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

A Temple in the Acropolis

The Trevi Fountain

The Vatican

Temple of Athena

Pompeii Ruins
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After my 10 days traveling through Italy and Greece, I was off to Dallas to visit my sister and my nephew.

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And then...I had a few days to relax by the pool before I headed to New York to give my aunt and cousin their first taste of the big city and Eastern Long Island farm country. This was the best trip to NYC that I've ever had! We went to GMA and were on TV from the outside and then were taken inside for the rest of the show. And then, we were eating lunch when my cousin noticed John Mayer outside. I ran outside as fast as I could and most of the rest was documented on TMZ. I may as well not put up photos of any thing else because nothing topped John Mayer!!!

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

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.

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.
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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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

It's Over...as of 2:45!

I know I haven't posted for a few days...I've been very tired after school each day. I will be sure to post after it's officially over.

When I write with chalk my butt jiggles.

When we began school this morning, we had 4 days of school left. These 4 days can't go by fast enough. The kids are done with all work and honor roll awards were given out this morning. In the meantime, they are still finishing up scrapbooks for a book they read a few weeks ago. We've been working on this project for some time and I just want it to be over. BUT, the upside of this project is that the kids should be able to work independently while I pack up my classroom.

The thing is...school gets out on Friday and that is allowed to be the teachers' last day of school as well (as long as we stay late all week). My sister had her baby last week and I'm in a huge hurry to go visit my new nephew. The sooner I get my room packed and ready to go home, the less I will have to worry about getting it done in time. So, in order to get this done...

The kids need to work and I need them to leave me alone. I know that's an awful thing to say, but it's how I feel right now. I'm worn out and they are being very demanding of me and each other. I only expect the week to continue this way. I enjoy having those who finish help me pack as well. They are great helpers (see previous blogs) most of the time, especially the ones who finish early. I remember helping my teachers when I was in school and have no problem creating a memory for my own students. haha

I just hope that I survive these next few days...without realities or nightmares of my class acting like wild animals. Oh, and my butt does NOT jiggle when I write with chalk, but a fellow teacher's does...which is a useful piece of information I found out during recess today. another ha!

Please put me out of my misery!

When I was in elementary school, I always remembered the last few days of school. I remember them being meaningless and filled with busy work, helping the teacher clean her classroom, and doing my best to contain the excitement of summer being within reach. As a teacher, I'm now faced with managing 21 kids who are thinking the same things. Grades were due on Wednesday AM, which means that any work done since then does not matter. I've done a pretty good job of convincing my kids that it does still matter (or so I think), but that will all change soon.

On Tuesday AM, we will have our awards ceremony for the honor rolls, perfect attendance, etc. This could also be known as the time when kids will realize their work won't be graded for the last few days of school. This will be the time that I begin having my kids help pack up my classroom, although they will become unmanageable during this process. They get easily excited and this will not be an exception.

Why do we have a last week of school? I know it's impossible to not have a last week, but I feel there is a better way to prevent the craziness that ensues around this time of year. I have no idea what the better way might be, but maybe it's just something I have to learn in my first few years of teaching. Please, just let it be over quickly and with as little pain as possible!

I wasn't born to write poorly.

If you know me, the title is obviously about me...but, I didn't say it. As I was talking to one of my students today about his scrapbook, I mentioned that he should write his journal entry the way the character would have written it. "BUT MS. L, I WASN'T BORN TO WRITE POORLY." I wasn't necessarily referring to the character's handwriting, but that's how this student understood my comment. This is a kid who will redo something if he made one mistake, just so it's perfect. He doesn't like when he has to erase or scribble. The best part of this is that I completely understood his thinking. I had this problem in school as well. I still do. I was made fun of in school because I couldn't do "hurried or sloppy", but I could write a note from someone's parents (which I never did, but was told I could). I've also been praised for my handwriting at every level. In fact, if I had a quarter for every time someone complimented my handwriting, I sure wouldn't need to be teaching right now. I of course would still be teaching because I love it, but I wouldn't be checking my bank account on a daily basis. haha!

Anyway, there are 5 days of school left!! I'm beyond exhausted from the last few weeks. They've been tiring. During this week alone, I've had a meeting everyday during my planning time, running late to lunch because of behavior problems, and packing up my room during any down time. That and waiting for my only nephew to be born...which he was last night at 9:50pm.

Bearer of Bad News

One of the hardest things I've done in my teaching career was to tell my kiddos what they made on their TAKS tests (reading, writing, math). The first few kids on the list were easy...commended on all three tests. It got difficult pretty quick with the third kid having failed every test. I asked how he thought he did. He responded with a non-convincing, "I guess okay." I then informed him how he did. He immediately fell to the ground and tears streamed down his face. What was I supposed to say?? Why didn't you do your best? I know you failed these because you refuse to do your work in class, you turned your test in too early, you sleep when you're in class, and it was a true indication of your progress. I know this would never be appropriate to say, but it's true. It's a tough reality, but it is reality.

I also had kids who failed all three tests immediately question, "Does this mean I have to go to summer school? Do I get to go to 5th grade?" No, you don't have to go to summer school and yes, you still get to go to 5th grade. Is this right? I don't think it is, but it's what happens. This child proceeded to go in the room and yell, "I failed all 3 and I still get to go to 5th grade! SWEET!" What?!? He quickly got a talk about how he should not be proud or bragging about failing the tests. I couldn't believe this.

On the flip side of these disappointing conversations, I did get to congratulate a few kids on their successes on the tests. They were so proud of themselves. It's something they've been waiting a long time to hear and something that some of them worked so hard to accomplish. This was my first experience in state testing and I'll stand by what I've always said about the nonsense they call standardized testing. It's all about accountability and it's all a bunch of BS! Why aren't these kids being held accountable for their actions? Why am I the only one being accountable for these?

The results are in...

Before I begin...I'm expecting to be an aunt in the next 24 hours! It's very exciting and of course I'll share pictures as soon as I get them. Unfortunately I am unable to go visit my new nephew immediately after he's born because of school, but I'll go visit the day after school is out.
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And they didn't look good. I know my kids haven't had the most ideal year because of the first 4 months, but I didn't think it would affect them as much as it did. Reading the state standardized test scores for reading, math, and writing were a bit overwhelming. As a grade level, the scores weren't great at all. The principal handed us the scores with a, "I'll talk to y'all tomorrow." Fantastic! We have 4 teachers leaving, how much difference is that going to make. We already know that we didn't do something right this year...and we'll have to step it up big time next year.

My class is not immune to the low scores by any means...I hate to say that my class had many of the low scores. I had three children fail every test. All of these children have had previous difficulties with testing and grade level standards. One of these students didn't even look in her test booklets...as she was testing, I never saw her flip through the pages of the test booklet. I had two students fail two of the three tests. And I had some surprises that should never have failed the tests. AND, two of the students listed on my list were not in my class during the test. They both came AFTER the tests.

As I thought about these results, I started taking the blame from myself, even though I feel as though it's all my fault. I began realizing that I had to teach many things the week before the math and reading tests that were originally taught at the beginning of the year...well, at least in all of the other 4th grade classes. (Reminder: I started teaching two weeks before Winter Break.) I was cramming a semester's worth of learning into a few weeks before the test. Regardless of what I try to tell myself to take some weight off of my shoulders, it's hard to see those scores on paper and have them attached to my name. My principal may understand that it's not all of my responsibility, but these scores will be in my records. One of the hardest parts of my first TAKS experience may be that I didn't have full control over what my students were supposed to learn this year and it hurts me in the long run. Of course I am thankful for getting a job immediately after graduation, but there have been many struggles because of it.

Is cheese a fruit or a vegetable?

The countdown is in full effect...8 days to go. Grades are actually due at the end of tomorrow, so the rest of the year will be busy work. I'll try to fill the time with stuff my kids think is meaningful, but in reality, it means nothing. My goal as a first year teacher was to convince my students that everything they do is meaningful. Maintaining this through the last few days of a school year will be a challenge.

I'm not going to lie. I'm a bit scared of the last days of school because I have a lot to do and the days are flying by. I've got meetings almost every day this week during my conference period regarding plans for my students next year. The meetings are not the fun kind saying what great kids they've been and how successful they will be in 5th grade, but rather the disappointing kind where we talk about what that student needs to really work on in order to be ready for 5th grade by summer's end. Unfortunately, not many of these kids will get the help they need over the summer in order to prepare them. I'm especially not looking forward to my meeting tomorrow. I'll let you know how those go...

Today I started taking posters and bulletin boards down and realized how much I've made/accumulated in the last 5 months. I already have so many books and many games that I'm afraid of what my teaching supplies will look like after a whole year of teaching, never mind 30 years. We'll see. I'm still collecting boxes in order to pack up everything I've bought since I began my career. Another thing I'm really looking forward to. AHHHH!

Another great bookstore find...I think I'm spending a bit too much time in the bookstore, but I enjoy walking in and having time sort of stop so that I can mosey on through in no hurry. Am I not right that nobody is ever in a hurry in a bookstore? It's an oasis of sorts, even for people who just like books, not necessarily book-enthusiasts.

Once I played hooky from school. My teacher sent me a thank-you note!

Teacher: "Emil, give me the formula for water, plain water."
Emil: "I, J, K, L, M, N, O."
Teacher, "Emil! You know that's not right!"
Emil: "I was certain that it was. Didn't you say the formula was H to O?"

I am teaching...It's kind of like having a love affair with a rhinoceros.

Education helps you earn more. But not many schoolteachers can prove it.

I will not conduct my own fire drills.
I will not conduct my own fire drills.
I will not conduct...

A teacher is a person who used to think she like children.

A teacher's constant task it to take a roomful of live wires and see to it that they're grounded.

52.50

No, that's not my time from my 5K today (BagelFest), but rather how much I spent on gas today filling up. All I have to say is RIDICULOUS!!!!

Bookstore Find

I recently purchased a book that I found on a table for teachers at a bookstore. I know there are many books like this, in fact, I had to decided between this and another similar book. I chose this one based on its page appeal. I don't always like reading books that have a page of words, so I usually enjoy the books that you can open to random pages and read a quick anecdote or sentence of advice. That is exactly what this type of book is. With that said, here are some ideas, strategies, and inspirations that I opened the book to and want to share. I made my own comments in asterisks after each tip (if you care to read).

180. Enjoy your students. It's the only way to survive as a teacher. They will disappoint you sometimes. They may even break your heart at times. More often, they will surprise, amaze, and delight you. Those are the moments that make it all worthwhile. ***I completely agree with this. Even though my students drive me crazy some days, I truly enjoy their sense of humor, energy, diverse personalities, and everything else that makes each kid unique.***

252. Document all your disciplinary actions. Notes and records are important in today's litigious society. A good paper trail can lead you out of a lawsuit. ***I was told this when I first started. So far, I've not needed to use my documentation in a formal setting, but it's nice to tell the principal exactly when you called and discussed an issue with a parent.***

271. Whenever students line up, always stand at the back of the line. It's better to see what's going on ahead of you than to trust what's happening behind you. ***I knew this already, but I usually hang out in the middle of the line and it never fails that the end of the line is playing and making noise. It's a simple concept to help keep a better eye on everything.***

372. Know your community. It makes a difference in what you teach and how you teach it. ***This is one of the biggest things I think about daily. Knowing the background of the students helps you not teach over them, but to them. Don't assume they have the background knowledge.***

The Longest Day of My Life

My day is best described in 3 parts...get ready to read...

Part Uno: Let the Games Begin
Today was the First Annual 4th Grade Kickball Tournament. We had planned this for the day before TAKS a few months ago, but weather prevented it from happening. The kids came to school more psyched than on Field Day, barely being able to contain themselves. In the midst of all the excitement, I had to inform my class that we were not playing until 1:05. I originally told them "the afternoon", but it didn't satisfy them. They needed the exact time. Before the game, we talked about good sportsmanship, the rules, and expected behavior. Knowing that sportsmanship would probably be the biggest problem, we spent quite a bit of time discussing it. When I thought they understood how important it was, we were ready to face off.

I get both teams set up to go (because the other class has a sub), and we're off. We're first up to bat and it's looking good. We get a few runs and even the not-so-athletically-gifted children are doing quite well. I'm very impressed with the cooperation and good sportsmanship that I see in my team. I will admit that I was getting quite competitive. I was getting angry at the boys on the other team who wanted to tell me the rules...keep in mind that there is one child on this team who I've had difficulty with kickball rules before. I get the rules straight, though not without straining my voice, which is very much strained this evening as I sit and type...good thing no talking is involved. We barely pulled this game through, only after ending in a tie and ultimately over-time. This is when those just average kids truly pulled it through and gained some respect from their classmates--it was a great thing to see as a teacher.

Next round...the FINALS! This is not just any kickball championship game, this is for bragging rights and a cheesy trophy made with goods from Hobby Lobby (think Dancing with the Stars tackiness). It didn't matter, these kids were going to do anything they could to win this trophy and bragging rights. I would rather not go through all the drama that occurred in this game, but we unfortunately lost. There was one call that I'm still contesting, but that one run would not have won the game for us. I truly had to model good sportsmanship for my class...and then we had to have a talk about being good sports and dealing with disappointment. This was not a fun talk, and I understand how badly they all wanted to win, but arguing and trying to play the whole game by yourself won't get it done. Maybe next time we have a class event, they will show better cooperation in order to get what they want...a Styrofoam trophy. AND, the class that beat us, truly needed that. It was a great positive bonding experience for them after issues that have torn them apart in the last week. Congrats to them and I'm still dealing with unsportsmanlike behavior.

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Part Dos: Is that really a talent?

Tonight was our school talent show. I figured I would stay and watch a bit because I did have a child performing. I had no idea how much work they put into it...the theme was "Explorer Idol" because we are the Explorers and there was a cute movie intro along with short segments about each performer. (Side Note: I would like to grow up to be the teacher that produced this event.) The stage, decorations, and concession stand were great...the talent, however, not so great. Kids sang along with Mariah Carey, danced to Soulja Boy, sang "Rain, Rain, Go Away", sang some song about a bunny, hula hooped, played the snare drum (my kiddo), did a non-dance dance, and jumped rope. I will admit that I didn't stay until the end because of utter exhaustion and boredom. I just couldn't do it anymore. Even the principal said, "What they are doing in there is not talent." The only performers that truly impressed me were the jump rope kid who did it like a profession and it didn't even look like he was jumping up and down and the hula hoop duo. They used multiple hoops, altered speeds, and even had some on their arms and added them to their waist after a while. I know it's hard for a kid to truly understand the word talent in elementary school, so I give credit to anyone who stood on that stage and gave it your all for everyone who came to see.

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Part Tres: In Tha Hood
As I was escaping from the talent show, I was outside to see some police officers standing by some boys on a curb. Honestly, police at our school is not an uncommon thing. I usually see them around at some point each week. If a week goes by where they don't come visit, I guarantee they'll be there twice the next week. Anyway, I obviously take the route of most nosiness in order to find out what's going on. I see all the boys sitting on the curb, the sheriff not looking very happy asking the boys questions and the boys holding tickets. As I walk by, I hear something about throwing rocks. I head to my room to pick up my stuff and when I head back out, I see both principals, secretary, and many more adults. My principals greet me with, "Welcome to the Hood." I laugh because I truly want to know what happened, but now is not the time. I will find out by Monday...there are no secrets at our school. The boys sitting on the curb don't look like they go to our school, so I'm sure that our principals will be glad to let us know what the middle schoolers were up to this time. Seriously, is the school with tons of parents and teacher the appropriate time to vandalized, throw rocks, or do mischievous activities?

I don't believe that I've yet mentioned...9 days of school left!

No Complaints!

There has been quite a bit of drama happening in the 4th grade lately. Unfortunately, I'm not able to share it, but what I will say is that I should never have another reason to complain about my kids who don't listen, who can't stay in their areas, and don't finish their work. These complaints are trivial compared to what another teacher is facing at this very moment in time. It has now made me grateful for my group of kiddos.

Are you supposed to be sharing this?

As I was walking my class to lunch yesterday, a student began telling me about her mother. This wasn't any ordinary story, but rather it was one that I'm sure her mom would not want her telling everyone.

- "Ms. L..."
- "Yes?"
- "My mama might be pregnant?"
- "Oh really?"
- "Yeah, she thinks she's pregnant, but she said she doesn't want to get a pregnancy test until next month because insurance won't pay for it until then."
- "Ohhhhhh."
- "She's been having stomach aches in the morning and she's always tired. She's been sleeping a lot. This is how she acted when she was pregnant with my sister.
- "Hmmmmm."
- "Yeah, I really want a baby brother, so I hope she's pregnant. I already have a sister and a brother and we want another."
- "Oh, you want more brothers and sisters?"
- "Yeah. I hope she gets that test soon so we'll know."

Today...
- "I hope my mom does the test."
- "What test?"
- "The little brother one!"
- "Huh, what test are you talking about?"
- "The one where she knows if she's pregnant."
- "Oh, okay."
- "She said she might take it sooner. I hope she does. I want to know."

ME TOO!

Granny Moment

Today was an abnormally normal day. The two kiddos that I'm concerned about their futures were absent. One of them actually came this morning, but he had an odd rash around his mouth and I sent him to get it covered at the nurse's office. The nurse apparently didn't want to take any chances regarding what it was, so he was sent home. He truly needed to be in class because of all the work he's neglected over the past 9 weeks, but he doesn't turn in work when he is sitting at my desk working either. He asked me one day, "Can I just make a zero on this because I don't feel like doing it." I know my job as a teacher is to try and inspire those who are uninspired, but it makes it difficult when you try to care and spark enthusiasm in any way and its ignored. I feel the same about my other student. Well, and it is hard to inspire and make a difference when the child is absent at least once a week, sometimes twice, and tardy every day.

So, with this abnormally normal day came a time when I was actually able to talk about what we will do tomorrow. (Usually, the kids are so loud and active in the afternoon during Stack and Pack that it's impossible to get anything said. I'm just glad the bells rings and they can go home.) As I was talking, I was interrupted and completely forgot what I was going to say. While I was trying to think, all I could hear was, "That's called a granny moment. My grandma forgets like this all the time. HAHAHA! You're old and forgetful." Of course that made me remember within two seconds. It is also a good thing that my kids know I have a sense of humor and don't take comments like this seriously or personally. I really enjoy them when they know how to make a joke that doesn't offend me, makes me smile, and lightens the mood.

Oh Snap!!

It happened again. While I was in my room preparing for the day, the registrar comes over my speaker and tells me that I will be getting a new student today. Are you kidding me?!? We have 13 days of school left and nevermind that, grades are due in 6 days. And yes, I will be responsible for inputting grades for his 6 days in my class...and they are meant to reflect the past 9 weeks and whether or not he will be promoted to 5th grade. What are parents thinking moving their kids around at this time? I understand the occasional new kid at the end of the year, but a fellow 4th grade teacher also received a new kid yesterday. I'd venture to say that for the past 3 weeks, some 4th grade class has received a new kid.

Anyway, I was a bit disappointed that this new child was a boy because I already have about twice as many boys as girls. I don't really need any more boys in my class. If I stereotype them correctly, the boys tend to be more outwardly expressive, which ultimately means that they are loud and disruptive to our learning. And girls are more dramatic in the gossip area. They talk about each other non-stop but can't stand when someone talks about them. Bunch 'o hypocrites is what they are! Of course I know that not every child is like my two stereotypes, but 75% of my class is. FORTUNATELY, in the few hours that I had to get to know this kid today, I was thankful that he doesn't seem to fit my stereotypes of boys, so far. I've seen it many times before where they are too shy to act out the first few days, but considering that we only have 13 days of school left (12 as of tonight), he might begin to act out after we're done with all serious work (when grades are due). My fingers are crossed.

Is that appropriate?

Today as I was walking past the track to pick my kids up from art, I noticed a man. This was not an ordinary man. This man was running in bright orange shorts and was NOT wearing a shirt. He was running the school track during school hours and was not wearing a shirt. Was this appropriate? I think not. I have the art teacher call and let administration know and I see the principal as she is walking in after speaking to him. Apparently he wasn't aware that school was in session and he also wasn't aware that he was shirtless. Well, maybe he knew he was shirtless, but I don't think he realized it was inappropriate.

As we were leaving art, the man was now running on the street directly next to the school. Almost every child in my class and another noticed him:
"Put a shirt on!"
"Why is there a man running without a shirt?"
"Is he running a marathon?"
"EWWWWW!"

Seriously...why couldn't you just have a shirt on. It would've prevented me from hearing about your shirtless marathon for the remainder of the day.

What truly excites me...

It's that time of year when the book fair rolls through again to supply students with those fun reads for the summer and I have to say that it is probably one of my favorite weeks of school. I truly enjoy browsing the carts and tables on a daily basis just in case I missed something the day before. I love looking at all the books I would own if I didn't have to pay rent. I love looking at books that I know my class loves, but I would never buy for my classroom (come on--Naruto? Hannah Montana? What educational purpose does she serve? She only distracts my kids from doing their math work.) I also enjoy looking for books for my soon-to-be baby nephew, younger cousins, and even my parents. Books are great for all ages and while I hated reading as a child, I have come to love it more than eating ice cream. I still enjoy my ice cream every once in a while, but reading is now something I get to do on a daily basis...and this time, I get to pick the books.

When I was a kid, we used a reading program called Accelerated Reader. It basically determined your reading grade based on how many books you read, how many points the book was worth, but overall, how many points you earned on the test for that book. I didn't enjoy reading the books my teachers wanted me to. I loved R.L. Stein's Fear Street series and according to my teachers, "These are no where close to your reading level. You need to find something more appropriate." I don't want to! I can read these faster than those other books because I truly enjoy what I'm reading. I don't think I won that disagreement with my elementary school teachers, but I do remember reading those books until 8th grade (keep in mind my teachers claimed they were a 4th grade reading level). I just looked on Amazon in order to get a picture for this blog and saw some of the book titles. There is no way they are at a 4th grade level...they include cheating, college weekends, all night parties, secret admirers, etc. I guess when I look back, these books were no more ridiculous than Hannah Montana or High School Musical, but these definitely had more of a story line with a problem and solution. Too bad they aren't selling these at our book fair!

The joy of being a teacher and having a book fair come to your school is that the kids in your class are supposed to buy you books that you have requested. Unfortunately because I work at a school where there are more working class parents, teachers don't usually get many of the books they request. I however, still requested lots of books that I would love to have in my classroom in the hopes that I get get at least one of them bought for me. Even one book would make my day. If I don't get the books by the end of the week, I am willing to go buy many of them as long as I don't use my A/C for the rest of the month, I'll be able to afford them and possibly more. Oh, the joys of teaching...needing so many materials and not having the money to buy all of them...too bad this will be an ongoing problem for the next 30 years!

Special Mother's Day Edition!

For Mother's Day, I had my class color a card and create coupons that they could give to their mothers. I found some of them to be very humorous and/or strange.

This says "my heart" and if you think you're reading a first grader's writing, see blog: Frustration, Disappointment, Anger


I would like him to cash this coupon into me.

Any suggestions for handwriting practice for a 4th grader? By the way, this says "stop making you mad".

Only if she wants you to...

I hope your mom doesn't have to use a coupon to get you to shower!

Not quite sure that she understood it should be a gift that your mom does not have to pay for.

I wish everyone a Happy Mother's Day! I hope you have a fantastic day and like I told me kids to treat their mothers, I hope you're treated like a fabulous Queen.

Field Day

Oh, how it all began...

I vividly remember Field Day from when I was a kid...the whole class wore their class t-shirts with their class name, "Coyle's Cobras" (my 3rd grade class), a hat, lathered on sun screen, laced up their tennis shoes, and marched into the field behind the school to claim what was rightfully their's...the pride of being the winning class at the end of the day. We had the 100-yard dash, tug-of-war, some relays, etc. The events had already been chosen for each student by the teacher. The kids who weren't participating were cheering on their team because there would be a Team Spirit Award at the end of the day as well. I don't ever remember if I was in a winning class or if I won any events on my own, because the whole day in itself was so much fun. Those types of field days are in the past...well, at least at the school where I currently teach.

I was excited to have a break of teaching for a day before I found out that our Field Day is in reality a Field Half-Day. I would have to keep my crazy kiddos in the room learning all morning and then we would have our chance at the fun in the afternoon. Our schedule was very screwed up...lunch was 2 hours earlier than usual, no specials, and we had to be in different places at different times.

11:45 was within breathing distance, so I asked who wanted sunscreen after most of them said they didn't have any on or in their bag. If my mom taught me one thing during my childhood (and even adulthood), it is to lather on that sunscreen...it's easier than handling the pain of a sunburn (and healthier too). It ended up being an impromptu lesson on how to apply sunscreen because most of my class had no idea where to put it, how to rub it in, and most importantly--don't rub it over your eye lids. I put dots on their faces where they needed to rub it in after a few kids started rubbing it in their hands and one on his chin. Yes...we were finally protected against harmful UV rays and ready to expend all the energy I'd been trapping within the walls of my classroom all morning.

We headed to the "Gym Area" for our first activities of Field Day. I was, at first, disappointed. The activities seemed lame and I figured the kids would tire of them easily. I was WRONG! They loved the ridiculous games that had been set up--bowling, carpet races, Dance Dance Revolution (using tape on the floor rather than video game mats), a boogies station, limbo, sponge relays, clamming in a plastic baby pool, broom ball, pizza delivery (see picture), and some other games that I can't even think of a good name to describe them. The kids loved playing at each of these stations. They especially loved the boogie station because at one point, Soulja Boy came blasting out of the speakers. It was as if they were all in hi music video...not a single kid didn't know the dance. They also all knew how to "Walk It Out" and do some break dancing (see picture). It was a good time though and it was nice to allow my kids to dance and not get upset because they are doing in the classroom and distracting everyone from learning. We moved on to some other activities where I learned that my class does not know how to divide themselves into equal lines. At many of the "events", there were 4, 5 or even 6 different groups. The person working the event would ask them to get in equal lines and it never failed that they were unable to do this. (Guess what we will be practicing next week?!?!)

Finally...TUG-O-WAR! This was the only event that reminded me of my many years as a Field Day participant. Round 1: Boys vs. Girls (FYI: I have 13 boys and 7 girls) I was on the girls team and felt like I was the only one pulling. My hands were burning from the rope after we were easily defeated. Round 2: Numbers 1-10 and 11-22 (their classroom/student numbers...about even in boys vs. girls) It was an easier match than the first round...one of the teams won. Round 3: Even vs. Odd (classroom numbers again) This was again an easy defeat. I noticed one person who was on the winning team each time...who played anchor...for a reason.

I don't believe that I've yet mentioned how dreadfully hot it was outside. We were standing on cement much of the time, which only made it more of a sweat fest. And the big conclusion for this fabulously, fun, and fiery day...the parent who "doesn't take stock in anything I have to say" appeared! He didn't say a word to me and I kindly smiled at him when I felt it necessary. I had mentioned to a substitute for another 4th grade class what had transpired between this parent and myself. (She was the short-term sub for my class between the old teacher and when I arrived.) This parent went to talk to her and I could hear my ears ringing...of course they were talking about me! What else would they talk about? He still never once uttered a word to me (only through his daughter), but the sub filled me in on the conversation. She was explaining how hard it is to take over a class, especially this one and what a great job I've done, etc. She went on and on. She told me she knew he was listening because he even agreed at one point that, "Yeah, it must be hard." Was this an epiphany? Did he finally realize that his attitudinal daughter was not my only concern on a daily basis? Maybe, maybe not...the only thing that mattered to me was that she did not even give him time to say one bad word about me. Maybe he'll think about it and realize how wrong he was. Even if he never apologizes or speaks to me again, I'll know that his words were out of ignorance and not understanding how much a teacher deals with from day to day.

After a small victory there, I was headed home, for I was exhausted and barely had a voice remaining. It's tiring yelling at your kids to get in equal lines at every event. It's hard saying over and over again that you aren't allowed walk around the school where ever you want. It's even more difficult standing out in the sweltering heat for 5 hours, just because it's different from the daily routine in the classroom, which I have built up stamina for. Thank goodness that Field Day is only a half day and that all the kids were able to participate at every event. My kids had a blast and I can say that I had some fun myself (letting the kids hug me when they were soaked just because they thought it was funny).

Below are some pictures of some activities we did...at least the ones where no students' faces are pictured.Part of the obstacle course...they all seemed to have a problem going under this without knocking it over.

Another teaching practicing her dance skills with Dance Dance Revolution.

Bowling...the lane dividers were 2x4s.

Snow Shoes...i.e. sliding your feet across the floor using carpet squares.

The dummy to run around in the obstacle course. One was the Fantastic Four the other was Daffy Duck.

Collect as many tennis balls in the bucket as you can without using your hands.

Pizza Delivery...collect one box each time...then stack them all back before any other team.

Bug Collectors

Broom Ball Relay...use the broom to get the ball through the goals.

I can't remember the name of these things, but I remember friends having them when I was younger. I wasn't very good at them and I'm still not. My class got quite the laugh when I tried it. These were in the station with jump ropes and hula hoops.

I feel loved!

Teacher Appreciation Week is meant to have parents and students recognize you for all the hard work you do all year long...the kids have been very kind with words and their homemade gifts. The only time I didn't feel appreciated is when the PTA said they would come take our kids to lunch yesterday for us and nobody showed up...every other teacher said somebody took their class... I received these flowers on "Buy your teacher a flower day" but they sold out before the other half of my class could buy a flower. Luckily my kiddos love me enough to make these wonderful pictures and poems for me.

My favorite drawing a kid has ever done of me!
I guess I love her too if she says so.

I found this one very thoughtful and a bit brown-nosing: Ms. L, your eyes shimmer like gems in a river. Your face lightens up like a light house looking out to sea Your outfits are like sweet, sweet roses. If you were to yell out a question, we would yell out an answer. If you are sad because we were bad, then you would color in RECESS. When you teach us at school, we know you are cool. So, don't feel blue, because to us, you're number one, and in our hearts, we love you!
-Wrote by, ***

I'm happy when you're around too!

It's good to hear I'm fun and a great teacher.

Originality...creativity??? I think not. (But the thought still counts.)

She did this instead of her work. At least I know she can complete things.

One of my favorites because he bleeds orange. And "I drank the burnt orange Kool-aide."

This makes a tear come to my eyes.