On the first day of the program, you can explain the rules and expectations of the classroom economy as you would with any classroom management system.

• Create student folders to be handed out at the start of class.
• Customize the visual displays of your jobs, bonuses, and fines lists (posters, bulletin-board items, handouts, etc.).

Welcome the students and inform them that they'll be earning and spending money throughout the year. Pass out the student folders you created.

Use your visual displays as you explain these key concepts:

• Money is earned in two ways:
  • As a salary for completing a classroom job.
  • In bonus rewards for good achievements.
• Money is spent in three ways:
  • To pay the monthly rent for the student's desk. The rent is $100 per month (but desks can be purchased for a one-time payment of $300).
  • To buy items or privileges at auctions, which are held approximately once per month. (Give examples of what students may purchase.)
  • To pay fines for not following classroom rules.
• Display the class job list and tell the students they need to apply for a job. Explain that they might not receive their first choice, so they need to list their top three selections on the job application.
  • Describe the individual jobs. Then give the students time to fill out the application form. Remind them that some jobs require a letter of recommendation. Explain how they can ask for such a letter from a previous year's teacher.
  • Collect job applications from all students.