Adventures of the SpEducator

My little traveling teachers are officially in student bags and ready for pick-up! I can't wait to see what adventures mini me goes on!

We will not return to school in this academic year.

And I hope they miss me a little 😉

If you are able, consider helping my super students (and their tired teacher) gain access to independent work!

Ya know, on top of my day to day 🙃

Good thing I've got my sneakers on 😉

Bring on eight boys, three grades, and one spectacular instructional assistant!

Wish me luck!

-7 year old student

Part of my professional development this summer includes a children's literature course. For our assignment, we took a "shelfie"--a photo of books that represents us. I have "The First Six Weeks of School," which I have actually never read but am going to be meticulously studying because of my changing position! Also the 1-2-3-Magic book (see previous post) because it boosted my confidence that I'll be able to handle managing my own classroom. The Washington Post is a necessity because of my love-obsession with news and media. "Start Where You Are" and "52 Lists for Happiness" are self-reflection and emotional health guides. My attempt to start journaling was short-lived but these books are always on my coffee table when I need them. The last book for this particular shelfie is "Out of My Mind," which is next on my list of YA novels to widen the diversity of characters exposed to students. Happy reading!

It’s amazing the time efficiency that experience brings. This is my fourth summer. Every year they give me the K/1 class. The first summer, I spent hours and hours making schedules and data sheets and activities. Hours. And. Hours. In year four, I got my room together in about an hour. I am planned for the entire first week. My data sheets are ready. I know what routines we are focusing on. I am ready.

Another summer training in the books! Pop quiz--what is THE most important aspect of an effective classroom? Behavior management! Especially with my population of kiddos. I learned so much good stuff about nonverbal (or limited verbal) behavior correction and have some good ideas to take with me into the fall. Tomorrow...summer school!

Ah the life of a teacher in summer. Pool parties and vacations and sleeping in...right? Of course we know that's the romanticized version of teacher life. Instead, I've filled June and July with professional learning and summer school. This month's online course is about growth mindset. Learning from mistakes. Embracing challenges. All the things I as an educator will need in abundance this year!