So, I'm posting back-to-back because I just cannot leave for the Winter Break without a "Happy Holidays!" post.
Soooo....
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Whatever it is that you celebrate, soak in every moment of celebration. Fill your pores with the joy and excitement that come along with this time of year. Over the next couple weeks, take moments to pause, look around, and appreciate the small things. We get so busy this time of year, we often take for granted those small things... Don't.
I can't wait to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life (though I do love my life), leave all deadlines and To-Do lists behind, and soak in time with my family and time by myself.
So Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah/Kwanzaa/Winter Break, Happy New Year...!
CELEBRATE!
Oh, and one more thing...
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW TEACHER OF THE YEAR, MRS. KELLY GUTIERREZ!!!!! :)
Friday, December 17, 2010
Curriculum Connections -- DECEMBER!
Here are some updates from the wonderful world of curriculum and testing!!
Science Updates
Presented by Benika Thompson
Why is science important??
Science affects our health, environment, and economy. As elementary teachers, we can spark the interest in science so that students can see how it relates to their world now and in the future.
• Neither U.S.
• There was a lower percentage of U.S.
• Right now, 62% of current 5th graders are projected to pass the Biology EOC in high school.
Curriculum Reminders:
• Even though we are preparing for the new Essential Standards, the SCOS will be taught and tested through the 2011-2012 school year.
• There will be no transition year, however WSFCS will include gaps in revised pacing guides
• DPI is working to develop a toolkit to help with standards
• 2011-2010 – Field tests with Essential Standards. Teachers will be able to give feedback.
• 2012-2013 – EOG operational
How do we improve our science instruction?
± Teacher efficacy-teach without excuses
± Teach the standards
± Improved ethics
± Focus on student learning
For more information, check out these sites:
J Elementary SCOS (2004)
J K-12 2004 Units (caution drafts included)
J Links to Essential Standards and Updates (highly recommended)
J ACRE Updates (curriculum, accountability,
etc)
Math Updates
Presented by Velvet Simington
A study found a major difference between teachers in the United States versus teachers in other countries -- US teachers do not let their kids struggle and work through problems. When students were asked “What makes you smart in math?”, students in Japan United States
Students need to talk about their learning. “Mathematics: Standards for Mathematical Practice” was given to all grade chairs, but here are the highlights:
Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them
Mathematically proficient students find the meaning of the problem and plan a way to find a solution. They check their answers using a different method and ask, “Does this make sense?”
Reason abstractly and quantitatively
Students attend to the meaning of the problem and how to solve it, not just computing the numbers.
Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.
Students can justify their conclusions in a logical progression. They can ask questions to clarify or improve their answers.
Model with mathematics.
Students can apply mathematics to solve problems that occur in everyday life.
Use appropriate tools strategically.
Students are familiar with the tools to solve math problems and are able to use them appropriately. (paper/pencil, calculator, ruler, computer, etc)
Attend to precision.
Proficient students try to communicate precisely to others. They can give clear explanations to others.
Look for and make use of structure.
Students look closely to find a pattern or structure to problems.
Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
Students notice if calculations are repeated and look for shortcuts to solve.
Don't Forget!
-January 13th: Moore Elementary Spelling Bee (for 5th graders)
-January 14th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Science)
-January 18th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Reading)
-January 19th: Title I Literacy Breakfast
-January 19th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Math With a Calculator)
-January 20th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Math Without a Calculator)
-Week of January 24th: DIBELS MOY Benchmark Assessments
-February 2nd - 4th: Moore Elementary Science Fair (for 5th graders)
-January 13th: Moore Elementary Spelling Bee (for 5th graders)
-January 14th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Science)
-January 18th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Reading)
-January 19th: Title I Literacy Breakfast
-January 19th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Math With a Calculator)
-January 20th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Math Without a Calculator)
-Week of January 24th: DIBELS MOY Benchmark Assessments
-February 2nd - 4th: Moore Elementary Science Fair (for 5th graders)
Monday, December 6, 2010
The Power of One Conversation
I believe in the power of one conversation.
Be it with a friend, a family member, or (especially) a child, the words that color one conversation can have an everlasting impact.
Take, for instance, the last conversation I ever had with my father. I'll never forget it.
Another example is a conversation my mom had with my siblings and me not long after the conversation with my father: "We can get through this... together."
There was a time my third grade teacher told me, "Jessie... You can DO anything. You can BE anything." (It was at that moment, fueled by that conversation, that I decided I wanted to be just like her and affect children's lives the way she had affected mine.)
My mom and third grade teacher may or may not remember those conversations, but I will never forget them. It was in these simple, succinct conversations that I built a foundation upon which all of my successes could be born. Conversations can be powerful. And if you know anything about children, you know they have a tendency to breathe in, to soak up every single word you say.
As an educator, I don't take conversations lightly. It may very well be a, "Good morning! So glad you're here!" or a "WOW! Look at those new shoes!" or even a "How'd the football game/soccer game/dance recital go?" These simple statements can provoke a conversation that lets a child know how much you care. In the fast-paced world of education, we tend to skip, hop, and jump through curriculum (and we sometimes have to!) without stopping to treat children as...well... children.
During the hustle and bustle of this holiday season, don't underestimate that what you say to a child today may be remembered for the next twenty years. Don't take for granted how important your words are to those tiny bodies around you. And don't forget how powerful one conversation can be.
What will you say to a child today that impacts the rest of his/her life?
Don't Forget!
-December 7th: Fluency Training for 3-5 7:30am-8:30am
-December 14th: Benika Thompson Visits to Discuss Science 9:45am
-December 17th: 4th Grade Content Specific Writing Scores Due in Moodle
-January 13th: Moore Elementary Spelling Bee (for 5th graders)
-January 14th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Science)
-January 18th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Reading)
-January 19th: Title I Literacy Breakfast
-January 19th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Math With a Calculator)
-January 20th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Math Without a Calculator)
-Week of January 24th: DIBELS MOY Benchmark Assessments
-January 26th-28th: Moore Elementary Science Fair (for 5th graders)
Be it with a friend, a family member, or (especially) a child, the words that color one conversation can have an everlasting impact.
Take, for instance, the last conversation I ever had with my father. I'll never forget it.
Another example is a conversation my mom had with my siblings and me not long after the conversation with my father: "We can get through this... together."
There was a time my third grade teacher told me, "Jessie... You can DO anything. You can BE anything." (It was at that moment, fueled by that conversation, that I decided I wanted to be just like her and affect children's lives the way she had affected mine.)
My mom and third grade teacher may or may not remember those conversations, but I will never forget them. It was in these simple, succinct conversations that I built a foundation upon which all of my successes could be born. Conversations can be powerful. And if you know anything about children, you know they have a tendency to breathe in, to soak up every single word you say.
As an educator, I don't take conversations lightly. It may very well be a, "Good morning! So glad you're here!" or a "WOW! Look at those new shoes!" or even a "How'd the football game/soccer game/dance recital go?" These simple statements can provoke a conversation that lets a child know how much you care. In the fast-paced world of education, we tend to skip, hop, and jump through curriculum (and we sometimes have to!) without stopping to treat children as...well... children.
During the hustle and bustle of this holiday season, don't underestimate that what you say to a child today may be remembered for the next twenty years. Don't take for granted how important your words are to those tiny bodies around you. And don't forget how powerful one conversation can be.
What will you say to a child today that impacts the rest of his/her life?
Don't Forget!
-December 7th: Fluency Training for 3-5 7:30am-8:30am
-December 14th: Benika Thompson Visits to Discuss Science 9:45am
-December 17th: 4th Grade Content Specific Writing Scores Due in Moodle
-January 13th: Moore Elementary Spelling Bee (for 5th graders)
-January 14th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Science)
-January 18th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Reading)
-January 19th: Title I Literacy Breakfast
-January 19th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Math With a Calculator)
-January 20th: 2nd Quarter Testing (Math Without a Calculator)
-Week of January 24th: DIBELS MOY Benchmark Assessments
-January 26th-28th: Moore Elementary Science Fair (for 5th graders)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Thankful
Well, I'm writing the cliché "thankful" blog post of Thanksgiving week! I just can't help myself... Thanksgiving is my very favorite holiday, and I refuse to hold back on the tradition of reflecting on just a few of the things in my life that cause me to feel so very, very thankful.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
Don't Forget!
-November 23rd: Skip Prosser 4th Grade FINAL Book List Due
-December 3rd: 4th Grade Content Specific Writing Papers Due to Peele
-December 6th: Fluency Training for K-2 7:30am-8:30am
-December 7th: Fluency Training for 3-5 7:30am-8:30am
-December 17th: 4th Grade Content Specific Writing Scores Due in Moodle
- My husband. (Alright now, in unison... "Awww.")
- My health.
- My family and friends.
- Cake batter flavored ice cream.
- Having a job I absolutely love.
- Being surrounded by children on a daily basis who remind me of the pure joys of life.
- Cookie dough.
- Running.
- A mom who I want to be exactly like when I grow up. :)
- Ipods and Zulu running socks.
- Jeans that come in extra long.
- My dog Bailey.
- DVR.
- The smell of Christmas trees and clean laundry.
- Everything in my past - every tragedy, every happiness, every everything - that has made me who I am today.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
Don't Forget!
-November 23rd: Skip Prosser 4th Grade FINAL Book List Due
-December 3rd: 4th Grade Content Specific Writing Papers Due to Peele
-December 6th: Fluency Training for K-2 7:30am-8:30am
-December 7th: Fluency Training for 3-5 7:30am-8:30am
-December 17th: 4th Grade Content Specific Writing Scores Due in Moodle
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
What Was the BEST Part of Your Day?
When you were in elementary school, what did success mean to you? Was it making the honor roll, completing your chores, pleasing your parents? Was it beating a video game, getting a baseball trophy, winning the recess kickball game? What about when you graduated from college? Was it getting a job, paying off debt, getting married? Furthering your education, moving out on your own, getting the bills paid?
What about today... What does success look like? How has it changed? What causes you to celebrate, feel proud, pat yourself on the back?
When is the last time you experienced success?
What success means to you probably changes week-by-week, month-by-month, year-by-year. Our perspective on what and when to congratulate ourselves depends on our past, our present, and our future. What success may mean to the person beside you could be totally different than what it means to you. Thinking back and looking at success through the eyes of an elementary-aged student may, upon first glance, seem trivial. But to that eight-year-old, seeing a smile of delight on a parent's face is just about the best thing in the world. Have we forgotton how important it is to celebrate the little things? Have we failed to remember what the little things are in the eyes of a child?
When's the last time you asked someone around you about their successes? All too often we fall into the trap of ending our day focused on the pitfalls, the disappointments, the failures. Instead, why don't we wrap up our day by relishing in a happy moment, a moment that made us feel complete and utter joy to the depths of our bellies?
I am married to an incredible man who makes me a better person. One way he does this is by asking me each and every night -- "So, what was the BEST part of your day?" We've chosen to make this a Peele family tradition, so that no matter how tired, stressed, or frustrated we are at the end of a day, we are always able to relish in a moment that makes it all worth it.
Try it. With yourself, keep a notebook and commit to writing down the best part of each day -- Then you can refer to it on those days of struggle. With your kids, have them keep a notebook. Before the school bell rings or around the dinner table or before bedtime, ask about the best part of their day.
Yesterday, the very best part of my day was getting a thank you letter from a child for a conversation we had last week. It was simple. It was sweet. But it let me know that I made a difference in her life. And that, honestly, is a big enough success to fuel me for the rest of the year.
Don't Forget!
-November 12th: Quarter Test Books Due
-November 12th: Practice ITBS Testing
-November 15th-17th: ITBS Testing
-November 17th: Imagine It! Rep Jane Rountree Visits K-2
Last Day to Submit SCOS Charts for Contest
-November 18th-19th: ITBS Make-Up Testing
-November 23rd: Skip Prosser 4th Grade FINAL Book List Due
What about today... What does success look like? How has it changed? What causes you to celebrate, feel proud, pat yourself on the back?
When is the last time you experienced success?
What success means to you probably changes week-by-week, month-by-month, year-by-year. Our perspective on what and when to congratulate ourselves depends on our past, our present, and our future. What success may mean to the person beside you could be totally different than what it means to you. Thinking back and looking at success through the eyes of an elementary-aged student may, upon first glance, seem trivial. But to that eight-year-old, seeing a smile of delight on a parent's face is just about the best thing in the world. Have we forgotton how important it is to celebrate the little things? Have we failed to remember what the little things are in the eyes of a child?
When's the last time you asked someone around you about their successes? All too often we fall into the trap of ending our day focused on the pitfalls, the disappointments, the failures. Instead, why don't we wrap up our day by relishing in a happy moment, a moment that made us feel complete and utter joy to the depths of our bellies?
I am married to an incredible man who makes me a better person. One way he does this is by asking me each and every night -- "So, what was the BEST part of your day?" We've chosen to make this a Peele family tradition, so that no matter how tired, stressed, or frustrated we are at the end of a day, we are always able to relish in a moment that makes it all worth it.
Try it. With yourself, keep a notebook and commit to writing down the best part of each day -- Then you can refer to it on those days of struggle. With your kids, have them keep a notebook. Before the school bell rings or around the dinner table or before bedtime, ask about the best part of their day.
Yesterday, the very best part of my day was getting a thank you letter from a child for a conversation we had last week. It was simple. It was sweet. But it let me know that I made a difference in her life. And that, honestly, is a big enough success to fuel me for the rest of the year.
Don't Forget!
-November 12th: Quarter Test Books Due
-November 12th: Practice ITBS Testing
-November 15th-17th: ITBS Testing
-November 17th: Imagine It! Rep Jane Rountree Visits K-2
Last Day to Submit SCOS Charts for Contest
-November 18th-19th: ITBS Make-Up Testing
-November 23rd: Skip Prosser 4th Grade FINAL Book List Due
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Connecting with Curriculum - October/November Updates!
MATH
"The opportunity to learn has the strongest relationship with student achievement." -What Works in Schools, ASCD
Make sure you are intentional in your classroom activities and that you know your SCOS forwards and backwards. Teach the SCOS indepth before branching to other topics. Are the natural extensions necessary when we could be spending more time mastering skills listed on the SCOS? Use Indicators and Descriptors if you have questions about objectives. Really practice "Unpacking the Standards" -- I think this gives a completely different perspective of what we should be teaching.
DPI Resources: http://www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/22351032313573387/site/default.asp
Hey, Grades, 3-5, how well do you know YOUR SCOS?! I'm holding a contest, starting today... Details in an email and in your boxes. :)
SOCIAL STUDIES
The Social Studies standards are being revised. Click below to access:
K-2 Standards: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/docs/acre/standards/phase2/social-studies/k-2.pdf
3-5 Standards: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/docs/acre/standards/phase2/social-studies/3-5.pdf
How DO we integrate Social Studies into our day? How CAN we integrate Social Studies into our day?
The strands will be Civics and Government, Geography, History, Economics, and Culture. Global Connections will be woven into each strands.
K-3 Focus:
GET READY FOR 2012-2013
The Core Standards for ELA, Math, Social Studies, and Science will go into effect with the 2012-2013 school year.
As always, let me know if you have any concerns, questions, or POSITIVE comments. :)
Don't Forget!
-November 1st-5th: CogAt Testing
-November 5th: Quarter Data Sheets Due
-November 8th: Skip Prosser 4th Grade Book List Update Due
-November 9th: Mark Esstman from Imagine It! Visits 1st Grade
Last Day for Math SCOS Contest for Grades 3-5
-November 12th: Quarter Test Books Due
-November 8th-10th: Make-Up CogAt Testing
-November 15th-17th: ITBS Testing
-November 17th: Imagine It! Rep Jane Rountree Visits K-2
-November 18th-19th: ITBS Make-Up Testing
-November 23rd: Skip Prosser 4th Grade FINAL Book List Due
"The opportunity to learn has the strongest relationship with student achievement." -What Works in Schools, ASCD
- Intended Curriculum = SCOS
- Implemented Curriculum = What is delivered by the teacher
- Attained Curriculum = What is actually learned by the students
Make sure you are intentional in your classroom activities and that you know your SCOS forwards and backwards. Teach the SCOS indepth before branching to other topics. Are the natural extensions necessary when we could be spending more time mastering skills listed on the SCOS? Use Indicators and Descriptors if you have questions about objectives. Really practice "Unpacking the Standards" -- I think this gives a completely different perspective of what we should be teaching.
DPI Resources: http://www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/22351032313573387/site/default.asp
Hey, Grades, 3-5, how well do you know YOUR SCOS?! I'm holding a contest, starting today... Details in an email and in your boxes. :)
SOCIAL STUDIES
The Social Studies standards are being revised. Click below to access:
K-2 Standards: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/docs/acre/standards/phase2/social-studies/k-2.pdf
3-5 Standards: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/docs/acre/standards/phase2/social-studies/3-5.pdf
How DO we integrate Social Studies into our day? How CAN we integrate Social Studies into our day?
The strands will be Civics and Government, Geography, History, Economics, and Culture. Global Connections will be woven into each strands.
K-3 Focus:
- Ability to demonstrate chronological thinking
- Ability to think and ask questions like a historian
- 3rd Grade introduces the five themes of geography
- NC pre-colonial through reconstruction
- Draw parallels to contemporary issues and their historical origins
- US history from pre-colonial through reconstruction
- Canda and Mexico removed
GET READY FOR 2012-2013
The Core Standards for ELA, Math, Social Studies, and Science will go into effect with the 2012-2013 school year.
From NCDPI: “The new standards define the knowledge and skills students should have throughout their K-12 education careers so that they will graduate high school fully prepared for college and careers. The standards:
· are aligned with college and work expectations;
· are clear, understandable and consistent;
· include rigorous content and application of knowledge through high-order skills;
· build upon strengths and lessons of current state standards;
· are informed by other top-performing countries, so that all students are prepared to succeed in a global economy and society; and
· are evidence- and research-based.”
Useful links for learning more about the Core!!
As always, let me know if you have any concerns, questions, or POSITIVE comments. :)
Don't Forget!
-November 1st-5th: CogAt Testing
-November 5th: Quarter Data Sheets Due
-November 8th: Skip Prosser 4th Grade Book List Update Due
-November 9th: Mark Esstman from Imagine It! Visits 1st Grade
Last Day for Math SCOS Contest for Grades 3-5
-November 12th: Quarter Test Books Due
-November 8th-10th: Make-Up CogAt Testing
-November 15th-17th: ITBS Testing
-November 17th: Imagine It! Rep Jane Rountree Visits K-2
-November 18th-19th: ITBS Make-Up Testing
-November 23rd: Skip Prosser 4th Grade FINAL Book List Due
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
When's the Last Time You Did the Hokey Pokey?
Because I did it today. In a classroom full of joy and excitement, surrounded by kids beaming from ear-to-ear.
I was rushing (but not running!) down the hallways, on a mission (as usual), feeling stressed (also as usual)... And I heard it. Joy. What does joy sound like to you? To me, it's simple - children laughing. And today the sound of children laughing pulled me right out of my one-track, stressed, testing-focused mind and into a classroom where joy rippled through the air. Without hesitation, I dropped what was in my hands and immediately joined in on the dancing and singing.
And oh how I needed that break from the rapid pace of my morning. It was like drinking a Red Bull, giving me just what I needed to power through the rest of my day.
Kids -- They do it to me every time. Make me take a step back and gain a new perspective.
JOY.
You put your right hand in, you put your right hand out...
Don't Forget!
-October 27th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (with a Calculator)
-October 28th: CogAt/ITBS Proctor Training 8:00am
1st Quarter Testing - Math (without a Calculator)
-October 29th: Teacher Work Day
CogAt/ITBS Administrator Training 9:00am
CogAt/ITBS Proctor Training 10:00am
-November 1st-5th: CogAt Testing
-November 15th-17th: ITBS Testing
I was rushing (but not running!) down the hallways, on a mission (as usual), feeling stressed (also as usual)... And I heard it. Joy. What does joy sound like to you? To me, it's simple - children laughing. And today the sound of children laughing pulled me right out of my one-track, stressed, testing-focused mind and into a classroom where joy rippled through the air. Without hesitation, I dropped what was in my hands and immediately joined in on the dancing and singing.
And oh how I needed that break from the rapid pace of my morning. It was like drinking a Red Bull, giving me just what I needed to power through the rest of my day.
Kids -- They do it to me every time. Make me take a step back and gain a new perspective.
JOY.
You put your right hand in, you put your right hand out...
Don't Forget!
-October 27th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (with a Calculator)
-October 28th: CogAt/ITBS Proctor Training 8:00am
1st Quarter Testing - Math (without a Calculator)
-October 29th: Teacher Work Day
CogAt/ITBS Administrator Training 9:00am
CogAt/ITBS Proctor Training 10:00am
-November 1st-5th: CogAt Testing
-November 15th-17th: ITBS Testing
Monday, October 18, 2010
It's Not How You Planned It... But What Are the Possibilities?
I have to give credit for the quote above to our guidance counselor, Anne Collins. She emailed it to me over the weekend to post in the hallways of Moore (alongside our other positive quotes), and it has been on my mind since I opened the email...
Hi, my name is Jessie Peele, and I am a planner. A planner of EVERYTHING. I live by a checklist and become overjoyed at checking off the little square boxes down the side of my To-Do list. You name it, I plan it. Upon becoming a teacher and now a Curriculum Coordinator, I have quickly learned that while you may plan every detail, things don't always go according to that plan. And as the quote above suggests, rather than wallowing in the disappointment and stress of things going a little off track, why not look for possibilities?
As I reflect on my past five years of teaching, I realize some of the best teaching moments came when I wasn't necessarily doing something written word-for-word in my plan book. It goes back to being PRESENT and living in the moment. Now, I'm not suggesting plans aren't important in the world of education... But what's equally important is knowing when you need to veer off of the plan.
Life has a funny way of working out. Sometimes things go just as we'd hoped, imagined, dreamed of, planned for... Sometimes they don't. And a lot of times, in retrospect, we understand why the plan didn't carry out the way we'd envisioned. By being PRESENT, we can continuously be aware of the possibilities surrounding us, making the most out of each and every moment - planned or not.
Don't Forget!
-October 19th: 6:00-6:30 Parents Supporting Learning in the Upper Grades
-October 26th: 1st Quarter Testing - Reading
-October 27th: Fluency Training at Staff Meeting
-October 27th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (with a Calculator)
-October 28th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (without a Calculator)
-November 3rd-5th: CogAt Testing
-November 15th-17th: ITBS Testing
Hi, my name is Jessie Peele, and I am a planner. A planner of EVERYTHING. I live by a checklist and become overjoyed at checking off the little square boxes down the side of my To-Do list. You name it, I plan it. Upon becoming a teacher and now a Curriculum Coordinator, I have quickly learned that while you may plan every detail, things don't always go according to that plan. And as the quote above suggests, rather than wallowing in the disappointment and stress of things going a little off track, why not look for possibilities?
As I reflect on my past five years of teaching, I realize some of the best teaching moments came when I wasn't necessarily doing something written word-for-word in my plan book. It goes back to being PRESENT and living in the moment. Now, I'm not suggesting plans aren't important in the world of education... But what's equally important is knowing when you need to veer off of the plan.
Life has a funny way of working out. Sometimes things go just as we'd hoped, imagined, dreamed of, planned for... Sometimes they don't. And a lot of times, in retrospect, we understand why the plan didn't carry out the way we'd envisioned. By being PRESENT, we can continuously be aware of the possibilities surrounding us, making the most out of each and every moment - planned or not.
Don't Forget!
-October 19th: 6:00-6:30 Parents Supporting Learning in the Upper Grades
-October 26th: 1st Quarter Testing - Reading
-October 27th: Fluency Training at Staff Meeting
-October 27th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (with a Calculator)
-October 28th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (without a Calculator)
-November 3rd-5th: CogAt Testing
-November 15th-17th: ITBS Testing
Monday, October 4, 2010
Ferris Wheels, Funnel Cakes, French Fries... FAIR!
I LOVE FALL. I love college football, the cool air, and the changing leaves that crunch underneath your feet. But what I love MOST about Fall is the FAIR! You can see signs of the fair in children's eyes before the last bolt goes into the ferris wheels. There's just a feeling in the air that the fair is in town.
I've been pondering why kids love the fair so very, very much. I wonder if maybe it has something to do with how it appeals to all five of their senses? Their sense of touch (as they win that furry stuffed animal!); smell (you can smell the food a mile away!); hearing (the roller coaster zooming past, the carnival music!); seeing (there's so much to look at!); taste (where do I even begin?!). Children love the fair because it clutches their attention from all angles.
While our classrooms will probably never quite measure up to the fair, imagine how much kids would enjoy learning if teachers sought to stimulate children from all angles using all five of our senses? Our school's theme revolves around Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences theory and all teachers strive to differentiate instruction to reach all eight "smarts." However, sometimes we get so overwhelmed with To-Do's, assessments, and paperwork, we lose sight of teaching to all learning styles.
So let's use this time of year to remind ourselves how important it is to create classrooms that are inviting for all learners, whether Music/Self/People/Nature/Logic/Word/Art/Body Smart! Create environments that stimulate a child's sense of tasting, touching, smelling, hearing, feeling, and seeing. Make children want to "Step right up!" and try out a new math technique or art technique or read a new book. Make learning fun by finding your inner-child and realizing that in order for students to be engaged, they must be interested. It's up to you to make it interesting. No juggling, stilts, or cotton candy required.
For research purposes, I'll be headed to the fair this week. :)
Don't Forget!
-October 7th: PTA Bingo Night
-October 8th: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Scores due in Moodle
-October 19th: Gateway Meeting
-October 26th: 1st Quarter Testing - Reading
-October 27th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (with a Calculator)
-October 28th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (without a Calculator)
I've been pondering why kids love the fair so very, very much. I wonder if maybe it has something to do with how it appeals to all five of their senses? Their sense of touch (as they win that furry stuffed animal!); smell (you can smell the food a mile away!); hearing (the roller coaster zooming past, the carnival music!); seeing (there's so much to look at!); taste (where do I even begin?!). Children love the fair because it clutches their attention from all angles.
While our classrooms will probably never quite measure up to the fair, imagine how much kids would enjoy learning if teachers sought to stimulate children from all angles using all five of our senses? Our school's theme revolves around Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences theory and all teachers strive to differentiate instruction to reach all eight "smarts." However, sometimes we get so overwhelmed with To-Do's, assessments, and paperwork, we lose sight of teaching to all learning styles.
So let's use this time of year to remind ourselves how important it is to create classrooms that are inviting for all learners, whether Music/Self/People/Nature/Logic/Word/Art/Body Smart! Create environments that stimulate a child's sense of tasting, touching, smelling, hearing, feeling, and seeing. Make children want to "Step right up!" and try out a new math technique or art technique or read a new book. Make learning fun by finding your inner-child and realizing that in order for students to be engaged, they must be interested. It's up to you to make it interesting. No juggling, stilts, or cotton candy required.
For research purposes, I'll be headed to the fair this week. :)
Don't Forget!
-October 7th: PTA Bingo Night
-October 8th: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Scores due in Moodle
-October 19th: Gateway Meeting
-October 26th: 1st Quarter Testing - Reading
-October 27th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (with a Calculator)
-October 28th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (without a Calculator)
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Let's Connect with the Curriculum - UPDATES!
Here are some updates from the wonderful world of curriculum!
DIBELS:
Our BOY Benchmark window ended last Friday, 9/24 - Moore had 100% completion, yay! Thanks to EVERYONE who helped on the Sweep Teams and thanks to classroom teachers for letting us interrupt your day! The Progress Monitoring window started this week for kids who are RED. I sent out an email with all Progress Monitoring directions and a chart to keep track of your students. FYI -- Students who are GREEN in DIBELS are considered "average" (like a "C" on the grading scale). Green is nothing to be overly excited about... We MUST push those kids! (There will probably eventually be an "above Green" category.)
STRATEGIC READING INSTRUCTION:
As a district, we are all trying to improve our reading instruction. According to the National Reading Panel, there are five critical areas (The Big 5 - Most of you probably know these!):
-Phonemic Awareness: Teaching children to use letters to represent phonemes (the ability to manipulate sounds)
-Phonics: Teaching children to match oral sounds to print
-Fluency: Improves with repeated reading procedures that offer guidance and feedback (NOT just speed reading... Should include teaching inflection, punctuation, prosody, etc.)
-Vocabulary: Looking in a glossary is not enough! Students must be able to classify words, make connections, use new words in oral and written language, learn prefixes and suffixes, etc.
- Comprehension: Teaching comprehension strategies is key! Students must be exposed to both narrative and expository text!
PEPs:
As per my email, all PEPs should be completed and initial conferences should occur no later than November 12th. Try to focus on 3-4 goals and document all interventions.
QUARTER TESTING:
This year we will operate on a more standardized Quarter Testing schedule. Mark your calendars! Tuesday, October 26th is Reading; Wednesday, October 27th is Math with a Calculator; Thursday, October 28th is Math without a Calculator.
IMAGINE IT!:
We began Unit 1, Lesson 1 in all K-2 classrooms this week. We are all in this together! I have tried to begin making appearances in each K-2 classroom to observe Imagine It! lessons. In all of my visits, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching teachers introduce the lion, show letter stories on Smartboards, read big books, teach the new alphabet song - The kids are so engaged! Let's try to feed off of their energy! We will have an Imagine It! consultant visit on Thursday, October 14th to do a model lesson in each grade level. More details to come.
QUARTER SPREADSHEETS:
No, it's not quite that time yet, but I have gone ahead and entered all class lists on teachers' spreadsheets (for those who want to get a head start on entering data). On the Staff Shared folder, there is a folder titled "Data Sheets 2010." Teachers can find directions on how to enter data as well as classroom-specific spreadsheets. If you are interested in locating data for your students from last year, I have left old data sheets in the folder titled "Data Sheets."
SMILE:
If your desk looks anything like mine, there are post-its EVERYWHERE reminding you of what you have left to accomplish and a mile-long To-Do list. Take a breath, smile, and remember to celebrate all you've accomplished today. A long time ago I heard the following quote that has stuck with me for years:
"To be happy in life, all you need is something to love, something to do, and something to look forward to."
Don't Forget!
-October 1st: Transportation Day
-October 7th: PTA Bingo Night
-October 19th: Gateway Meeting
-October 26th: 1st Quarter Testing - Reading
-October 27th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (with a Calculator)
-October 28th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (without a Calculator)
DIBELS:
Our BOY Benchmark window ended last Friday, 9/24 - Moore had 100% completion, yay! Thanks to EVERYONE who helped on the Sweep Teams and thanks to classroom teachers for letting us interrupt your day! The Progress Monitoring window started this week for kids who are RED. I sent out an email with all Progress Monitoring directions and a chart to keep track of your students. FYI -- Students who are GREEN in DIBELS are considered "average" (like a "C" on the grading scale). Green is nothing to be overly excited about... We MUST push those kids! (There will probably eventually be an "above Green" category.)
STRATEGIC READING INSTRUCTION:
As a district, we are all trying to improve our reading instruction. According to the National Reading Panel, there are five critical areas (The Big 5 - Most of you probably know these!):
-Phonemic Awareness: Teaching children to use letters to represent phonemes (the ability to manipulate sounds)
-Phonics: Teaching children to match oral sounds to print
-Fluency: Improves with repeated reading procedures that offer guidance and feedback (NOT just speed reading... Should include teaching inflection, punctuation, prosody, etc.)
-Vocabulary: Looking in a glossary is not enough! Students must be able to classify words, make connections, use new words in oral and written language, learn prefixes and suffixes, etc.
- Comprehension: Teaching comprehension strategies is key! Students must be exposed to both narrative and expository text!
PEPs:
As per my email, all PEPs should be completed and initial conferences should occur no later than November 12th. Try to focus on 3-4 goals and document all interventions.
QUARTER TESTING:
This year we will operate on a more standardized Quarter Testing schedule. Mark your calendars! Tuesday, October 26th is Reading; Wednesday, October 27th is Math with a Calculator; Thursday, October 28th is Math without a Calculator.
IMAGINE IT!:
We began Unit 1, Lesson 1 in all K-2 classrooms this week. We are all in this together! I have tried to begin making appearances in each K-2 classroom to observe Imagine It! lessons. In all of my visits, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching teachers introduce the lion, show letter stories on Smartboards, read big books, teach the new alphabet song - The kids are so engaged! Let's try to feed off of their energy! We will have an Imagine It! consultant visit on Thursday, October 14th to do a model lesson in each grade level. More details to come.
QUARTER SPREADSHEETS:
No, it's not quite that time yet, but I have gone ahead and entered all class lists on teachers' spreadsheets (for those who want to get a head start on entering data). On the Staff Shared folder, there is a folder titled "Data Sheets 2010." Teachers can find directions on how to enter data as well as classroom-specific spreadsheets. If you are interested in locating data for your students from last year, I have left old data sheets in the folder titled "Data Sheets."
SMILE:
If your desk looks anything like mine, there are post-its EVERYWHERE reminding you of what you have left to accomplish and a mile-long To-Do list. Take a breath, smile, and remember to celebrate all you've accomplished today. A long time ago I heard the following quote that has stuck with me for years:
"To be happy in life, all you need is something to love, something to do, and something to look forward to."
Don't Forget!
-October 1st: Transportation Day
-October 7th: PTA Bingo Night
-October 19th: Gateway Meeting
-October 26th: 1st Quarter Testing - Reading
-October 27th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (with a Calculator)
-October 28th: 1st Quarter Testing - Math (without a Calculator)
Thursday, September 23, 2010
We've Got Spirit Yes We Do...
CHECK OUT THE WINNERS FROM OUR DOOR DECORATING CONTEST!!!
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| The WINNER: Mrs. Lipe's Class!! Congratulations! |
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| 2nd Place: Miss Hahne's Class! |
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| Honorable Mention: Mrs. Cason's Class! |
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| Honorable Mention: Ms. Peoples' Class! |
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| Honorable Mention: Mrs. Davis' Class! |
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| Honorable Mention: Mrs. Sneed's Class! |
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| Honorable Mention: Ms. Warden's Class! |
Learn How Your Child Can SCORE at Moore TONIGHT!
Tonight we will be KICKING OFF the new school year at Moore's Curriculum Night! If you want to learn how your child can SCORE at Moore, come to your child's classroom tonight from 6:00-6:40 or 6:45-7:25.
This is a GREAT opportunity for parents to find out about classroom policies and procedures, curriculum, grading, rules, etc.
In order to get in the spirit of our football-themed Curriculum Night, teachers have been busy at work decorating their doors. A panel of judges went around today, evaluating doors based on creativity and spirit. The winner will be announced tonight at "half time"!! I will post pictures of the doors soon!!
Can't wait to see the hallways busy and classrooms full tonight!!
Upcoming Dates to Remember
-TONIGHT, September 23rd: Curriculum Night 6:00pm-7:30pm
-September 24th: Wake Forest Athlete Read-Aloud with 4th Grade
-September 28th: 4th Grade MAKE-UP On-Demand Writing Task
-October 1st: Transportation Day
-October 22nd-28th: 1st Quarter Testing Window
This is a GREAT opportunity for parents to find out about classroom policies and procedures, curriculum, grading, rules, etc.
In order to get in the spirit of our football-themed Curriculum Night, teachers have been busy at work decorating their doors. A panel of judges went around today, evaluating doors based on creativity and spirit. The winner will be announced tonight at "half time"!! I will post pictures of the doors soon!!
Can't wait to see the hallways busy and classrooms full tonight!!
Upcoming Dates to Remember
-TONIGHT, September 23rd: Curriculum Night 6:00pm-7:30pm
-September 24th: Wake Forest Athlete Read-Aloud with 4th Grade
-September 28th: 4th Grade MAKE-UP On-Demand Writing Task
-October 1st: Transportation Day
-October 22nd-28th: 1st Quarter Testing Window
Monday, September 20, 2010
Remember: We're Here for the Kids
Happy Monday! If only we could get everyone as excited about Mondays as they are about Fridays. :)
Last week was a crazy, long, busy, never-ending week. For EVERYONE. For me personally, I was running around like a chicken with my head cut off, administering DIBELS assessments and teaching in 1st Grade classrooms. I rarely if ever sat down, and at the end of each day I was beyond exhausted.
Now, we all know that I love to run. And you'll probably get sick of my running comparisons. But last week, I realized that when I am running, it's just me and the pavement. Nothing else matters. It's my moment of peace, my minutes of clarity, my time of solitude. The whole world seems to melt away, and it's just me and the road ahead.
I feel the exact same way about working with kids. In all of the craziness that ensued last week, everytime I sat down with a class of students or a single child, all of the chaos disappeared. Nothing else mattered. Not my to-do list, not my exhaustion... nothing. It was just me and the kids. It was all about the kids. And that's how it should be.
Sometimes I think we get so wrapped up in what we have to do, that we forget why we are here. I've been working hard both personally and professionally to BE PRESENT (one of the mottos of the FISH! Philosophy). Somehow, it's so easy to be present when I'm in the company of a child. Maybe because children live just that way - They aren't thinking about what they have to do after school, or what they even have to do in thirty minutes - They innocently live in the moment. If only we could all train our minds to do the same.
So let the background noise melt away, forget about the chaos of your day, and every time you are in the presence of a student, BE PRESENT. Don't ever forget that we're here for the kids.
Upcoming Dates to Remember
-September 21st: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Task
-September 23rd: Curriculum Night 6:00pm-7:30pm
-October 1st: Transportation Day
-October 22nd-28th: 1st Quarter Testing Window
Last week was a crazy, long, busy, never-ending week. For EVERYONE. For me personally, I was running around like a chicken with my head cut off, administering DIBELS assessments and teaching in 1st Grade classrooms. I rarely if ever sat down, and at the end of each day I was beyond exhausted.
Now, we all know that I love to run. And you'll probably get sick of my running comparisons. But last week, I realized that when I am running, it's just me and the pavement. Nothing else matters. It's my moment of peace, my minutes of clarity, my time of solitude. The whole world seems to melt away, and it's just me and the road ahead.
I feel the exact same way about working with kids. In all of the craziness that ensued last week, everytime I sat down with a class of students or a single child, all of the chaos disappeared. Nothing else mattered. Not my to-do list, not my exhaustion... nothing. It was just me and the kids. It was all about the kids. And that's how it should be.
Sometimes I think we get so wrapped up in what we have to do, that we forget why we are here. I've been working hard both personally and professionally to BE PRESENT (one of the mottos of the FISH! Philosophy). Somehow, it's so easy to be present when I'm in the company of a child. Maybe because children live just that way - They aren't thinking about what they have to do after school, or what they even have to do in thirty minutes - They innocently live in the moment. If only we could all train our minds to do the same.
So let the background noise melt away, forget about the chaos of your day, and every time you are in the presence of a student, BE PRESENT. Don't ever forget that we're here for the kids.
Upcoming Dates to Remember
-September 21st: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Task
-September 23rd: Curriculum Night 6:00pm-7:30pm
-October 1st: Transportation Day
-October 22nd-28th: 1st Quarter Testing Window
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Parents, PTA, Pizza, and a Picnic in the Park
Last night was our annual PTA Picnic and boy, what a turnout! We ordered 800 slices of pizza, had a sound system set up playing awesome music, boys playing football on the field, students in rollerskates practicing their skills... It was so fun! Everywhere I looked, people were smiling. Parents, teachers, students, the DJ - All I saw were teeth!
Anyone who was there HAD to have felt the energy. I drove over to the picnic feeling quite tired from a crazy, busy week - But it was impossible to stay tired because everyone was so energized! Teachers were even dancing as they passed out pizza, singing some of their favorite songs.
WOW.
I'm going to quote a student I wrote about in an earlier post: "Man, I LOVE this school!"
Upcoming Dates to Remember
-September 21st: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Task
-September 23rd: Curriculum Night 6:00pm-7:30pm
-October 1st: Transportation Day
-October 22nd-28th: 1st Quarter Testing Window
Anyone who was there HAD to have felt the energy. I drove over to the picnic feeling quite tired from a crazy, busy week - But it was impossible to stay tired because everyone was so energized! Teachers were even dancing as they passed out pizza, singing some of their favorite songs.
WOW.
I'm going to quote a student I wrote about in an earlier post: "Man, I LOVE this school!"
Upcoming Dates to Remember
-September 21st: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Task
-September 23rd: Curriculum Night 6:00pm-7:30pm
-October 1st: Transportation Day
-October 22nd-28th: 1st Quarter Testing Window
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
It's All About Pace
I have to start with a little toot of my own horn - On Sunday, I successfully completed my first half marathon -- With a great time, too! It was one of the best life experiences I have EVER had. The energy of the crowd, pushing my body to its limits, the sense of accomplishment when sprinting across the finish line!! While running I had many miles to think (13.1, to be exact!). It dawned on me that running a half marathon is a lot like a school year. You start the race all pumped up and energized, but you're gasping for air when you reach the finish line. You have good days (miles) and rough days (miles). You use all of the tools you've learned in training to find success, and you look to those around you to find extra motivation. (I LOVED the guy at mile 11 who held a sign that said, "Your feet hurt from all the butt you're kicking!") Mostly, it's all about pace. You can't focus on the end, or the task seems way too daunting. You have to take it one mile, one day, one step at a time. You have to BE PRESENT, live in the moment, set small goals, and push yourself through difficult times. Most of all, your belief in yourself can NEVER falter and you HAVE to maintain a positive attitude. I honestly think I ran the entire race with a huge smile on my face. I was hurting, I was tired, but I was PUMPED. I celebrated the small successes at each mile marker, and that is what we should do as educators. Don't focus on EOGs, don't count down the days 'til our next break... Don't even think about what's on your plate tomorrow. Think about TODAY, right now. In an hour, celebrate all you've accomplished so far today. Reward yourself, pace yourself, be excited about who you are and all you have to be proud of.
On August 25th, we were all side-by-side at the starting line, PUMPED up, excited, refreshed. Don't forget that feeling. Let it hover over you during the hard times, remember that emotion, force it to live on. There's nothing quite like crossing the finish line, getting a medal around your neck, and realizing that YOU MADE IT.
Upcoming Dates to Remember
-W-APT Testing Window for Kindergarten: August 31-September 28
-September 7: DIBELS Training for NEW Teachers 3:45pm
-September 9: DIBELS Refresher Training 7:30am
-September 13-24: DIBELS BOY Benchmark Window
-September 21: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Task
-September 23: Curriculum Night 6:00pm-7:30pm
On August 25th, we were all side-by-side at the starting line, PUMPED up, excited, refreshed. Don't forget that feeling. Let it hover over you during the hard times, remember that emotion, force it to live on. There's nothing quite like crossing the finish line, getting a medal around your neck, and realizing that YOU MADE IT.
Upcoming Dates to Remember
-W-APT Testing Window for Kindergarten: August 31-September 28
-September 7: DIBELS Training for NEW Teachers 3:45pm
-September 9: DIBELS Refresher Training 7:30am
-September 13-24: DIBELS BOY Benchmark Window
-September 21: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Task
-September 23: Curriculum Night 6:00pm-7:30pm
Sunday, August 29, 2010
"Man... I LOVE this school..."
Well, the start of school was a definite success at Moore. Amid caution tape, heavy machinery, mud puddles, rocky gravel, and orange cones - We made it through the first three days of school. How do I know it was a definite success? On Friday afternoon, while on bus duty, I overheard a new student telling his friend, "Man... I love this school. Everyone is always smilin'!" And if we positively affect the life of a student, I consider us successful.
A busy week lies ahead as teachers continue to teach routines and expectations while diving headfirst into curriculum and pacing guides. For me personally, I will be out of the building most of Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at trainings. While all of my trainings are necessary and informative, I HATE being away from Moore. You see, there's an energy at Moore that you can feel the minute you walk in the entrance. And while the new building is incredible, this energy has nothing to do with the luster of all of our "new" stuff. Over five years ago I interviewed at Moore, in the OLD building, and knew the minute I walked out of my interview that I wanted to - I HAD to get that job. I truly think we are unique in all we have to offer as well as our buzzing energy. So when I am away... I MISS the energy. I MISS the teachers, the students, and the organized, excited chaos.
As the dust settles, I am truly looking forward to embracing my new position and finding out how to make it work best for me, the teachers, and the students. While I will always have a never-ending "To-Do" list, I never want to be too far removed from my favorite group of people -- the kids. I am so thankful to work with a staff who has welcomed me with open arms and who is supporting me as I discover the ins and outs of this new job. I cannot wait to be more present in the hallways and in classrooms, soaking up the Moore energy as much as humanly possible. :)
Upcoming Dates to Remember:
-W-APT Testing Window for Kindergarten: August 31-September 28
-September 2: PLCs begin!
-September 7: DIBELS Training for NEW Teachers 3:45pm
-September 9: DIBELS Refresher Training 7:30am
-W-APT Testing Window for Kindergarten: August 31-September 28
-September 2: PLCs begin!
-September 7: DIBELS Training for NEW Teachers 3:45pm
-September 9: DIBELS Refresher Training 7:30am
-September 21: 4th Grade On-Demand Writing Task
-September 13-24: DIBELS BOY Benchmark Window
-September 13-24: DIBELS BOY Benchmark Window
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Happy First Day of School EVE!!
I've been in education for over five years, and I still cannot sleep the night before the first day of school. It's like Christmas Eve to me!! I toss and turn and anticipate all of the excited, sleepy, nervous students who will cross the school's threshold in the morning. I LOVE the first day of school. I loved it when I was a kid, and I still love it as an educator. The buzz in the air throughout the hallways is energizing. There is just something not right about an empty school - Schools are made to be full of children. So, to me, things just aren't quite right around here until there are 600+ pairs of feet walking through the hallways.
Tomorrow is Day 1 of 180. How will you approach it? Will you strive to make someone's day? Will you greet everyone around you? As educators, we are given the rare opportunity to make a difference in lives each and everyday. And it all begins tomorrow.
Good luck getting some sleep tonight! If you find yourself counting sheep, you won't be alone!
Upcoming Dates to Remember:
-W-APT Testing Window for Kindergarten: August 31-September 28
-September 2: PLCs begin!
-September 7: DIBELS Training for NEW Teachers 3:45pm
-September 9: DIBELS Refresher Training 7:30am
-September 13-24: DIBELS BOY Benchmark Window
Tomorrow is Day 1 of 180. How will you approach it? Will you strive to make someone's day? Will you greet everyone around you? As educators, we are given the rare opportunity to make a difference in lives each and everyday. And it all begins tomorrow.
Good luck getting some sleep tonight! If you find yourself counting sheep, you won't be alone!
Upcoming Dates to Remember:
-W-APT Testing Window for Kindergarten: August 31-September 28
-September 2: PLCs begin!
-September 7: DIBELS Training for NEW Teachers 3:45pm
-September 9: DIBELS Refresher Training 7:30am
-September 13-24: DIBELS BOY Benchmark Window
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Back-to-School, Bagels, and Beach Balls
Well, we hit the ground running (and eating!) on Monday morning with our school year kick-off meeting in the library. I was a little nervous to stand in front of the staff in my new role, but felt very supported and welcomed! I truly feel honored to work with the best school staff!!
It was strange after the staff meeting to watch everyone filter back up to their classrooms. I almost walked right back up to room 208 out of habit! (Don't worry Ms. Warden, I won't come haunt you!) This was when it really hit me that I have completely changed roles... And spending time in the library cleaning up goldfish bowls and candy wrappers gave me time to reflect. I know how overwhelming this time of year is for teachers. There is SO much to do and simply not enough time to do it. While I definitely have a full plate right now as Curriculum Coordinator, my "stressful" time of year comes later, so it's easy for me to maintain a positive, cheerful attitude right now.
I hope everyone can hang in there - enjoy each other's company - share summer stories - collaborate on fresh, new ideas for the year - and keep complaints to a minimum and compliments to a maximum. While you struggle to arrange desks, hang bulletin boards, go through cums, write your new kiddos' names on everything, figure out schedules and IE periods, sign up for committees... PLEASE try to (1) PLAY; (2) CHOOSE YOUR ATTITUDE; (3) MAKE SOMEONE'S DAY; and (4) BE PRESENT.
And please never forget I'm here for anything and everything. This is going to be the best year yet!!
It was strange after the staff meeting to watch everyone filter back up to their classrooms. I almost walked right back up to room 208 out of habit! (Don't worry Ms. Warden, I won't come haunt you!) This was when it really hit me that I have completely changed roles... And spending time in the library cleaning up goldfish bowls and candy wrappers gave me time to reflect. I know how overwhelming this time of year is for teachers. There is SO much to do and simply not enough time to do it. While I definitely have a full plate right now as Curriculum Coordinator, my "stressful" time of year comes later, so it's easy for me to maintain a positive, cheerful attitude right now.
I hope everyone can hang in there - enjoy each other's company - share summer stories - collaborate on fresh, new ideas for the year - and keep complaints to a minimum and compliments to a maximum. While you struggle to arrange desks, hang bulletin boards, go through cums, write your new kiddos' names on everything, figure out schedules and IE periods, sign up for committees... PLEASE try to (1) PLAY; (2) CHOOSE YOUR ATTITUDE; (3) MAKE SOMEONE'S DAY; and (4) BE PRESENT.
And please never forget I'm here for anything and everything. This is going to be the best year yet!!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Let the Fun Begin!
Well, here it goes! My first blog post... EVER. If you're reading this, THANK YOU for visiting and I hope you'll come back! I hit the ground running through the world of curriculum this past Monday when I came back to work. Though I was a little sad summer was over (mainly because I had to reinstate my alarm clock), I was PUMPED to start my new job. Also, it will be exciting to start the school year in our new building. Though we moved in last December, this will be our first time opening a school year here!
The teachers come back on Monday, August 16th. Next week will be busy, busy, busy -- a Title I Conference, working in classrooms, workshops galore, working in classrooms, meetings, working in classrooms... All leading up to Open House on Monday, August 23rd. Then our school year will officially begin when the doors open to the pitter-patter of little feet (on freshly-waxed floors, I might add) on August 25th!
I'm hoping to use this blog to document our year, communicate with teachers/parents/students, share resources, give reminders, etc. If you ever have any input or suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated!
Soon we will all dive back into DIBELS, K-2 Assessments, PLCs, Quarter Testing, an online gradebook, and a brand new K-2 reading series called Imagine It! The staff at Moore is incredible and conquers every task thrown in their direction. This year I know we will all work together, stay positive, and have fun while reaching every pair of feet that pitter-patter through our doors. :)
The teachers come back on Monday, August 16th. Next week will be busy, busy, busy -- a Title I Conference, working in classrooms, workshops galore, working in classrooms, meetings, working in classrooms... All leading up to Open House on Monday, August 23rd. Then our school year will officially begin when the doors open to the pitter-patter of little feet (on freshly-waxed floors, I might add) on August 25th!
I'm hoping to use this blog to document our year, communicate with teachers/parents/students, share resources, give reminders, etc. If you ever have any input or suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated!
Soon we will all dive back into DIBELS, K-2 Assessments, PLCs, Quarter Testing, an online gradebook, and a brand new K-2 reading series called Imagine It! The staff at Moore is incredible and conquers every task thrown in their direction. This year I know we will all work together, stay positive, and have fun while reaching every pair of feet that pitter-patter through our doors. :)
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