I can safely say that in my first full year of teaching, I've got the holiday parties under control. I even had them under control in my first two weeks of teaching, which was when I had to throw my first party. Unlike most teachers, I didn't ask students to bring anything. My kiddos asked me to bake an igloo cake (see previous blog) and I had already planned on ordering pizza. That was the extent of our treats. They ate pizza and then cake. They didn't beg for more, they ate everything that was on their plates (except the crust), and even parents enjoyed the pizza.
After eating, we had a book exchange. I read a Night Before Christmas story that told the kids when to pass their wrapped book to the right and left. They listened very well and most kids were pleased with their new book, which wasn't really new at all. It was just a book that someone else had read enough time that they wanted to share it with someone else. There were a few mismatched people to books, but they all fixed it themselves and there was no arguing or crying. In fact, most people were super excited at their new read.
The book exchange was the last part of our party and then the kids cleaned up their spaces and went out to play. Because I only had pizza and cake at the party, they only cleanup I had was putting the pizza boxes in the trash bag. This is where my professional party planning comes in. I saw other kids taking up full plates of food they had brought for their parties. They had so many cupcakes and cookies and cakes that they couldn't even touch some of their food. They didn't need all that stuff and they all seemed very happy with what they did have. No need being wasteful.
Next up...Valentine's Party with easy breezy sundaes.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
It's the thought that counts!
Yesterday was the last day before Christmas break and of course that meant I received gifts from my students. I'll give a rundown of what I received...hopefully at least one items strikes you as strange, just as it did me.
- gift card to Starbucks
- gift card to Target
- gift card to Chili's
- bath items from Crabtree and Evelyn (in a lime green carrying case)
- bath gel from Bath and Body Works
- note cards (same parent I got note cards from last year)
- Ghirardelli chocolate
- sausage and crackers with mustard set
- bath gel and scrubber from Kohl's
- lotion, hand mirror and chapstick from Ulta
YES, I know you all picked out the sausage. I know it is the thought that counts, but really sausage???? And what made it even worse was that when I pulled it out the bag, a plume of smoke came too. It made me nauseous. I carried it in my hand and then my hand wreaked of smoke as well. The good news is that I did make use of this sausage. Everyday on my way home, I see many homeless people begging for food and/or money. I drove up and waved the lady over. I handed it to her and she said, "Really? Oh my goodness, thank you!!" This made it worth it. I'm glad the sausage helped someone. I was thankful for every gift I received, but I'm thankful I didn't get sausage from every student.
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This week I also received a few letters from some of my kids last year. I think it was an assignment to write a letter to "your favorite teacher". Please remember that I was their teacher for half a year. I received 3 letters. One was very unexpected. It was from a child who I had to constantly get on to. He even sat by my desk so that I could keep a very close eye on him. Apparently, he viewed this as a privilege and liked that I let him help me while he was sitting there. If he viewed this as positive, rather than me nagging him to make good choices, I guess that is a good thing. I also received letters from two other students. Each one of them made me smile. I'm glad that I did something for them that they remember...that's why I do this...and for the gift cards at Christmas time. hahaha
- gift card to Starbucks
- gift card to Target
- gift card to Chili's
- bath items from Crabtree and Evelyn (in a lime green carrying case)
- bath gel from Bath and Body Works
- note cards (same parent I got note cards from last year)
- Ghirardelli chocolate
- sausage and crackers with mustard set
- bath gel and scrubber from Kohl's
- lotion, hand mirror and chapstick from Ulta
YES, I know you all picked out the sausage. I know it is the thought that counts, but really sausage???? And what made it even worse was that when I pulled it out the bag, a plume of smoke came too. It made me nauseous. I carried it in my hand and then my hand wreaked of smoke as well. The good news is that I did make use of this sausage. Everyday on my way home, I see many homeless people begging for food and/or money. I drove up and waved the lady over. I handed it to her and she said, "Really? Oh my goodness, thank you!!" This made it worth it. I'm glad the sausage helped someone. I was thankful for every gift I received, but I'm thankful I didn't get sausage from every student.
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This week I also received a few letters from some of my kids last year. I think it was an assignment to write a letter to "your favorite teacher". Please remember that I was their teacher for half a year. I received 3 letters. One was very unexpected. It was from a child who I had to constantly get on to. He even sat by my desk so that I could keep a very close eye on him. Apparently, he viewed this as a privilege and liked that I let him help me while he was sitting there. If he viewed this as positive, rather than me nagging him to make good choices, I guess that is a good thing. I also received letters from two other students. Each one of them made me smile. I'm glad that I did something for them that they remember...that's why I do this...and for the gift cards at Christmas time. hahaha
Thursday, December 18, 2008
What I do for my kiddos...
Preparing for the holidays should be easy enough...you don't teach much and you have room parents take care of the party. WRONG!
In my case, I don't have room parents to plan the party and my kids want me to do extra things for them. And because I love them and they are so sweet...I'm doing as much as I can. On top of taking care of the classroom when I'm in it, my kiddos requested that I make an igloo cake. I can say it is now successfully cooked and decorated (only after 1 failed attempt in the oven).
I also spent a good amount of time making each child their Christmas gift from me. They will soon be the owners of their very own, personalized clipboard. They are super cute and I know they will love them. They already love using the clipboards I have in my room, now they will be able to use their own. I would post a picture of that, but all the kids' names are on them. You'll just have to take my word for it!!!
Tomorrow is our holiday party and it should be a blast. The kids are ready for the break, as am I!
In my case, I don't have room parents to plan the party and my kids want me to do extra things for them. And because I love them and they are so sweet...I'm doing as much as I can. On top of taking care of the classroom when I'm in it, my kiddos requested that I make an igloo cake. I can say it is now successfully cooked and decorated (only after 1 failed attempt in the oven).
I also spent a good amount of time making each child their Christmas gift from me. They will soon be the owners of their very own, personalized clipboard. They are super cute and I know they will love them. They already love using the clipboards I have in my room, now they will be able to use their own. I would post a picture of that, but all the kids' names are on them. You'll just have to take my word for it!!!Tomorrow is our holiday party and it should be a blast. The kids are ready for the break, as am I!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Ego Trippin'
This is one of those blogs that has been saved for a slow day.
At school, we have a program called Watch D.O.G.S. It is for fathers, grandfathers, uncles, stepfathers, and other positive role models in our students' lives. They come to school for a day to be seen around the school as a positive male role model (cause there aren't many around a school with 99% female teachers). They have a schedule that allows them to be seen many times by the students throughout the day all over the school. We've had many dads, etc. that have volunteered multiple days.
Last year we had a dad who volunteered once a week (or so it seemed). Each time he was on morning broadcast introducing himself, he felt the need to go on and on about his life story and what has brought him here. The kids in my class even got to the point of making comments about him and his ego. I found it funny that they picked up on the same thing I detected on volunteer day one. Well, we would see him many times and when the year was up, we were hopeful that he was finished.
Not quite! We were in need of a cafeteria monitor this year and guess who applied. Now might be a good time to mention his credentials...Army veteran who served all over the world and was in charge of some other people--high up in the chain of command, and blah, and blah, and blah. I stopped listening after he told us how many places he's ever visited and how he is retired at age 35 or something like that plus some more blah, blah, and blah. Seriously? His life ambition was to be in the army and then a cafeteria monitor?? Something smells fishy to me!
With all this ego and being in charge experience, he is now in charge of the cafeteria. Well, he thinks so anyway. He walks around with his badge, walkie talkie, and whistle kind of like a security guard does at the mall. Too bad he doesn't have a golf cart with a flashing light on top. If our cafeteria was big enough, he might request one. He gives teachers reports about their students like they were his servants in the army. I ignore because I don't like how he talks to us and doesn't understand the kids. With that being said, I do tell my kids that if something happens in the cafeteria, there is no negotiating and you have a few minutes out of recess. There are too many kids in the cafeteria for ANY playing around. But, when this man tells me something they've done, I often check for accuracy and to see if any exaggeration exists in his story.
A little reminder...once you've done all kinds of "extravagant" things in your life, don't come home to be a cafeteria monitor, but continue to dwell on your past life like it was so much better. You are the owner of your choices...make ones you're proud of!
At school, we have a program called Watch D.O.G.S. It is for fathers, grandfathers, uncles, stepfathers, and other positive role models in our students' lives. They come to school for a day to be seen around the school as a positive male role model (cause there aren't many around a school with 99% female teachers). They have a schedule that allows them to be seen many times by the students throughout the day all over the school. We've had many dads, etc. that have volunteered multiple days.
Last year we had a dad who volunteered once a week (or so it seemed). Each time he was on morning broadcast introducing himself, he felt the need to go on and on about his life story and what has brought him here. The kids in my class even got to the point of making comments about him and his ego. I found it funny that they picked up on the same thing I detected on volunteer day one. Well, we would see him many times and when the year was up, we were hopeful that he was finished.
Not quite! We were in need of a cafeteria monitor this year and guess who applied. Now might be a good time to mention his credentials...Army veteran who served all over the world and was in charge of some other people--high up in the chain of command, and blah, and blah, and blah. I stopped listening after he told us how many places he's ever visited and how he is retired at age 35 or something like that plus some more blah, blah, and blah. Seriously? His life ambition was to be in the army and then a cafeteria monitor?? Something smells fishy to me!
With all this ego and being in charge experience, he is now in charge of the cafeteria. Well, he thinks so anyway. He walks around with his badge, walkie talkie, and whistle kind of like a security guard does at the mall. Too bad he doesn't have a golf cart with a flashing light on top. If our cafeteria was big enough, he might request one. He gives teachers reports about their students like they were his servants in the army. I ignore because I don't like how he talks to us and doesn't understand the kids. With that being said, I do tell my kids that if something happens in the cafeteria, there is no negotiating and you have a few minutes out of recess. There are too many kids in the cafeteria for ANY playing around. But, when this man tells me something they've done, I often check for accuracy and to see if any exaggeration exists in his story.
A little reminder...once you've done all kinds of "extravagant" things in your life, don't come home to be a cafeteria monitor, but continue to dwell on your past life like it was so much better. You are the owner of your choices...make ones you're proud of!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Brrrr....it's cold outside!
A cold front came through today. It wasn't supposed to come through until mid-today, but it had already come through when I woke up this morning. It wouldn't be much of a concern except that my classroom is in a portable building.
I bundled up to walk my dog this morning and realized that I wasn't bundled up enough. I knew that I was definitely not bundled up enough for recess if a little walk outside was freezing. In Texas, it usually warms up by 10-11 am and then only a light jacket is needed. Today was different. Every time I left my portable, I had to put on my gloves, scarf, first jacket, and coat. The problem with this is that I cover up my lanyard that holds my room key and access card to the building. It's all a hassle to go into the building on a cold day.
Of course, recess was indoors today. My class is used to using the bathroom after recess, but I refused to go back outside when the nice warm heater was blowing inside. I sent them inside a few at a time so that I could avoid the arctic blast outside. It worked for me and only the kids who REALLY REALLY had to use the bathroom went. It wasn't worth wasting class time to go to the bathroom in the cold.
I do realize this blog doesn't meet the usual standard, but I know that I have some loyal readers who expect something every day. You're lucky I wrote anything today, considering that I'm very congested and was miserable throughout most of the day. I hope you all stay warm tonight and tomorrow!
I bundled up to walk my dog this morning and realized that I wasn't bundled up enough. I knew that I was definitely not bundled up enough for recess if a little walk outside was freezing. In Texas, it usually warms up by 10-11 am and then only a light jacket is needed. Today was different. Every time I left my portable, I had to put on my gloves, scarf, first jacket, and coat. The problem with this is that I cover up my lanyard that holds my room key and access card to the building. It's all a hassle to go into the building on a cold day.
Of course, recess was indoors today. My class is used to using the bathroom after recess, but I refused to go back outside when the nice warm heater was blowing inside. I sent them inside a few at a time so that I could avoid the arctic blast outside. It worked for me and only the kids who REALLY REALLY had to use the bathroom went. It wasn't worth wasting class time to go to the bathroom in the cold.
I do realize this blog doesn't meet the usual standard, but I know that I have some loyal readers who expect something every day. You're lucky I wrote anything today, considering that I'm very congested and was miserable throughout most of the day. I hope you all stay warm tonight and tomorrow!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
This is not an experiment!
Our yearly Science Fair is quickly approaching. And with the science fair comes the demand that each child do a science experiment. They can choose to present it in the class or the fair. The only real requirement is that they must present an experiment, not a demonstration or presentation of facts. This means no volcanoes, no model of the solar system or galaxies, or anything else that doesn't "ask a question that you don't already know."
We talked about the requirements for 30 minutes in class 2 days before the proposal was due. We talked about the difference between demonstrations and experiments. I allowed kids to ask if their idea was acceptable and even tried to help them alter it a bit if it wasn't an experiment. We spent way more time on this than planned, but I wanted to be sure that everyone understood the requirements/expectations.
When the proposals were turned in, I was hoping for greatness. I was sorely disappointed. I had very few kids who really understood what they were supposed to do. I wrote comments on most of the proposals making suggestions or probing for more information. I then handed the proposals back and told them, "Some of you have not followed the instructions to create an experiment and some of you only need to answer my questions before you're on your way. Just because you are getting your proposal back, does not mean that you have to come up with a brand new idea."
What do you know?!?! I finish passing them back to look around and see William crying.
W: "I worked so hard on this."
Me: "I understand you worked hard. I also understand that you probably spent some time on this. But, you did not create an experiment. Yours is a demonstration and we talked about the expectations yesterday."
W: "I hate this project."
Me: "I understand your frustration. I need you to think about the requirements and create a new experiment. I will not accept what has been turned in."
He continues to cry very audibly. Go figure that. None of the other kids were quite this upset. I really wish he would start listening to the directions the first time so he wouldn't get so upset when I tell him he has to start over.
We talked about the requirements for 30 minutes in class 2 days before the proposal was due. We talked about the difference between demonstrations and experiments. I allowed kids to ask if their idea was acceptable and even tried to help them alter it a bit if it wasn't an experiment. We spent way more time on this than planned, but I wanted to be sure that everyone understood the requirements/expectations.
When the proposals were turned in, I was hoping for greatness. I was sorely disappointed. I had very few kids who really understood what they were supposed to do. I wrote comments on most of the proposals making suggestions or probing for more information. I then handed the proposals back and told them, "Some of you have not followed the instructions to create an experiment and some of you only need to answer my questions before you're on your way. Just because you are getting your proposal back, does not mean that you have to come up with a brand new idea."
What do you know?!?! I finish passing them back to look around and see William crying.
W: "I worked so hard on this."
Me: "I understand you worked hard. I also understand that you probably spent some time on this. But, you did not create an experiment. Yours is a demonstration and we talked about the expectations yesterday."
W: "I hate this project."
Me: "I understand your frustration. I need you to think about the requirements and create a new experiment. I will not accept what has been turned in."
He continues to cry very audibly. Go figure that. None of the other kids were quite this upset. I really wish he would start listening to the directions the first time so he wouldn't get so upset when I tell him he has to start over.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Another marriage proposal???
We have had a Peppermint Village Holiday Gift Shop at school all week. Kids have been able to go buy presents for their family and friends and teachers if so desired. One of my students did buy me a NYC lunch kit. It's not very big, but I love it. I even carried my lunch in it today. We've also had some other gift exchanges within the classroom.
Torrie: "Ms. L, look what Colin bought be." (and she points to a pink sequin hat) "Do you think I look cute in it?"
Me: "Yes. It looks very cute. That was very nice of Colin to buy that for you."
Torrie: "I thought so too."
He really bought her a hat? I guess some one's got a crush!!!!
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Michael: "Look what I have?"
Me: "Wow! Look at that ring!"
Michael: "Victoria gave it to me."
Me: "Huh? Are y'all getting married?"
Michael: "EWWWWWWWW! That's gross! That's disgusting! Why would you say that? EWWWWW!"
Me: "Well, she gave you a ring. Especially that big ring. That usually means you are getting married."
Michael: "Those are icky, disgusting words!"
Torrie: "Ms. L, look what Colin bought be." (and she points to a pink sequin hat) "Do you think I look cute in it?"
Me: "Yes. It looks very cute. That was very nice of Colin to buy that for you."
Torrie: "I thought so too."
He really bought her a hat? I guess some one's got a crush!!!!
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Michael: "Look what I have?"
Me: "Wow! Look at that ring!"
Michael: "Victoria gave it to me."
Me: "Huh? Are y'all getting married?"
Michael: "EWWWWWWWW! That's gross! That's disgusting! Why would you say that? EWWWWW!"
Me: "Well, she gave you a ring. Especially that big ring. That usually means you are getting married."
Michael: "Those are icky, disgusting words!"
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
It was Day Two of the Rock Solid Math workshop today. While I was in my meeting, my portable mate sent me a message saying that I again didn't have a sub show up. Seriously??? You can bet this is the last time the school makes me attend something for 2 days in a row. Besides that...
I stopped by my classroom after school today just to make sure things were in order for me tomorrow. I walked in to see a chalkboard full of "Welcome Back" messages and even a card on my desk. I also had a present sitting on my desk. It was nice to see how much they missed me and care for me.
This also means that when they are bad in the future, I can say, "If you aren't appreciating what I have to say or do while I'm here, I can just have a sub come in." I have a feeling that might get there attention....hahahahaha!
I stopped by my classroom after school today just to make sure things were in order for me tomorrow. I walked in to see a chalkboard full of "Welcome Back" messages and even a card on my desk. I also had a present sitting on my desk. It was nice to see how much they missed me and care for me.
This also means that when they are bad in the future, I can say, "If you aren't appreciating what I have to say or do while I'm here, I can just have a sub come in." I have a feeling that might get there attention....hahahahaha!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
What's with the 80's music?
Today was Day One of a workshop called Rock Solid Math. It is a workshop that two 4th grade teachers from each school in the district are attending, so that we are all on the same page about our math instruction. I'll sum (that's my math pun) up today in terms of pros and cons.PROS:
- The monotony was broken with short segments of Name That Tune.
- There was one cute male teacher.
- I already do teach problem solving strategies the way that is highly encouraged.
- We didn't start until 8:30 and I was out by 3:30 (and did not return to the school to get papers or see how the sub's day was).
- I was able to spend my lunch break in IKEA.
- I was able to pass notes with a teammate from my school.
- We went on a cruise after lunch.
- I learned about a Mathematician's Chair (think "Author's Chair").
- We were given a composition notebook...good for coloring in between the black spots.
- I get to share my meeting with John Mayer to a new group of people, because at these workshops, you always have to share something unique about yourself.
CONS:
- All of the Name That Tune songs seemed to be from the 80s. (I don't know 80s music...I was only 5 years old when they were over.)
- It's hard being a student...quite tiring.
- I was stalked by a guy in IKEA.
- There was chocolate sitting on the table after lunch and I have no will power.
- The people I was in groups with had terrible hand writing...and they actually volunteered. If you know me, I should have written.
- The after lunch cruise did not help me escape the workshop...it was actually more work and learning.
- We kept reading the same thing over and over about a Mathematician's Chair and problem solving strategies.
- I found out my sub called in sick and I did not have a sub when school began this morning.
- I worried about what was happening in my classroom.
- I missed my class!
I hope you all noticed how many pros and cons were actually focused on what I was supposed to learn...I would like to reiterate that I did not want to attend this workshop to begin with, but it was not a choice.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Is this a marriage proposal?
Victor: "When are you going to be a Mrs.?"
Me: "I don't know."
V: "Soon?"
Me: "No."
V: "You need to get married soon."
Me: "I don't need to."
V: "Yes you do. You can be my Mrs."
Me: "You're a little young for me. I like my guys a little older."
Class: "A little? Don't you mean a lot?"
Me: "Yes. A lot! Like 3 times your age."
Class: (laughing)
Me: "I don't know."
V: "Soon?"
Me: "No."
V: "You need to get married soon."
Me: "I don't need to."
V: "Yes you do. You can be my Mrs."
Me: "You're a little young for me. I like my guys a little older."
Class: "A little? Don't you mean a lot?"
Me: "Yes. A lot! Like 3 times your age."
Class: (laughing)
Parenting Advice
At the ripe old age of 23 (almost 24) with no children, I often find myself in the situation of giving parenting advice. Although I do not have children of my own, I feel my parents did a good job and I babysat enough to see many different parenting styles and figure out how to deal with unruly children. Those children are now old enough to be reading this blog themselves...so I guess that does give me some right to give advice to parents. Many of these advice bits have been repeated and repeated at my parent conferences this year, but this was the most important. Please keep in mind that this conference was with a parent of a specials needs child. One who might need this more than any other kid in my room.
Today at a conference, I heard myself telling a parent what might work at home. I offered such advice as:
- Create a schedule that he has some leeway and can make his own decisions.
- Create a reward system, something he wants to earn at home using some object he can collect and keep track of his earnings.
- Create consequences for unwanted behavior and something he has to physical do himself to know he's accepting the consequence.
- Show patience and answer his questions. He needs to understand answers before he can move on.
- Don't use figurative language. He doesn't understand it and only makes him more frustrated.
- Have him play with other kids.
- Don't worry about academics, we want his social skills to develop so that he can understand feelings when he's reading about them.
I just find it funny that I was sitting in the conference with the parent, counselor, educational assistant, and speech teacher giving advice about what to do at home, when I have no children of my own. I know my dog appreciates schedules. She expects her food and potty breaks at certain times and becomes grumpy and restless if I am late. Aren't kids just like dogs?
Today at a conference, I heard myself telling a parent what might work at home. I offered such advice as:
- Create a schedule that he has some leeway and can make his own decisions.
- Create a reward system, something he wants to earn at home using some object he can collect and keep track of his earnings.
- Create consequences for unwanted behavior and something he has to physical do himself to know he's accepting the consequence.
- Show patience and answer his questions. He needs to understand answers before he can move on.
- Don't use figurative language. He doesn't understand it and only makes him more frustrated.
- Have him play with other kids.
- Don't worry about academics, we want his social skills to develop so that he can understand feelings when he's reading about them.
I just find it funny that I was sitting in the conference with the parent, counselor, educational assistant, and speech teacher giving advice about what to do at home, when I have no children of my own. I know my dog appreciates schedules. She expects her food and potty breaks at certain times and becomes grumpy and restless if I am late. Aren't kids just like dogs?
You already teach math good.
Today I was informing my kiddos that I would not be at school for the next 2 days. Groans followed with, "WHY!?!?!?!"
Me: "Cause I am going to a class to learn how to teach math better."
Class: "You already teach math good. You don't need to go there. We don't want you to leave."
Me: "Believe me, I would rather stay here. It takes a lot of work and worrying to get ready for a sub."
Isn't that the truth?! I was at school til 7:00 tonight planning for Tuesday and Wednesday. I did have a conference at 5:00 that took an hour, but it was still too much work and not worth being out for 2 days. My kids might find a renewed appreciation for me after they do worksheets and textbook work for the next 2 days.
I'll let everyone know if the workshop was worth the planning stress or just a waste of my day. The good news is that I get to sleep in a bit in the morning...30 minutes is 30 minutes.
Me: "Cause I am going to a class to learn how to teach math better."
Class: "You already teach math good. You don't need to go there. We don't want you to leave."
Me: "Believe me, I would rather stay here. It takes a lot of work and worrying to get ready for a sub."
Isn't that the truth?! I was at school til 7:00 tonight planning for Tuesday and Wednesday. I did have a conference at 5:00 that took an hour, but it was still too much work and not worth being out for 2 days. My kids might find a renewed appreciation for me after they do worksheets and textbook work for the next 2 days.
I'll let everyone know if the workshop was worth the planning stress or just a waste of my day. The good news is that I get to sleep in a bit in the morning...30 minutes is 30 minutes.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Deep Sadness
Today I went through something as a teacher that is an unfortunate reality. It was difficult to deal with and still is. Because of these events, I have only more clearly realized why I am a teacher. Kids need you. They need someone that will just give them a hug, pat on the back, or words of encouragement. They need love.
This year I have I learned to appreciate the little gifts that are hidden in each child. Even the ones I've written about being obnoxious and difficult have something unique and positive. This is my job to find if I haven't yet. Unfortunately, I see it in many kids and other people don't. Regardless of what obstacles you may have, think about all the positives that overcompensate for them.
I truly love every single kid in my class, more than I ever thought possible...even the ones that cry every day!
This year I have I learned to appreciate the little gifts that are hidden in each child. Even the ones I've written about being obnoxious and difficult have something unique and positive. This is my job to find if I haven't yet. Unfortunately, I see it in many kids and other people don't. Regardless of what obstacles you may have, think about all the positives that overcompensate for them.
I truly love every single kid in my class, more than I ever thought possible...even the ones that cry every day!
Taken Aback
On Monday, I took my class to preview the book fair. There were lots of cute cookbooks. I was looking through "Classroom Treats" and noticed an igloo shaped cake. I told the kids standing around me, "If you buy me that book, I will make this igloo cake for our holiday party."
Today I was taking my class to the bathroom after recess and knew my kids who had gone to the book fair during recess were taking entirely too long. As I was thinking that, they all came rushing out of the library and threw a plastic bag in my arms and said, "Happy Birthday!" I opened it up to find the cookbook that I needed to make the igloo cake.
Four kids pooled their money in order to by me the book. One of them said, "I wanted a Star Wars book, but I decided to help by this book instead." This comment was reiterated by another two students. I was touched! These are kids that I have written about before who have had difficulty in class that has led to tears many times. They were thoughtful and generous and really thought I should have the cookbook more than they should have the book they've been talking about all week.
"So, Ms. L...this means you have to make us that igloo cake now!"
Today I was taking my class to the bathroom after recess and knew my kids who had gone to the book fair during recess were taking entirely too long. As I was thinking that, they all came rushing out of the library and threw a plastic bag in my arms and said, "Happy Birthday!" I opened it up to find the cookbook that I needed to make the igloo cake.
Four kids pooled their money in order to by me the book. One of them said, "I wanted a Star Wars book, but I decided to help by this book instead." This comment was reiterated by another two students. I was touched! These are kids that I have written about before who have had difficulty in class that has led to tears many times. They were thoughtful and generous and really thought I should have the cookbook more than they should have the book they've been talking about all week.
"So, Ms. L...this means you have to make us that igloo cake now!"
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Can I cut you?
Before heading to lunch, I let kids know what work they were missing (even though it was posted on the chalkboard all day -- with code numbers of course).
Michael: "I didn't think I was missing anything else."
Me: "You are missing your writing piece. You turned in your writing folder, but there was no composition inside."
M: (looks at the grading rubric inside and becomes confused) "Huh?"
Me: "That is the paper I am going to use when I grade it, but I don't have it."
M: (still very confused and now crying)
Me: "I see you are confused?"
M: "Yes."
Me: "Okay. I went to grade your writing piece using this rubric and your small moment story was not in the folder."
M: "Oh, it's in my desk!" (and heads to his desk to get out his paper and turn it in)
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During dismissal today, another teacher came and told me, "One of your students said he was going to cut someone. Jennifer thought I should tell you." I immediately went over and quietly called him over.
Me: "Michael, did you say you were going to cut someone?"
Michael: "No."
Me: "Then why would someone tell me that?"
M: (begins crying to the point that he is difficult to understand, but this is what I think he said) "I didn't say that!" (continues crying for the rest of the conversation)
Me: "Did you say you were going to cut them with scissors?"
M: "No. I said I was going to cut them with a knife."
Me: "What?!? You said you were going to cut them with a knife?"
M: "NO!!"
Me: "Then what did you say?"
M: "I asked if I could cut him?"
Me: "You wanted to cut him?"
M: "Yes?"
Me: "Why would you say something like that?"
M: "Cause I just wanted to get in front of him."
Michael: "I didn't think I was missing anything else."
Me: "You are missing your writing piece. You turned in your writing folder, but there was no composition inside."
M: (looks at the grading rubric inside and becomes confused) "Huh?"
Me: "That is the paper I am going to use when I grade it, but I don't have it."
M: (still very confused and now crying)
Me: "I see you are confused?"
M: "Yes."
Me: "Okay. I went to grade your writing piece using this rubric and your small moment story was not in the folder."
M: "Oh, it's in my desk!" (and heads to his desk to get out his paper and turn it in)
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During dismissal today, another teacher came and told me, "One of your students said he was going to cut someone. Jennifer thought I should tell you." I immediately went over and quietly called him over.
Me: "Michael, did you say you were going to cut someone?"
Michael: "No."
Me: "Then why would someone tell me that?"
M: (begins crying to the point that he is difficult to understand, but this is what I think he said) "I didn't say that!" (continues crying for the rest of the conversation)
Me: "Did you say you were going to cut them with scissors?"
M: "No. I said I was going to cut them with a knife."
Me: "What?!? You said you were going to cut them with a knife?"
M: "NO!!"
Me: "Then what did you say?"
M: "I asked if I could cut him?"
Me: "You wanted to cut him?"
M: "Yes?"
Me: "Why would you say something like that?"
M: "Cause I just wanted to get in front of him."
Monday, December 1, 2008
Are you kidding me?
Before lunch today, I warned the kids who had not turned in an assignment that I needed it in my hand before recess. I had a crew of kids come to my desk telling me, "Ms. L, I turned mine in!!!"Me: "I'm sorry. I do not have your paper in the basket. I need you to check again."
Everyone: "No. I put mine in the basket."
Me: "If you put it in the basket, I would have it. I do not have it. Maybe you got distracted before you made it to the basket. Please check your folder/desk again."
Torrie: (tears welling up in her eyes) "I know I put mine in the basket."
Me: "I do not have it."
Torrie: (having difficulty holding back tears) "Well, I put it in there. I promise!"
Me: "I believe that you believe you put it in the basket. Unfortunately, I still don't have it. Could you please look again to see if it didn't make it."
Torrie: (bursting into full tears) "I turned it in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Another student rushes over and says, "Torrie, come on. I will help you look for it."
Don't get me wrong. I felt for this little girl. I was being as nice as possible, but I have kids tell me all the time that they turned something in and then later find it in their desk. In this case, I will admit a mistake. Turns out that she did turn it in. Another kid had already come up and claimed her paper (because it didn't have a name). I apologized for telling her that she didn't turn it in, but that I couldn't do anything about someone claiming her paper because it was name-less. In my defense, it didn't look like her usual quality of work and she is not one with a distinctive handwriting. Maybe she'll write her name on all of her papers in the future.
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