During both of my student teaching placements, I often found myself daydreaming about my future classroom’s look, endlessly scrolling through Pinterest and peeking into other teachers’ rooms for decoration inspiration. Come July of my first teaching year, I eagerly packed bags of art supplies for classroom setup. However, despite weeks of effort, my setup was far from perfect—nothing would hang right, and the few items I managed to affix with hot glue were a nightmare to remove. My initial excitement quickly turned to frustration.
Then I stumbled upon this 12-second TikTok video by @math.in.the.middle. I wish I’d discovered this classroom setup hack sooner! Trust me, you don’t want to miss this video:
As someone who enlisted my husband’s help (much to his frustration) to hang those stubborn items, I now know that a strip of masking tape and my hot-glue gun could really have done wonders. It would not only have helped me visualize where everything should go but could also ensure everything was straight. I can’t think of a single surface in my old classroom where this tape wouldn’t have stuck, and it would have saved me a ton of heartache when it was time to take it all down. What a fantastic classroom setup hack!
What others are saying:
I love how teachers are not just willing to share their hacks and ideas, but also how the comment section on this TikTok exemplifies the spirit of gracious collaboration that continuously improves our practices. Here’s what other teachers are saying.
I had about three or four tapestries that needed to be hung up on old cinder-block walls. I really wish I had known about this classroom setup hack then.
I also like how blue painter’s tape would be easier to visualize against white walls!
OK—another endorsement for painter’s tape. Take @math.in.the.middle‘s video and classroom setup hack and test either tape out for yourself!
This is what I’m saying!
This seemingly small tweak of using masking tape for classroom setups, as highlighted by @math.in.the.middle‘s video on TikTok, can make a substantial difference in managing classroom aesthetics without the usual hassle. This hack not only simplifies the hanging process but also ensures an easy, clean removal—something every teacher can appreciate. Embracing this method could spare many educators the frustration of damaged surfaces and stubborn residue, proving that the best solutions are sometimes the simplest. So during your next classroom setup, consider this efficient approach and join the teachers who have already tweaked with painter’s tape and saw the benefits. Give it a try and experience the ease for yourself!
