"Tonight your homework page is called 'Peanut the Squirrel'. We talked about the difference between character traits and character feelings yesterday. You are going to read about Peanut and use the back to write some of his traits and feelings. For example, if Peanut lost his nuts, he would be sad or upset. If he got more nuts today, he would be happy and excited. Now, if Peanut was able to keep track of his nuts, he would be responsible. If Peanut kept track of his friend's nut, he would be trustworthy. Do you all understand what your homework is?"
How many of you found this explanation as inappropriate as I did? While these words were coming out of my mouth, all I could hope is that one of my students wouldn't pick up on the inappropriateness of my directions. If this had been last year's class, I wouldn't have ever thought about saying these particular words in this particular order, but this year, my class is so sweet that even if they did get it, they never brought it to my attention.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
Planet Orobu?
I have a student who has been very hard to connect with. When I try and talk, he seems to be off in another world. Well, it was confirmed today that he spent most of last year on a planet far, far away...at least that's what it seemed like. When I speak to him, he acts as if I have startled him...or is it, brought him back down to Earth? This student is unable to follow directions because he's not listening to them. Unfortunately, he is capable of the work and is able to prove it when needed (standardized tests). I say unfortunately because this means that any sort of intervention would be a waist of my time because he does have the ability to succeed.
What does this mean for me? I'm going to have to stay about 3 inches from his desk in order to "force" him to work. This is unrealistic for any teacher...especially one who has 5 other kids just like this. These children don't seem to be on their own planet like this particular child does, but they may be in flight. My class is VERY capable of being high achievers, unfortunately, their attention problems are interfering with the production of their high quality work. I guess I will spend this year on perfecting my skills as a teacher that can get kids to work, even on Planet Orobu.
P.S. - The planet name is made up...or is it?
What does this mean for me? I'm going to have to stay about 3 inches from his desk in order to "force" him to work. This is unrealistic for any teacher...especially one who has 5 other kids just like this. These children don't seem to be on their own planet like this particular child does, but they may be in flight. My class is VERY capable of being high achievers, unfortunately, their attention problems are interfering with the production of their high quality work. I guess I will spend this year on perfecting my skills as a teacher that can get kids to work, even on Planet Orobu.
P.S. - The planet name is made up...or is it?
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Caution: Brain at Work!
Today I witnessed the most amazing thing of my teaching career...
The class was working, but Victor finished early. My teacher's aid began writing down some multiplication problems for him to work to occupy his time wisely. He laughed at the problems she wrote down and said, "Too easy!" He then wrote down problems and began working those instead. But...the normal child (and myself) would need to write down the problem, show work for each column, add up my products, and add them for the answer. Well, you should know by now that Victor is not like my other students.
This is what I observed: Victor was standing, throwing a pencil around in the air. I occasionally heard him say a number, but could hear mumbling the entire time. All of a sudden, he would loudly say the answer and then write it down. He is able to work multiplication problems in his head and produce the correct answer. This amazed me. It was almost like Rain Man. Seemingly distracted, not focusing on the problem, he visualized the numbers in his head and was able to work it out. His only problem is writing the answer by the correct problem.
I have no idea what I'm going to do when I have to teach the rest of the class multiplication. Can he teach it for me?
The class was working, but Victor finished early. My teacher's aid began writing down some multiplication problems for him to work to occupy his time wisely. He laughed at the problems she wrote down and said, "Too easy!" He then wrote down problems and began working those instead. But...the normal child (and myself) would need to write down the problem, show work for each column, add up my products, and add them for the answer. Well, you should know by now that Victor is not like my other students.
This is what I observed: Victor was standing, throwing a pencil around in the air. I occasionally heard him say a number, but could hear mumbling the entire time. All of a sudden, he would loudly say the answer and then write it down. He is able to work multiplication problems in his head and produce the correct answer. This amazed me. It was almost like Rain Man. Seemingly distracted, not focusing on the problem, he visualized the numbers in his head and was able to work it out. His only problem is writing the answer by the correct problem.
I have no idea what I'm going to do when I have to teach the rest of the class multiplication. Can he teach it for me?
Monday, September 15, 2008
This is a terrible prize!
I need to catch up on 2 days worth of blogs...and with my class, it's non-stop blog material.
As an incentive for kids to give their parents our 4th grade monthly newsletters, we've added a puzzle to it that they can complete, get signed and return for a prize. I've had quite a few kids bring in their answers and when I handed one child his prize (a pencil), he responded with, "This is a terrible prize. Just terrible. This is a terrible prize!" If you're wondering, it was Victor. See previous blogs in order to understand this child's personality. I understand that a pencil is not the greatest prize, but I am a teacher and funds are limited. The problem was that he had just received a pencil for a prize from a school drawing. He is also working on accepting things and saying "Thank you" rather than a response like the one I got.
As an incentive for kids to give their parents our 4th grade monthly newsletters, we've added a puzzle to it that they can complete, get signed and return for a prize. I've had quite a few kids bring in their answers and when I handed one child his prize (a pencil), he responded with, "This is a terrible prize. Just terrible. This is a terrible prize!" If you're wondering, it was Victor. See previous blogs in order to understand this child's personality. I understand that a pencil is not the greatest prize, but I am a teacher and funds are limited. The problem was that he had just received a pencil for a prize from a school drawing. He is also working on accepting things and saying "Thank you" rather than a response like the one I got.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Hurricane of a day!
We found out late yesterday afternoon that today was going to be an early release because of the hurricane that is headed towards Galveston/Houston. Austin was trying to prepare for the evacuees from the coast. Some of the kids knew when they arrived at school and I informed others that school would be releasing at 12:45. This was a bit difficult for Richard to understand...
R: "My mom doesn't know today is an early release."
Me: "How are you supposed to get home?"
R: "My mom was supposed to tell me. She doesn't know that today is an early release."
Me: "I understand that you don't think she knows about today, but how were you planning on getting home today?"
R: "The bus."
Me: "Then you are still going to ride the bus. It's just going to leave school a couple hours earlier than usual."
R: "But my mom doesn't know it's an early release."
Me: "It's okay. You are going to ride the bus and get off at your house."
R: "But she won't know and won't be waiting on me."
Me: "But you know where your stop is?"
R: "Yes, but my mom won't know that I will be coming."
Me: "Is she home today?"
R: "Yes, but she won't know that I'm coming."
Me: "It's okay. If she is going to be home, you can just get off at your stop and walk to your house."
R: "But my mom won't know that I'm coming."
Me: "It will be okay. Just get on the bus today, get off at your stop, and then walk to your house."
(I would like to say this is an exaggerated conversation, but that would make my life easier.)
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Some things are funny...it's natural. I try to make the day fun for everyone, but some kids find humor in things that aren't really funny. Because of the hurricane and their never-ending questions, we watched the United Streaming video on Hurricanes. The kids loved this. I explained that I was not a hurricane expert and this video could explain things a bit better. We also looked at Ike's track on www.stormpulse.com. We talked about where they weathermen predicted it would go and also about future hurricanes. I read the list of names for the rest of this year's hurricanes and one of them was also the name of a child in our class. Well, this is what Victor found more hilarious than necessary. He began rolling on the floor laughing hysterically about the hurricane having the same name as the kid in our class. According to Victor's response, there hasn't been anything more funny that's happened in his life. Imagine a child rolling on the floor and laughing hysterically...he was unstoppable!
R: "My mom doesn't know today is an early release."
Me: "How are you supposed to get home?"
R: "My mom was supposed to tell me. She doesn't know that today is an early release."
Me: "I understand that you don't think she knows about today, but how were you planning on getting home today?"
R: "The bus."
Me: "Then you are still going to ride the bus. It's just going to leave school a couple hours earlier than usual."
R: "But my mom doesn't know it's an early release."
Me: "It's okay. You are going to ride the bus and get off at your house."
R: "But she won't know and won't be waiting on me."
Me: "But you know where your stop is?"
R: "Yes, but my mom won't know that I will be coming."
Me: "Is she home today?"
R: "Yes, but she won't know that I'm coming."
Me: "It's okay. If she is going to be home, you can just get off at your stop and walk to your house."
R: "But my mom won't know that I'm coming."
Me: "It will be okay. Just get on the bus today, get off at your stop, and then walk to your house."
(I would like to say this is an exaggerated conversation, but that would make my life easier.)
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Some things are funny...it's natural. I try to make the day fun for everyone, but some kids find humor in things that aren't really funny. Because of the hurricane and their never-ending questions, we watched the United Streaming video on Hurricanes. The kids loved this. I explained that I was not a hurricane expert and this video could explain things a bit better. We also looked at Ike's track on www.stormpulse.com. We talked about where they weathermen predicted it would go and also about future hurricanes. I read the list of names for the rest of this year's hurricanes and one of them was also the name of a child in our class. Well, this is what Victor found more hilarious than necessary. He began rolling on the floor laughing hysterically about the hurricane having the same name as the kid in our class. According to Victor's response, there hasn't been anything more funny that's happened in his life. Imagine a child rolling on the floor and laughing hysterically...he was unstoppable!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Just get on the frog bus!!!
The two students I'm writing about today have both been the focus of previous blogs.
I was so worn out yesterday, I didn't get a chance to write about my conversation with Victor. This week he's been obsessing over glasses and why people wear them. A few days ago, we walked by a teacher who he knew from last year. She no longer wears glasses and he noticed. He questioned her about her glasses and why she no longer wears them. He found out that she had lasik on July 25th (a date she made up because he needed to know a date). Well...I wear glasses also. I don't need to wear them all day, but it makes my life easier and I don't have to strain to see children across the classroom. He informed me yesterday that I need eye surgery so that I won't have to wear glasses anymore. I said that I don't need surgery...
V: "Yes you do!"
Me: "No, I don't have to wear my glasses. I could go all day without them."
V: "You need to get eye surgery. It's just your eyes. You go to the doctor and get surgery."
Me: "I don't like surgery."
V: "It's okay. It's just your eyes, no where else."
Me: "I don't want to."
V: "You should!!!"
Me: "Okay, Victor...I'll ask my doctor about getting lasik."
V: "Good!" And he immediately returned to work. By the way, I'm not looking into getting lasik.
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My next encounter was with the student I was referring to in yesterday's blog. He is a child that seems to have difficulty with processing information. I know he is capable of completely his work successfully, but I don't know if he's capable of doing it without asking me, "Is this good?"
I digress and move onto today's bus situation. Today was the first day that Richard rode the bus to school and was riding it home. I asked him what bus he needed to get on and he told me the frog bus (each of our buses is labeled with an animal). This is the conversation that ensued (and yes he does start every sentences with 'so'):
R: "How do I know which bus is the frog bus?"
Me: "The one with the frog picture in the window."
R: "Is the picture in the front window?"
Me: "No, it's in the window next to the doors."
R: "So, like the front window?"
Me: "No, the window to the left of the doors that open up."
R: "So, when the doors open up in the front?"
Me: "No. When the doors open up, the picture will be to the left of the doors in the first window."
R: "How do I know it's the frog bus?"
Me: "It has the picture in the window! Who else rides the frog bus that can be sure Richard makes it on the bus today?" (I find him a partner at this point knowing that there is a chance he could get lost.)
R: "Do I get on the bus?"
Me: "Yes, if you stand outside the bus, you will be standing there when it leaves."
R: "But where do I wait for my little brother?"
Me: "On the bus!"
R: "But how will he find the frog bus?"
Me: "The same way you are going to find it...with a friend and looking at the picture."
R: "So, where do I go for the bus?"
Me: "You follow the bus line and your buddy."
R: "Okay, so I find the bus with the frog?"
Me: "Yes. Caitlyn, can you please make sure Richard makes it on the bus? Ms. L (another teacher), can you please make sure this student who might look lost and ask a zillion questions finds the FROG BUS! Just make sure he gets on the FROG BUS! Don't let him wait around. Just make sure whatever you do, he's on the FROG bus when they leave."
I, in no way, exaggerated this conversation. Unfortunately, almost every conversation with Richard is similar to this. I might run out of blog space if I continue to write our entire conversations. Hopefully this is just part of his being new to our school, but I have an uneasy feeling that it's not going to wear off any time soon!
I was so worn out yesterday, I didn't get a chance to write about my conversation with Victor. This week he's been obsessing over glasses and why people wear them. A few days ago, we walked by a teacher who he knew from last year. She no longer wears glasses and he noticed. He questioned her about her glasses and why she no longer wears them. He found out that she had lasik on July 25th (a date she made up because he needed to know a date). Well...I wear glasses also. I don't need to wear them all day, but it makes my life easier and I don't have to strain to see children across the classroom. He informed me yesterday that I need eye surgery so that I won't have to wear glasses anymore. I said that I don't need surgery...
V: "Yes you do!"
Me: "No, I don't have to wear my glasses. I could go all day without them."
V: "You need to get eye surgery. It's just your eyes. You go to the doctor and get surgery."
Me: "I don't like surgery."
V: "It's okay. It's just your eyes, no where else."
Me: "I don't want to."
V: "You should!!!"
Me: "Okay, Victor...I'll ask my doctor about getting lasik."
V: "Good!" And he immediately returned to work. By the way, I'm not looking into getting lasik.
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My next encounter was with the student I was referring to in yesterday's blog. He is a child that seems to have difficulty with processing information. I know he is capable of completely his work successfully, but I don't know if he's capable of doing it without asking me, "Is this good?"
I digress and move onto today's bus situation. Today was the first day that Richard rode the bus to school and was riding it home. I asked him what bus he needed to get on and he told me the frog bus (each of our buses is labeled with an animal). This is the conversation that ensued (and yes he does start every sentences with 'so'):
R: "How do I know which bus is the frog bus?"
Me: "The one with the frog picture in the window."
R: "Is the picture in the front window?"
Me: "No, it's in the window next to the doors."
R: "So, like the front window?"
Me: "No, the window to the left of the doors that open up."
R: "So, when the doors open up in the front?"
Me: "No. When the doors open up, the picture will be to the left of the doors in the first window."
R: "How do I know it's the frog bus?"
Me: "It has the picture in the window! Who else rides the frog bus that can be sure Richard makes it on the bus today?" (I find him a partner at this point knowing that there is a chance he could get lost.)
R: "Do I get on the bus?"
Me: "Yes, if you stand outside the bus, you will be standing there when it leaves."
R: "But where do I wait for my little brother?"
Me: "On the bus!"
R: "But how will he find the frog bus?"
Me: "The same way you are going to find it...with a friend and looking at the picture."
R: "So, where do I go for the bus?"
Me: "You follow the bus line and your buddy."
R: "Okay, so I find the bus with the frog?"
Me: "Yes. Caitlyn, can you please make sure Richard makes it on the bus? Ms. L (another teacher), can you please make sure this student who might look lost and ask a zillion questions finds the FROG BUS! Just make sure he gets on the FROG BUS! Don't let him wait around. Just make sure whatever you do, he's on the FROG bus when they leave."
I, in no way, exaggerated this conversation. Unfortunately, almost every conversation with Richard is similar to this. I might run out of blog space if I continue to write our entire conversations. Hopefully this is just part of his being new to our school, but I have an uneasy feeling that it's not going to wear off any time soon!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
I think a rock would understand better...
I have some kids in my class who pick up on things very quickly. This is typical. I also have students who need things explained 3 times. This is also typical. And then I have a student who needs things explained 5 times in a very detailed manner. I mean...this child needs me to explain things like, "You will not have to do all of these for homework because they are all the same. This is the stack of tonight's homework for the entire class."
And things like, "You may not make changes on someone else's paper, but you can tell them why they should. YOU should be making changes on your paper, especially words that your partner knows are spelling incorrectly." He adamantly said that he was not allowed to write on his own paper after this. Even when told he could 5 more times by 2 adults.
And more..."Count down 10 lines and draw a line across your paper....you do NOT need to draw 10 lines across the paper, just one."
"Please leave the post it notes in your books. You can just move it to read tonight." I then had to answer, "But how am I going to read with it here?" "You can just turn it to read the page and it shouldn't bother you." "No, how do I read with it here?"
I've still got more..."Where do I tear this post it note?" Me, "Down the middle just like this..."(I showed everyone). "I can't do that, is this how? Do I do it this way or this way? I don't know how!"
SERIOUSLY! Some of these may have been difficult for you to visualize or understand, but the point I want to get across is that even when I show this student step-by-step, it doesn't usually work. He doesn't understand simple directions and just doesn't know how to do things that 4th graders should. It's just weird what he doesn't know by now that the letter /i/ when written alone should always be capitalized. And that 4 sentences is not the same as 4 lines on notebook paper. Or that you always begin a sentence with a capital letter. Hmmm....makes me wonder about the standards at his old school. I guess I'll find out as the year goes on.
And things like, "You may not make changes on someone else's paper, but you can tell them why they should. YOU should be making changes on your paper, especially words that your partner knows are spelling incorrectly." He adamantly said that he was not allowed to write on his own paper after this. Even when told he could 5 more times by 2 adults.
And more..."Count down 10 lines and draw a line across your paper....you do NOT need to draw 10 lines across the paper, just one."
"Please leave the post it notes in your books. You can just move it to read tonight." I then had to answer, "But how am I going to read with it here?" "You can just turn it to read the page and it shouldn't bother you." "No, how do I read with it here?"
I've still got more..."Where do I tear this post it note?" Me, "Down the middle just like this..."(I showed everyone). "I can't do that, is this how? Do I do it this way or this way? I don't know how!"
SERIOUSLY! Some of these may have been difficult for you to visualize or understand, but the point I want to get across is that even when I show this student step-by-step, it doesn't usually work. He doesn't understand simple directions and just doesn't know how to do things that 4th graders should. It's just weird what he doesn't know by now that the letter /i/ when written alone should always be capitalized. And that 4 sentences is not the same as 4 lines on notebook paper. Or that you always begin a sentence with a capital letter. Hmmm....makes me wonder about the standards at his old school. I guess I'll find out as the year goes on.
Monday, September 8, 2008
In the clouds...
Due to the allergies, I haven't felt so good for the past few days. It hit me especially hard today when I had to be on top of everything because 20 little people were relying on me. If there is one thing they didn't teach in teacher school, it is how to teach when you feel like s**t. I refuse to take a day off work for silly allergies and I don't think I feel that bad. I will dope myself up on allergy medicine and suck it up for the rest of the week, but please don't remind me that tomorrow is only Tuesday!
Good news: I am taking a half day afternoon Friday so that I can go scrapbook at a bed and breakfast all weekend....yay!
Good news: I am taking a half day afternoon Friday so that I can go scrapbook at a bed and breakfast all weekend....yay!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Weekends = Stay Away From School
I've only had 2 weeks of school, but when I left school on Friday I was so far behind with paperwork and such. This was because I had to go out of town after the first week of school in order to see my sister get married. And this weekend, I had my cousin and aunt here looking at college. This meant that I had to leave school early both Thursday and Friday and not finish the work I needed to. Well, I'm not the type of person who can just let things pile up and never get to them. Things have to be done correctly and organized so I know where everything is. This may not sound like a form of OCD, but with all of my other symptoms, I've diagnosed myself based on the information I found on webMD.
Anyway, I feel this is all necessary background information for the story. I had tons of work and the only way to get it done was to go to school on the weekend. One (and maybe the only) perk of being in a portable is that you don't have to go into the scary dark school on the weekend when nobody else is at school. Well, this was a perk until I needed to laminated and make copies in the school. I had never been in the school after hours before and wasn't sure of the procedure. I was under the impression that if the door let me in, then the alarm was off and it was okay. I was WRONG! The door will still let you in and the moment you walk by the alarm system, it activates. I had no idea what to do...it was counting down and I didn't know the code. Well, needless to say, the alarm went off! I stood there for a second in shock, then ran to get my portable mate...hopefully she knew what to do. I was wrong! We had to call for backup and also the alarm company to let them know I was a fool and set off the alarm. It was quite nerve racking! About 5 minutes later, we deactivated the alarm and could still hear our ears ringing. I was then able to go about my business and make copies and laminate.
Lesson Learned: Do not go work at school on the weekends!!!!
Anyway, I feel this is all necessary background information for the story. I had tons of work and the only way to get it done was to go to school on the weekend. One (and maybe the only) perk of being in a portable is that you don't have to go into the scary dark school on the weekend when nobody else is at school. Well, this was a perk until I needed to laminated and make copies in the school. I had never been in the school after hours before and wasn't sure of the procedure. I was under the impression that if the door let me in, then the alarm was off and it was okay. I was WRONG! The door will still let you in and the moment you walk by the alarm system, it activates. I had no idea what to do...it was counting down and I didn't know the code. Well, needless to say, the alarm went off! I stood there for a second in shock, then ran to get my portable mate...hopefully she knew what to do. I was wrong! We had to call for backup and also the alarm company to let them know I was a fool and set off the alarm. It was quite nerve racking! About 5 minutes later, we deactivated the alarm and could still hear our ears ringing. I was then able to go about my business and make copies and laminate.
Lesson Learned: Do not go work at school on the weekends!!!!
Friday, September 5, 2008
Never Leave a Rolling Chair Unattended
YAY...it's finally Friday! It was a good week and we accomplished a lot. I also learned a bit more about the abilities of my students. And along with all of that bizness, I have also gained some great stories...Let's start with the odd balls...I mean unique students in my class. I truly don't mean odd balls, but rather, children who are out of the ordinary model students.
This student who I will call Kevin is a very capable child. He is on grade level in every area. This child has one thing going against him. His body and mind are unable to concentrate on anything he does (also known as a form of ADHD). I am constantly redirecting this child back to work. He NEEDS me to stand around him in order to get him back on task the moment he is off task. I understand that children need a bit of down time and that is not what I'm referring to, but it is more of the kid tying himself in his chair with his jacket instead of working. He is also the child who lays out his jacket on the ground during dismissal in a very meticulous manner in order to sit down for 2 minutes before the line heads home.
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Victor is another story. Literally, another story...
He is the student I have with special needs. Today he did a few humorous things, which is a usual day for him. He has a great personality, is very entertaining, and is really a joy to have in class (regardless of the extra attention he requires). Today as I was helping him write and turned around to help other students. When I returned to his desk, he was holding the sharp end of his pencil in his ear. I took the pencil out and he immediately began apologizing. I explained that it's not safe to put pencils in your ear because you could poke things out in there.
"What could I poke out?"
"The inside of your ear."
"Where's that?" And he continued on. He also began saying that his ear at first didn't hurt after poking it and then he see-sawed back and forth about whether or not it hurt. He also then tried grabbing my finger and putting it in his ear. I had to inform him that, "My finger does not go in your ear."
This all may sound a bit odd to you, but this is the usual day in the life of Victor. In the life of Victor today, I also left my rolling/spinning chair unattended near his desk. When I returned after helping other kids, he was sitting in it and spinning around. It was funny, because I know none of the other kids in my class would have tried that (at this point in the year).
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"Ms. L, my mom said I will probably have to get braces when I'm older. Do you think I'll look cute with braces?" Of course I responded she would. She would actually look cute wearing or doing anything. She is a miniature 4th grader. She is much smaller than most of the other kids, but what she lacks in size, she makes up for with courage.
I love each and every one of my kids (at this point). They are each unique and wonderful and great students. They have exceeded my expectation with what I was hoping for this year and I go home happy and knowing that I've met my goals for the day. I can't wait to see what the rest of the year has in store.
This student who I will call Kevin is a very capable child. He is on grade level in every area. This child has one thing going against him. His body and mind are unable to concentrate on anything he does (also known as a form of ADHD). I am constantly redirecting this child back to work. He NEEDS me to stand around him in order to get him back on task the moment he is off task. I understand that children need a bit of down time and that is not what I'm referring to, but it is more of the kid tying himself in his chair with his jacket instead of working. He is also the child who lays out his jacket on the ground during dismissal in a very meticulous manner in order to sit down for 2 minutes before the line heads home.
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Victor is another story. Literally, another story...
He is the student I have with special needs. Today he did a few humorous things, which is a usual day for him. He has a great personality, is very entertaining, and is really a joy to have in class (regardless of the extra attention he requires). Today as I was helping him write and turned around to help other students. When I returned to his desk, he was holding the sharp end of his pencil in his ear. I took the pencil out and he immediately began apologizing. I explained that it's not safe to put pencils in your ear because you could poke things out in there.
"What could I poke out?"
"The inside of your ear."
"Where's that?" And he continued on. He also began saying that his ear at first didn't hurt after poking it and then he see-sawed back and forth about whether or not it hurt. He also then tried grabbing my finger and putting it in his ear. I had to inform him that, "My finger does not go in your ear."
This all may sound a bit odd to you, but this is the usual day in the life of Victor. In the life of Victor today, I also left my rolling/spinning chair unattended near his desk. When I returned after helping other kids, he was sitting in it and spinning around. It was funny, because I know none of the other kids in my class would have tried that (at this point in the year).
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"Ms. L, my mom said I will probably have to get braces when I'm older. Do you think I'll look cute with braces?" Of course I responded she would. She would actually look cute wearing or doing anything. She is a miniature 4th grader. She is much smaller than most of the other kids, but what she lacks in size, she makes up for with courage.
I love each and every one of my kids (at this point). They are each unique and wonderful and great students. They have exceeded my expectation with what I was hoping for this year and I go home happy and knowing that I've met my goals for the day. I can't wait to see what the rest of the year has in store.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Teacher Must Have: Flexibility
I walked into my room today and got a glimpse of what hell might feel like. My portable mate had arrived a few minutes earlier and informed me that my although the AC had been on, it was making a very loud and dreadful noise and it was also blowing hot air. She turned off the AC and it continued to blow hot air for quite some time. This was a fantastic start to the beginning of the week.
I don't do heat well (surprising since I live in Texas), and it was showing this morning. I was unable to collect my thoughts and my materials for that day because he heat was affecting the blood flow to my brain. This continued all morning. I knew what I had to do that day because I had planned it yesterday, but it was hard to concentrate on particular tasks and what was next. As the kids were working, many of them were fanning themselves with their folders while I was walking around wiping sweat off of my face, neck, and anywhere else that is appropriate to mention. The concentration of my kiddos was now beginning to fade. I decided we needed a morning break from the heat wave. While on our break, I noticed an empty computer lab with a very large carpet, one that would be perfect for our next lesson. We went back to class to collect our materials only to turn back around and head for the air conditioned room.
I have yet to mention how wonderful and patient my class was during this time. Even though they were miserable and sweating, they stayed cooperative with our situation. (If this had happened with last year's group of kids, we would not have been able to work through their complaining.) After we did a lesson in the computer lab, we had to return to our room with the hopes that the AC was fixed...which it was not. So again, we headed outside with our next materials in hand. We enjoyed a nice read aloud in the shade outside on a beautiful day before specials. Fortunately, the AC was repaired before they returned from specials, but it was disappointing that the room was still warm because it didn't have time to cool off. So...
My portable mate and I planned a last minute lesson that we could do a group activity and avoid my still sauna-like portable. I can say that this was the last time we had to avoid my classroom today, but am thankful for my students' flexibility (even children who rely on routines). It was a rough start to the day and am hopeful that I arrive to a frozen room tomorrow.
I don't do heat well (surprising since I live in Texas), and it was showing this morning. I was unable to collect my thoughts and my materials for that day because he heat was affecting the blood flow to my brain. This continued all morning. I knew what I had to do that day because I had planned it yesterday, but it was hard to concentrate on particular tasks and what was next. As the kids were working, many of them were fanning themselves with their folders while I was walking around wiping sweat off of my face, neck, and anywhere else that is appropriate to mention. The concentration of my kiddos was now beginning to fade. I decided we needed a morning break from the heat wave. While on our break, I noticed an empty computer lab with a very large carpet, one that would be perfect for our next lesson. We went back to class to collect our materials only to turn back around and head for the air conditioned room.
I have yet to mention how wonderful and patient my class was during this time. Even though they were miserable and sweating, they stayed cooperative with our situation. (If this had happened with last year's group of kids, we would not have been able to work through their complaining.) After we did a lesson in the computer lab, we had to return to our room with the hopes that the AC was fixed...which it was not. So again, we headed outside with our next materials in hand. We enjoyed a nice read aloud in the shade outside on a beautiful day before specials. Fortunately, the AC was repaired before they returned from specials, but it was disappointing that the room was still warm because it didn't have time to cool off. So...
My portable mate and I planned a last minute lesson that we could do a group activity and avoid my still sauna-like portable. I can say that this was the last time we had to avoid my classroom today, but am thankful for my students' flexibility (even children who rely on routines). It was a rough start to the day and am hopeful that I arrive to a frozen room tomorrow.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Happily Fascinated
This week probably couldn't have gone much better if I had thought about it. In fact, all my thoughts prior to this week were reminiscent of last year. They were all, "What if I must be the super strict, mean teacher I had to pretend to be at times last year." Well, that is not the case at all. I have had to use my discipline chart and also have small talks with students, but I feel those small moments kept me from having to play Miss Viola Swamp for a day/week, etc.
I have a great group of kids...ones I will speak about individually at some point in the year and ones you've already read about. I have some struggling learners and some who I will struggle to keep engaged and academically occupied. I don't think the range of my kids is as vast as it was last year, but it doesn't really matter, because every year is new kids with new challenges.
Some first week stories:
--During ME Box sharing time, the child who I was warned about (by his father) about his "weird eyes" demonstrated his "weird eyes". He actually called it an usual talent...I called it weird and kind of gross. To truly understand what he can do, think about looking at a person when one eye is off to the side and one is straight towards you. He told me that when he does this, he sees 2 of everything. Even better...when he finished, another kid asked him to try and teach the trick to him. Yeah, we'll see if I can find something better for the two of them to do.
--"My mama said...she would bring my Me box to school." Well, first of all, who's responsibility is that? In 4th grade, we take responsibility for our actions and forgetting our homework at home is something only we can be responsible for. Oh and, we still don't have your Me box (after 3 days).
--I have a student who I'll refer to as Carson. After the first 2 days of school, I was a bit concerned. I hadn't had any kids jump out as behavior problems, except for Carson. He was that kid that needed another warning, already. He needed to be told 3 times to not do something that he shouldn't be doing already. He was setting bad examples for other students and was proud of it. That was until I figured him out. Yes, it's been 4 days of school and I think I have him pegged. Carson is very smart. He is also a bit OCD (non-diagnosed, but the same OCD I am). Things have to be put in place at his desk before he can do something else. He needs lots of things to occupy himself. He also needs something to keep his body moving while he's working...which I figured out was a soccer ball under his feet. Today he brought one from home and it was under his desk. Usually, they are to be stored in our recess basket, but I noticed how it helped him concentrate, because his feet were moving so his upper body could work. I told him the ball would be okay under his desk as long as it stayed under HIS desk. I completely forgot about it because he was so good.
While we were at recess, I had my good friend, portable mate, and co-worker come talk to me about Carson. She has girls that visit her classroom during lunch and recess for social skills. The only problem with this situation is that they usually talk and play with themselves. Well, she told me that she has seen Carson (a few times), talking to these girls and playing with them. In fact, when they needed a ball and he had one, he gave it to them. One even wanted to hold his hand and he let them. Most kids would walk away, and especially not let them hold their hands, but this is when I realized what a caring heart Carson has. He is the only kid I've seen initiate contact with these girls and not because a teacher asked. It's nice to see that some kids ignore all the stereotypes and labels given to people and are just nice!
--Today we made Life Maps (focusing on important moments in our lives). I mentioned in my first blog of the year that I have a child with special needs. Well, today he fascinated me in a way I have never seen in person. I began by asking him to write his birthday on his life map. That was the last time I had to ask him to write. 10 minutes later, he came to my desk and said that he ran out of space. I handed him more paper and took the one he had so that I could examine it. This child remembers specific dates for events in his life. For example, "October 13, 1997-I had a tube put in. August 23, 1999-My dad had surgery." This went on for 3 pages. I have no doubt in my mind that he remembers each of these dates. It reminded me of savants that I had seen on Oprah years ago. Savants can remember different things, and dates are what this particular kid specializes in. Amazed and fascinated are the only 2 words I can think of to describe what this child did today.
I have a great group of kids...ones I will speak about individually at some point in the year and ones you've already read about. I have some struggling learners and some who I will struggle to keep engaged and academically occupied. I don't think the range of my kids is as vast as it was last year, but it doesn't really matter, because every year is new kids with new challenges.
Some first week stories:
--During ME Box sharing time, the child who I was warned about (by his father) about his "weird eyes" demonstrated his "weird eyes". He actually called it an usual talent...I called it weird and kind of gross. To truly understand what he can do, think about looking at a person when one eye is off to the side and one is straight towards you. He told me that when he does this, he sees 2 of everything. Even better...when he finished, another kid asked him to try and teach the trick to him. Yeah, we'll see if I can find something better for the two of them to do.
--"My mama said...she would bring my Me box to school." Well, first of all, who's responsibility is that? In 4th grade, we take responsibility for our actions and forgetting our homework at home is something only we can be responsible for. Oh and, we still don't have your Me box (after 3 days).
--I have a student who I'll refer to as Carson. After the first 2 days of school, I was a bit concerned. I hadn't had any kids jump out as behavior problems, except for Carson. He was that kid that needed another warning, already. He needed to be told 3 times to not do something that he shouldn't be doing already. He was setting bad examples for other students and was proud of it. That was until I figured him out. Yes, it's been 4 days of school and I think I have him pegged. Carson is very smart. He is also a bit OCD (non-diagnosed, but the same OCD I am). Things have to be put in place at his desk before he can do something else. He needs lots of things to occupy himself. He also needs something to keep his body moving while he's working...which I figured out was a soccer ball under his feet. Today he brought one from home and it was under his desk. Usually, they are to be stored in our recess basket, but I noticed how it helped him concentrate, because his feet were moving so his upper body could work. I told him the ball would be okay under his desk as long as it stayed under HIS desk. I completely forgot about it because he was so good.
While we were at recess, I had my good friend, portable mate, and co-worker come talk to me about Carson. She has girls that visit her classroom during lunch and recess for social skills. The only problem with this situation is that they usually talk and play with themselves. Well, she told me that she has seen Carson (a few times), talking to these girls and playing with them. In fact, when they needed a ball and he had one, he gave it to them. One even wanted to hold his hand and he let them. Most kids would walk away, and especially not let them hold their hands, but this is when I realized what a caring heart Carson has. He is the only kid I've seen initiate contact with these girls and not because a teacher asked. It's nice to see that some kids ignore all the stereotypes and labels given to people and are just nice!
--Today we made Life Maps (focusing on important moments in our lives). I mentioned in my first blog of the year that I have a child with special needs. Well, today he fascinated me in a way I have never seen in person. I began by asking him to write his birthday on his life map. That was the last time I had to ask him to write. 10 minutes later, he came to my desk and said that he ran out of space. I handed him more paper and took the one he had so that I could examine it. This child remembers specific dates for events in his life. For example, "October 13, 1997-I had a tube put in. August 23, 1999-My dad had surgery." This went on for 3 pages. I have no doubt in my mind that he remembers each of these dates. It reminded me of savants that I had seen on Oprah years ago. Savants can remember different things, and dates are what this particular kid specializes in. Amazed and fascinated are the only 2 words I can think of to describe what this child did today.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
No, your name is...
Today was quite entertaining in the world of teaching...well, in my classroom at least. I have quite the entertaining class and today they really came out of their shells. They were very interested in asking me questions to learn about my life and also more questions about everything else they might need to know.
As a student was returning to his area from presenting his Me Box (a box with at least 5 items that describe his life), he needed another child to move out of his way. He said, "Move James!" The child said, "My name is not James, it's Jamie." "No, Jamie is a girl's name. Your name is James....James!" I am for sure that this child will continue to call his classmate by the wrong name, because he was adamant that the name given to this child wasn't the right one.
The rest of the day went fairly smoothly with a few more entertaining moments, but I'm too tired to write about more.
As a student was returning to his area from presenting his Me Box (a box with at least 5 items that describe his life), he needed another child to move out of his way. He said, "Move James!" The child said, "My name is not James, it's Jamie." "No, Jamie is a girl's name. Your name is James....James!" I am for sure that this child will continue to call his classmate by the wrong name, because he was adamant that the name given to this child wasn't the right one.
The rest of the day went fairly smoothly with a few more entertaining moments, but I'm too tired to write about more.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
A bit tired, but content...
Today was the second day of school and I got to know my kiddos even more. I talked about procedures I missed yesterday and those I need to reinforce daily. I managed a difficult day with my child with autism. He told me that he went to sleep late and woke up late this morning. If I've learned anything about children and especially children with disabilities, it is that they need structure and routine! When he went to sleep late and woke up late, his routine and structure were shot for the day. This meant that everything was difficult for him, including the daily things that shouldn't affect him very much (making a lunch choice or putting his backpack away). This is definitely a learning experience for me and we just work day to day.
If you've read my blog at the end of last year, you will know what I mean when I say, "My mama said..." Well, she's back! Yesterday I mentioned that I have her sister in my class this year. I was hoping that the sister I currently have would be different and not deliver messages from her mom by way of "My mama said...", but my hoping didn't come true. So here's the first of the year. "My mama said...she is going to send medicine for my hand. She said she would send it with my sister so that it would be in the nurse when I need it. Well, I don't know if she's going to send it today, tomorrow, or the next day. But she said she's going to send it."
What I look forward to most is the year continuing on in the manner in which it started, which is very polite, hard-working kiddos with great attitudes about school!
GREAT BOOK FIND:
This book is for a bit older kids (3rd-5th) because of the humor and play on words, but they love it! It's a fun way to talk about manners and at my school, Life Skills. We joined neighboring classes for this activity because in the book, the neighbors are otters. We read the book aloud and then divided the kids up to brainstorm ideas of how the manners that the neighbors would like to see in "otters" could be displayed in our classroom and school.
The kids worked COOPERATIVELY in order to draw or write how you should treat "otters". They did a great job letting everyone contribute with their ideas and drawing/writing abilities. They presented them at the end of the day and did a fantastic job. The kids also liked getting to work with our neighbor class so early in the year. Developing the community in our portable is almost as important as just in our classroom. It was definitely at least a 4 out of 5 star lesson!
If you've read my blog at the end of last year, you will know what I mean when I say, "My mama said..." Well, she's back! Yesterday I mentioned that I have her sister in my class this year. I was hoping that the sister I currently have would be different and not deliver messages from her mom by way of "My mama said...", but my hoping didn't come true. So here's the first of the year. "My mama said...she is going to send medicine for my hand. She said she would send it with my sister so that it would be in the nurse when I need it. Well, I don't know if she's going to send it today, tomorrow, or the next day. But she said she's going to send it."
What I look forward to most is the year continuing on in the manner in which it started, which is very polite, hard-working kiddos with great attitudes about school!
GREAT BOOK FIND:
This book is for a bit older kids (3rd-5th) because of the humor and play on words, but they love it! It's a fun way to talk about manners and at my school, Life Skills. We joined neighboring classes for this activity because in the book, the neighbors are otters. We read the book aloud and then divided the kids up to brainstorm ideas of how the manners that the neighbors would like to see in "otters" could be displayed in our classroom and school.The kids worked COOPERATIVELY in order to draw or write how you should treat "otters". They did a great job letting everyone contribute with their ideas and drawing/writing abilities. They presented them at the end of the day and did a fantastic job. The kids also liked getting to work with our neighbor class so early in the year. Developing the community in our portable is almost as important as just in our classroom. It was definitely at least a 4 out of 5 star lesson!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Teacher! Teacher!
So today was the first day of school. I seem to have a really good set of kids (knock on wood) and everything went fairly smoothly. I made it through the day and never felt really overwhelmed, except when I was waiting for the kids to get through the lunch line and I just wanted lunch. It's starting out to be a great blogging year because I already have a few personalities that are going to give me some great stories...and so it begins...
"The Sleeper" - For some background, she is the sister of last year's "My Mama" blog. (I have 2 siblings from last year and she is one.) Today while I was reading aloud, apparently The Sleeper found the story boring enough to take a nap through. I can tell you that I do not read stories in monotone. I am a very expressive reader and most kids sit very attentively throughout the story. Anyway, I asked her to wake up so she could return to her desk to finish work from earlier in the day. I think she was pretending to be asleep, but in any case, she was sitting with her head down, eyes closed, and not working. I had to then play Mean Teacher (for the first time this year) and explain that sleeping in class in NOT AN OPTION. If she didn't want to wake up and work, I could easily find another room for her to go to because I do not allow sleepers. I will admit that I did this a bit louder than I usually would, just because I was setting a standard. Don't think you're going to get away with sleeping in my classroom. It can't possibly be that boring.
"The Predictor" - This is the kid who thinks he knows everything. In fact, he and his mom told me that when they stopped by to drop off his supplies yesterday during my work day. "He didn't learn anything in 3rd grade. Hopefully he'll learn something in 4th." He was the student all day who was 5 steps ahead of everyone else. He was already ready for the next thing and trying to predict what my next set of directions would be. In fact, he was so ahead of me, when I gave him directions to do specific things, he had already done them, but incorrectly. When I started counting, he started counting with me. When I was passing out folders, he was standing 2 feet away waiting for his because he thought it would be next. The only thing this type of child does it make me want to do things in opposite of what he thinks. This may be mean, but if he's so far ahead of me, why do I even need to be there for him. He will learn eventually that he doesn't know everything and that he will need to listen first, then act. Oh and on top of that, he broke one of my rulers. It's the first day of school and we didn't even use rulers, so how did one end of broken????
"Miss Goodie Two Shoes aka Teacher's Pet" - You gotta love them, because they are there to please you and themselves, but they are TOO perfect. That's all I've got for now. Maybe when I have to talk to her about bad choices, she'll be blogged about again.
"Why?" - This child has special needs and is a very large part of learning as I go. I won't give specifics, but what I will say is that part of his 'charm' is asking a gazillion questions. The main question I received OVER AND OVER again today was, "When is the last day of school?" When I passed out their student handbooks and school calendars, he immediately turned to the calendar and wrote all over May 29th that it was his last day of school. I'm not sure what he's going to be doing until June 3rd (which is our actual last day). I think we have somewhere around 170 days to figure that out.
"Teacher" - I have a student who calls me teacher. If there is one thing that bothers me more than pencil tapping and pencil sharpening, and it would be when a child calls me Teacher. I think of it this way...I learned all 20 of your names and usually call you the right one. You have one very important name to learn and you can't do it. This is the only significant development with this child, but I will update if anything comes up.
Of course, each child has their own personality, but these were the most dominate today. I will be sure to share stories as they develop and fill you in on all of my adventures. Although I did teach last year, this is my first first of the year. It's still a learning experience for me. It doesn't matter how many years you've been teaching, each year is a learning experience.
I would also like to wish any new teachers the best of luck. The best thing I recommend it talking about your stresses and 'funnies' to someone who understands.
"The Sleeper" - For some background, she is the sister of last year's "My Mama" blog. (I have 2 siblings from last year and she is one.) Today while I was reading aloud, apparently The Sleeper found the story boring enough to take a nap through. I can tell you that I do not read stories in monotone. I am a very expressive reader and most kids sit very attentively throughout the story. Anyway, I asked her to wake up so she could return to her desk to finish work from earlier in the day. I think she was pretending to be asleep, but in any case, she was sitting with her head down, eyes closed, and not working. I had to then play Mean Teacher (for the first time this year) and explain that sleeping in class in NOT AN OPTION. If she didn't want to wake up and work, I could easily find another room for her to go to because I do not allow sleepers. I will admit that I did this a bit louder than I usually would, just because I was setting a standard. Don't think you're going to get away with sleeping in my classroom. It can't possibly be that boring.
"The Predictor" - This is the kid who thinks he knows everything. In fact, he and his mom told me that when they stopped by to drop off his supplies yesterday during my work day. "He didn't learn anything in 3rd grade. Hopefully he'll learn something in 4th." He was the student all day who was 5 steps ahead of everyone else. He was already ready for the next thing and trying to predict what my next set of directions would be. In fact, he was so ahead of me, when I gave him directions to do specific things, he had already done them, but incorrectly. When I started counting, he started counting with me. When I was passing out folders, he was standing 2 feet away waiting for his because he thought it would be next. The only thing this type of child does it make me want to do things in opposite of what he thinks. This may be mean, but if he's so far ahead of me, why do I even need to be there for him. He will learn eventually that he doesn't know everything and that he will need to listen first, then act. Oh and on top of that, he broke one of my rulers. It's the first day of school and we didn't even use rulers, so how did one end of broken????
"Miss Goodie Two Shoes aka Teacher's Pet" - You gotta love them, because they are there to please you and themselves, but they are TOO perfect. That's all I've got for now. Maybe when I have to talk to her about bad choices, she'll be blogged about again.
"Why?" - This child has special needs and is a very large part of learning as I go. I won't give specifics, but what I will say is that part of his 'charm' is asking a gazillion questions. The main question I received OVER AND OVER again today was, "When is the last day of school?" When I passed out their student handbooks and school calendars, he immediately turned to the calendar and wrote all over May 29th that it was his last day of school. I'm not sure what he's going to be doing until June 3rd (which is our actual last day). I think we have somewhere around 170 days to figure that out.
"Teacher" - I have a student who calls me teacher. If there is one thing that bothers me more than pencil tapping and pencil sharpening, and it would be when a child calls me Teacher. I think of it this way...I learned all 20 of your names and usually call you the right one. You have one very important name to learn and you can't do it. This is the only significant development with this child, but I will update if anything comes up.
Of course, each child has their own personality, but these were the most dominate today. I will be sure to share stories as they develop and fill you in on all of my adventures. Although I did teach last year, this is my first first of the year. It's still a learning experience for me. It doesn't matter how many years you've been teaching, each year is a learning experience.
I would also like to wish any new teachers the best of luck. The best thing I recommend it talking about your stresses and 'funnies' to someone who understands.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Meet Me!
The day started off in a tizzy. I was running late to school because Tiva was lazy this morning (yes, I just blamed my rushed morning on a dog) and I had to stop and get cash to buy my new school shirt. I had tons to do this morning during our work time in order to prepare for Meet the Teacher night and our textbook adoption training that afternoon. I rushed around and managed to get everything done and have time to make sure everything was done. We left for our textbook training, only to come back and think of more things that needed to be done.
I began to get very nervous. I'm not talking John Mayer nervous, but I was pretty nervous with anticipation and excitement. The moment the first family walked in my door, it all disappeared. I was very comfortable greeting the parents and explaining what I needed them to do this evening. It was nice that I had something the kids could do (put supplies away and scavenger hunt) and something for the parents (information forms and newsletter). Even when I had a room full of students, siblings, parents, and even grandparents, I was very comfortable and everyone seemed to be doing well. It did bother me a bit that parents were allowing there kids to play with our recess equipment IN the classroom, but when I was worrying about so many other things, it wasn't my biggest concern. Do I remember all of there names? No...I do remember the names for the child I have with special needs, the girl who shares my birthday, the one I thought was in 2nd grade, the one who's brother kept asking me for more cookies, and also the one who does weird things with his eyes (quoting his father).
I now have a classroom full of supplies that need to be arranged and stored...somewhere. It's the first thing on my To Do list for tomorrow (even though it's not a work day). Still lots to do...when supplies are put away, planning begins for week two of school!
I began to get very nervous. I'm not talking John Mayer nervous, but I was pretty nervous with anticipation and excitement. The moment the first family walked in my door, it all disappeared. I was very comfortable greeting the parents and explaining what I needed them to do this evening. It was nice that I had something the kids could do (put supplies away and scavenger hunt) and something for the parents (information forms and newsletter). Even when I had a room full of students, siblings, parents, and even grandparents, I was very comfortable and everyone seemed to be doing well. It did bother me a bit that parents were allowing there kids to play with our recess equipment IN the classroom, but when I was worrying about so many other things, it wasn't my biggest concern. Do I remember all of there names? No...I do remember the names for the child I have with special needs, the girl who shares my birthday, the one I thought was in 2nd grade, the one who's brother kept asking me for more cookies, and also the one who does weird things with his eyes (quoting his father).
I now have a classroom full of supplies that need to be arranged and stored...somewhere. It's the first thing on my To Do list for tomorrow (even though it's not a work day). Still lots to do...when supplies are put away, planning begins for week two of school!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Talk about stressful...
Another OMG kinda day! It was a full work day today and boy did I not realize how much work I had to do. Tomorrow night is Meet the Teacher night and I hadn't prepared anything for it before arriving at school today. In fact, the only thought I put into it was that I have to be in my room from 5:30-7:30 tomorrow night. Luckily, I had to go get some things from another teacher's room and she was already prepared for tomorrow. I had her send me her materials, I edited them to suit my needs, and make my own packets. I can now say that I'm (almost) ready and it's thankful to that teacher. I had a hard time leaving school today knowing I still have so much work to do and so little time. We do have tomorrow morning to work in our classrooms, but then we have to spend the afternoon at textbook training across town and then return to school in time to greet our kiddos. Tomorrow should be another busy and stressful day.
I plan to write each day to explain the day-to-day life of a first year teacher (yes, it's still technically my first year since I didn't start in August last year), whether it be a short update or a more detailed story. I still have tons of work to do and need to rest up for tomorrow
I will try and post a list of things I needed to prepare for the first week of school at a later date...maybe when I'm not so tired...and school hasn't even started yet!! UGGGHHH!
I plan to write each day to explain the day-to-day life of a first year teacher (yes, it's still technically my first year since I didn't start in August last year), whether it be a short update or a more detailed story. I still have tons of work to do and need to rest up for tomorrow
I will try and post a list of things I needed to prepare for the first week of school at a later date...maybe when I'm not so tired...and school hasn't even started yet!! UGGGHHH!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Day 2
OMG! Today was LONG and somewhat dreadful. It was an exhausting day of doing nothing. I don't doubt the program that was presented or it's future effectiveness in our school, but the energy of the presenter made me more than excited about the thought of it.
Scenario 1: Welcome! You all need to make name plates for your tables. On the board it says to fold it hot dog style (any kids or teachers know what this is immediately), so that you have 3 parts. The speaker then proceeds to demonstrate and narrate how to fold the paper. SERIOUSLY? I think we can manage. Well, this was just a peek at what we would be dealing with the rest of the day.
The concept of the positive behavior expectations was very reasonable, realistic, and easy to implement in our classrooms, unfortunately, the presenter felt the need to go into depth and give example after example after example of each concept. I got it after the first example. I do understand that some people need more, so the second example was good...were the 3rd and 4th necessary?
7 hours later...The anticipation is killing us....who is in our classes? The principal handed out rosters only to have the 3rd grade teachers rush over immediately to give us the news. This is always a debate...Would you rather know and have a chance at preventing anything you could or would you rather not know and start fresh and give every child a clean slate? Well, I only heard good news about my kiddos. Either I only have well-behaved, high-achieving students...or they just didn't spill the bad beans. I will of course work with either of these options, but my fingers are crossed....because...
I do know that I am an inclusion teacher. I will have at least one student who will receive special services for a portion of the day. I have been quickly briefed on the disabilities and will be later given a formal debriefing. It doesn't matter what the outcome is...I will work with whatever the situation. Luckily, my school offers lots of support to inclusion teachers and the students that are being serviced. I know that I won't be left outside to dry alone and that I'll have support whenever I need it. I feel very positive and optimistic about this year and can't wait to meet all my kids and see what kind of unique personalities they bring to my classroom.
Scenario 1: Welcome! You all need to make name plates for your tables. On the board it says to fold it hot dog style (any kids or teachers know what this is immediately), so that you have 3 parts. The speaker then proceeds to demonstrate and narrate how to fold the paper. SERIOUSLY? I think we can manage. Well, this was just a peek at what we would be dealing with the rest of the day.
The concept of the positive behavior expectations was very reasonable, realistic, and easy to implement in our classrooms, unfortunately, the presenter felt the need to go into depth and give example after example after example of each concept. I got it after the first example. I do understand that some people need more, so the second example was good...were the 3rd and 4th necessary?
7 hours later...The anticipation is killing us....who is in our classes? The principal handed out rosters only to have the 3rd grade teachers rush over immediately to give us the news. This is always a debate...Would you rather know and have a chance at preventing anything you could or would you rather not know and start fresh and give every child a clean slate? Well, I only heard good news about my kiddos. Either I only have well-behaved, high-achieving students...or they just didn't spill the bad beans. I will of course work with either of these options, but my fingers are crossed....because...
I do know that I am an inclusion teacher. I will have at least one student who will receive special services for a portion of the day. I have been quickly briefed on the disabilities and will be later given a formal debriefing. It doesn't matter what the outcome is...I will work with whatever the situation. Luckily, my school offers lots of support to inclusion teachers and the students that are being serviced. I know that I won't be left outside to dry alone and that I'll have support whenever I need it. I feel very positive and optimistic about this year and can't wait to meet all my kids and see what kind of unique personalities they bring to my classroom.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Day 1
Today was the first day of professional development, which means it was the first day I've not had an afternoon doze in front of the TV in a few months. It wasn't so bad waking up...I've done early waking up this summer. We arrived to see everyone we haven't seen since the last day of school and also to meet many new-comers to our school. We played some ridiculous games and did some catching up about summer. Of course, I found a way to let everyone know that I had met John Mayer. And then he continued to fit into conversation for the remainder of the day.
We did the usual first day activities of new employee introductions, team building, and handbook orientation. We also talked about our new Positive Behavior Support program and how it is going to be implemented. It sounds like a good program and why should I think otherwise until I've seen it in action. It will make expectations school-wide and allow us to remind the students what is expected in every school setting from arriving at school, walking down the hallway, or sitting in assemblies. I'll keep you updated on details and the success rate of this program.
Although today wasn't bad, I'm not really looking forward to the rest of the week. I'd rather have time to get my thoughts together and plan my first couple weeks of school from my classroom, rather than random notes scribbled on my inservice papers. It's hard to keep straight what you're actually going to do and what you would like to do in fantasy land when you're writing notes everywhere. I do look forward to Wednesday, which is all day teacher prep.
Inservice updates to come...
We did the usual first day activities of new employee introductions, team building, and handbook orientation. We also talked about our new Positive Behavior Support program and how it is going to be implemented. It sounds like a good program and why should I think otherwise until I've seen it in action. It will make expectations school-wide and allow us to remind the students what is expected in every school setting from arriving at school, walking down the hallway, or sitting in assemblies. I'll keep you updated on details and the success rate of this program.
Although today wasn't bad, I'm not really looking forward to the rest of the week. I'd rather have time to get my thoughts together and plan my first couple weeks of school from my classroom, rather than random notes scribbled on my inservice papers. It's hard to keep straight what you're actually going to do and what you would like to do in fantasy land when you're writing notes everywhere. I do look forward to Wednesday, which is all day teacher prep.
Inservice updates to come...
Friday, August 15, 2008
THIS JUST IN...My Classroom is Complete!
I went to my classroom today to complete some last minute ideas. Of course, I'll always find something else I need to do, but for right now, I'm happy. I know that I didn't need to do everything in order for the kids to successfully learn, but things need to be interesting, inviting, and fun in order for kids to WANT to be at school and interested in learning. (Of course this does not apply for all kids, but it sure speeds up the excited feelings they'll have when they see my room.) P.S. - I made my own curtains...which I'm very proud of. You all can make your own too with some $1/yd fabric and iron on hem.
Below: Across the top of the board are our school's Life Skills (such as caring, patience, cooperation, respect, trustworthiness, etc.) My carpet area will be in front of the board so we can use the easel. Below the white board are Texas History documents and state information.
Below: My desk! I like a space to call my own...considering that some days I spend over 10 hours in this room. That is my ME bulletin board...I add to it throughout the year. The kids love seeing what I've been up to besides asking them to stop talking. By the time they are in 4th grade, they know teachers don't live in the school and want to see proof. The day my mom visited last year was equivalent to my meeting with John Mayer in excitement!
Below: Boxes and boxes of manipulatives. Unfortunately in portables, there isn't very much storage space...and my OCD didn't allow me anything less than nicely organized and labeled tubs. This is just going to make my life easier when I'm looking for something.
Below: Classroom Library - Fiction books are organized by author or genre (unless I don't really have enough to put in a tub...see library rack). Nonfiction books are sitting on top of shelves by category. Ideally I would have room for another shelf for only nonfiction books...ideally! The short table is for working and reward. FYI: I got many of my books after "bribing" my class with a reward if they brought in books. It worked like magic...in days I had an entire library.
It's a relief to know that children (and their parents) could walk into my room at any moment and I would be prepared. Unfortunately, those feelings might change at 7:45 on August 26th...we'll see.
If you are a new teacher or any teacher who is setting up a classroom of their own, I wish you luck. I don't call myself an expert in classroom design by any means, but I am pretty good at it. I've offered my advice to many friends and of course, learn as I go. If something doesn't work, I change it. No need to suffer with it for an entire year.
Below: A wide angle shot of the room. The class library is off to the right, my desk to the left. I figured out last year that I wanted my desk in front of the kids. While they are working independently and I'm working on something else, my presence behind them was like I was not in the room. In order to prevent a reoccurrence, I've changed my strategy. I think the spaces are well divided and the kids will be able to move easily throughout the classroom. There are different working spaces in the classroom that can be utilized at any time.
Below: Across the top of the board are our school's Life Skills (such as caring, patience, cooperation, respect, trustworthiness, etc.) My carpet area will be in front of the board so we can use the easel. Below the white board are Texas History documents and state information.
Below: My desk! I like a space to call my own...considering that some days I spend over 10 hours in this room. That is my ME bulletin board...I add to it throughout the year. The kids love seeing what I've been up to besides asking them to stop talking. By the time they are in 4th grade, they know teachers don't live in the school and want to see proof. The day my mom visited last year was equivalent to my meeting with John Mayer in excitement!
Below: Boxes and boxes of manipulatives. Unfortunately in portables, there isn't very much storage space...and my OCD didn't allow me anything less than nicely organized and labeled tubs. This is just going to make my life easier when I'm looking for something.
Below: Classroom Library - Fiction books are organized by author or genre (unless I don't really have enough to put in a tub...see library rack). Nonfiction books are sitting on top of shelves by category. Ideally I would have room for another shelf for only nonfiction books...ideally! The short table is for working and reward. FYI: I got many of my books after "bribing" my class with a reward if they brought in books. It worked like magic...in days I had an entire library.
Below: Information for my students (lunch count, calendar, newsletter, rewards), the Light Bulb Lab (for enrichment), and reading bulletin board. The Light Bulb Lab is where students can go when they've finished their work. There are mini research projects that can be done independently and other individual learning activities. To the left of this table is the Wonder Wall. Students can write their questions on card and clothespin them on the board. They can research the answers at a later time and the answers will be hung up as well.
Below: Science Process and supply shelf. If they don't have it in their desks, it can be found on this shelf. The pocket chart to the right is for stations.
Below: Small group/guided reading table...I don't think I need to give any more explanation.
It's a relief to know that children (and their parents) could walk into my room at any moment and I would be prepared. Unfortunately, those feelings might change at 7:45 on August 26th...we'll see.
If you are a new teacher or any teacher who is setting up a classroom of their own, I wish you luck. I don't call myself an expert in classroom design by any means, but I am pretty good at it. I've offered my advice to many friends and of course, learn as I go. If something doesn't work, I change it. No need to suffer with it for an entire year.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
201, 229, 234, 236, 242, 243, 245, and 250
Enjoy a few more of the 501 Tips for Teachers!
Student Relations
201. Startle your students with your peripheral vision. (It can be improved through practice and exercise.) Classroom management is easier when students think you have "eyes in the back of your head."
229. Telling bad jokes is common to students of all ages. Laugh at their childish attempts at humor. After all, they laugh at yours.
Student Discipline and Classroom Management
234. Structure the classroom space so you can move around easily and get close to every student. (Try a U-shape arrangement.) Be everywhere in your classroom.
236. Reserve a "limbo seat" in the classroom for any student who can't function or focus in his or her regular seat for the day.
242. Teach conflict resolution skills--active listening, positive body language, brainstorming solutions, and others--as an alternative to violence. Kids need to learn how to settle disputes peacefully both in and out of the classroom.
243. Always present classroom rules with conviction. Avoid any hint of questioning, hesitancy, timidity, uncertainty, pleading, or negotiating. If students think there's some wiggle room, they'll wiggle. Take your rules seriously and your students will too.
245. Try not to "lose it" no matter how much you're tested. If students see they've angered you, they know they've beaten you at the discipline game.
248. Get by with as few rules as possible. Make 'em simple and make 'em stick.
250. Avoid sarcasm. It seldom helps and often hurts--a lot!
(I agree...and for those of you who know me, this is hard. At least avoid it until you get to know your kids and know which can handle it and which can't.)
Student Relations
201. Startle your students with your peripheral vision. (It can be improved through practice and exercise.) Classroom management is easier when students think you have "eyes in the back of your head."
229. Telling bad jokes is common to students of all ages. Laugh at their childish attempts at humor. After all, they laugh at yours.
Student Discipline and Classroom Management
234. Structure the classroom space so you can move around easily and get close to every student. (Try a U-shape arrangement.) Be everywhere in your classroom.
236. Reserve a "limbo seat" in the classroom for any student who can't function or focus in his or her regular seat for the day.
242. Teach conflict resolution skills--active listening, positive body language, brainstorming solutions, and others--as an alternative to violence. Kids need to learn how to settle disputes peacefully both in and out of the classroom.
243. Always present classroom rules with conviction. Avoid any hint of questioning, hesitancy, timidity, uncertainty, pleading, or negotiating. If students think there's some wiggle room, they'll wiggle. Take your rules seriously and your students will too.
245. Try not to "lose it" no matter how much you're tested. If students see they've angered you, they know they've beaten you at the discipline game.
248. Get by with as few rules as possible. Make 'em simple and make 'em stick.
250. Avoid sarcasm. It seldom helps and often hurts--a lot!
(I agree...and for those of you who know me, this is hard. At least avoid it until you get to know your kids and know which can handle it and which can't.)
Friday, August 8, 2008
Some of the 501 Tips for Teachers
Before school gets back to occupying all of my life and I have some time to breath, I have a few more tips from the book 501 Tips For Teachers. I will share a few tips each day as we're preparing for our first school year with our own teacher desk and a class to call our own.
Classroom Teaching Tips:
117. Be open to visiting teachers from other species. Sometimes a fly on the wall or a colony of ants on the playground can teach lessons more important than the ones you had planned for the day.
120. Send a welcome-back postcard to each student the week before school starts. It's an easy way to get kids "hyped-up" about the new school year.
122. Minimize transition time. Teach students to settle down quickly, to start work promptly, and to wrap up without dawdling. It's a way to lengthen the school day without changing the starting or ending time.
Student Relations:
140. Remember, your classroom may be the only happy place some kids ever have.
156. Think like a child. Act like an adult.
199. You don't have to love every student, but they don't know that. Let it be your secret.
212. As a teacher, you have countless decisions to make every day, but only one standard to apply: what is best for kids.
213. Don't just notice the kids who are in your face all the time. Pay attention to those children huddled on the sidelines as well.
214. If you don't expect students to be perfect, they will never disappoint you.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
My amazing summer coming to a close...
I started out this summer visiting some of the most recognizable ancient landmarks in Italy and Greece. It was breathtaking being able to see the Vatican, Acropolis, Colosseum, Pompeii Ruins, and Temple of Athena in person. How in the world was the Colosseum built in 8 years??? They can't even manage something like that now with all of the technology and machinery that exists in this day and age. (Pictures are not in order of date visited.)
The Colosseum at night
The Colosseum at night
A Temple in the Acropolis
The Trevi Fountain
The Vatican
Temple of Athena
Pompeii Ruins---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Robin Roberts and Chris Cuomo from Good Morning America
Match made in heaven!
Seriously? Couldn't believe this was happening!TMZ from Monday, July 21, 2008
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Summer Workshops = Ridiculous
As I've been sitting home this summer trying to pass time, I looked forward to my summer workshops in order to break the monotony. It's been quite boring in between my summer vacations being at home and looking for things to keep me busy. I've made some materials in preparation for next year, played with my dog, and watched every marathon of every TV show made in the last few years--including: Kimora Lee Simmons: Life in the Fab Lane, Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, Food Network Disney Challenge, Jon & Kate Plus 8, Little People Big World, Whose Wedding is it Anyway?, Flipping Out, Clean House, How do I look?, Cash Cab, Deadliest Catch, (a new favorite) Wipe Out...and basically any other show that has come on back-to-back-to-back-to-back.
On to the break in the the dullness of my summer. I wasn't sure where the school I was going to was located this morning, so I woke up super early in order to work out, get showered, and then ready for a fun-filled day of science ideas. I showed up to the school super early because it wasn't as hard to find as I thought it would be. I find the classroom for my workshop and my hopes for the day are raised. I see materials everywhere, an agenda with fun lessons planned, and energetic presenters. UNFORTUNATELY, I realized that this was not my class. I walked into this one because it was where I was told to go, but this was the K-2 workshop for the same topic (Managing the Science Classroom). I was told where my class would be and walked into an empty room. My presenters were not here yet. As I sat in the empty, silent classroom thinking about how lame I was for being the only one there, the presenters walked in. The word flustered doesn't even begin to describe how they looked and sounded. They rushed around in order to prepare for the day and in a rush of things told us that we would not be starting for another 30 minutes. **If there is one thing I can't stand, it's people who are late.**
After a bit of waiting, we began. We were given a packet of materials and engaging lessons...oh, I think it's time for me to go now...I've got what I need. Well, I didn't leave and stayed to hear the presenter babble through the lessons. Imagine a man too nerdy to work for the Best Buy Geek Squad and you're probably not even imaging the "nerdiness" I witnessed all day. It made me smile, but more in the manner of laughing at rather than with.
Well, in the midst of learning how to implement easy science lessons in my classroom (and for my team next year), I was constantly watching the clock. Similarly to the way my students count down to lunch or specials, we were counting down for our break and lunch. In fact, we were getting so antsy, that I think it's why we went to lunch early. He then wanted to trade minutes at the end of lunch, but that didn't happen...a room full of women overpowers a man any day of the week. Even with a long lunch that came a bit early, we still negotiated our way into an early release. We started telling him that we didn't need to actually do the lesson ourselves in order to get through the packet much faster. We managed a release 1.5 hours early...GIRL POWER!
All in all, it gave me something to do all day. Oh, did I mention the cube puzzle that I spent most of the day being distracted by?? It was quite entertaining and kept me engaged...too bad the engagement wasn't focused on the presenter. Tomorrow I have another workshop, but this one is technology based...probably not something I need practice with, but it gets me those professional development hours that I need each year.
On to the break in the the dullness of my summer. I wasn't sure where the school I was going to was located this morning, so I woke up super early in order to work out, get showered, and then ready for a fun-filled day of science ideas. I showed up to the school super early because it wasn't as hard to find as I thought it would be. I find the classroom for my workshop and my hopes for the day are raised. I see materials everywhere, an agenda with fun lessons planned, and energetic presenters. UNFORTUNATELY, I realized that this was not my class. I walked into this one because it was where I was told to go, but this was the K-2 workshop for the same topic (Managing the Science Classroom). I was told where my class would be and walked into an empty room. My presenters were not here yet. As I sat in the empty, silent classroom thinking about how lame I was for being the only one there, the presenters walked in. The word flustered doesn't even begin to describe how they looked and sounded. They rushed around in order to prepare for the day and in a rush of things told us that we would not be starting for another 30 minutes. **If there is one thing I can't stand, it's people who are late.**
After a bit of waiting, we began. We were given a packet of materials and engaging lessons...oh, I think it's time for me to go now...I've got what I need. Well, I didn't leave and stayed to hear the presenter babble through the lessons. Imagine a man too nerdy to work for the Best Buy Geek Squad and you're probably not even imaging the "nerdiness" I witnessed all day. It made me smile, but more in the manner of laughing at rather than with.
Well, in the midst of learning how to implement easy science lessons in my classroom (and for my team next year), I was constantly watching the clock. Similarly to the way my students count down to lunch or specials, we were counting down for our break and lunch. In fact, we were getting so antsy, that I think it's why we went to lunch early. He then wanted to trade minutes at the end of lunch, but that didn't happen...a room full of women overpowers a man any day of the week. Even with a long lunch that came a bit early, we still negotiated our way into an early release. We started telling him that we didn't need to actually do the lesson ourselves in order to get through the packet much faster. We managed a release 1.5 hours early...GIRL POWER!
All in all, it gave me something to do all day. Oh, did I mention the cube puzzle that I spent most of the day being distracted by?? It was quite entertaining and kept me engaged...too bad the engagement wasn't focused on the presenter. Tomorrow I have another workshop, but this one is technology based...probably not something I need practice with, but it gets me those professional development hours that I need each year.
Monday, June 30, 2008
My Mama Said...
If there is something that bothers me more than most other things, it would have to be when a kid comes to be and says, "My mama said..." REALLY NOW? If your mama really wanted me to know that, wouldn't she call or send me a note? I hope you have sympathy while reading these and not the sense that I'm harsh. Of course I never said these comments to the student, but it just got to me after I heard a "My mama said..." multiple times only beginning when you started in my class.
I hope while reading these, you fully understood that I have never once spoken to this parent. When she registered and dropped her child in my classroom, she was on her cell phone the entire time and didn't even want to speak to me and barely made eye contact. I tried introducing myself but it seemed worthless. It only figures that she has so much to say, but doesn't want to actually tell me...or, all of the comments aren't true and they were made up to get attention? It wouldn't surprise me...
"My mama said...that she wants a note home about my behavior everyday."
I'm sorry honey...I have too many kids in my class to write a note home everyday. I can e-mail a quick note, but a hand-written note every day? I already send home a weekly note...if she wants more than that, she needs to let me know.
"My mama said...if you don't let me go to the bathroom when I ask, I can just go."
Really now? Is your mom the one who has 20 kids asking to use the bathroom every 5 minutes? Is your mom the one who hears kids ask to use the bathroom because they "can't hold it anymore" and after I say no, they never ask again? Apparently you didn't have to go that badly. And how do I know when you really have to go if you do this? Isn't that called crying wolf?
"My mama said...you need to call her."
Why doesn't she just call me? If it's something she needs to ask/tell me, she needs to call me. She knows my classroom number and that I'm there until at least 4:30 daily. And if she calls and I'm not there...I know how to check my messages and return phone calls. If she sends me a note saying this, I will call her.
"My mama said...that I need to keep my medicine in my bag and take it when I feel like I need to."
Okay and if you do that, I'll write you up for taking medicine at school without permission (or whatever the legal jargon is). You say your mom works at a school, but she doesn't know the rules about going to the nurse to get medicine?
"My mama said...that she checked my homework and everything is right."
Then why do you come to school if your mom can teach you everything? Oh, because she can't...you still have a lot of wrong answers. Please don't come to me and say your mama knows everything. I don't even pretend to know everything.
"My mama said...I need to call her at 2:30 to know if I ride the bus home."
Really? Is that why you are just mentioning this at 2:40? If it was so important, wouldn't you have told me earlier? Also, isn't it your mom's job to call the school and let you know how to get home from school...isn't that a parent's responsibility? And I just can't let a kid use the phone to call because then my whole class would need to call home for one reason or another.
"My mama said...you need to send work home so I can practice decimals and fractions."
If your mama knows that you need practice, she can help you from home. And, don't tell me at 2:00 that she wants these papers today. I already taught decimals and fractions in January and I'm sorry you weren't here, but it's impossible for me to teach it to you when I have 20 other kids who've already learned it and it's 2 days before TAKS. I'm not trying to set you up to fail, but I can't teach something to one new kid just because they weren't here when we did it as a class. If my whole class still needed it, of course I would teach it again, but we've moved on.
"My mama said...I need work to practice this summer. Can you send it home?"
School isn't even over yet, we still have 25 days left (yes, I'm counting). Also, I know that every child needs to practice their math and reading skills over the summer, but unfortunately the Copy Machine Master doesn't allot us enough copies to make each kid a summer packet. I also know that of all the students in my class, you are the one who has the most ability (financially and physically) to buy some workbooks at the store. You all know that teachers shop at Teacher's Heaven and parents are welcome there too. I'm not trying to deprive you of continuing your learning, but it doesn't seem reasonable to me being that you are one of the very fortunate in the school. I will give all my old worksheets out the last week of school and have prepared some packets for some kids, but not everyone.
"My mama said...if I don't understand something I need to ask you."
Okay, this comment doesn't sound as unreasonable as the others, but the way you said it and began using that ability was unreasonable. You said this as though you can't ask for help on your own...only because your "mama said" can you ask me to help. You then began asking me to help on every single question, even though you were capable of answering them. Saying, "I don't understand this one," doesn't tell me what you don't understand. Is it the directions? The words? How to solve the problem? There are many things you may not understand when reading a problem...please be specific.
"My mama said...that if I don't drink enough water, my asthma is going to start acting up."
Is this another one of those comments that you think holds more power if you say it came from your mama instead of just telling me. I hear this comment on a daily, almost hourly basis and I'm not sure of its merits because I hear it so much, I'm going to think you're crying wolf if your asthma really does act up. You are in 4th grade...you know what causes your asthma to act up and what you can do to prevent it (because "your mama tells me everyday"), so you should just avoid those things, bring a water bottle big enough for the entire day to school, and only tell me if it's an emergency. I already have so many students who cry wolf all day long, I don't know what to believe and what not to believe...so for right now...I don't believe anything until I speak to parents in person or over the phone.
"My mama said...I need a note in order to bring my scrapbook materials to school."
What? I already sent a note home...yesterday! Does she expect me to hand-write a note for each individual student? The note said that if you have materials to make your scrapbook, bring them to school. You can either keep these materials private or share them with the class. They need to be at school. I'm sorry that you said you've lied to your mom before and now she doesn't believe you when you ask for something, but I've already sent a note home.
-------
Here are some other "My mama saids..." from other students...
"My mama said...I better behave today or I'm going to be grounded."
YES! I like this mama.
"My mama said...if I don't turn in all my work, I'm not going to have fun this weekend."
Another that I really like!
"My mama said...that if I make a C, I won't get to watch TV."
And they keep coming...
"My mama said...to call her if you need help with anything."
Oh, I would LOVE some help!
"My mama said...to call her if I have a good day."
No problem...I would love to.
"My mama said...call her if I'm not on task today."
You actually told me this message? Wow...I'd be happy to. Whenever I call your mama, it reinforces the importance of parent-teacher communication on behavior and quality of work.
I hope while reading these, you fully understood that I have never once spoken to this parent. When she registered and dropped her child in my classroom, she was on her cell phone the entire time and didn't even want to speak to me and barely made eye contact. I tried introducing myself but it seemed worthless. It only figures that she has so much to say, but doesn't want to actually tell me...or, all of the comments aren't true and they were made up to get attention? It wouldn't surprise me...
"My mama said...that she wants a note home about my behavior everyday."
I'm sorry honey...I have too many kids in my class to write a note home everyday. I can e-mail a quick note, but a hand-written note every day? I already send home a weekly note...if she wants more than that, she needs to let me know.
"My mama said...if you don't let me go to the bathroom when I ask, I can just go."
Really now? Is your mom the one who has 20 kids asking to use the bathroom every 5 minutes? Is your mom the one who hears kids ask to use the bathroom because they "can't hold it anymore" and after I say no, they never ask again? Apparently you didn't have to go that badly. And how do I know when you really have to go if you do this? Isn't that called crying wolf?
"My mama said...you need to call her."
Why doesn't she just call me? If it's something she needs to ask/tell me, she needs to call me. She knows my classroom number and that I'm there until at least 4:30 daily. And if she calls and I'm not there...I know how to check my messages and return phone calls. If she sends me a note saying this, I will call her.
"My mama said...that I need to keep my medicine in my bag and take it when I feel like I need to."
Okay and if you do that, I'll write you up for taking medicine at school without permission (or whatever the legal jargon is). You say your mom works at a school, but she doesn't know the rules about going to the nurse to get medicine?
"My mama said...that she checked my homework and everything is right."
Then why do you come to school if your mom can teach you everything? Oh, because she can't...you still have a lot of wrong answers. Please don't come to me and say your mama knows everything. I don't even pretend to know everything.
"My mama said...I need to call her at 2:30 to know if I ride the bus home."
Really? Is that why you are just mentioning this at 2:40? If it was so important, wouldn't you have told me earlier? Also, isn't it your mom's job to call the school and let you know how to get home from school...isn't that a parent's responsibility? And I just can't let a kid use the phone to call because then my whole class would need to call home for one reason or another.
"My mama said...you need to send work home so I can practice decimals and fractions."
If your mama knows that you need practice, she can help you from home. And, don't tell me at 2:00 that she wants these papers today. I already taught decimals and fractions in January and I'm sorry you weren't here, but it's impossible for me to teach it to you when I have 20 other kids who've already learned it and it's 2 days before TAKS. I'm not trying to set you up to fail, but I can't teach something to one new kid just because they weren't here when we did it as a class. If my whole class still needed it, of course I would teach it again, but we've moved on.
"My mama said...I need work to practice this summer. Can you send it home?"
School isn't even over yet, we still have 25 days left (yes, I'm counting). Also, I know that every child needs to practice their math and reading skills over the summer, but unfortunately the Copy Machine Master doesn't allot us enough copies to make each kid a summer packet. I also know that of all the students in my class, you are the one who has the most ability (financially and physically) to buy some workbooks at the store. You all know that teachers shop at Teacher's Heaven and parents are welcome there too. I'm not trying to deprive you of continuing your learning, but it doesn't seem reasonable to me being that you are one of the very fortunate in the school. I will give all my old worksheets out the last week of school and have prepared some packets for some kids, but not everyone.
"My mama said...if I don't understand something I need to ask you."
Okay, this comment doesn't sound as unreasonable as the others, but the way you said it and began using that ability was unreasonable. You said this as though you can't ask for help on your own...only because your "mama said" can you ask me to help. You then began asking me to help on every single question, even though you were capable of answering them. Saying, "I don't understand this one," doesn't tell me what you don't understand. Is it the directions? The words? How to solve the problem? There are many things you may not understand when reading a problem...please be specific.
"My mama said...that if I don't drink enough water, my asthma is going to start acting up."
Is this another one of those comments that you think holds more power if you say it came from your mama instead of just telling me. I hear this comment on a daily, almost hourly basis and I'm not sure of its merits because I hear it so much, I'm going to think you're crying wolf if your asthma really does act up. You are in 4th grade...you know what causes your asthma to act up and what you can do to prevent it (because "your mama tells me everyday"), so you should just avoid those things, bring a water bottle big enough for the entire day to school, and only tell me if it's an emergency. I already have so many students who cry wolf all day long, I don't know what to believe and what not to believe...so for right now...I don't believe anything until I speak to parents in person or over the phone.
"My mama said...I need a note in order to bring my scrapbook materials to school."
What? I already sent a note home...yesterday! Does she expect me to hand-write a note for each individual student? The note said that if you have materials to make your scrapbook, bring them to school. You can either keep these materials private or share them with the class. They need to be at school. I'm sorry that you said you've lied to your mom before and now she doesn't believe you when you ask for something, but I've already sent a note home.
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Here are some other "My mama saids..." from other students...
"My mama said...I better behave today or I'm going to be grounded."
YES! I like this mama.
"My mama said...if I don't turn in all my work, I'm not going to have fun this weekend."
Another that I really like!
"My mama said...that if I make a C, I won't get to watch TV."
And they keep coming...
"My mama said...to call her if you need help with anything."
Oh, I would LOVE some help!
"My mama said...to call her if I have a good day."
No problem...I would love to.
"My mama said...call her if I'm not on task today."
You actually told me this message? Wow...I'd be happy to. Whenever I call your mama, it reinforces the importance of parent-teacher communication on behavior and quality of work.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
When in Rome...
Do as the Romans...which consists of being rude to people, charging them for everything, walking carelessly, and anything else that I learned in my life that can also be known as common coutesty. That aside, my vacation didn't begin in Rome, but that's where I am now. We flew to Milan and then drove to Florence (the airport in Florence isn't large enough for international flights). I soon found Florence to be one of the most disgusting cities I've ever been to in my life. The buildings were covered with graffiti and it smelled of an extremly dirty bathroom. Italians also don't seem to be the friendliest bunch. Yes, we have met a few that cracked a smile or helped us out, but for the most pat they bump into anyone without any concern and have an insane system on the road which gives all the power to the busses, then cars, then bikes, then pedestrians. If you encounter something on the street that has more power than you...you better get out of the way. They don't seem to be afraid of hitting anyone or anything. Those of you who thought a NYC taxi was dangerous...you haven't seen anything.
After a day of holding my nose, we headed to Rome. I was excited and hopeful that it didn't resemble Florence. Well, in many aspects it was better than I could have imagined...but, there was still the graffiti ccovering many walls around the city. Even the Colleseum has some graffiti. Is anything respected? It was built around 45 AD. (Fun Fact: It took only 8 years to build.) I never imagined it to be as large as it was. We were able to drive by last night and see many of the historical points all lit up and then we returned today to tour the ins and outs of each place. We went to the Colleseum, Vatican (museum and St. Peter's Basillica), Pantheon, Castle of the Angels, lots of government buildings, Trevi Fountain, and smaller attractions along the way. It was an enjoyable day although my body is beat from the walking.
Tomorrow we're off to Serranto vis Capri and Pompeii. I'm looking forward to seeing the ruins and the beach. The night after will be spent on a boat traveling to Greece...yay!
Except for the rude Italians and the bad tour guide today (who was also rude and didn't know how to speak loudly), this is a great vacation. I probably won't be able to post pictures while here, but they will be posted as soon as I return. I would also like to mention that there are a few people on our tour who I do't necessarily get along with, but enjoy having a few laughs at their expense. With this said, I recently got a new camera that has built in PhotoShop features, such as drawing terrible things on pictures and cropping immediately. I will be posting these photos as well.
Happy Summer!
After a day of holding my nose, we headed to Rome. I was excited and hopeful that it didn't resemble Florence. Well, in many aspects it was better than I could have imagined...but, there was still the graffiti ccovering many walls around the city. Even the Colleseum has some graffiti. Is anything respected? It was built around 45 AD. (Fun Fact: It took only 8 years to build.) I never imagined it to be as large as it was. We were able to drive by last night and see many of the historical points all lit up and then we returned today to tour the ins and outs of each place. We went to the Colleseum, Vatican (museum and St. Peter's Basillica), Pantheon, Castle of the Angels, lots of government buildings, Trevi Fountain, and smaller attractions along the way. It was an enjoyable day although my body is beat from the walking.
Tomorrow we're off to Serranto vis Capri and Pompeii. I'm looking forward to seeing the ruins and the beach. The night after will be spent on a boat traveling to Greece...yay!
Except for the rude Italians and the bad tour guide today (who was also rude and didn't know how to speak loudly), this is a great vacation. I probably won't be able to post pictures while here, but they will be posted as soon as I return. I would also like to mention that there are a few people on our tour who I do't necessarily get along with, but enjoy having a few laughs at their expense. With this said, I recently got a new camera that has built in PhotoShop features, such as drawing terrible things on pictures and cropping immediately. I will be posting these photos as well.
Happy Summer!
Monday, June 9, 2008
INSPIRATION
If you want some inspirational summer reading, check out these books. They are absolutely fabulous and will be a re-read on my summer list. They offer humor, insight, and advice all at once. I hope to one day write a books that can offer so much to young teachers just like these did for me.
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During student teaching, I had a professor recommend that we all read this book. It looks at the humorous side of teaching and accepting all of the crazy things that you think would NEVER happen to you. I have since recommended it to everyone I know because it's an easy read that allows you to laugh at the author and also yourself when you realize you've done similar things. This book is actually what inspired me to write a blog chronicling my teaching experiences day-by-day. I one day wish to write a similar book and will plenty of stories to choose from the best of the best.
If you have been teaching one year or thirty, I suggest reading this book and in order to help you understand not to take things so seriously and learn from your mistakes.
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This was another book recommended to me by a friend during student teaching. At the time I read this, I related to it a bit, but didn't truly understand what an inspiring man Rafe Esquith is. Now that I've taught 4th grade in a school Rafe would call "The Jungle", I am taking the opportunity to re-read this amazing book. Rafe talks about how much of his life he dedicates to his students because he is what they have. Some of their families barely survive and school is their escape from the harsh realities they face in their neighborhoods. Now that my current teaching position so closely relates to where Rafe worked, I try to think of how he would handle a situation and not to sound cliche, but, "What would Rafe do?" He's done amazing things for many years with a very diverse group of kids who live very rough lives. In my lifetime, I only wish to do similar great things in my neighborhood.
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This is a follow up to Rafe's amazing first book. This book also offers inspiration through Rafe's experiences. He teaches because he cares. He wasn't always supported in his teaching ventures, but I see him as a leader in education. Yes, there are many people who are considered leaders because they shape the way education is, but this man is a leader because he is doing what I am. He's been there and done most things. He makes mistakes, but learns from them for the next time. He "rescues" children from lives of disappointment and failure and gives them an oasis in which to learn and grow, as students and people. Again, I only hope to do the same for my students in the coming years.
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During student teaching, I had a professor recommend that we all read this book. It looks at the humorous side of teaching and accepting all of the crazy things that you think would NEVER happen to you. I have since recommended it to everyone I know because it's an easy read that allows you to laugh at the author and also yourself when you realize you've done similar things. This book is actually what inspired me to write a blog chronicling my teaching experiences day-by-day. I one day wish to write a similar book and will plenty of stories to choose from the best of the best.If you have been teaching one year or thirty, I suggest reading this book and in order to help you understand not to take things so seriously and learn from your mistakes.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This was another book recommended to me by a friend during student teaching. At the time I read this, I related to it a bit, but didn't truly understand what an inspiring man Rafe Esquith is. Now that I've taught 4th grade in a school Rafe would call "The Jungle", I am taking the opportunity to re-read this amazing book. Rafe talks about how much of his life he dedicates to his students because he is what they have. Some of their families barely survive and school is their escape from the harsh realities they face in their neighborhoods. Now that my current teaching position so closely relates to where Rafe worked, I try to think of how he would handle a situation and not to sound cliche, but, "What would Rafe do?" He's done amazing things for many years with a very diverse group of kids who live very rough lives. In my lifetime, I only wish to do similar great things in my neighborhood.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is a follow up to Rafe's amazing first book. This book also offers inspiration through Rafe's experiences. He teaches because he cares. He wasn't always supported in his teaching ventures, but I see him as a leader in education. Yes, there are many people who are considered leaders because they shape the way education is, but this man is a leader because he is doing what I am. He's been there and done most things. He makes mistakes, but learns from them for the next time. He "rescues" children from lives of disappointment and failure and gives them an oasis in which to learn and grow, as students and people. Again, I only hope to do the same for my students in the coming years.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Playin' Hoodrat Games in the Park
I'm still playing Auntie at my sister's house near Dallas. We've been making trips all over town, taking Caleb to his doctor's appointment, and cuddling him as much as possible. I tell you that it's very hard to love someone so adorable and helpless. He cuddles on my chest (he likes the soft pillows) and poops every 5 minutes. Who cares what comes out the other end when he's making such cute faces. Even the pictures I took of him at the doctor's office (getting blood drawn) were amazingly cute and pathetic at the same time. I will definitely be spending more time at my sister's playing Aunt. This is something that her boyfriend will enjoy...hah! Well, I take that back...he likes it when I cook.After some more cleaning of the baby room (because he's not yet spending time in it), my sister and I picked up her boyfriend's kid (he's almost 10--4th grader). We rode bikes to the park to play with some hoodrats before dinner. I'm amazed at how easily he makes friends to play with, but also happy that he is able to do that. This means that I can just supervise and play when I want. Anyway, he was playing hoodrat tag. Um, I mean, Williams' Family Hide-and-Seek. The kids (who were also 9-10) described it as part Marco-Polo, Hide-and-Seek, and Tag. It was quite confusing at first, but they were sure of the rules and explained them to everyone around...even the cute little girl who came over and told me what was going on. They played, but because it was so confusing for everyone else, they eventually quit. Soon, another crop of hoodrats came along and started a whole new game of tag with my soon-to-be step-nephew. At least that game was legit and the rules weren't made by some random family. It was fun to watch the kids who don't know each other play together. They casually ask names, use them during play, and then say goodbye when everyone leaves. It seems much more friendly than any group of adults who randomly meet somewhere.
Seeing how Caleb has changed positions and is now laying on one of my arms, it has become more difficult to type. I'm heading home tomorrow but will plan a trip soon to visit again. I must spoil as often and as much as possible! But, my poor Tiva misses me...and my friend who I cook for on a fairly regular basis.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
I'm in love!
With my nephew that is! He is the sweetest baby I've ever seen. He snuggles like no other, sleeps almost all day, and makes adorable faces. He sleeps with me on the bed, on the couch and in my arms. The only time he cries is when he wants to eat. And even his crying is adorable. He took his first trip to the mall and multiple stores yesterday and he didn't even fuss when we were shifting his stroller in order to make it up and down the escalator multiple times. Hopefully his sweetness lasts forever and he doesn't take after his mother (my sister)...we could definitely be in for some moodiness if that is the case.More pictures to come!
It's All Over!
Oh my was this past week tiring! I don't think I was that tired my first week of school. In fact, I'm still tired 2 days later. My body definitely took a beating this past week and I'm still feeling it. The entire last week of school was spent doing absolutely nothing of importance. I tried to maintain management in order to preserve my sanity, and it somewhat worked...it was just very tiring. Trying to pack up a classroom and keep children engaged was definitely my greatest challenge. My classroom had to be packed up before I left school on Friday (in order to avoid returning to work on Tuesday, which was a must because I had other plans).
Helpful kids are wonderful, except when there is nothing to do! I am a very particular person and don't really like other people doing things for me sometimes and packing was one of those times. I like to know what is going in what box and to decide what didn't need to be packed, etc. Along with all this packing was a lot of cleaning...I mean throwing things away. I have seen the teachers who keep everything they've ever used in their teaching careers...I believe they are called pack rats. I do not want to turn into one of those. I threw many things away, things I knew I would not use again or that I had multiple copies of. I also had to return all of the confiscated items that I accumulated in 5 months. I didn't realize I had so much. Everything that I had fit into a large plastic container. Here are just some of the items I had the pleasure of
taking from my students:
- Littlest Pet Shop toys (multiple)
- art set
- scented pencils
- blinking lights
- Jagermeister visor (see picture)
- oversized pencil
- egg-shaped nut
- key chains galore
- bracelets
- journals
- Tomagochis (I don't know how to spell this.)
- baseball cards
- Pokemon cards
You may think that some of these things are not toys. I agree. Before I confiscated many of these items, I warned my kiddos to put it away because it was distracting them from working. When they did not put it away and/or finish their work, I took it. I did have many more things, but they were returned before I started taking things "until the end of the school year". I also know that a few items were claimed by students without my permission from my drawer. For next year, I will be sure to have a larger area for these items.
It was a sad day...but not really. I was quite happy. I enjoyed my students, but was thankful that the year was over. Those kids were cray-cray! I mean, they "scared" one teacher away...they might have successfully managed 2, but the year ended. As I left my room, I took a picture of what remained--all my worldly teaching belongings. I am super excited about the thought of starting a year by myself and knowing that I can shape the attitudes, behavior, expectations, and quality of learning from day one! But first I'll enjoy my 3 months of summer and my vacations to Italy, Greece, and New York City.
Summer Blog: I have some blogs that I have yet to post, but will do so randomly throughout the summer for entertainment. I will also post about my adventures.
Helpful kids are wonderful, except when there is nothing to do! I am a very particular person and don't really like other people doing things for me sometimes and packing was one of those times. I like to know what is going in what box and to decide what didn't need to be packed, etc. Along with all this packing was a lot of cleaning...I mean throwing things away. I have seen the teachers who keep everything they've ever used in their teaching careers...I believe they are called pack rats. I do not want to turn into one of those. I threw many things away, things I knew I would not use again or that I had multiple copies of. I also had to return all of the confiscated items that I accumulated in 5 months. I didn't realize I had so much. Everything that I had fit into a large plastic container. Here are just some of the items I had the pleasure of
taking from my students:- Littlest Pet Shop toys (multiple)
- art set
- scented pencils
- blinking lights
- Jagermeister visor (see picture)
- oversized pencil
- egg-shaped nut
- key chains galore
- bracelets
- journals
- Tomagochis (I don't know how to spell this.)
- baseball cards
- Pokemon cards
You may think that some of these things are not toys. I agree. Before I confiscated many of these items, I warned my kiddos to put it away because it was distracting them from working. When they did not put it away and/or finish their work, I took it. I did have many more things, but they were returned before I started taking things "until the end of the school year". I also know that a few items were claimed by students without my permission from my drawer. For next year, I will be sure to have a larger area for these items.
It was a sad day...but not really. I was quite happy. I enjoyed my students, but was thankful that the year was over. Those kids were cray-cray! I mean, they "scared" one teacher away...they might have successfully managed 2, but the year ended. As I left my room, I took a picture of what remained--all my worldly teaching belongings. I am super excited about the thought of starting a year by myself and knowing that I can shape the attitudes, behavior, expectations, and quality of learning from day one! But first I'll enjoy my 3 months of summer and my vacations to Italy, Greece, and New York City.Summer Blog: I have some blogs that I have yet to post, but will do so randomly throughout the summer for entertainment. I will also post about my adventures.
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