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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

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...

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: 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.

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.)

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.

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!