School just got out on Thursday, and on Friday I was already writing down ideas, thoughts and planning for next year! I used to have a book by Harry Wong, "The First Days of School" but I must have loaned it out to someone and never got it back so I bought a new one along with one of Rafe Esquith's books. I just couldn't get enough of either of the books--my husband thinks I'm crazy--but, I just really feel like I need some fire and motivation for teaching---so I'm starting now! I'm also going to be in a group this summer with some teacher friends learning about "The Daily 5" and "CAFE". I have found a few wonderful 4th grade teacher blog sites that have great information on them as well--Mr. Oliver's class and Miss Angela's class to name a few.
Our school was just remodeled 2 years ago. It looks lovely and clean and sterile. Every classroom has to have the same desks, furniture, number of computers etc... We aren't supposed to deviate---not supposed to bring in extra computers, printers, tables etc...soooooo......
One thing I am definately doing next year is purchasing picture frames--enough for every student in the class, taking pictures of the kids and keeping the pictures up around my classroom. I'll change the pictures every so often--this may be a student job---Isn't that a great way of making the classroom seem like "our" room and making it more personalized? How easy, inexpensive and fun! I'm also purchasing some small,portable,low chairs for the kids to use when they sit on the floor----My room is small and we are supposed to have a lot of students next year--mid to high 30's--so where I will keep them will be a challenge, but, I am determined to organize my classroom, desks etc... to make it a comfortable place for the kids and me. Another idea I found was to not have a teacher's desk in the room---well, my desk isn't going anywhere, but, perhaps I can use it in a different way than as a teacher's desk--so many possibilities and challenges--this should be fun!
I always get excited about the next year even though it's just the ending of this year. It's probably because endings are sad for me and so if I keep looking ahead to start new, again and different I don't feel sad, but excited about beginning new.
Now, I have to say I have been teaching at the same school in the same grade level for 23 years....I still want to grow, change and improve. Hopefully, this blog will also help me to learn, grow and improve. I can't wait to have the students post and learn how to create a really cool blogsite.
