that has illustrations of classroom materials.
The Classroom Layout Builder is such a valuable tool!

What is a Classroom Layout Builder?

The Classroom Layout Builder is a digital tool that allows you to design and visualize your classroom space. Using the tool, you can place the permanent fixtures of your room, and then design and customize the movable pieces. Taking student needs into account, you can arrange a room that maximizes learning space!

How to Design Your Classroom

An image of a blank classroom shape. On ether side are illustrated images of furniture and other elements waiting to be added.
An empty classroom layout waiting to be designed!

Using the Classroom layout Builder is easy! Start by choosing the classroom shape that is closest to your own. My classroom is sort of a trapezoid shape, so the rectangular shape was closest match for me. After you choose your shape, you can place the permanent fixtures of your classroom. Doors and windows, cabinets, the sink, and the board are all things that won’t move, so you will build around them.

Next, determine what furniture and materials you have available. Chairs, tables, bookshelves, rugs, and desks are examples of movable pieces you can arrange in your room.

Then, you can get creative and move the items into different areas! You may have a predetermined idea in mind, but don’t be afraid to move things around in a new way. You might just find a layout that you love!

An image of a classroom that has been design with the layout builder elements.
An example of a classroom layout made with the tool.

Design and Redesign as Needed!

My favorite thing about the Classroom Layout Builder is that it can be used over and over again! When you use it, a copy will go to your Google Drive so that it is always available! As your classroom changes, you can make new layouts to suit your needs. The first time I used the builder, I only had three students in my class. But a few years later, I had nine so I needed to reimagine the way things would work in the room. The Layout Builder was there to help me do it! And being able to look back at old designs sometimes sparks ideas for something new!

An image of a classroom that has been design with the layout builder elements.
This is how my redesigned classroom turned out!

Ready to give it a try? You will get access to the Classroom Layout Builder and more in the Simple Self-Contained 101 Course! Click here to join the waitlist!

Have any questions about classroom design? Ask them below!

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Hi amazing teachers!
I'm Alyssa Shanahan -- a former Elementary Special Ed & Life Skills teacher. My classroom focus was always to keep things simple, increase communication, and build independence. Simply Special Ed's goal is to help teachers and students reach their full potential in and out of the classroom!

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