Depending on the subject you teach, you could create some sort of assignment allowing students to decorate the room themselves (or propose a vision of the design/decor in a paper or series of sketches) using the skills they're learning in their design and art classes. Or, it could be a group project competition with proposals and a vote.

I like betsy.buford's idea. Maybe don't do anything to start out with and have the first class to an open ended critique of the existing design.

To me this query is like an English teacher asking us to help her make up her reading list.

So, really, are you stumped, Amanda? Or are you just lacking confidence in your own ideas. I say, Go for it! Let your imagination and taste be your guide, and know that you can change things around when you want to!

Good luck!

Please keep it simple. the class room should be a blank canvas. I'm assuming students will be hanging assignments on the walls? If so, the room should be as neutral and uncluttered as possible to avoid distraction from their work. Focus more on natural light (if available), and comfortable room temperatures (if you have any control of that). Also, make sure classroom equipment is set up as functionally as possible. If you're hell bent on decoration, I would just stick with some great potted plants. If you thoughtfully organize class room materials and text books, those will be all the useful ornamentation you should need.

Oh, go ahead an add some personal items to your own desk space, I guess.

The Making Learning Visible project could provide helpful tools towards creating a classroom that reflects your students' projects and vision. http://www.makinglearningvisibleresources.org/

I agree with the suggestions to allow students to give input. Depending on which subject you teach, it could be integrated into the curriculum. I also agree to make sure that your set-up is as functional as possible. Make sure you have space to walk among the students (between rows if you have desks set up, for example), that the focal point of the room is visible to everyone without awkward furniture moving, and that materials needed for class every day are easily accessible. Also, I'd wait to see if you get any kind of new teacher bonus for decorating your room. Some schools will give new teachers a gift card to an educational supply store or a basket of things you can use. Spending your own money is going to add up quickly during the year, anyway. Don't get too hung up on decorating and blow all of your money that you might have to use to purchase instructional items later in the year.

Amanda, when you went to college for graphic design what was the studio like? Was it a studio? What medium are you focussing on? Computers?

I suggest a studio where the kids feel comfortable hanging out and being creative. Bring in a couple sofas, a stereo system where they can plug in their iPods, a coffee maker, and white walls. Then let them personalize the space.

I love architecture studios because these kids live in the studio 24/7 and it really becomes their space.

If you'll be at a school full of graphics aficionados, the best advice is "Never use Comic Sans on anything." They will kill you.

Ask local designers and industry people to speak once a week. Many would love to give back to the community.

Just a heads up, and you may have more leeway as a design teacher - but the biggest obstacle I've run into is district policy. No curtains, household lamps, unapproved rugs, scents, etc. Sometimes you can get away with it, but think before you plunk down your own money.

As a veteran teacher I completely agree with eaevansmd. That advice is spot on. It made the papers in my state a while back when the fire department toured an elementary school at the end of summer. The teacher had come in, on their own time and own dime, and spent many hours decorating their classrooms to make them a great learning environment for their students. Many items were simply ripped out and discarded, without consulting the teachers first. As a new teacher you will get some leeway, but your best bet is to get advice from teachers in your district. Also, there are thousands of teacher websites that could help you with decorating. And check out pinterest. Lots of teachers share their creativity there. Good luck, and congrats on your new job.