Highway to Success: Third Grade Students Master Routines for Learning
At Humphreys West Elementary, third grade students are cruising down the Highway to Success: a path paved with strong routines, thoughtful collaboration, and purposeful transitions. This week, the third grade team focused on helping students internalize procedures that support their learning during the intervention and enrichment block.
The “highway” system, developed by third grade teacher Carla Craft, was designed to help students transition efficiently between classrooms, ensuring that learning begins promptly. With many students moving between spaces, this system minimizes confusion and maximizes instructional time.
To enhance the initiative, third grade teacher Melody Wilson introduced a color-coded “exit ramp” system that helps students quickly identify their destination and group. These visual cues are especially helpful for students who are still becoming familiar with their peers and the layout of our learning spaces.
Teachers have collaborated to ensure that transitions are not only organized but also empowering. Students are gaining the tools they need to take ownership of their learning journey.
“It’s all about logistics and making sure students feel secure,” Croft said. “When they know the routine, they can focus on the learning.”
These routines go beyond hallway procedures. They form the foundation for academic success. By mastering transitions and understanding expectations, students are better prepared to engage in targeted instruction and enrichment activities that meet their individual needs.
