Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Marcie,
Start by being in control of the class. Start the class on time and have the first class meeting laid out in terms of introductions and ice breakers. Be the learning leader and send the message to your students that you are there to help them be successful in the class but will not tolerate anyone taking over the class. Do not be afraid to call the student down or tell him or her that they are acting inappropriately. In my classes I teach my students as adults and strive to earn their respect but I also treat them as junior high students when they act like middle school students. Doesn't take long for them to get the message on how the class is going to operate.
Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.