Real Classroom Makeovers: Practical Ideas for Early Childhood Classrooms

Learning environments are an important topic as more and more teachers try to make their classrooms into places that support and inspire learning. Using “before and “after pictures of real early childhood classrooms, Real Classroom Makeovers shows early childhood teachers step-by-step how small changes can transform their classrooms into wondrous environments for young children to learn and grow. With a budget-conscious focus, the book provides visual examples of dramatic changes that are possible in real preschool, Pre-K, and kindergarten classrooms. Most of the makeovers focus on a specific classroom area or learning center. Much more than a collection of before-and-after pictures, this book introduces and describes the philosophy behind creative learning environments based on current early childhood education research. Written in simple, down-to-earth language, this book is accessible for all educators!

Rebecca Isbell, Ph.D., is Director of the Center of Excellence in Early Childhood Learning and Development. She is a professor of Early Childhood Education at East Tennessee State University where she was recognized as a distinguished professor for teaching. Dr. Isbell has served as the director of the lab school for young children and currently serves as a consultant for this program. She designed a pilot site for Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance, now a state training program for early childhood educators. Dr. Pamela Evanshen holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis and is currently an Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for the Early Childhood Education Program in the Human Development and Learning Department at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, TN. Dr. Evanshen has published articles in many educational journals and has presented at conferences nationally and internationally. She worked as the Assistant Principal at George Washington Elementary School, a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in Kingsport, TN.