My friend surprisingly came into my classroom during the middle of the lesson dressed in all black and with a look of seriousness. She quickly came up to me and I just listened in silence to her news. I couldn't believe it. I didn't know what to say. As she left, I saw my students … Continue reading Unexpected News
Month: February 2012
The Teacher Effect
One of the things that I love about teaching fifth graders is what I call the "teacher effect". Yes, I just made that up. What is it? The standard dictionary definition would look something like this. The ability to influence students in a positive manner due to your role as a teacher. Here's a specific … Continue reading The Teacher Effect
New Year, New Blog!
One of my projects for 2012 is to start a teaching blog with my friend Melody (check out her awesome blog: spit on the street). Part of my inspiration was seeing the successful collaboration of Stacey & Ruth (two writing teachers). One of the most important lessons I've learned as an educator is that collaboration … Continue reading New Year, New Blog!