Went and picked up my produce basket today. Now I have to make some zucchini bread because it is the only decent way to eat a zucchini. The butter, sugar, and flour disguise the zucchini flavor. That is important. I wasn't really in a baking mood today but I'd better find it. I also got some asparagus(ugh), butternut squash(yikes), cauliflower (ick), and purple potatoes(yum). That was the vegetable side of things. I sometimes wonder why I get this because I am horrible about eating most of my vegetables. Usually in my basket I receive just one or two items I don't care for. Asparagus freezes well so Mom will enjoy that. On the fruit side apples, pears, oranges, kiwi, tomatoes, and lemons. So it was the delicious side of the basket.
I don't know the outcome but SpEd parents were having a meeting today to discuss options they have as parents. Their students are not receiving services. I am glad the parents banded together from their end. I feel the teachers have done as much as we could from our end. The only step further we could take would be to go to a school board meeting. It could put our jobs in a precarious position to do so. We've gone through all of the appropriate channels regarding this situation. I hope there is a change. I had to send an e-mail to admin today. I feel like there are so many times you can have the same conversation without result. It is a frustration.
In other education related headaches. A team of three teachers at our school including myself volunteered to be part of a team for Gifted and Talented students to do an after school program funded by a grant. We asked for information, thought we had received what we needed, then asked more questions. We received vague responses. So we e-mailed very specific questions regarding the grant and funds for this program. The answers again were vague and so we declined to participate. It is sad that those students won't have this opportunity. We were very uncomfortable with how the money was being handled and didn't want our names on anything that might be shady. So I am sure we will get the blame for not doing the program. I called our PTO president and said this is why we aren't doing it. If parents ask. I am sure parents will ask and the principal will say the teachers didn't want to do it they have too much going on etc. If you can't answer basic money related questions on a grant that you submitted the paperwork for and received the grant. Something isn't right.
So the saga at school continues. I owe my janitors some delicious treats because I let my students use glitter. I apologized but really that isn't enough. I don't know what I was thinking letting them use glitter. If I ever do again they will certainly not have as much glitter choice. Like I said I owe the janitors some treats. Even that might not be enough of an apology. Well, I had better sign off and go grate some zucchini.
February 7, 2015
February 4, 2015
The backpack incident and other entertainment
It has been an EmergenC week. I needed that extra vitamin c. I feel like I am getting a cold. I hope it doesn't turn into a full blown cold. I drank a little too much EmergenC and Tea yesterday and was a little wired when I needed to be sleeping. So I plan to hit the hay a little earlier tonight.
I attended a meeting after school today attended by about 10-15 teachers. We were bringing our issues with the SpED department to administrations attention. AGAIN. If they don't change something up QUICKLY they could be in a lawsuit. I can't believe how long they have allowed them to make excuses and not do their jobs. If teachers were this incompetent they would be on us like superglue. It is unbelievable.
I had a difficult student moved into my class because the parents felt like the other teacher was too "critical" of the student. It is interesting the reaction I've been getting from the parents because I have been pretty "critical" of the student as well. The student is a real poop but when I talk with the student my commands are immediately followed. If not there is an immediate consequence. The student is very respectful to me when I "lay down the law". However, it wears me out to have to keep my thumb on the kid all day.
There was a backpack incident today. I don't know what the student had in their brown bag for lunch. I just know what ever it was leaked out of the bag into the backpack and onto the floor. It smelled so bad we all were pinching our noses. I buzzed the office and asked for a trash bag ASAP. The janitor brought one in with a puzzled look on his face. I bagged the backpack and the student went home looking like a hobo carrying the back on his back. I had to spray some freshener around but it was one of those stenches that just lingered. This is one of those students it is a miracle anything makes it to school in the first place because of clumsiness, so they should never be given a brown bag. Heck a ziplock bag, plastic bag, just something somewhat leak proof. Just writing about it brings the smell back.
I read my students a poem every day. I read them one yesterday they begged me never to read again. I can't recall the title right now but when I do I will share. One of my students came up to me and said if we are being naughty you should punish us by reading that over and over again. They felt that strongly about it.
One of my students noticed a cd on my desk and asked if we could listen to it. I said, "Sure it it Johann Sebastian Bach." Then we had a short conversation about who he was. Johann has a piece that is in a lot of Halloween type movies I think maybe in the Munsters. Anyhow their eyes lit up when they heard that creepy organ playing. So the rest of the day we had to listen to Bach whenever we had an opportunity. You just never know what kids will delight in.
I have NOT I repeat NOT watched the movie FROZEN. I know I am in a minority group. However, I have successfully gotten sick of the music without having watched the movie. I know way more about the music than I should on a movie I have never seen. I have a couple of students who are professional work avoiders. If they put as much effort into doing it as they do avoiding it they could accomplish great things. So today to the tune of "Let it Go" we sang to them GET IT DONE! They mostly got it done.
January flew by and February promises to be a busy month. I am glad we have a long weekend in there because I will need it. We are on our third quarter of school. Amazing! I had a brief meeting with our principal yesterday with some things she wanted me to take back to our team. It was supposed to be with our team but they didn't show up. So I went over things with them. It wasn't very good because it needed to come from her. What can you do.
I feel like after 5 years of teaching I have a TON to learn still. However a 2nd year teacher came in today and said I want to come and watch you teach for a day I feel like I could learn so much from you. That made me feel really good. She is a great teacher as well. I think we get tired, sick, and discouraged. Then we don't feel like we are doing anything right. This year has been such a crazy year that it seems like I haven't been able to focus on student learning as much as I would like. Meetings out the wazooo keep interrupting what I should be doing. I left school on time today. Not because I didn't have a gazillion things to do. I left on time today because after getting their early and having a busy day I had nothing left to give. I will pay for it with a heavy work load this weekend. So it goes.... G'nite
I attended a meeting after school today attended by about 10-15 teachers. We were bringing our issues with the SpED department to administrations attention. AGAIN. If they don't change something up QUICKLY they could be in a lawsuit. I can't believe how long they have allowed them to make excuses and not do their jobs. If teachers were this incompetent they would be on us like superglue. It is unbelievable.
I had a difficult student moved into my class because the parents felt like the other teacher was too "critical" of the student. It is interesting the reaction I've been getting from the parents because I have been pretty "critical" of the student as well. The student is a real poop but when I talk with the student my commands are immediately followed. If not there is an immediate consequence. The student is very respectful to me when I "lay down the law". However, it wears me out to have to keep my thumb on the kid all day.
There was a backpack incident today. I don't know what the student had in their brown bag for lunch. I just know what ever it was leaked out of the bag into the backpack and onto the floor. It smelled so bad we all were pinching our noses. I buzzed the office and asked for a trash bag ASAP. The janitor brought one in with a puzzled look on his face. I bagged the backpack and the student went home looking like a hobo carrying the back on his back. I had to spray some freshener around but it was one of those stenches that just lingered. This is one of those students it is a miracle anything makes it to school in the first place because of clumsiness, so they should never be given a brown bag. Heck a ziplock bag, plastic bag, just something somewhat leak proof. Just writing about it brings the smell back.
I read my students a poem every day. I read them one yesterday they begged me never to read again. I can't recall the title right now but when I do I will share. One of my students came up to me and said if we are being naughty you should punish us by reading that over and over again. They felt that strongly about it.
One of my students noticed a cd on my desk and asked if we could listen to it. I said, "Sure it it Johann Sebastian Bach." Then we had a short conversation about who he was. Johann has a piece that is in a lot of Halloween type movies I think maybe in the Munsters. Anyhow their eyes lit up when they heard that creepy organ playing. So the rest of the day we had to listen to Bach whenever we had an opportunity. You just never know what kids will delight in.
I have NOT I repeat NOT watched the movie FROZEN. I know I am in a minority group. However, I have successfully gotten sick of the music without having watched the movie. I know way more about the music than I should on a movie I have never seen. I have a couple of students who are professional work avoiders. If they put as much effort into doing it as they do avoiding it they could accomplish great things. So today to the tune of "Let it Go" we sang to them GET IT DONE! They mostly got it done.
January flew by and February promises to be a busy month. I am glad we have a long weekend in there because I will need it. We are on our third quarter of school. Amazing! I had a brief meeting with our principal yesterday with some things she wanted me to take back to our team. It was supposed to be with our team but they didn't show up. So I went over things with them. It wasn't very good because it needed to come from her. What can you do.
I feel like after 5 years of teaching I have a TON to learn still. However a 2nd year teacher came in today and said I want to come and watch you teach for a day I feel like I could learn so much from you. That made me feel really good. She is a great teacher as well. I think we get tired, sick, and discouraged. Then we don't feel like we are doing anything right. This year has been such a crazy year that it seems like I haven't been able to focus on student learning as much as I would like. Meetings out the wazooo keep interrupting what I should be doing. I left school on time today. Not because I didn't have a gazillion things to do. I left on time today because after getting their early and having a busy day I had nothing left to give. I will pay for it with a heavy work load this weekend. So it goes.... G'nite
January 27, 2015
Another day
I
We had Western Oregon weather today. It was cloudy, cool, and overcast with a persistent drizzle all day. Then tonight that wet ground turned to a brilliant ice slick. I think the weather made for wiggly kids. They were ready to bounce off the walls. I was ready to bounce them off the walls. We have been working on winter testing as well so by the end of the day they are just done. So far about 1/3 of my students are above grade level, about 1/3 on grade level, and about 1/3 nowhere close to grade level. I am going to have to up my game in some specific areas to push them to the next level.
I was evaluated last week. We are supposed to have a post observation conference. I never had any notification of the conference which I usually get. Then I get an email today scheduling another observation/evaluation. I thought it was strange I hadn't gotten the results of the last one before having another one scheduled. I sent off an e-mail regarding this, no response yet. So I am not sure.
I use an free online "app" to track student behavior. I had a parent send this note today
" Is student unmanageable? Or are we using this tool too often to judge his behavior and potential parenting/disciplinary needs"
My response "We are working on students behavior to make student aware of what student needs to work on. Student is doing better from what I have seen, and I hope student continues to make improvements."
Parents response was positive after that. I have no idea what parenting may or may not be going on. I can make some guesses. The behavior tracker only shows what they are or are not doing well. I found it interesting the parent thought I was making a judgement about their parenting. It is a pretty dry tracker, it shows whether students are on or off task, following directions, participating, keeping their hands to themselves, talking out of turn, and those kinds of things. This student is consistently a little booger. The student was just moved to my class because the parent didn't like how critical the other teacher was of her student. When this demand was made I asked administration if they told the parent I was the strictest teacher in my grade level. Administration said they did inform the parent of that. This student was just moved into a class with much higher expectations. So we shall see how this goes. It could be a ride and a half.
Well I should be off to bed... goodnight!
We had Western Oregon weather today. It was cloudy, cool, and overcast with a persistent drizzle all day. Then tonight that wet ground turned to a brilliant ice slick. I think the weather made for wiggly kids. They were ready to bounce off the walls. I was ready to bounce them off the walls. We have been working on winter testing as well so by the end of the day they are just done. So far about 1/3 of my students are above grade level, about 1/3 on grade level, and about 1/3 nowhere close to grade level. I am going to have to up my game in some specific areas to push them to the next level.
I was evaluated last week. We are supposed to have a post observation conference. I never had any notification of the conference which I usually get. Then I get an email today scheduling another observation/evaluation. I thought it was strange I hadn't gotten the results of the last one before having another one scheduled. I sent off an e-mail regarding this, no response yet. So I am not sure.
I use an free online "app" to track student behavior. I had a parent send this note today
" Is student unmanageable? Or are we using this tool too often to judge his behavior and potential parenting/disciplinary needs"
My response "We are working on students behavior to make student aware of what student needs to work on. Student is doing better from what I have seen, and I hope student continues to make improvements."
Parents response was positive after that. I have no idea what parenting may or may not be going on. I can make some guesses. The behavior tracker only shows what they are or are not doing well. I found it interesting the parent thought I was making a judgement about their parenting. It is a pretty dry tracker, it shows whether students are on or off task, following directions, participating, keeping their hands to themselves, talking out of turn, and those kinds of things. This student is consistently a little booger. The student was just moved to my class because the parent didn't like how critical the other teacher was of her student. When this demand was made I asked administration if they told the parent I was the strictest teacher in my grade level. Administration said they did inform the parent of that. This student was just moved into a class with much higher expectations. So we shall see how this goes. It could be a ride and a half.
Well I should be off to bed... goodnight!
January 21, 2015
Roadblocks to achievement
My cousin when he calls asks how is your "Peyton Place?" For a minute there I thought maybe just maybe things would be smoothing out and getting better. They aren't. I don't even know how to respond to some of the insanity going on around here. I have a student moved into my classroom tomorrow. We started counting this afternoon they have moved about 8-9 students around in just our grade level. It is mostly due to parents who don't believe their "little darlings" are at fault for any of their inappropriate behavior. Why they are perpetually letting parents dictate everything is beyond me. The result is a lot of nuttiness. I agree sometimes it needs to happen. The frequency with which it is occurring this year is just ridiculous. Just when you have your class settled in, expectations set, a wrench is thrown in the works. Our administration is a waste of money. We had another staff meeting after work today which was basically another "you guys suck look how low fall test scores were what are you going to do about it?" I don't know why doesn't the administration create a schedule for ANYTHING so that we are all on the same page. The excuses made for the incompetent people is at an all time high. Moral is very low. One of my students that was used as an example for a "low" student in the fall testing cycle. This student just did the winter test and was way above grade level.
I am so fed up tonight with our administration I had to express my frustration. Administration refused to make a schedule for the computer lab. Six classes share this lab. We are all trying to test. They suggested that we go to the 1st grade building and test. Without even asking them if it conflicted with their schedule. GRRR. So I went around to all the teachers and pushed us creating our own schedule. So I made a schedule and sent it to them. I have never had an administrator so anti-schedule. It defies logic. When you are managing such a large group of people you schedule everything. It prevents confusion and conflict. I have to remember to "Keep my eye on the purpose" helping my students to have success. I just am disappointed in the crazy roadblocks in our path.
Oh... just to add to my grumpiness this evening I received a Jury Summons. yay me. My second summons this year.
I am so fed up tonight with our administration I had to express my frustration. Administration refused to make a schedule for the computer lab. Six classes share this lab. We are all trying to test. They suggested that we go to the 1st grade building and test. Without even asking them if it conflicted with their schedule. GRRR. So I went around to all the teachers and pushed us creating our own schedule. So I made a schedule and sent it to them. I have never had an administrator so anti-schedule. It defies logic. When you are managing such a large group of people you schedule everything. It prevents confusion and conflict. I have to remember to "Keep my eye on the purpose" helping my students to have success. I just am disappointed in the crazy roadblocks in our path.
Oh... just to add to my grumpiness this evening I received a Jury Summons. yay me. My second summons this year.
Winter testing
It doesn't take long to develop a bad habit. I have a terrible habit of messing up my sleep schedule. I often can barely keep my eyes open so I go to bed early. The consequences are that I wake up in the middle of the night WIDE AWAKE! Sometimes awake enough that I get up and get a few things done. So I guess it isn't all bad. I have been a light sleeper my whole life. Which is a bummer. It doesn't take much to wake me up or disturb my sleep.
We began our winter testing today. I had a couple of students moved to my class because their parents were unhappy with how they were doing in another class. One of them grew 26 points from the fall to now. I was wondering why so many of this teachers' students were testing so low in the fall. They always drop over the summer but, some of them dropped a crazy number of points over the summer. I finally realized this was strategic. The teacher was ensuring growth from the fall by creating a hectic test environment. In doing such she can say " Look how much they grew." It is disappointing to work with someone who is being dishonest about testing. I hope there are those with enough sense to realize that is what is occurring. The treacherous effects of focusing only on testing.
I did find out some good news. In our new contract how RIF-Reduction in Force has changed. It is not now based purely on seniority. Actually, seniority is last on the list. I am not sure that all of the teachers have realized this. It is based on the following:
a. The performance evaluations of the teacher,
b. The type of licensure held by the teacher including National Board Certification,
c. The disciplinary record, included in the district personnel file of the teacher,
d. If equality is observed in evaluations and performance, seniority will prevail.
So this may help remove a few not so fabulous instructors. We'll see how likely that is. Not sure. Anyhow, I just have to keep plugging away and moving forward.
We began our winter testing today. I had a couple of students moved to my class because their parents were unhappy with how they were doing in another class. One of them grew 26 points from the fall to now. I was wondering why so many of this teachers' students were testing so low in the fall. They always drop over the summer but, some of them dropped a crazy number of points over the summer. I finally realized this was strategic. The teacher was ensuring growth from the fall by creating a hectic test environment. In doing such she can say " Look how much they grew." It is disappointing to work with someone who is being dishonest about testing. I hope there are those with enough sense to realize that is what is occurring. The treacherous effects of focusing only on testing.
I did find out some good news. In our new contract how RIF-Reduction in Force has changed. It is not now based purely on seniority. Actually, seniority is last on the list. I am not sure that all of the teachers have realized this. It is based on the following:
a. The performance evaluations of the teacher,
b. The type of licensure held by the teacher including National Board Certification,
c. The disciplinary record, included in the district personnel file of the teacher,
d. If equality is observed in evaluations and performance, seniority will prevail.
So this may help remove a few not so fabulous instructors. We'll see how likely that is. Not sure. Anyhow, I just have to keep plugging away and moving forward.
January 18, 2015
Soup Weekend
Made a little soup this evening. My stash is very low and since getting back from the holidays, and getting sick I haven't done much cooking. I threw together a Hamburger Soup? I didn't have fresh veggies I am waiting till this coming weekend for my Bountiful Basket. So I used my dehydrated carrots, celery, and onions. I threw in a can of fire-roasted tomatoes, a pound of hamburger, a can of corn, a cup of black rice. I decided I wanted it really "tomatoey" so I added a small can of tomato paste. I have no idea how this will come out. I am sure it will be a hearty school lunch. It'll work.
I haven't accomplished a lot this weekend. Did some grading, caught up on laundry and dishes, did a little house cleaning. I did a lot of relaxing. I had a frustrating e-mail from work on Friday. Sometimes all I can do is shake my head at the ridiculousness. I asked for some advice before replying. I am not sure what the outcome will be. I have been hearing from some of our most experienced and most quality teachers that they are seriously considering leaving the district. I have to find a way to cope and move forward and be patient. It always comes back to the fact that 1. I want a job. 2. I still love teaching. I hope my love of teaching isn't overwhelmed by the craziness to the point that I leave it. I've had a lot of downs this fall. Some adjustments have made for a better winter. I just need to make it through spring.
Pet Peeve. I really don't like it when teachers complain about their wages. First of all teacher pay is well documented. You know what wages to expect. I feel fairly compensated. I do work way more hours than required by my contract. It is the reality of teaching. This is also common knowledge. Our benefits are generally pretty good. If you are expecting better pay than what teachers receive don't go into this profession. It varies where a teacher lives and cost of living what wages you get. Still you chose to go into this profession. So I don't want to hear whining about that. There are a lot of stresses with this job that most people don't understand. There are headaches, heartaches, stomachaches, pain in the arse-aches and more. I have empathy for those situations.
Well I have one more day of "freedom" before back to work. I will go in to work tomorrow to do some more grading and get ready for the week ahead.
I haven't accomplished a lot this weekend. Did some grading, caught up on laundry and dishes, did a little house cleaning. I did a lot of relaxing. I had a frustrating e-mail from work on Friday. Sometimes all I can do is shake my head at the ridiculousness. I asked for some advice before replying. I am not sure what the outcome will be. I have been hearing from some of our most experienced and most quality teachers that they are seriously considering leaving the district. I have to find a way to cope and move forward and be patient. It always comes back to the fact that 1. I want a job. 2. I still love teaching. I hope my love of teaching isn't overwhelmed by the craziness to the point that I leave it. I've had a lot of downs this fall. Some adjustments have made for a better winter. I just need to make it through spring.
Pet Peeve. I really don't like it when teachers complain about their wages. First of all teacher pay is well documented. You know what wages to expect. I feel fairly compensated. I do work way more hours than required by my contract. It is the reality of teaching. This is also common knowledge. Our benefits are generally pretty good. If you are expecting better pay than what teachers receive don't go into this profession. It varies where a teacher lives and cost of living what wages you get. Still you chose to go into this profession. So I don't want to hear whining about that. There are a lot of stresses with this job that most people don't understand. There are headaches, heartaches, stomachaches, pain in the arse-aches and more. I have empathy for those situations.
Well I have one more day of "freedom" before back to work. I will go in to work tomorrow to do some more grading and get ready for the week ahead.
January 12, 2015
small town problems
I am not a city girl. However I have random moments when I wish I was. No not because of the plethora of shopping options. Amazon.com and I have a great shopping relationship. No, it is when you are sick (I won't go into details here) and you really need something mild in your stomach. Your stash of such items are gone so you have no other choice but to go to the store. Everyone who could run that errand for you is at work. So you get out of your perfectly warm pj's, slip on some winter clothing, winter boots, and head into the snowy day to buy yourself some broth. Then of course the first people you see as you walk into the store are parents of your student. Who as you say a pathetic "hello" you see the wheels turning as to why you are not at work. It is these moments you wish for a little anonymity. A wish to be a tiny drop in a much bigger pond. I survived and made it home with my $2.15 cans of broth. I am sure they are cheaper on Amazon but I couldn't wait 2 days for them. Anyhow, I look out my window now at that cold, wet, miserable day and with my pj's back on, and warm soup in hand, I am once again thankful for this small town. In part because my drive to the store was less than 5 minutes, no one was in line ahead of me, and I made it out to my car without recognizing a single soul.
January 7, 2015
Hiatus
It has seemed so quiet and much more relaxed since coming back from Christmas break. I was attributing it all to having a break, getting away, change of scenery, time with family, etc. Then I realized since I came back my school computer isn't working so if I'm lucky I only check my work e-mail once a day. It is amazing how NOT reading that totally improves my attitude. I really must read it with less frequency. I may be out of the loop on a few things but blissfully so!
Our district is piloting the new teacher evaluation tool that will be implemented state-wide next year. It sounds exactly like what we had to do when we created our portfolio for college. I am hoping it is a little less involved because seriously. I need to sleep once in a while during the school year. Do you want me to call parents, grade student work, gather data, implement differentiation, develop relationships with students, work on continuing education, attend professional learning communities, building leadership teams, implement Individualized Education Plans, read assigned reading, implement new curricula, lesson plan, and collect artifacts for a portfolio? This is why our education system is broken. You want teachers to do it ALLL with less and less time. I talked with a colleague up north and their district had already put this evaluation tool in place. She said that with that and a new curriculum they were implementing teachers were at school often till eight at night. Yes we have long summer vacations, and Spring Break, and Christmas Break, and some other government holidays. If dedicated teachers didn't have those "breaks" we'd be laying in a puddle of our own drool rocking in the corner. Expectations have risen. I love higher standards. However, there needs to be a balance. The pendulum of government education has taken another drastic swing. I am not sure where it will lead. Seriously I often wonder why I didn't consider becoming a wildlife biologist. I was probably not excited by chemistry and biology. Hmmm what was I thinking?
It was great to come back to school and see all my short people! They all seemed ready to be back. It was a good start to a new year. I hope to have access to some technology at school soon because it is difficult to lesson plan without it. Even though I am enjoying the e-mail hiatus. I am loving my Christmas present. The remote start for my car just makes my morning. It gives me just a little more pajama time without running out into the cold and then back in without completely warming up!
Well it is time for me to rest my head. G'nite
Our district is piloting the new teacher evaluation tool that will be implemented state-wide next year. It sounds exactly like what we had to do when we created our portfolio for college. I am hoping it is a little less involved because seriously. I need to sleep once in a while during the school year. Do you want me to call parents, grade student work, gather data, implement differentiation, develop relationships with students, work on continuing education, attend professional learning communities, building leadership teams, implement Individualized Education Plans, read assigned reading, implement new curricula, lesson plan, and collect artifacts for a portfolio? This is why our education system is broken. You want teachers to do it ALLL with less and less time. I talked with a colleague up north and their district had already put this evaluation tool in place. She said that with that and a new curriculum they were implementing teachers were at school often till eight at night. Yes we have long summer vacations, and Spring Break, and Christmas Break, and some other government holidays. If dedicated teachers didn't have those "breaks" we'd be laying in a puddle of our own drool rocking in the corner. Expectations have risen. I love higher standards. However, there needs to be a balance. The pendulum of government education has taken another drastic swing. I am not sure where it will lead. Seriously I often wonder why I didn't consider becoming a wildlife biologist. I was probably not excited by chemistry and biology. Hmmm what was I thinking?
It was great to come back to school and see all my short people! They all seemed ready to be back. It was a good start to a new year. I hope to have access to some technology at school soon because it is difficult to lesson plan without it. Even though I am enjoying the e-mail hiatus. I am loving my Christmas present. The remote start for my car just makes my morning. It gives me just a little more pajama time without running out into the cold and then back in without completely warming up!
Well it is time for me to rest my head. G'nite
January 3, 2015
In Denial
Well, I am in denial that my Christmas Break is coming to its end. I started my break with a bug that took up a few days to get well. I spent time with family and friends. I didn't get to see everyone I had planned on but time flies over this break. Everyone has busy schedules this time of year as well.
You never know someone until you help them move a mattress. I've moved a few mattresses and helped move a few. They are inconvenient items to move around. They never bend the way you need them to bend to get around corners. They don't fit through doorways following doorways. You can never tie down a mattress quite as well as you should. Yes I've seen a flying mattress and a semi-run over it. That's a story best saved. Anyhow, mattresses are a pain to move. Then one should flip their mattress once in a while. I recall doing this with my neighbor. When you ask a 20 something year old to move a mattress with you. Keep in mind their muscles and reflexes are stronger and quicker than your own. Luckily she was short and I didn't crush her. We giggled over our mattress flipping experience for years. Usually the act of MOVING mattresses doesn't bring out the giggling. It brings out our grumpy side. Someone is always walking backwards and someone is always shoving this person. Then it seems as though someone is walking blindly carrying this heavy awkward item. We got my parents a new mattress for Christmas. Just moving it one room away seemed like climbing Mount Everest. Dad suggested that a new mattress wasn't needed. Then we put the new one on. Mom said " I don't have to roll out of the valley, climb the mountain, and roll over the other side to get out of bed now!" Dad thought she was exaggerating. He didn't recall climbing any mountains to get out of bed. Clearly they didn't flip their mattress often enough. He seemed a little disappointed that the new mattress wasn't perfectly contoured to his body. Some people are hard to please. Maybe he will find something nice to say about it after awhile.
Moving mattresses also requires a closer look at just what is under the bed that you haven't seen in awhile. Usually just some "dust bunnies" that you never quite reach with your vacuum.
I went back home through the big city and stayed with a friend on the way so that I could break up the trip a little. It also allowed me to stop at the evil Wal-Mart to pick up a few things I was out of. Before I left I wasn't feeling well so a few things I normally take care of before I leave fell by the wayside. So I came home to a stinky trash can and several expired items in the fridge. I took care of that right away. Then I boiled some cinnamon on the stove to refresh the air. I have some laundry to do. Some other laundry to put away. I also need to plan for this week at school. I admit I am in complete denial and am procrastinating. Well, off to do something.
You never know someone until you help them move a mattress. I've moved a few mattresses and helped move a few. They are inconvenient items to move around. They never bend the way you need them to bend to get around corners. They don't fit through doorways following doorways. You can never tie down a mattress quite as well as you should. Yes I've seen a flying mattress and a semi-run over it. That's a story best saved. Anyhow, mattresses are a pain to move. Then one should flip their mattress once in a while. I recall doing this with my neighbor. When you ask a 20 something year old to move a mattress with you. Keep in mind their muscles and reflexes are stronger and quicker than your own. Luckily she was short and I didn't crush her. We giggled over our mattress flipping experience for years. Usually the act of MOVING mattresses doesn't bring out the giggling. It brings out our grumpy side. Someone is always walking backwards and someone is always shoving this person. Then it seems as though someone is walking blindly carrying this heavy awkward item. We got my parents a new mattress for Christmas. Just moving it one room away seemed like climbing Mount Everest. Dad suggested that a new mattress wasn't needed. Then we put the new one on. Mom said " I don't have to roll out of the valley, climb the mountain, and roll over the other side to get out of bed now!" Dad thought she was exaggerating. He didn't recall climbing any mountains to get out of bed. Clearly they didn't flip their mattress often enough. He seemed a little disappointed that the new mattress wasn't perfectly contoured to his body. Some people are hard to please. Maybe he will find something nice to say about it after awhile.
Moving mattresses also requires a closer look at just what is under the bed that you haven't seen in awhile. Usually just some "dust bunnies" that you never quite reach with your vacuum.
I went back home through the big city and stayed with a friend on the way so that I could break up the trip a little. It also allowed me to stop at the evil Wal-Mart to pick up a few things I was out of. Before I left I wasn't feeling well so a few things I normally take care of before I leave fell by the wayside. So I came home to a stinky trash can and several expired items in the fridge. I took care of that right away. Then I boiled some cinnamon on the stove to refresh the air. I have some laundry to do. Some other laundry to put away. I also need to plan for this week at school. I admit I am in complete denial and am procrastinating. Well, off to do something.
December 8, 2014
Sick in peace
Staying home sick is dangerous for teachers. It takes a lot of work planning to stay home and you have to seriously consider if it is more work to go sick or more work to stay home. Sometimes your body doesn't give you a choice though. Today was a first. I received text messages from my v.p. on how to handle a student. Umm can I be sick in peace at home please. It sounded like a really crazy day. I am glad I wasn't there for it. Anyhow my fever is lower today. I am going to take another sick day tomorrow and hope for the best. They don't have a sub for me yet. Sigh...
December 6, 2014
It's that time of year
It has been busy and looks to get busier for awhile. In an attempt to be prepared for a busy week I spent the whole day at school yesterday. I made a lot of progress but do NOT feel ready for the week. Sigh. I did get a lot done. I planned to go in today as well. I woke up with a terrible headache and an upset stomach. I started a pot of homemade chicken noodle soup. On my way home from school last night I stopped by the store and picked up a couple of rotisserie chickens to make soup. I was sooo glad I did. Mom had made me some egg noodles when she was here so the prep didn't take too long. I got the soup made took some laundry out and threw some more in. Then I decided a NAP was the best idea. It was worth it. I woke up feeling better. There has been some nastiness traveling around my class... it appears like I got it. I got some dishes and a lot of laundry done and even folded. Hopefully, I can kick it by tomorrow. Uggh.
I had my teacher evaluation completed by the principal. I passed. It is basically a pass/fail situation. I will have three this year. I did very well overall. It was interesting because what I was marked down for I had to go ask another colleague what it meant. They just shook their head said move on you're doing what is right. She did have a couple of helpful teaching strategies she gave me. Overall though it is just a silly process. It is important that it is done because it can help get rid of some poor quality teachers. I did find out though that our district is using the incorrect evaluation tool. I don't know about that I am going to find out from our professional development people. They seem to be more informed than we are on these kinds of things.
I brought out the Elf on the Shelf for my students again this year. If I ever have a student that doesn't celebrate the holidays I will miss this activity. This year they named him "Jingle Jack". The elf has a bucket and they write notes to him in this bucket. Reading the notes they write him is so fun. One of the other teachers in my grade level was debating whether or not to have the Elf in her room. I said we need more JOY in school and in learning. This is a bringer of JOY for students that we can connect to learning. So she now has an Elf as well. Having this in my classroom is a reminder of that magical time of childhood. Finding a way to bring JOY into your school day and have fun is so important. This year I also have a "shout out" box. Students write "shout-outs" to other students for doing well in some way. About once a day I read the "shout-outs". They love this and it has cut down on the tattle-telling. Whatever works!
Oh man I forgot to share... I went to a Christmas Community Sing this past week. Many of my students current and former were performing. So I attended. I was glad I did because of how excited they were to see me. The event was held at the local LDS church. The children were the first to perform and they did a great job. They sang two songs. After them were a couple of high school aged girls one on piano the other violin. They were quite talented. After than it was alllllllll downhill. There was an elderly mens quartet. Now they would've been fine but they were accompanied by an elderly lady on a xylophone. Not the wooden xylophone that has an enjoyable sound that goes well with Christmas songs. No a metal xylophone with that harsh sound you may recall from toddlers playing with the multi-colored one. This wasn't a toddler one but the sound was as harsh. Also the microphone wasn't close enough to the quartet and way to close to the xylophone. It was a moment when I had to bend my head and not look at my neighbors. I was trying not to smile out loud. Anyhow the "music" continued from there. I survived. The students were excited to see my afterward. It was one of those things that is a "special kind of torture". If I go next year I may have to sit in the rear so I can smile without fear of offense. Small towns, you never know what kind of joy they will bring.
Well, I'm going to take more medicine and put some laundry away. G'night
I had my teacher evaluation completed by the principal. I passed. It is basically a pass/fail situation. I will have three this year. I did very well overall. It was interesting because what I was marked down for I had to go ask another colleague what it meant. They just shook their head said move on you're doing what is right. She did have a couple of helpful teaching strategies she gave me. Overall though it is just a silly process. It is important that it is done because it can help get rid of some poor quality teachers. I did find out though that our district is using the incorrect evaluation tool. I don't know about that I am going to find out from our professional development people. They seem to be more informed than we are on these kinds of things.
I brought out the Elf on the Shelf for my students again this year. If I ever have a student that doesn't celebrate the holidays I will miss this activity. This year they named him "Jingle Jack". The elf has a bucket and they write notes to him in this bucket. Reading the notes they write him is so fun. One of the other teachers in my grade level was debating whether or not to have the Elf in her room. I said we need more JOY in school and in learning. This is a bringer of JOY for students that we can connect to learning. So she now has an Elf as well. Having this in my classroom is a reminder of that magical time of childhood. Finding a way to bring JOY into your school day and have fun is so important. This year I also have a "shout out" box. Students write "shout-outs" to other students for doing well in some way. About once a day I read the "shout-outs". They love this and it has cut down on the tattle-telling. Whatever works!
Oh man I forgot to share... I went to a Christmas Community Sing this past week. Many of my students current and former were performing. So I attended. I was glad I did because of how excited they were to see me. The event was held at the local LDS church. The children were the first to perform and they did a great job. They sang two songs. After them were a couple of high school aged girls one on piano the other violin. They were quite talented. After than it was alllllllll downhill. There was an elderly mens quartet. Now they would've been fine but they were accompanied by an elderly lady on a xylophone. Not the wooden xylophone that has an enjoyable sound that goes well with Christmas songs. No a metal xylophone with that harsh sound you may recall from toddlers playing with the multi-colored one. This wasn't a toddler one but the sound was as harsh. Also the microphone wasn't close enough to the quartet and way to close to the xylophone. It was a moment when I had to bend my head and not look at my neighbors. I was trying not to smile out loud. Anyhow the "music" continued from there. I survived. The students were excited to see my afterward. It was one of those things that is a "special kind of torture". If I go next year I may have to sit in the rear so I can smile without fear of offense. Small towns, you never know what kind of joy they will bring.
Well, I'm going to take more medicine and put some laundry away. G'night
November 5, 2014
Crazy year
It has been the craziest school year. I keep saying I feel like I am living in a sitcom. Although heavy on drama and comedy is a matter of opinion. When I described a recent school day to my mom she laughed and laughed. Not from a lack of empathy it just sounded to nutty to be real. I lived it and I am telling you it was a little to real. I had a bit of a rant the other day. It has been hard lately to do what I have strong convictions about. I had a conversation with a veteran teacher after school today. We are really working in a toxic environment this year. It is just poison rolling down from above and some of the crazy hires. I get so emotionally invested because I care so much about my students. Then I have to stand back and think "Is it worth it?" I keep hoping changes will occur. So far there is a lot of "talk" about changes but no real "changes". I am so learning to hate this statement "it will be taken care of", "It will be done by Monday", "It will be ready by (date)". It just somehow is delayed again and never really taken care of. I have had to make a concerted effort to keep really good people around me.
Today was one of those days in which I just had to take the hits. They were being volleyed off me left and right. I did defend myself a few times. I had planned not to do that. So I had a internal discussion. "You said you weren't going to do this". So I just agreed to do whatever I personally needed to do and took the heat for it all. Deserving or not I let it all fall on my shoulders. It was not fun. It shouldn't have happened that way I should've been protected. I wasn't. At the end of the meeting I said "I am genuinely sorry we got to this point." then left. Afterwards I was thanked for "being the bigger person." I don't know if I was or if I was just the pounding block. So I have very mixed feelings about today. Can you imagine taking verbal punches and 10 minutes later have to walk in and teach a class full of children. I was visibly upset. I had a few parents dropping off their students who gave me the time to walk out and gather myself together. I am thankful for that. I have to just try to keep moving forward.
I am know our school board is well aware the working environment in our building is not good this year. They laid down the law about several issues. I have seen work on those issues but I am not sure it is soon enough to counter the level of nuttiness. This weekend after I clean house and grade papers I plan to hang out with a couple of pals and talk about anything other than school.
Today was one of those days in which I just had to take the hits. They were being volleyed off me left and right. I did defend myself a few times. I had planned not to do that. So I had a internal discussion. "You said you weren't going to do this". So I just agreed to do whatever I personally needed to do and took the heat for it all. Deserving or not I let it all fall on my shoulders. It was not fun. It shouldn't have happened that way I should've been protected. I wasn't. At the end of the meeting I said "I am genuinely sorry we got to this point." then left. Afterwards I was thanked for "being the bigger person." I don't know if I was or if I was just the pounding block. So I have very mixed feelings about today. Can you imagine taking verbal punches and 10 minutes later have to walk in and teach a class full of children. I was visibly upset. I had a few parents dropping off their students who gave me the time to walk out and gather myself together. I am thankful for that. I have to just try to keep moving forward.
I am know our school board is well aware the working environment in our building is not good this year. They laid down the law about several issues. I have seen work on those issues but I am not sure it is soon enough to counter the level of nuttiness. This weekend after I clean house and grade papers I plan to hang out with a couple of pals and talk about anything other than school.
November 1, 2014
Pray for teachers
Pray for teachers. Please. In one corner we are talking to the child whose mother may have ended her life with pills when she was three and she "doesn't even know what she liked." In another corner we are working with a student who has every excuse in the world to not do a thing and a parent that backs him up. Then wants the grade adjusted because effort doesn't always equal ability. The bully that is learning to bully from, home? It has to be from home right? The quiet one in the corner that you have to beg to speak. The English-Language learner that looks at you in panic every time you call on them. Please don't call on them. The student that is obsessed with food. The student isn't malnourished and you can't figure it out. Until you find out the cupboards are locked at home and food is taken out of their hands and eaten by the parents. The student that cries whenever the teacher has to leave because being left in the classroom with the "scary" sub just fills them with anxiety and they can't even think. The student whose eyes fill with panic when you say the word "test" or "writing" and you have to find a way to reassure them they can do this. Just getting words on a page that make "sense". Is the most amazing accomplishment. The students whose eyes sometime sparkle and sometimes look so flat and dead and not there, You are chilled wondering what put that look there.
The parents oh the parents that say it is "your job, the schools job" everybody but their own job to teach their children. We have to attempt to teach to them all and raise the bar and have them excel when mom was arrested the night before. We have to raise the bar and push them and inspire them but their parent wants you to make exceptions for them and lower the bar and lower expectations. Why won't you "bend?" Teachers you "suck" man. You're not preparing us for life. Why do I have to learn this anyway? We want you to think for yourselves. To question. To be problem solvers. We want you to grow up and flourish and feed your families. We want you to have a bigger dream for yourself than the one we dream for you.
There is so much push back in today's society. I will be evaluated by a person who doesn't even understand what I do every day. I will be evaluated and my job will be based on this evaluation. I am automatically docked by my school rated even if I have high scoring students. I am supposed to think about the "students needs" yet am handed more an more paperwork every day. It's all about the kids right? Its all about the kids...right. I have to make thousands upon thousands of decisions every day and not make a mistake. Because I mistake could crush the spirit of a child. The responsibility of teaching is overwhelming. And now, now I have to teach them how to have manners and good character, because where else are they going to learn it? I have to teach them respect, self-control, self -discipline, kindness and compassion. Where does my responsibility end society? I dream of teaching only the subject materials. You tell me it is my job to do more than that. I have 24 hearts in my classroom depending on me because many of them can't depend on anyone else. So please... pray for teachers.
The parents oh the parents that say it is "your job, the schools job" everybody but their own job to teach their children. We have to attempt to teach to them all and raise the bar and have them excel when mom was arrested the night before. We have to raise the bar and push them and inspire them but their parent wants you to make exceptions for them and lower the bar and lower expectations. Why won't you "bend?" Teachers you "suck" man. You're not preparing us for life. Why do I have to learn this anyway? We want you to think for yourselves. To question. To be problem solvers. We want you to grow up and flourish and feed your families. We want you to have a bigger dream for yourself than the one we dream for you.
There is so much push back in today's society. I will be evaluated by a person who doesn't even understand what I do every day. I will be evaluated and my job will be based on this evaluation. I am automatically docked by my school rated even if I have high scoring students. I am supposed to think about the "students needs" yet am handed more an more paperwork every day. It's all about the kids right? Its all about the kids...right. I have to make thousands upon thousands of decisions every day and not make a mistake. Because I mistake could crush the spirit of a child. The responsibility of teaching is overwhelming. And now, now I have to teach them how to have manners and good character, because where else are they going to learn it? I have to teach them respect, self-control, self -discipline, kindness and compassion. Where does my responsibility end society? I dream of teaching only the subject materials. You tell me it is my job to do more than that. I have 24 hearts in my classroom depending on me because many of them can't depend on anyone else. So please... pray for teachers.
October 17, 2014
Almost 9 weeks
It has been a crazy first nine weeks of school. Well next week is officially nine weeks. I wonder if I will ever have a year where the first nine weeks aren't nutty. Anyhow, our nutty new principal continues with her nutty "new" ideas. Such as no P.E., no computer lab, and no library. She keeps putting off the PTO on when this will occur. Our SPED department is a disaster and they are non-compliant on most IEP's. They are either out of date or not following what the IEP states. So it has been pretty stressful. The parents and teachers finally "threw down" at our PTO meeting. School board members were asked to come.
What I expect to happen next is that the principal will try to paint a pretty picture that things are changing and will get done. She is an expert in b.s. (ahem). If parents don't see some changes and quickly. I think it will get pretty ugly. So we shall see. I have an extremely disruptive student in my class and I am not alone. I have a couple other noodle heads that suck my energy. I am trying hard to stay positive and move forward. When you can't teach because of 1 student, and their classmates can't learn, well my hands are tied. The parents so far have been extremely supportive and they've seen what I am dealing with It is tiring. I hope that the parents stay strong and continue to demand a change. I feel like they gave it nine weeks and that is long enough.
I spend several hours at school today planning for next week and grading papers. The sea of papers never ends. I will spend more time down there this weekend. I am trying to get some positive reinforcement things in place for the students. I think the rest of the class really needs some encouragement to keep going and working when everything is so crazy around them. SIGH! I hope I can keep them moving forward. I just have to hope that they really are making changes. I don't like leaving work feeling defeated. So I feel like the "rug" got a really big yank. I will have to see if any changes occur this coming week.
What I expect to happen next is that the principal will try to paint a pretty picture that things are changing and will get done. She is an expert in b.s. (ahem). If parents don't see some changes and quickly. I think it will get pretty ugly. So we shall see. I have an extremely disruptive student in my class and I am not alone. I have a couple other noodle heads that suck my energy. I am trying hard to stay positive and move forward. When you can't teach because of 1 student, and their classmates can't learn, well my hands are tied. The parents so far have been extremely supportive and they've seen what I am dealing with It is tiring. I hope that the parents stay strong and continue to demand a change. I feel like they gave it nine weeks and that is long enough.
I spend several hours at school today planning for next week and grading papers. The sea of papers never ends. I will spend more time down there this weekend. I am trying to get some positive reinforcement things in place for the students. I think the rest of the class really needs some encouragement to keep going and working when everything is so crazy around them. SIGH! I hope I can keep them moving forward. I just have to hope that they really are making changes. I don't like leaving work feeling defeated. So I feel like the "rug" got a really big yank. I will have to see if any changes occur this coming week.
September 28, 2014
Behavior
A busy week ahead. I have 2 IEP's after work this week. It is "Respect" week. I don't know what this entails. What I do know is this thing called "Respect Week" is something coming from the Governor's Office having to do with creating a "Bully Free Zone." Here is what I know for sure about bullies. There has ALWAYS been bullies. ALWAYS. It isn't a new idea or concept. If you want to manage a bully life has to be unpleasant enough for them in the consequences they suffer that it is no longer worth it. Our school IS NOT great on consequences. It frustrates me completely. We don't have a quality behavior management plan in this class. My vp's solution for a student that was "bothering" his classmates....send him back to class with a squishy toy to grip when he gets frustrated after a long talk. Yep, can tell you from countless years of working with kids when you start talking they start tuning you out. They may nod in the appropriate places just to get you to stop talking. That's it. They need a consequence. Until I am blue in the face I will continue to request a school wide behavior management plan.
What we do well is "Character Education". We have a lot of it and it is pretty lame and it really doesn't work. If you want a child to build character they have to have consequences for their actions. For both positive and negative. It really is the basics of human behavior. CAN WE DO THAT PLEASE????
Okay moving on. I am almost on the road to health. I still have a bit of a cough but not as bad as before. In the spirit of the original "tea-party" I always was a little anti tea. However, I think enough years have passed that perhaps I can contribute to this "tea-economy" and you know it just works well with a cold. I have a large stash of soup so I believe I can make it through this next crazy week. In addition to the IEP's and Respect week, our Spalding Coach is coming for a visit observing a lesson and coaching us for our continued improvement. I hope to gain more knowledge through this experience. Oh yes, don't let me forget Picture Day..the annual insanity that has parents sending kids in ridiculous outfits that do not last past noon. Luckily our picture time is a little before 9 a.m. the kids may maintain their glamour that long. Well most of them :).
Fall has definitely arrived. We had a doozy of a thunderstorm Friday night with sheet lightening and downpours. It went off and on throughout the night. This storm brought that fall cold-snap that smacks you in the face that winter is on it's way. The mountains had snow so you can feel that in the air. I love those first few days of frost. It is crispy and cool and I like it. I am looking forward to our first snow.
I did a lot of laundry this weekend. I even put most of it away. I can see the color of my couch. Progress indeed. Off to prepare for another busy week...
What we do well is "Character Education". We have a lot of it and it is pretty lame and it really doesn't work. If you want a child to build character they have to have consequences for their actions. For both positive and negative. It really is the basics of human behavior. CAN WE DO THAT PLEASE????
Okay moving on. I am almost on the road to health. I still have a bit of a cough but not as bad as before. In the spirit of the original "tea-party" I always was a little anti tea. However, I think enough years have passed that perhaps I can contribute to this "tea-economy" and you know it just works well with a cold. I have a large stash of soup so I believe I can make it through this next crazy week. In addition to the IEP's and Respect week, our Spalding Coach is coming for a visit observing a lesson and coaching us for our continued improvement. I hope to gain more knowledge through this experience. Oh yes, don't let me forget Picture Day..the annual insanity that has parents sending kids in ridiculous outfits that do not last past noon. Luckily our picture time is a little before 9 a.m. the kids may maintain their glamour that long. Well most of them :).
Fall has definitely arrived. We had a doozy of a thunderstorm Friday night with sheet lightening and downpours. It went off and on throughout the night. This storm brought that fall cold-snap that smacks you in the face that winter is on it's way. The mountains had snow so you can feel that in the air. I love those first few days of frost. It is crispy and cool and I like it. I am looking forward to our first snow.
I did a lot of laundry this weekend. I even put most of it away. I can see the color of my couch. Progress indeed. Off to prepare for another busy week...
September 19, 2014
The ups and downs
I had an awesome birthday. The outpouring from colleagues and friends just made my month! It really was a much needed boost. From colleagues I received a card, flowers, chocolate, and lots of jokes! It was nice to feel that from your co-workers! I received a couple of presents from students and gluten free chocolate chip cookies from a parent. My neighbors made me a delicious homemade soup that I am going to attempt to re-create this weekend. I really felt the love on my birthday. I've been fighting whatever plague is attacking my immune system and I was dragging heiney. I only took one day off of work. Realistically it probably would've been better for me to take another day but with half our staff out for Jury Duty I figured the chances of having a substitute were very slim. I powered through and did the best I could. Having a little extra support made it doable.
I have had a battle going on to help a student get the services needed. I have sent a few e-mails and have had multiple conversations. The results have been minimal to non-existent. I went to school today to get some work done and this situation kept popping in my mind as I looked at my classroom. It is beyond frustrating to me because not only is this student not being served well, the student's classmates are not being served well. This is because the needs of this student are soo significantly high that I am unable to meet them. It isn't even my job to meet them it is the Special Education Teachers job. I was in tears from frustration on Thursday over this situation. I sat down today and e-mailed the principal and vice-principal my concerns. If it doesn't get taken care of in a timely manner I'm going to the next level. I can't be effective in my job with what is going on. I've never had a fall where I've questioned time and again "WHY AM I DOING THIS JOB?" The frustration isn't because I lack the skills, but because I lack the support to be effective. We have amazing curricula, amazing students, but an administration that is absolutely in la-la land. So I remain hopeful that some changes will be put in place.
Next week are parent teacher conferences. I have grading to finish this weekend and progress report cards to print. I also need to rest so I am up for the marathon ahead. I usually don't but this weekend I brought my grading home to work on so that I could do it in my pj's with minimal interruptions. When I went in to school today to print some things and collect papers I discovered they had put a sink with a drinking fountain in my classroom. That was VERY exciting. I don't have to deal with students leaving the classroom for drinks. It is huge because usually all the 2nd grade classes are coming in about the same time and all wanting a drink. So that will save some hassle in my day.
I also had a very good conversation with the Superintendent this week. He came in my classroom the day after the school board meeting and said that the night before I had received many compliments from colleagues about the preparedness of the incoming 3rd grade students. That was a huge compliment and made me feel really good. We don't often get to hear the flip side. Then at the end of the week he showed up for the PTO meeting so as he left I asked if I could chat with him for a couple of minutes. I addressed a couple of my concerns about what was going on this year. He really made me feel like he was listening and not in that politician way. I think he has some concerns as well, and is trying to be an observer at this point. We'll see what happens over time. Anyhow with that super full week who wouldn't be worn out?? This soup is the one I plan to make this weekend. I am drinking lots of tea and taking my vitamins. Hopefully, I can get over this soon.
I have had a battle going on to help a student get the services needed. I have sent a few e-mails and have had multiple conversations. The results have been minimal to non-existent. I went to school today to get some work done and this situation kept popping in my mind as I looked at my classroom. It is beyond frustrating to me because not only is this student not being served well, the student's classmates are not being served well. This is because the needs of this student are soo significantly high that I am unable to meet them. It isn't even my job to meet them it is the Special Education Teachers job. I was in tears from frustration on Thursday over this situation. I sat down today and e-mailed the principal and vice-principal my concerns. If it doesn't get taken care of in a timely manner I'm going to the next level. I can't be effective in my job with what is going on. I've never had a fall where I've questioned time and again "WHY AM I DOING THIS JOB?" The frustration isn't because I lack the skills, but because I lack the support to be effective. We have amazing curricula, amazing students, but an administration that is absolutely in la-la land. So I remain hopeful that some changes will be put in place.
Next week are parent teacher conferences. I have grading to finish this weekend and progress report cards to print. I also need to rest so I am up for the marathon ahead. I usually don't but this weekend I brought my grading home to work on so that I could do it in my pj's with minimal interruptions. When I went in to school today to print some things and collect papers I discovered they had put a sink with a drinking fountain in my classroom. That was VERY exciting. I don't have to deal with students leaving the classroom for drinks. It is huge because usually all the 2nd grade classes are coming in about the same time and all wanting a drink. So that will save some hassle in my day.
I also had a very good conversation with the Superintendent this week. He came in my classroom the day after the school board meeting and said that the night before I had received many compliments from colleagues about the preparedness of the incoming 3rd grade students. That was a huge compliment and made me feel really good. We don't often get to hear the flip side. Then at the end of the week he showed up for the PTO meeting so as he left I asked if I could chat with him for a couple of minutes. I addressed a couple of my concerns about what was going on this year. He really made me feel like he was listening and not in that politician way. I think he has some concerns as well, and is trying to be an observer at this point. We'll see what happens over time. Anyhow with that super full week who wouldn't be worn out?? This soup is the one I plan to make this weekend. I am drinking lots of tea and taking my vitamins. Hopefully, I can get over this soon.
September 15, 2014
Colds, admin, crazy...
The crazy continues. So our administrator continues to refuse to give us a schedule. The parents were quite upset their students would not be going to p.e., library, etc. So they posted a note on the P.T.O. site. All of the parents except for one were up in arms. The one parent proves time and again to be so nutty that there is no reasoning. This parent whined that they were "picking" on the principal. So they decided to remove the post. It merely stated the facts. Anyhow, perhaps in response to this the principal said "I didn't say you couldn't do those things, just not the first nine weeks of school, and not at a scheduled time, and not unless it pertains to the curriculum you are teaching." I could waste a lot of time getting creative on how the students need to move to understand place value. I shouldn't have to do that though. I don't think anyone would argue that kids need to get up and move during the school day. The schedule is an issue as well, since she refuses to create one I foresee issues. We try not to step on our colleagues toes and irritate one another. This will happen when we are supposed to use this weird online calendar to pick and choose our times to go. I could put something in at the last minute and they didn't check. It is just stupid. I don't know any job that doesn't have a schedule. With children we need to be consistent. Without a set schedule how is that possible. They want to know the boundaries, the times, and the schedule. sigh... Also, all of our p.e., library, etc is run by parent volunteers. Some of them use their lunch hour to come in and volunteer to help once a week. It is disrespectful to their time to not have a schedule.
So I got a nasty cold. When your daytime highs are in the 80's it makes it a little more uncomfortable. Everything you want to eat or drink is hot. Then you get too hot. So it goes lol! I didn't do much but stay in and do laundry and cook a bit. I made a form of hamburger soup, a casserole, and tonight I am making lentil soup. Since I've been fighting this head cold I was pretty generous with the garlic. It smells amazing. I doubled the recipe unintentionally. I soaked the lentils overnight and then realized that I didn't need the whole bag of lentils. Oops. I will have lots of lentil soup to eat. I took today off from school because I am still coughing so much. I thought one more day might get me there. I have some major "germophobes" in my classroom. Parent created of course. One little misfit walks around with hand sanitizer clipped to his belt loop. It is the new form of a pocket protector. Poor kid.
Tomorrow night is a board mtg. If I felt better I would probably go. Although, that is a pretty poor birthday gift to myself. Thursday is the P.T.O. meeting. It will be interesting to see if things have changed. I did some research online about my principals former positions in other districts. I wasn't impressed by what I found. It could prove to be a very challenging year.
So I got a nasty cold. When your daytime highs are in the 80's it makes it a little more uncomfortable. Everything you want to eat or drink is hot. Then you get too hot. So it goes lol! I didn't do much but stay in and do laundry and cook a bit. I made a form of hamburger soup, a casserole, and tonight I am making lentil soup. Since I've been fighting this head cold I was pretty generous with the garlic. It smells amazing. I doubled the recipe unintentionally. I soaked the lentils overnight and then realized that I didn't need the whole bag of lentils. Oops. I will have lots of lentil soup to eat. I took today off from school because I am still coughing so much. I thought one more day might get me there. I have some major "germophobes" in my classroom. Parent created of course. One little misfit walks around with hand sanitizer clipped to his belt loop. It is the new form of a pocket protector. Poor kid.
Tomorrow night is a board mtg. If I felt better I would probably go. Although, that is a pretty poor birthday gift to myself. Thursday is the P.T.O. meeting. It will be interesting to see if things have changed. I did some research online about my principals former positions in other districts. I wasn't impressed by what I found. It could prove to be a very challenging year.
September 10, 2014
Agenda
The agenda of others I often ponder. However, none as much as administration. They always say their agenda is to have better test scores, to make it all about the students. There is a key factor that is often missing in the agenda. The teacher factor. How are you going to empower us to be successful. It takes a pretty strong leader to take their own ego, set it aside, and really find out what is needed from the students and teachers. I don't think I have experienced that with an administrator as of yet. Isn't that appalling? I sat through a staff meeting today that made we want to poke myself in the eye. The agenda isn't clear. There were a lot of grand and fancy words there that sounded fabulous. In action though are absolutely the wrong thing. Sigh. It is staff meetings that always make me doubt my chosen profession. That is pretty awful that they create that in me. Yes they truly are that horrible.
Then I have great success with my students that brings me back for another round. I really tried these first few weeks to ride out the change. To see where the changes went. I think there was some room for changes and I was hopeful that the change would be overall positive. There have been a few changes that were a relief. What has happened is a lot of uncertainty. When there is a lot of uncertainty it is hard to be consistent and sure of your path. Like I said earlier, there were a lot things that sounded very nice. In reality a disservice is being done because your teachers are very concerned. Sigh.
We shall see how things continue on maybe there is a path we are being led down that leads to enlightenment. I am doubtful, but hey here we go. Another year, another administrator, and more strangeness from that corner. One more day till the weekend. I will survive.
Then I have great success with my students that brings me back for another round. I really tried these first few weeks to ride out the change. To see where the changes went. I think there was some room for changes and I was hopeful that the change would be overall positive. There have been a few changes that were a relief. What has happened is a lot of uncertainty. When there is a lot of uncertainty it is hard to be consistent and sure of your path. Like I said earlier, there were a lot things that sounded very nice. In reality a disservice is being done because your teachers are very concerned. Sigh.
We shall see how things continue on maybe there is a path we are being led down that leads to enlightenment. I am doubtful, but hey here we go. Another year, another administrator, and more strangeness from that corner. One more day till the weekend. I will survive.
August 29, 2014
Blue Paint
Whew first week back! It was a little more chaotic than I would've liked. We didn't know our schedule on many things until Sunday Night and then more things were sent to us Monday morning. It made it really hard to plan the days. You didn't know what was going to spring up. I have a pretty good group of kids. I couple of challenges but that is always the case.
I am soooo glad it is a four day weekend. I have a lot to do planning for next week. Today I worked at home. Catching up on laundry, dishes, cleaning etc. It compiles during the week. I may get a load done here or there but not consistently. I also worked on a couple of painting projects for my classroom. Mom had been saving coffee cans for me. I had enough to use one at every work station in my classroom. I wanted to paint them instead of having a coffee advertisement in my classroom. They will probably be used for crayon storage. At least it looks nice.
Tomorrow the game plan is to spend a lot of time in the classroom. I have a lot to do that I didn't get accomplished before the first day. I also have grading to do and planning for next week. I really need to spend some quality time with the curriculum. I really have to work with the kids on building stamina to get work done. It is amazing how much they can do by the end of the year. I have been making a considered effort into avoided the pockets of negativity at school. You can just go around a corner and say hi and suddenly you are pulled in. We have a lot of frustrations and I completely understand needing to vent. I am more concerned about avoiding the folks who don't focus on solutions. We have a lot of rocks thrown on us as teachers from parents, administration, janitors, our peers, and the public. It can get pretty discouraging. Standing about whining about it doesn't change anything. Complaining about difficult students doesn't change anything. We just have to keep plugging away and doing our best and helping the students do theirs.
I am soooo glad it is a four day weekend. I have a lot to do planning for next week. Today I worked at home. Catching up on laundry, dishes, cleaning etc. It compiles during the week. I may get a load done here or there but not consistently. I also worked on a couple of painting projects for my classroom. Mom had been saving coffee cans for me. I had enough to use one at every work station in my classroom. I wanted to paint them instead of having a coffee advertisement in my classroom. They will probably be used for crayon storage. At least it looks nice.
Tomorrow the game plan is to spend a lot of time in the classroom. I have a lot to do that I didn't get accomplished before the first day. I also have grading to do and planning for next week. I really need to spend some quality time with the curriculum. I really have to work with the kids on building stamina to get work done. It is amazing how much they can do by the end of the year. I have been making a considered effort into avoided the pockets of negativity at school. You can just go around a corner and say hi and suddenly you are pulled in. We have a lot of frustrations and I completely understand needing to vent. I am more concerned about avoiding the folks who don't focus on solutions. We have a lot of rocks thrown on us as teachers from parents, administration, janitors, our peers, and the public. It can get pretty discouraging. Standing about whining about it doesn't change anything. Complaining about difficult students doesn't change anything. We just have to keep plugging away and doing our best and helping the students do theirs.
August 20, 2014
Closer and Closer..
I recruited my 9 year old neighbor to come help me get my classroom together today. She was a huge help! I may just get everything together for Back-To-School night. I came home to have dinner and do a little more work at home. I may go back to school for awhile. I think they realized they over-extended the teachers and themselves. So they cut back our schedule tomorrow. We are in meetings the first have of the day and the second have they are giving us time to work in our classrooms. It is a huge relief. They decided on Monday to move the Kindergarten classrooms to a different building. This has been VERY stressful for the teachers, the janitors, etc. The day they moved it was pouring rain, hailing, thundering, etc. I felt so bad for them. We've had some unusually wet weather here for this time of year. It makes me wonder what our winter is going to be like.
Anyhow, I also have to gather my thoughts I was voluntTOLD to share what I learned at the conference this summer that applies to all grade levels. I haven't had a chance to look through my notes and figure out what I want to share. So there is some pressure on me for that as well. So begins the year. When I was working in the classroom today I moved a lot of heavy stuff. I was walking like an old lady when I got home. My neighbor (former massage therapist) saw me walking and had me come over to get a little help on my back. So I am in better shape. I will still need some ibuprofen but I can walk upright now. It's a bonus! I am so glad I did a little cooking the last couple of weekends because I definitely wasn't up for cooking at all.
Well I have some things to print off then I may run up to school for a little bit! G'nite
Anyhow, I also have to gather my thoughts I was voluntTOLD to share what I learned at the conference this summer that applies to all grade levels. I haven't had a chance to look through my notes and figure out what I want to share. So there is some pressure on me for that as well. So begins the year. When I was working in the classroom today I moved a lot of heavy stuff. I was walking like an old lady when I got home. My neighbor (former massage therapist) saw me walking and had me come over to get a little help on my back. So I am in better shape. I will still need some ibuprofen but I can walk upright now. It's a bonus! I am so glad I did a little cooking the last couple of weekends because I definitely wasn't up for cooking at all.
Well I have some things to print off then I may run up to school for a little bit! G'nite
August 19, 2014
One more---
Spent my morning lesson planning with colleagues... then worked in the classroom for hours. I have tomorrow to get the classroom presentable for back to school night on Thursday. We are in meetings all day Thursday and Friday so that bites. What are we going to do but just deal. I love my paint in my classroom. Although now that I mention the paint... I showed the water leak area to the maintenance guy. He said... oh well just paint over it. Seriously?? That is why your school buildings fall apart. He didn't seem to think it was a big deal the brick was crumbling and that mold was growing. What're you going to do? Also speaking of the maintenance guy. He was replacing a window in a door today. His method for removing the old glass was to hammer it into the carpet into the hallway. Um okay. Was I surprised later when one of my colleagues walked through and got a piece of glass in her foot. NOPE. This kind of brilliance is just awe inspiring. On the upside he did tell me he is going to try to build some cabinets in my classroom this year. I am ever so hopeful. I shan't believe it till I see it. I have seen his work on cabinets and it is pretty good.
I have my complete class list now. It changed about fifteen times in the past few weeks. They let the parent's make requests for far too long. So School starts Monday and we have our class lists. We are realizing more and more that our administrators are overwhelmed. It is both of their first time beginning the school year at our school. I don't think either of them comprehended what that meant for Elementary School. So hopefully we will have some idea of our schedules when school starts. Here goes another grand experiment designed by administration while we just try to keep our students on track. WOOT.
I have my complete class list now. It changed about fifteen times in the past few weeks. They let the parent's make requests for far too long. So School starts Monday and we have our class lists. We are realizing more and more that our administrators are overwhelmed. It is both of their first time beginning the school year at our school. I don't think either of them comprehended what that meant for Elementary School. So hopefully we will have some idea of our schedules when school starts. Here goes another grand experiment designed by administration while we just try to keep our students on track. WOOT.
August 16, 2014
Weekend
OH MY... I had an epic fail today. I was painting the black outline on the mural at school. A colleague was helping me. We had the paint sitting on a table. The table didn't look super secure but It was the only one nearby. Well... the table legs failed. Black and grey paint alll over. UGGH. I had a drop cloth and a lot went on there but a lot went on the floor as well. We had to clean it up with the rags I had brought and a gazillion paper towels. We got it cleaned up but what a pain. UGGH... I don't want to do that ever again. I am just glad it was the school lunchroom floor. Much easier to clean up. I had to come home wash the drop cloths, myself, my shoes, etc.
Tomorrow I will have to go back in and finish up some more. Then work on my classroom. Time is running short.
Tomorrow I will have to go back in and finish up some more. Then work on my classroom. Time is running short.
August 12, 2014
Dive Bombed...
I'd been hearing from my neighbors about attacking hummingbirds. They had been poked by them as they were out and about in the yard. Well this evening I was enjoying the cool weather on my deck. The little booger dive bombed me. I guess my orange shirt looked like a flower.. then the flower moved and it decided upon caution. I don't think there is enough food around here for them. I love this time of year because we see a lot of hummingbirds.
I told mom about this but I keep forgetting to share. Where I am from at the cemetery silk flowers are left by the headstones. On the other side of that state it is more common to see fresh flowers. At the bottom of my neighborhood in my current state is the town cemetery. On Memorial Day I thought it was neat how many people visited the cemetery, cleaned it up, and left silk flowers by the headstones. However, here they leave something else by the headstones that you don't see until evening. Perhaps because of the strong winds that occur here and silk flowers fly away and fade in the weather they leave this other item. I don't know how it got started but it is different. They leave solar powered lights. The whole cemetery is full of blue, pink, white, and green, solar lights. It is just a pleasant peaceful glow. It isn't overdone like Christmas lights...just a soft glow. Anyhow, that was a new idea for me.
At my curriculum training today the President of the curriculum's company stopped in. I was very impressed. He came in very low key. Introduced himself, told us he was invested in our success and they would be continuing to support us while we implemented the curriculum. I think what impressed me was that he was so low key. He didn't make the introduction about him it was about us. Little ole us in this dinky town. We have been giving contact information for our trainer to ask any questions that we need to as we progress in our learning. I think if we implement this in the way that it was intended we are going to see our students make a lot of growth in reading. I am very excited.
Tonight out of the blue... I got this text message. "Did you know you're an amazing and wonderful friend?"
me: " uh.. no? What did I do?" "Nothing specific I was just thinking positive thoughts"... some days you need that little pick-me-up.
I told mom about this but I keep forgetting to share. Where I am from at the cemetery silk flowers are left by the headstones. On the other side of that state it is more common to see fresh flowers. At the bottom of my neighborhood in my current state is the town cemetery. On Memorial Day I thought it was neat how many people visited the cemetery, cleaned it up, and left silk flowers by the headstones. However, here they leave something else by the headstones that you don't see until evening. Perhaps because of the strong winds that occur here and silk flowers fly away and fade in the weather they leave this other item. I don't know how it got started but it is different. They leave solar powered lights. The whole cemetery is full of blue, pink, white, and green, solar lights. It is just a pleasant peaceful glow. It isn't overdone like Christmas lights...just a soft glow. Anyhow, that was a new idea for me.
At my curriculum training today the President of the curriculum's company stopped in. I was very impressed. He came in very low key. Introduced himself, told us he was invested in our success and they would be continuing to support us while we implemented the curriculum. I think what impressed me was that he was so low key. He didn't make the introduction about him it was about us. Little ole us in this dinky town. We have been giving contact information for our trainer to ask any questions that we need to as we progress in our learning. I think if we implement this in the way that it was intended we are going to see our students make a lot of growth in reading. I am very excited.
Tonight out of the blue... I got this text message. "Did you know you're an amazing and wonderful friend?"
me: " uh.. no? What did I do?" "Nothing specific I was just thinking positive thoughts"... some days you need that little pick-me-up.
August 9, 2014
Busy Week...Busy Weekend
Well training has been going well although a bit dry. I asked all week for the janitors to bring me a tall enough ladder that I could finish painting. They brought a ladder but nowhere near tall enough. There will be some high corners of the room without paint. I did the first coat of chalkboard paint on two small areas that I wanted to do. I was planning on finishing painting this weekend. I don't think it is going to happen. I think it will have to be next week. The best laid plans and all that...
I started a crock-pot of beef stew to fix and freeze. I've been trying to make a couple of dishes to freeze every weekend. I haven't had a chance to build up a stash this summer. When school starts it is very difficult to find the time to make a healthy lunch during the week. I really have to get it done on the weekend. Mowed the lawn today and now I am watering it. It didn't get watered well my last trip up north. I am also attempting to get my house cleaned and all my laundry done. It is a challenge. I also have to study for a quiz for my training next week. I am going to have to go back to work to get some rest :).
Got my basket of produce today. There was some fennel in it. I have no idea what to do with fennel. I didn't find any recipes online that made me say hmmm I'd try that. So I think fennel is going out the door. I also got some cabbage. I find all forms of cabbage pretty much yucky. If I was starving I'd eat it but the gas would take out everyone around me. So the cabbage went to the neighbors rabbits. I wish I had a neighbor with a pig, that would be really helpful. Anyhow I'm going to get back to work on all my chores. G'nite
I started a crock-pot of beef stew to fix and freeze. I've been trying to make a couple of dishes to freeze every weekend. I haven't had a chance to build up a stash this summer. When school starts it is very difficult to find the time to make a healthy lunch during the week. I really have to get it done on the weekend. Mowed the lawn today and now I am watering it. It didn't get watered well my last trip up north. I am also attempting to get my house cleaned and all my laundry done. It is a challenge. I also have to study for a quiz for my training next week. I am going to have to go back to work to get some rest :).
Got my basket of produce today. There was some fennel in it. I have no idea what to do with fennel. I didn't find any recipes online that made me say hmmm I'd try that. So I think fennel is going out the door. I also got some cabbage. I find all forms of cabbage pretty much yucky. If I was starving I'd eat it but the gas would take out everyone around me. So the cabbage went to the neighbors rabbits. I wish I had a neighbor with a pig, that would be really helpful. Anyhow I'm going to get back to work on all my chores. G'nite
August 7, 2014
New forms of crazy...
I've been through some craziness with administration but my new administrator has some new forms of crazy. We received our schedule for our work-days before school starts. You might assume that work days means you are working in your classroom preparing it and getting curriculum ready. Nope. Teacher workdays we are paid for so they have us trapped into a schedule of their choice. Sometimes it is worthwhile. Sometimes you have a great training. Sometimes we make decisions for the school year. Usually though we are trapped at the whim of our administrators agenda. Well I received the agenda this morning at another training I am doing this summer. I started laughing at the schedule. It was structured to the minute. I had to call my mom and share the times listed for the different things we are doing throughout the day. There were times listed like 9:01 a.m. and 7:13 a.m., 12:44 p.m. If someone is getting this particular about the minute... it could be an interesting year.
August 5, 2014
Summer...
Some friends have gone through a terrible tragedy lately and they are on my mind. You never know what heartache life will have for you. Please keep them in your prayers.
I have been working on my summer training. The first part was so dull that I couldn't stand it. It was read this paragraph, highlight this, etc. It really was building our background knowledge so that we had a good understanding of why the program has been built in the manner that it is. It is important to have this but the delivery made me sleepy. It has is improving and we are getting to practice some of the techniques. The more we dig into this the more I am invested in the program. The delivery is still dry but my colleagues were teasing me about how I was making it more fun. If I delivered it as dryly as our instructor I'd have students bouncing off the walls. If I can make handwriting fun while reading the script and adding my own sound effects I SHALL! :) If the teacher is bored the students will be jumping out of the window. Anyhow it is good stuff just delivered by a severe lack of animation.
I am also working on painting my classroom. I've been trying to find the janitors to borrow a ladder to get up and do the corners and up by the ceiling. I have a slanted ceiling that is very high. I did the best I could from the ground but I need a little height to get it done. While painting we discovered a water leak. The cement brick is mush in this corner. I reported it and all I can be is hopeful that it gets taken care of. These things are unfortunately usually ignored. I think people don't realize how much teachers spend on their classrooms and supplies. A parent said to me "Why don't more teacher's paint their classrooms?" Well, because I bought the primer, the paint, the brushes, the rollers, the drop cloths, etc. It was an investment. If they change my room I will be pretty sad. The Vice-principal told me she loved the color I chose and colleagues have been dropping in to see it. It really came out nice. It is kind of a tropical palette. I will try to post a picture soon.
We have 8 more days of training. After that it is our work week, then the following week school starts. Summer just flew by.
I have been working on my summer training. The first part was so dull that I couldn't stand it. It was read this paragraph, highlight this, etc. It really was building our background knowledge so that we had a good understanding of why the program has been built in the manner that it is. It is important to have this but the delivery made me sleepy. It has is improving and we are getting to practice some of the techniques. The more we dig into this the more I am invested in the program. The delivery is still dry but my colleagues were teasing me about how I was making it more fun. If I delivered it as dryly as our instructor I'd have students bouncing off the walls. If I can make handwriting fun while reading the script and adding my own sound effects I SHALL! :) If the teacher is bored the students will be jumping out of the window. Anyhow it is good stuff just delivered by a severe lack of animation.
I am also working on painting my classroom. I've been trying to find the janitors to borrow a ladder to get up and do the corners and up by the ceiling. I have a slanted ceiling that is very high. I did the best I could from the ground but I need a little height to get it done. While painting we discovered a water leak. The cement brick is mush in this corner. I reported it and all I can be is hopeful that it gets taken care of. These things are unfortunately usually ignored. I think people don't realize how much teachers spend on their classrooms and supplies. A parent said to me "Why don't more teacher's paint their classrooms?" Well, because I bought the primer, the paint, the brushes, the rollers, the drop cloths, etc. It was an investment. If they change my room I will be pretty sad. The Vice-principal told me she loved the color I chose and colleagues have been dropping in to see it. It really came out nice. It is kind of a tropical palette. I will try to post a picture soon.
We have 8 more days of training. After that it is our work week, then the following week school starts. Summer just flew by.
July 20, 2014
Summers end
Ahh the crazy busy summer is coming to an end. I will head back south soon to begin my two week training. I had hoped to have more time in July for things I wanted to accomplish. This summer however, my job isn't allowing for that. I will miss some good times with family and friends but so it goes for us working folks right? I am very thankful we are getting training instead of handing us a curriculum and saying good luck, hope you have time to read it before implementing it! So the training will be good. It just sucks up so much of summer. I know I am whining.
I had a great time visiting cousins, aunts, and uncles on this trip. I got to hang out with some pretty darn cute short people. I also was able to see granny for a bit. I am finishing up my online class this weekend. Hurrah! I can't take any more "busy" work and the banality of this course. It was a disappointment to me. I doubt I will take another online class through this organization.
I wish I'd had more time to see more pals, so life goes.
I had a great time visiting cousins, aunts, and uncles on this trip. I got to hang out with some pretty darn cute short people. I also was able to see granny for a bit. I am finishing up my online class this weekend. Hurrah! I can't take any more "busy" work and the banality of this course. It was a disappointment to me. I doubt I will take another online class through this organization.
I wish I'd had more time to see more pals, so life goes.
July 14, 2014
Head Spinning
I headed down south to that terribly hot place for my conference. I am very grateful for the invention of air-conditioning. The conference was amazing. I learned so much that it is a little overwhelming. I am trying to take away those nuggets of gold that I can use immediately. I went to an all day conference with one of the writers of the math curriculum that we use. It was very beneficial. Our staff had been approaching this curriculum in the wrong manner. I realized this but I didn't know how to make the connection to change it as much as I needed to. It was also encouraging to find out some of the ways I had been teaching it were correct. I attended this all day session with my principal and vice-principal. I was sitting between them all day. That is kind of stressful. I jokingly said to them I was in an Administrator Sandwich today! Since they were at the same training I believe we will be changing our implementation as a staff.
In other news, our fire marshal has gone off the rails about what we can and cannot have in our classroom. I am going to call the state fire marshal tomorrow and see what I can figure out. I am wondering if it is more principal preference than what fire code says. I don't know. You try to make your classroom a comfortable inviting space because students and teachers have to spend a LOT of hours there.
I started painting my classroom over the weekend. I finished the primer coat yesterday so today I am working on the color coat. This takes a lot longer. Especially on our block walls. A friend gave me a hint to go buy the thicker rollers because the others just don't work well on this surface. So hopefully once I have the edging done it will go smoothly. I will be heading back north soon for a short while. I can't stay as long as I'd like because I have another training to attend. The upside of the training is that I am getting paid for it and I will learn about our new curriculum. The downside is that it is really sucking up all my summer free time. I've been north and south and north and my head is spinning a bit. In part with all I've learned and in part with being on the "go".
I told my colleagues and my vice-principal and anyone who had anything to do with class lists to please NOT TELL ME anything! I wanted to be in denial about that for awhile longer. My colleague broke the rule today she just couldn't help herself. Sigh! Let this brain have a break! I am debating now if I want to know about the rest of the list or just wait. Booger! I didn't want to think about what difficulties I may have to deal with yet. Soo.... here we go again. I almost feel like I am a first year teacher again because so much is changing this year that it is difficult to keep up with.
In other news, our fire marshal has gone off the rails about what we can and cannot have in our classroom. I am going to call the state fire marshal tomorrow and see what I can figure out. I am wondering if it is more principal preference than what fire code says. I don't know. You try to make your classroom a comfortable inviting space because students and teachers have to spend a LOT of hours there.
I started painting my classroom over the weekend. I finished the primer coat yesterday so today I am working on the color coat. This takes a lot longer. Especially on our block walls. A friend gave me a hint to go buy the thicker rollers because the others just don't work well on this surface. So hopefully once I have the edging done it will go smoothly. I will be heading back north soon for a short while. I can't stay as long as I'd like because I have another training to attend. The upside of the training is that I am getting paid for it and I will learn about our new curriculum. The downside is that it is really sucking up all my summer free time. I've been north and south and north and my head is spinning a bit. In part with all I've learned and in part with being on the "go".
I told my colleagues and my vice-principal and anyone who had anything to do with class lists to please NOT TELL ME anything! I wanted to be in denial about that for awhile longer. My colleague broke the rule today she just couldn't help herself. Sigh! Let this brain have a break! I am debating now if I want to know about the rest of the list or just wait. Booger! I didn't want to think about what difficulties I may have to deal with yet. Soo.... here we go again. I almost feel like I am a first year teacher again because so much is changing this year that it is difficult to keep up with.
July 6, 2014
I'm back!
Well drove back on the 4th it was a great day for travel because there was little traffic. I made it to the largest town I drive through right when their Fireworks were set off so I got some dinner and watched them from the highway for a bit. I drove through an area where there is currently a wildfire. The mountainside looked like the world from space with all these glowing embers. There is normally nothing near there and the sagebrush was riddled with the lights of the Firefighters campsites. I got back quite late unloaded my car and went to sleep. When I woke up the next day I had a nice greeting from my neighbors. They noticed all the bugs on my windshield and car and they washed it for me. That was wonderful!
I went in to school today and taped off the wall and prepped it for the primer coat. I am thinking I didn't get quite enough paint but I am excited for the improvement in my classroom. It was a bit stressful because I ran into a couple of teachers there and I heard some not great things about our new principal. I was thinking ummm can I live in denial a little bit longer and enjoy my break?? I think I have everything taped off so I can go in tomorrow and begin painting. I also got a little cleaning and laundry done. My fridge is very empty because I've been gone so I am thinking I might squeeze in a fridge cleaning tomorrow. I leave Monday for my conference so I need to do some packing at some point as well.
My lawn was mowed while I was gone and it looks pretty green. I am going to water it well so I can mow it before I head north again. It is good to be back and get some things done I needed to accomplish here!
I went in to school today and taped off the wall and prepped it for the primer coat. I am thinking I didn't get quite enough paint but I am excited for the improvement in my classroom. It was a bit stressful because I ran into a couple of teachers there and I heard some not great things about our new principal. I was thinking ummm can I live in denial a little bit longer and enjoy my break?? I think I have everything taped off so I can go in tomorrow and begin painting. I also got a little cleaning and laundry done. My fridge is very empty because I've been gone so I am thinking I might squeeze in a fridge cleaning tomorrow. I leave Monday for my conference so I need to do some packing at some point as well.
My lawn was mowed while I was gone and it looks pretty green. I am going to water it well so I can mow it before I head north again. It is good to be back and get some things done I needed to accomplish here!
July 1, 2014
Yep it's Hot!
It's a good think Mom and I did all the cooking we did last week, the HOT weather has arrived. We have accomplished a lot including going through stuff and getting a load together for the thrift store. Stuff accumulates so easily and quickly. Going through it is much easier with a helper. Mom and I used to do this together every couple years but it had been many years since we had. We are feeling pretty good about it.
So Mom's freezer is stocked with Mom meals :)! I did get a new purchase which made chopping so much easier you can find it by clicking HERE! It chopped some things a little finer than necessary. I don't like to bite into a big ole hunk of onion and this solves that problem. Mom doesn't like biting into onions or celery herself, so we chopped them so small she can barely tell they're there.
I did some pruning, some lawn mowing, some sorting, worked on my online class, visiting many friends, went to the woods with dad, and got some shopping done. My conference starts next week so I need to go home check my mail and get ready to go to that. It is supposed to be a good one. Right when I get back I hope to get a coat of primer in my classroom so things are ready to paint.
The hot weather is here for awhile it seems. I made a fruit smoothie for all of us tonight. Thank goodness for air conditioning. I can remember life before it and flipping my pillow to the "cool" side. Well, I'm off I hope to have a couple more visits before heading back south to more hot weather. G'nite
So Mom's freezer is stocked with Mom meals :)! I did get a new purchase which made chopping so much easier you can find it by clicking HERE! It chopped some things a little finer than necessary. I don't like to bite into a big ole hunk of onion and this solves that problem. Mom doesn't like biting into onions or celery herself, so we chopped them so small she can barely tell they're there.
I did some pruning, some lawn mowing, some sorting, worked on my online class, visiting many friends, went to the woods with dad, and got some shopping done. My conference starts next week so I need to go home check my mail and get ready to go to that. It is supposed to be a good one. Right when I get back I hope to get a coat of primer in my classroom so things are ready to paint.
The hot weather is here for awhile it seems. I made a fruit smoothie for all of us tonight. Thank goodness for air conditioning. I can remember life before it and flipping my pillow to the "cool" side. Well, I'm off I hope to have a couple more visits before heading back south to more hot weather. G'nite
June 23, 2014
Taco Soup
I have been working on a Taco Soup Recipe that would require me to use a pre-made taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix with all those icky fillers. This version is also low sodium.
Taco Seasoning:
1/2 tsp corn starch
1/2 tsp crushed dried red pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
Ranch Dressing Mix:
1 tablespoon chopped flat leaf parsley
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon celery seed
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 dash dried thyme or 1 dash dill weed
Overnight soak Pinto Beans with water and place in crockpot cover with water and cook until done.
Put that in a stock pot. Add Ranch Dressing Mix, and Taco Seasoning Mix, 1 bag frozen corn, 1 pound cooked and drained ground beef, 1 can tomatoes ( I found a low salt option but you can also roast your own tomatoes), and 1 cup of quinoa. Cook until heated through and quinoa is done. When serving can serve over tortilla chips, with sour cream, avocado, and grated cheese.
Taco Seasoning:
2 tsp dried minced onion
1 tsp chili powder1/2 tsp corn starch
1/2 tsp crushed dried red pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
Ranch Dressing Mix:
1 tablespoon chopped flat leaf parsley
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon celery seed
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 dash dried thyme or 1 dash dill weed
Overnight soak Pinto Beans with water and place in crockpot cover with water and cook until done.
Put that in a stock pot. Add Ranch Dressing Mix, and Taco Seasoning Mix, 1 bag frozen corn, 1 pound cooked and drained ground beef, 1 can tomatoes ( I found a low salt option but you can also roast your own tomatoes), and 1 cup of quinoa. Cook until heated through and quinoa is done. When serving can serve over tortilla chips, with sour cream, avocado, and grated cheese.
June 22, 2014
Vacation
It has been a wonderfully busy and relaxing vacation so far. Highlights were a trip to the coast with my mom and Aunt. I am so grateful to my Aunt for arranging a great relaxing visit for us. I even worked in a knitting lesson and a massage. I went up to the woods with my dad for a day and didn't get eaten alive by mosquitos. According to Dad that is because my mosquito repellent smelled so strong any living thing was keeping their distance. I had some "all natural" repellent. It worked well until you worked up a sweat then had to reapply. I didn't get a single bite so I am thinking it was beneficial. We also had the time to go to one of my favorite restaurants out in the boonies. My parents have taunted me with their visits to this restaurant. It was finally my turn and just as delicious as I recalled.
I also had enough time to remember issues with going to the bathroom in the woods.
If you don't want to read about urinating in the woods...stop here!
1. I never put mosquito repellent on my butt cheeks
2. Is that or is that not poison ivy... what was that rule for telling if it is poison ivy? Something about three leaves... it doesn't have three.
3. I gotta go I'm going to take a chance that it is poison ivy. (I've never gotten a rash from it)
4. There are ants crawling up my leg... do I stop peeing and find another spot?
5. I left the t.p. in the car... WHY DID I LEAVE T.P. in the car?
6. Now my arse is stuck in the mosquito infested air until I drip dry.
7. I remembered the t.p. and now I must carefully balance it while I pee on this hillside and try not to drop it in the... too late.
8. I really hope I didn't just pee on my shoe... I'm sticking my shoe in the freezing cold stream for awhile.
9. Please hold onto the dogs leash while I pee in the woods even though it looks as though I need assistance I'm not sure the dog can help me.
10. Wet dog nose on butt cheek.... there is no choice but to squeal.
11. On the other hand... public restrooms can be much more dangerous... but that's a tale for another time.
I have eating a lot of yummy fruits this trip. That's the best part about this state in June. Yummm! I worked in a visit to Costco, staples, and other stores to stock up before heading back. I haven't gotten much school related work done and I am working on my online class. Mom and I plan to do some cooking and freezing this week. I also have plans to see some of my pals before heading down south for a conference. Hopefully we accomplish everything on our list before I have to return. A colleague sent me a message that they would be working on class rosters. I said "Please don't tell me" I want to live in denial a little while longer. I do know of a few of the students I will be getting because the parents put in a request. Other than that I don't want to know :)! That stress can be saved for later. I am on VACATION!
I also had enough time to remember issues with going to the bathroom in the woods.
If you don't want to read about urinating in the woods...stop here!
1. I never put mosquito repellent on my butt cheeks
2. Is that or is that not poison ivy... what was that rule for telling if it is poison ivy? Something about three leaves... it doesn't have three.
3. I gotta go I'm going to take a chance that it is poison ivy. (I've never gotten a rash from it)
4. There are ants crawling up my leg... do I stop peeing and find another spot?
5. I left the t.p. in the car... WHY DID I LEAVE T.P. in the car?
6. Now my arse is stuck in the mosquito infested air until I drip dry.
7. I remembered the t.p. and now I must carefully balance it while I pee on this hillside and try not to drop it in the... too late.
8. I really hope I didn't just pee on my shoe... I'm sticking my shoe in the freezing cold stream for awhile.
9. Please hold onto the dogs leash while I pee in the woods even though it looks as though I need assistance I'm not sure the dog can help me.
10. Wet dog nose on butt cheek.... there is no choice but to squeal.
11. On the other hand... public restrooms can be much more dangerous... but that's a tale for another time.
I have eating a lot of yummy fruits this trip. That's the best part about this state in June. Yummm! I worked in a visit to Costco, staples, and other stores to stock up before heading back. I haven't gotten much school related work done and I am working on my online class. Mom and I plan to do some cooking and freezing this week. I also have plans to see some of my pals before heading down south for a conference. Hopefully we accomplish everything on our list before I have to return. A colleague sent me a message that they would be working on class rosters. I said "Please don't tell me" I want to live in denial a little while longer. I do know of a few of the students I will be getting because the parents put in a request. Other than that I don't want to know :)! That stress can be saved for later. I am on VACATION!
June 8, 2014
Summer
Fired up my new lawn-mower. It worked very nicely. My neighbor had to help me with the first fire... I wasn't doing it correctly apparently. I am sure all of the starts from now on will go very well. After mowing I set up the sprinklers again. Yeah mow, water, water, repeat. The cycle of the lawn. There always seems to be a couple of patches damaged by the heavy snow. They are starting to perk up. I also had to go and get a gas-can as I didn't have one. Now I am ready for summer. Well I gave up on the hardware store and ordered some sprinklers. My back lawn is long and narrow. I purchased a tandem sprinkler. That's what they advertised it as. Three sprinklers with short hoses between. Am I mistaken or does "tandem" mean two? I am certain it does. Anyhow, It should save me a little time moving hoses around to hit all the corners of my odd shaped yard. I also have an area that is an isosceles triangle.
I recovered from the but the kiddos shared with me. I am fairly certain it was that and full on exhaustion. I gave it my all to the end. Then in the end I gave out. I caught up on rest and feel myself again. It is the time of year for some delicious fruit smoothies. I will be bringing home a lot of projects to work on and texts to read. Tomorrow I am in to school to finish cleaning, clearing out my classroom. Hopefully, by the time I get back I will be able to paint the walls as I have planned.
Laundry is in the washer, dishes in the dishwasher. I have a "Garage Sale" Pile that is growing. I need to get the house and the class cleaned and then I can begin my "vacation". Tomorrow my online class begins. I am looking forward to that. My neighbor kids "helped" me plant some seeds in my garden. I have no idea how they will grow. They were not exactly consistent with their seed placement nor their watering. If they water the garden when I am up north the seeds have a little hope. :) They had fun planting so we'll see how it goes.
I recovered from the but the kiddos shared with me. I am fairly certain it was that and full on exhaustion. I gave it my all to the end. Then in the end I gave out. I caught up on rest and feel myself again. It is the time of year for some delicious fruit smoothies. I will be bringing home a lot of projects to work on and texts to read. Tomorrow I am in to school to finish cleaning, clearing out my classroom. Hopefully, by the time I get back I will be able to paint the walls as I have planned.
Laundry is in the washer, dishes in the dishwasher. I have a "Garage Sale" Pile that is growing. I need to get the house and the class cleaned and then I can begin my "vacation". Tomorrow my online class begins. I am looking forward to that. My neighbor kids "helped" me plant some seeds in my garden. I have no idea how they will grow. They were not exactly consistent with their seed placement nor their watering. If they water the garden when I am up north the seeds have a little hope. :) They had fun planting so we'll see how it goes.
June 5, 2014
Wrapping it up!
It took me several hours after students and our luncheon yesterday to print all the "end-of-year" reports. It really shouldn't be this hard but it is. In part because we weren't every shown how to set the program up correctly so every time we go to print reports we have a brand new previously unknown issue. Sigh. In part it is a pain because we have a 21 step process we must complete to print a report. Does this sound a little nuts in the modern age? That's because it is. The person in charge of this software who is supposed to set it up to make it user friendly. Well they haven't done so. In part because it doesn't really impact their job. It is the biggest headache. If you want to hear some whining and complaining going on it is when we are doing these reports. I always start them with a buddy or two because I always have problems with it. Some of the kinks were worked out permanently by the Vice-Principal. She came by and helped correct some things that should have been shown to me in August. SIGH! Anyhow needless to say after spending hours on the reports I still didn't get my classroom cleaned up.
Today I went in and worked on the Cumulative Folders we must complete for every student. That took quite awhile mostly because I had not completed one in this manner before. I completed many of the things on my checklist for the school. I found out today that we were expected to have this all done on Wednesday. How? I don't know. With students we were supposed to complete all of this? Luckily they have been reasonable enough to understand that wasn't going to happen. I didn't see a classroom empty of a teacher today. The only teachers that weren't at school today were the support staffers like the special ed teachers who haven't had students for a few weeks now.
When I woke up this morning I was very congested and not feeling great. I went in to work and just felt worse. At lunch time I decided I would go get distilled water for my humidifier and take a nap. I woke up and there wasn't any change. I went to work for several more hours and felt worse. I had to run to the hardware store for a sprinkler I need that hadn't been unloaded from the shipment yet. Then I came home put on my pj's and have been resting. I finally realized this evening that I am running a little bit of a fever. I think the kids shared their bug with me. I am hoping a good nights rest and a few healthy meals I can get back on track to get everything done. Tomorrow is a Health Fair the county health department is putting on. I have learned to attend these for any needed blood tests. I can get a blood test their for 20$ that would cost hundreds at the clinic. So I need to attend that tomorrow.
We found out that our District is changing our health insurance again starting July 1st. On Monday I have to attend a mandatory meeting to learn about the changes. It sounds like our new insurance is going to be pretty pathetic. Thanks to you "Affordable Health Care Act" we can no longer afford to pay your insurance so we are finding a cheaper policy that really doesn't pay for your health care at all. Yay!! I am not the first person to be going through this across the country I hear of people that are going through the same things.
I am sorry if my grumpiness is overwhelming in this post. So I will end it on my laugh of the day. In my classroom sometimes to get my happy chatters attention I yell "RED ROBIN" Like in this commercial then my students say "yum". Usually the first time works but sometimes I have to do it a few times getting quieter each time to get their attention. They love it and it works. I have a mom volunteer that comes in with her four year old and he has heard me do this several times. She sent me a message today that her older two kids were arguing in the car and the four year old was sitting in the middle. Apparently he had, had enough and yelled out "RED ROBIN". I hope it worked for him I truly do! :)
Have a great weekend!
Today I went in and worked on the Cumulative Folders we must complete for every student. That took quite awhile mostly because I had not completed one in this manner before. I completed many of the things on my checklist for the school. I found out today that we were expected to have this all done on Wednesday. How? I don't know. With students we were supposed to complete all of this? Luckily they have been reasonable enough to understand that wasn't going to happen. I didn't see a classroom empty of a teacher today. The only teachers that weren't at school today were the support staffers like the special ed teachers who haven't had students for a few weeks now.
When I woke up this morning I was very congested and not feeling great. I went in to work and just felt worse. At lunch time I decided I would go get distilled water for my humidifier and take a nap. I woke up and there wasn't any change. I went to work for several more hours and felt worse. I had to run to the hardware store for a sprinkler I need that hadn't been unloaded from the shipment yet. Then I came home put on my pj's and have been resting. I finally realized this evening that I am running a little bit of a fever. I think the kids shared their bug with me. I am hoping a good nights rest and a few healthy meals I can get back on track to get everything done. Tomorrow is a Health Fair the county health department is putting on. I have learned to attend these for any needed blood tests. I can get a blood test their for 20$ that would cost hundreds at the clinic. So I need to attend that tomorrow.
We found out that our District is changing our health insurance again starting July 1st. On Monday I have to attend a mandatory meeting to learn about the changes. It sounds like our new insurance is going to be pretty pathetic. Thanks to you "Affordable Health Care Act" we can no longer afford to pay your insurance so we are finding a cheaper policy that really doesn't pay for your health care at all. Yay!! I am not the first person to be going through this across the country I hear of people that are going through the same things.
I am sorry if my grumpiness is overwhelming in this post. So I will end it on my laugh of the day. In my classroom sometimes to get my happy chatters attention I yell "RED ROBIN" Like in this commercial then my students say "yum". Usually the first time works but sometimes I have to do it a few times getting quieter each time to get their attention. They love it and it works. I have a mom volunteer that comes in with her four year old and he has heard me do this several times. She sent me a message today that her older two kids were arguing in the car and the four year old was sitting in the middle. Apparently he had, had enough and yelled out "RED ROBIN". I hope it worked for him I truly do! :)
Have a great weekend!
June 3, 2014
Ah the sweet sweet smell of...
I think I smell SUMMER VACATION! One more day! ONE More DAY! I can do this. We can do this. Although it would help if I was in bed by now. I had to stay up to make dessert for our staff luncheon tomorrow. What I didn't have to do was go to dinner with a colleague. Let's be realistic though... there was NOOOO way I was cooking dinner tonight. If I hadn't have gone out to dinner my dinner probably would've been a bowl of ice-cream. So yes, dinner out was the better choice.
Tomorrow is the big wrap up of everything we are supposed to have done. I am so used to Thursday being an official work day. Nope it isn't. We have students for 1/2 a day tomorrow then the 2nd half we are supposed to get all of our teacher stuff done. After the staff luncheon. If a teacher has a classroom completely in order on the last day with students. Hats off to you...but I think you have issues.
Today was Field Day. In a burst of enthusiasm and optimism our PTO put on the most elaborate Field Day ever seen by our students. They had a ball. I needed about 2 more layers of sunscreen and 2 more cups of tea. However, my students did receive compliments at several "stations" on their good behavior. There was bubbles, bouncy slides, bouncy obstacle courses, sponge tosses, a dunk tank, kick ball with kiddie pools for bases, gummy worm eating contests, water relays, a color run, and other ridiculous fun. Then we had to walk back to school. Yep one block seemed completely unreasonable to my students. The whining was non-stop. I grabbed Popsicles from the freezer, turned on a movie, and the last 30 minutes I had students impersonating limp noodles. It was awesome. The bell rang. The sigh of relief coming from their teacher was amazing. I think the PTO was a little optimistic about how long lower grades can go without water, bathrooms, etc. However, we learn from a party every time we give one.
So I spent my evening firing up sprinklers in my yard and making Special K bars for tomorrow. They are done. I am "unstinkified" from my shower. I am trying to hydrate more before bed. One more day. Unofficially more days than that. I hope it won't take me too long to clean it all up. The students have taken most of their things home and have "mostly" emptied their desks. We had a desk cleaning activity. Imagine my surprise when I check them after school and a couple of them had just moved things around. Really? So then they had to finish the job. I start an online class in 6 days. I will also be going to a 2 week training and a 1 week conference this summer.
Well my alarm always seems to ring earlier than what I think it should... So G'nite
Tomorrow is the big wrap up of everything we are supposed to have done. I am so used to Thursday being an official work day. Nope it isn't. We have students for 1/2 a day tomorrow then the 2nd half we are supposed to get all of our teacher stuff done. After the staff luncheon. If a teacher has a classroom completely in order on the last day with students. Hats off to you...but I think you have issues.
Today was Field Day. In a burst of enthusiasm and optimism our PTO put on the most elaborate Field Day ever seen by our students. They had a ball. I needed about 2 more layers of sunscreen and 2 more cups of tea. However, my students did receive compliments at several "stations" on their good behavior. There was bubbles, bouncy slides, bouncy obstacle courses, sponge tosses, a dunk tank, kick ball with kiddie pools for bases, gummy worm eating contests, water relays, a color run, and other ridiculous fun. Then we had to walk back to school. Yep one block seemed completely unreasonable to my students. The whining was non-stop. I grabbed Popsicles from the freezer, turned on a movie, and the last 30 minutes I had students impersonating limp noodles. It was awesome. The bell rang. The sigh of relief coming from their teacher was amazing. I think the PTO was a little optimistic about how long lower grades can go without water, bathrooms, etc. However, we learn from a party every time we give one.
So I spent my evening firing up sprinklers in my yard and making Special K bars for tomorrow. They are done. I am "unstinkified" from my shower. I am trying to hydrate more before bed. One more day. Unofficially more days than that. I hope it won't take me too long to clean it all up. The students have taken most of their things home and have "mostly" emptied their desks. We had a desk cleaning activity. Imagine my surprise when I check them after school and a couple of them had just moved things around. Really? So then they had to finish the job. I start an online class in 6 days. I will also be going to a 2 week training and a 1 week conference this summer.
Well my alarm always seems to ring earlier than what I think it should... So G'nite
May 27, 2014
Paint
I am sure after the fact I will be really glad I had my students help with our mural. Today though...all I could think was "WHAT WAS I THINKING?" Overall they did very well and painted within the lines on the wall and not the floor, themselves, etc. I had a parent volunteer that made sure they weren't setting the class on fire while I took a couple of students at a time to paint. They are extremely proud of their work. I had 3 students absent today and one went home with a fever. One I know had a dentist appointment. Hopefully we don't have a spring bug running around.
Tomorrow is our grade level planning day. Since I spent the weekend at school doing things OTHER than sub plans I stayed extra late today getting the ducks in a row. I always have wayyy more work than the sub can do. Nothing is worse as a sub than your students having free time.
My allergies are making me really tired. I plugged in my humidifier last night so last night was a little bit better. I also used my essential oil blend for allergies plus my antihistamine. Hopefully they will start getting better.
I am doing a load of laundry and trying to stay awake till a reasonable hour. I hope tomorrow is a productive day.
Tomorrow is our grade level planning day. Since I spent the weekend at school doing things OTHER than sub plans I stayed extra late today getting the ducks in a row. I always have wayyy more work than the sub can do. Nothing is worse as a sub than your students having free time.
My allergies are making me really tired. I plugged in my humidifier last night so last night was a little bit better. I also used my essential oil blend for allergies plus my antihistamine. Hopefully they will start getting better.
I am doing a load of laundry and trying to stay awake till a reasonable hour. I hope tomorrow is a productive day.
May 25, 2014
Weekend
After an exhausting week I have actually accomplished a lot this weekend. I spent hours at school on Thursday Night and Friday doing some planning for next year. The next day I went in and began working on a mural in the lunchroom. A friend came and helped so I made progress much more quickly than if I had done it alone. Then today I went back and worked on grading papers and then continued work on the mural. It is coming along rather nicely. It needs more depth that it has right now but it is getting there. It will
eventually have rays bouncing out of the top of it onto two nearby bulletin boards. On the bulletin boards will be posted pictures of students that are "bucket fillers" or students that have been recognized by their peers as being kind.
My plan for tomorrow is more time spent at school getting ready for the week and adding a little bit more color to the bucket. I know my students are very excited to be painting the mural. Hopefully, they all remember to bring their "paint" clothes. We only have 5 and 1/2 days of school left. So crazy.
I went to our local movie theater tonight. They just recently updated their screen, sound, and projection. The viewing is much more enjoyable. I wasn't surprised but was disappointed to see that parents brought their kindergarten and first grade students to this movie. Yea ratings are merely suggestions apparently these days. I also got in a little lawn mowing this weekend. Despite the rain we've had we didn't get enough to really saturate my lawn. It was getting a little crispy so I have been watering today. My neighbor was kind enough to move my sprinklers around while I was working at school.
We have a "track" day at high school on Thursday. I don't know what this involves other than we go to the high school track for an hour. When I experience this I will be sure to share. My class also won a pizza party from PTO for a reading contest. They are pretty excited about that. There has been some negativity going on but then I look at all of the accomplishments of my students and wonder "Why do I let cranky people bring me down". We have a lot to celebrate! We kicked some major keister on test scores as well. Hard work pays off.
Thank your for your service to our country all service men and women past and present!
May 23, 2014
End of the Year....
Yep it's that time of year when your teacher probably looks way frazzled. Like maybe he/she needs a week on a beach with a cool drink in hand. It has been so busy and strange and wonderful. We've been experiencing some very bizarre behavior from a handful of parents. The upside is they have lost any credibility they thought they had. One is delusional enough they still believe they have it. Anyone who works with the public gets rocks (verbal) thrown at them. It makes you wonder why you do this job. Then your students have unbelievable successes and you think "THIS is why". You know what I have learned about some parents this school year. They say they want their student to do well but their actions show otherwise. You send home reading, it's never complete. You nudge their student to work a little harder, they complain that you're expectations are to high. You set expectations that aren't high but on TARGET, and they're too high. TOO HIGH! To ask them to rise up to where they need to be????
In the past week I've been told I'm a wonderful teacher by many, a horrible teacher by a few, and why do I let myself be upset by the few? It's being human I suppose. I am extremely proud of my students. They surprised me and themselves on testing. Together we kicked a lot of heiney on testing. This isn't something parents have access too so they wouldn't know how the students' do overall in each class. When I get in trouble for setting the bar high, I look at the success of my kids and think "Why Would You Want Me To Lower It?".
There are some parents who want you to lower it though, and not because their student isn't capable. It amazes and frustrates me. I have come to really despise these words "We just want what's best for our child." I despise them because they sound sincere and true. They sound so reasonable and just. They sound as though they are infused with love and concern. Those words are disproved by sooo many actions I lose count of them. Please don't say those words to your student's teacher. Show the teacher through your willingness to help your student by reading daily, getting homework done, showing up to help out during activities when possible, sending a note in their lunch box to encourage them through the day, and did I mention read to/with them?
In other news we are working on our planning for the next school year and next week we have a planning day. Luckily my Jury Duty was cancelled so I don't have to worry about not being able to attend. A colleague and I sat down and went through the pacing guide to fit it into next year's school calendar. We had to tweak it a few times but we made it work. That was just one subject area. We are going to try to meet several times over this weekend to work on more of it. It is a time-consuming mind numbing process.
I am also spending my weekend finishing up grading, planning, cleaning, and painting the mural. Busy days ahead but the finish line is within sight!
In the past week I've been told I'm a wonderful teacher by many, a horrible teacher by a few, and why do I let myself be upset by the few? It's being human I suppose. I am extremely proud of my students. They surprised me and themselves on testing. Together we kicked a lot of heiney on testing. This isn't something parents have access too so they wouldn't know how the students' do overall in each class. When I get in trouble for setting the bar high, I look at the success of my kids and think "Why Would You Want Me To Lower It?".
There are some parents who want you to lower it though, and not because their student isn't capable. It amazes and frustrates me. I have come to really despise these words "We just want what's best for our child." I despise them because they sound sincere and true. They sound so reasonable and just. They sound as though they are infused with love and concern. Those words are disproved by sooo many actions I lose count of them. Please don't say those words to your student's teacher. Show the teacher through your willingness to help your student by reading daily, getting homework done, showing up to help out during activities when possible, sending a note in their lunch box to encourage them through the day, and did I mention read to/with them?
In other news we are working on our planning for the next school year and next week we have a planning day. Luckily my Jury Duty was cancelled so I don't have to worry about not being able to attend. A colleague and I sat down and went through the pacing guide to fit it into next year's school calendar. We had to tweak it a few times but we made it work. That was just one subject area. We are going to try to meet several times over this weekend to work on more of it. It is a time-consuming mind numbing process.
I am also spending my weekend finishing up grading, planning, cleaning, and painting the mural. Busy days ahead but the finish line is within sight!
May 10, 2014
I know laundry talk AGAIN!
The next few weeks till school is out for the summer will be crazy busy. I decided I needed to build up my freezer stash to survive the insanity. So I made some Taco Soup and a Taco Casserole... Hmmmm what's up with my Mexican Food craving? I hope to get one more dish cooked this weekend. Probably something that can be neglected in the crock-pot.
I had plans to go into school on Friday and get work done. Yep that didn't happen. Our school was broken into and vandalized and we were asked to not go in until today or later. That worked out for me because I needed the break. I babysat last night. It had been awhile since I had spent so much quality time with a 1 and a half year old. I enjoyed it but there were times of extreme boredom. When I left my nanny days behind I thought I had left behind toddler television. Apparently not.
I have also been getting caught up on laundry. I have almost conquered the laundry pile. Now I have to conquer the clean laundry pile. It doesn't end.
I am addicted to loose leaf tea. I start my day with a fantastic blend of chocolate mint black tea. It really is the best way to start the day. I have wonderful tea tumbler. After awhile there is this build up that I've had difficulty cleaning up. It makes the tea have a funky flavor as well. I've scrubbed it and followed the cleaning directions but nope... nothing worked. The tumbler also has an infuser that gets this build up on it. So today I tried that magical combination of baking soda and vinegar. They were back to their original stainless steel without the tea stain. YAY! I anticipate a delicious cup of tea come Monday morning.
We are having a trainer come this summer for our new reading program. I have some reading to do before the training. We took a couple of math classes this winter to help us in teaching our math curriculum with fidelity. They were great classes. They just offered the teachers who did not take that class the opportunity to go to the conference the makers of this curriculum put on. I took the class but decided to ask if I could attend the conference despite this. I haven't received an answer yet but I feel it doesn't hurt to ask. It would be really amazing to be able to attend this. It made me wish that I hadn't taken the class this winter so that I would be able to attend the conference for sure. We shall see what happens. Any opportunity for me to learn more I jump on.
I have all of my cleaning appliances doing their job right now. So that means I better work on tackling the clean laundry pile otherwise my couch may just disappear. Tomorrow is a day at school for me. Hopefully my room was not invaded by the vandals and thieves.
I had plans to go into school on Friday and get work done. Yep that didn't happen. Our school was broken into and vandalized and we were asked to not go in until today or later. That worked out for me because I needed the break. I babysat last night. It had been awhile since I had spent so much quality time with a 1 and a half year old. I enjoyed it but there were times of extreme boredom. When I left my nanny days behind I thought I had left behind toddler television. Apparently not.
I have also been getting caught up on laundry. I have almost conquered the laundry pile. Now I have to conquer the clean laundry pile. It doesn't end.
I am addicted to loose leaf tea. I start my day with a fantastic blend of chocolate mint black tea. It really is the best way to start the day. I have wonderful tea tumbler. After awhile there is this build up that I've had difficulty cleaning up. It makes the tea have a funky flavor as well. I've scrubbed it and followed the cleaning directions but nope... nothing worked. The tumbler also has an infuser that gets this build up on it. So today I tried that magical combination of baking soda and vinegar. They were back to their original stainless steel without the tea stain. YAY! I anticipate a delicious cup of tea come Monday morning.
We are having a trainer come this summer for our new reading program. I have some reading to do before the training. We took a couple of math classes this winter to help us in teaching our math curriculum with fidelity. They were great classes. They just offered the teachers who did not take that class the opportunity to go to the conference the makers of this curriculum put on. I took the class but decided to ask if I could attend the conference despite this. I haven't received an answer yet but I feel it doesn't hurt to ask. It would be really amazing to be able to attend this. It made me wish that I hadn't taken the class this winter so that I would be able to attend the conference for sure. We shall see what happens. Any opportunity for me to learn more I jump on.
I have all of my cleaning appliances doing their job right now. So that means I better work on tackling the clean laundry pile otherwise my couch may just disappear. Tomorrow is a day at school for me. Hopefully my room was not invaded by the vandals and thieves.
May 3, 2014
The "TANG" Experiment!
It worked folks. A container of TANG dumped in the bottom of the empty dishwasher an put on the Heavy Wash cycle did the trick. It got rid of the residue that it was creating on the dishes and it smells wonderful. So I would do it again. I even bought the generic brand of TANG because TANG was sold out. Perhaps there was a lot of folks out there needed to clean their dishwashers! HA! Anyhow, random information from Mom's take you interesting places.
I've been pretty lucky in my life with great neighbors. Yes not just good but GREAT. My neighbor saved me once again when I misplaced my keys to my car. Sigh. I had a very blonde day. I finally decided I needed a cup of tea to engage the brain. It helped a bit. I still can't find my keys... but I did find my spare set (locked in my car). Yep it was one of those days.
I've been pretty lucky in my life with great neighbors. Yes not just good but GREAT. My neighbor saved me once again when I misplaced my keys to my car. Sigh. I had a very blonde day. I finally decided I needed a cup of tea to engage the brain. It helped a bit. I still can't find my keys... but I did find my spare set (locked in my car). Yep it was one of those days.
May 2, 2014
Anecdotes for others
It seems my family and friends find my anecdotes from school FAR more amusing than I do. I will have to come back and review them when I've gained a little distance from the treasures who've helped create these memories. Not all of my students bring me joy but through my stories I get belly laughs from others. I have a tattle tale box at school and I collect and keep these notes from the kids. I had an especially egregious tattle tale this week. My family has been unsuitably entertained. While I am not as amused. I am glad someone else can find humor in it all. Perhaps I can giggle a little more when I've gained a little distance from the subject.
I am attempting the "Tang" experiment tonight. You never know what little facts or tid-bits of information your mom possesses. I was complaining of the funky residue my dishwasher was leaving on my dishes. I have tried a number of ways to attempt to clean the dishwasher and consulted Plumber Google, and
Mrs. Pinterest. I attempted a couple but there was still issues. So after consulting MOM tonight I ran to the grocery store and bought Tang. Apparently this product when dumped in your dishwasher will help clean it up of some of that "hard-water" residue that is an issue here. I will share my results.
In other news we found out who our new principal will be next year. We will be sharing with the middle school. She is very experienced and I am hopefully she will implement some positive changes. She is very new to our district so I am not sure how this will turn out. I've heard both positive and negative from the middle school. I am glad we are going through this process of change. She is a huge proponent of using the new curriculum that we are using and wants to make sure we have training in it. So for now I reserve judgment but am hopeful about the change occurring.
There is so little left to this school year It is hard to believe. I know this month will fly by. I am so ready for summer!
I am attempting the "Tang" experiment tonight. You never know what little facts or tid-bits of information your mom possesses. I was complaining of the funky residue my dishwasher was leaving on my dishes. I have tried a number of ways to attempt to clean the dishwasher and consulted Plumber Google, and
Mrs. Pinterest. I attempted a couple but there was still issues. So after consulting MOM tonight I ran to the grocery store and bought Tang. Apparently this product when dumped in your dishwasher will help clean it up of some of that "hard-water" residue that is an issue here. I will share my results.
In other news we found out who our new principal will be next year. We will be sharing with the middle school. She is very experienced and I am hopefully she will implement some positive changes. She is very new to our district so I am not sure how this will turn out. I've heard both positive and negative from the middle school. I am glad we are going through this process of change. She is a huge proponent of using the new curriculum that we are using and wants to make sure we have training in it. So for now I reserve judgment but am hopeful about the change occurring.
There is so little left to this school year It is hard to believe. I know this month will fly by. I am so ready for summer!
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