tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90901788491268573892024-03-14T05:02:24.967-04:00Learning in BlissA blog for teaching and learning in upper elementaryMarciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comBlogger240125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-980086582592587112015-11-15T22:20:00.000-05:002015-11-15T22:20:33.111-05:00Welcome Back!It has been a long time since I wrote a post. School started several weeks ago, evidenced by the fact we just finished our first marking period. Thursday was our conference day, followed by a much needed compensation day. We condensed our conference scheduled from nine hours to six. It was like having drive-thru conferences. I still invited students to lead the conference using the outline I have used for several years. This was crazy, fast paced. I saw parents of twenty-four of my twenty-five students during a ten minute conference scheduled twelve minutes apart. This included my new student, that I had for one week before the end of the marking period. I had also already met with them during a meeting two days earlier for a temporary placement. About half of my students came, with some staying home or watching younger siblings in the hall.<br />
<br />
A common theme during the conferences was how much the parents are struggling to grasp the "new" math presented in our patched together math program using Engage New York. We are going to look at some other programs, to see if we cannot find something that is student, parent, teacher, and budget friendly. I would love to know what math program you are using in your district to meet the rigorous demands required by high stakes testing, and whether you use Common Core.<br />
<br />
I have other things to share, and hope to get back to blogging more regularly. As I try to find ways to work smarter, not harder. Until next time...<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-3899730600792040912015-05-02T10:41:00.003-04:002015-05-02T10:41:58.166-04:00May AlreadyIt's a warm sunny Saturday. Can't believe it is May already. I have so much to do before June 10 and the last day of school. First thing, I want to link up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2015/05/currently-may-2016.html">Farley's Currently</a> Linky.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f68RLxhNnsw/VUTfz2961HI/AAAAAAAAFNo/Xs6uZQimoxg/s1600/may%2B15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f68RLxhNnsw/VUTfz2961HI/AAAAAAAAFNo/Xs6uZQimoxg/s1600/may%2B15.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Trying to get my daughter's laundry finished. She is packing for a job away from home. She leaves on Monday. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We finished our M-STEP tests this week. Now I have to finish teaching my curriculum and then do district assessment. There is so much to do before the end of the year. We don't get out until June 10. I have a final observation, a wedding shower in North Carolina, and so much more to do yet this month. Better get busy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I would love to sit outside a read a good book. It is going to be in 75 today. We have turned the corner to warmer weather for good, I hope. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am going to Jamaica in August for my son's wedding. I have only been outside the U.S. for Canada. I am looking forward to getting away and adding a daughter. I want to lose some weight before the wedding. Walking is therapeutic for me, so that should help with my weight loss and the relaxation part. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What are you doing <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2015/05/currently-may-2016.html">Currently</a>?</div>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-23754092010068169562015-05-01T15:00:00.000-04:002015-05-01T15:23:32.681-04:00Five for Friday and Testing Relief<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://doodlebugsteaching.blogspot.com/2015/05/five-for-friday-linky-party-may-1st.html"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-phGFIFZ2lms/U39KBGvewKI/AAAAAAAACrc/TU0sceBS5Hk/s1600/fiveforfriday2_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Standardized Testing stressing you
and your students out? I can relate.</span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When Michigan decided to switch to
Smarter Balanced testing and Common Core, I was all for it in theory. I
welcomed starting each new school year without mandated review made necessary
by the summer slide. Then the state decided to switch gears. We would still be
doing a spring electronic standardized test, only now it would be the M-STEP. </span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">One thing I did not like was that
our fifth grade testing window started the day after spring break. </span>We had a three week window. <span style="font-family: inherit;">Today is
the last day for fifth grade testing and make-ups. I wish I could say the testing sessions went well, and were event free.
Unfortunately, there were many woes. Technology malfunctions, problems with
student directions, and so forth. Students and teachers were stressed before
the tests began. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Gn8QA9JfmM/U39eJnwJa_I/AAAAAAAACsA/4oZr4I5zyqs/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Gn8QA9JfmM/U39eJnwJa_I/AAAAAAAACsA/4oZr4I5zyqs/s1600/Slide1.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To help motivate students, I made bulletin boards using Melon Headz and Educlips clip art. My friends stayed after school to help choose the clip art. They then gave up recess to cut the laminated pieces. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vlTQcXIqktA/VUEG01t9BFI/AAAAAAAAFKM/AnElU-6UExE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1430321121921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vlTQcXIqktA/VUEG01t9BFI/AAAAAAAAFKM/AnElU-6UExE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1430321121921.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CXJ-jGtA7Y8/U39eJjmUXPI/AAAAAAAACsI/4YdD26pAOVo/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CXJ-jGtA7Y8/U39eJjmUXPI/AAAAAAAACsI/4YdD26pAOVo/s1600/Slide2.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I made locker tags for my students. I knew my neighbor purchased my Rock the Test tags I made last year, I didn't want a group to be left out, so I made their class tags as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHFkcFqoIMo/VUEG04EIAlI/AAAAAAAAFKI/BL6UtYqGJYE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1430321259980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHFkcFqoIMo/VUEG04EIAlI/AAAAAAAAFKI/BL6UtYqGJYE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1430321259980.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZSy93KF_D0/U39eJmqsqUI/AAAAAAAACr4/V30F3aodIN8/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pZSy93KF_D0/U39eJmqsqUI/AAAAAAAACr4/V30F3aodIN8/s1600/Slide3.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When we needed a distraction from
the testing sessions, we planted flowers for our service learning project and
Mother’s Day. We grow them in our life lab. </span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fzrXH4Ru9rc/VUFDF7LxHLI/AAAAAAAAFME/zIfG7G9wyck/s1600/Check%2Bout%2Bthe%2Bphoto%2BI%2Bcreated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fzrXH4Ru9rc/VUFDF7LxHLI/AAAAAAAAFME/zIfG7G9wyck/s1600/Check%2Bout%2Bthe%2Bphoto%2BI%2Bcreated.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rT1dBvuuyCg/U39eKq90aTI/AAAAAAAACsM/teAUPwDwAKI/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rT1dBvuuyCg/U39eKq90aTI/AAAAAAAACsM/teAUPwDwAKI/s1600/Slide4.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Students are learning about the
Oregon Trail and Western Expansion in social studies. They are doing a
simulation. They earn “money” for supplies by bringing in Box Tops for
Education, doing homework, etc. To add a little more interest, students played Oregon
Settler on the iPad. We also blogged and sent messages to a former classmate. </span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v-lfz6HXY-E/VUEG08IE-wI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/MYtTbR98EEk/s1600/PhotoGrid_1430321330371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v-lfz6HXY-E/VUEG08IE-wI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/MYtTbR98EEk/s1600/PhotoGrid_1430321330371.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c71RIhX0b0c/U39eKhk2OBI/AAAAAAAACr8/KxJaNPng9iU/s1600/Slide5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c71RIhX0b0c/U39eKhk2OBI/AAAAAAAACr8/KxJaNPng9iU/s1600/Slide5.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The best stress reliever came with
our walks. We participate in the Walking Classroom. After testing last week, the students begged to get outside for a walk. The weather was
perfect for walks. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">On Friday, we listened to a podcast on trickster stories.
The students loved the break from testing, and enjoyed the presentation. We had
read about “Bear and Fox” in our anthology recently, so they were interested in
hearing the podcast’s version of the story. With stress from the testing, many
students are struggling with behavior and mean behaviors. I liked how Laura Fenn
and her students equated the trickster stories with bullying. It was a message
my kids needed to hear.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BLftBhkp3Gw/VUEG1RHbNSI/AAAAAAAAFKU/SWLQ2cxY9WY/s1600/PhotoGrid_1430321476250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BLftBhkp3Gw/VUEG1RHbNSI/AAAAAAAAFKU/SWLQ2cxY9WY/s1600/PhotoGrid_1430321476250.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">With our first year of M-STEP
behind us, I am thinking about what I will do differently next year. I would
love to hear how you prepare students for the stress of testing, and how you
relieve the stress. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-23805900534491665622015-04-29T07:00:00.000-04:002015-04-29T07:54:34.319-04:00What Works Wednesday Revisited<br />
I had the best intentions with this blog. Unfortunately somewhere between the start of school, and today (our last state test day) life, common core, everything, and anything has gotten in the way! I am hoping now that our state test is finished, I will be able to return to a sense of normalcy. Maybe I will even be able to blog a little more often.<br />
<br />
Since today is a Wednesday, I thought I would revisit a previous topic for What Works Wednesday.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CB5H9tqW-7M/Upkt4vwKQMI/AAAAAAAACPg/iLQ4ym6oazA/s1600/WWW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CB5H9tqW-7M/Upkt4vwKQMI/AAAAAAAACPg/iLQ4ym6oazA/s1600/WWW.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Previously, I wrote about <a href="http://learninginbliss.blogspot.com/2014/03/it-works-marchs-installment.html">Bouncy Bands</a>. Scott Ertl, Bouncy Bands CEO sent me the
original bouncy bands, which consisted of recycled bicycle inner tubes
and PVC
pipe to go on the legs of desks. </span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After lots of feedback, he started
using fasteners to form loops, since it </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">was difficult to tie the tubes to the
desk. Later, the company switched to a rubber bungee cord with fasteners. Last year,
my students fought over the desk that had the Bouncy Band (I had mostly
tables). I was able to stretch a band to fit the end of a table, but the table
shook too much. I loved the bouncy bands, but this year I loaned them to
colleagues that had sets of desks. It was a better use for them.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bouncy Bands for Standard Desks" src="http://bouncybands.com/images/desk.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bouncy Bands Photograph</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Scott recently contacted my about
the improved bands with better fasteners on the cords. He also had a new sample
for me to try, Bouncy Bands for chairs. Scott sent me two sets of the
improved bands, one for a desk and the other for a chair. I have a chair that
has pegs on the legs, so I was able to use both sets on chairs. J
With
tables, this is the best solution for my classroom. The bouncy bands for chairs
were a big hit. </span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LWsHJSfmLz8/VT_l5zAKVJI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/f440FmbWPRc/s1600/20150428_155330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LWsHJSfmLz8/VT_l5zAKVJI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/f440FmbWPRc/s1600/20150428_155330.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gv0BW0E1nzU/VT_l51sdeJI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/Nyq53-bJHOI/s1600/20150428_155424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gv0BW0E1nzU/VT_l51sdeJI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/Nyq53-bJHOI/s1600/20150428_155424.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My students love that they can
bounce their feet while keeping the table still. I love that I have
been able to share my other sets with colleagues. More students have the
opportunity to use the Bouncy Bands. Our occupational therapist has borrowed
sets, and encouraged other teachers to
try them. She is looking into a grant to fund multiple sets for our school and a neighboring district.</span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Creative Child Magazine
featured Bouncy Bands as a 2014 Product of the Year.
They are an inexpensive solution to those fidgety students that need to move.
They can be purchased with funds from Donors Choose. Scott has helped even
further by giving a link to a sample project page. </span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bouncybands.com/Sample-Application.pdf"></a></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bouncybands.com/Sample-Application.pdf">http://bouncybands.com/Sample-Application.pdf</a> </span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bouncy Bands are the What Works Wednesday product for this month. Give Bouncy Bands a try.</span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bouncybands.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=1">Bouncy Bands Products</a> </span></div>
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<br /></div>
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-25730013696749116952015-04-02T19:06:00.000-04:002015-04-02T19:06:39.253-04:00Currently April<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Currently it is April 2nd. I didn't get home from a long day of conferences yesterday until after 9:00 last night. Blogging was the furthest thing from my brain after a draining day. I did want to see what <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2015/04/currently-april-2015.html">Farley</a> came up with for her last spot on the currently. She did not disappoint. How fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2015/04/currently-april-2015.html"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9MbLNC37Ofo/VR3GXspiHiI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/Z38gfDmABC8/s1600/Presentation1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a very long month that included March is Reading Month activities, 5th Grade Outdoor Education (Camp), Project Unify activities, and a whole lot of test prep, I am spending the first day of an extended spring break (today was a comp day!) catching up on missed episodes of some of my favorite shows. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yesterday was a long day. We had conferences from 8 in the morning until 8 last night. We had time off for a soup and salad lunch from our PTO moms, and dinner. My dinner was a piece of pizza at a union executive board meeting. Some great conferences, some difficult ones. Glad they are over. Students get twelve days off and we get eleven days for break. I am staying home. Hubby doesn't have vacation and the youngest had her break three weeks ago. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hoped to get a long walk in today in warm weather, but the rain kept me inside. It is warm, but very wet. Snow is forecast for tomorrow night. That is Michigan weather for you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am looking forward to some long lasting warm weather. The students have passed flu and viruses around forever! I want them to get outside to play. I need to open windows and get some fresh air into the room. Hopefully April will bring better weather.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have several projects planned. Some are for school, some are for home. Hope I can get them done without running out of time and energy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My blog's name "Learning in Bliss" got its name from the fact that I am a lifelong learner. I try hard to keep a blissful environment in my classroom. My school is located at the edge of a small town that takes great pride in being a blissful place to live and learn.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What is currently happening in your life?</div>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-13476762747221416112015-03-11T05:30:00.000-04:002015-03-11T05:30:01.369-04:00What Works Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJExNm58HEM/UpUqyXpxeLI/AAAAAAAACOg/CV4or-TjGms/s1600/What%2BWorks.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJExNm58HEM/UpUqyXpxeLI/AAAAAAAACOg/CV4or-TjGms/s1600/What%2BWorks.png" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In this week's installment of What Works Wednesday, I thought I would discuss computer apps and programs I use with my in-flipping. All of my students do not have technology at home. Instead of flipping my classroom, I started to in-flip the room. I use video and apps to free me up to give more individual instruction. One of those apps/websites that I really like is Edmodo.<br />
<br />
Edmodo is a free website and app. I like that I can load individual and group lessons for the class or small groups. You do not need individual email addresses for students. When you sign up and claim your school, it allows you to use Snapshot. Snapshot is a quick pretest on a set of skills. In a "Snapshot" you see at grade level, behind, and intervention students identified. You can either assign a skill from the results, or use other apps within Edmodo to address weaknesses.<br />
<br />
I started my in-flip and pretests with math. I have three math groups, but could have four. Two students are above grade level, but need hand-holding to get them through lessons. The next is at grade level. Another is at grade level, but struggles (my inclusion and RTI students). The third group is one student working at late first/early second grade level. If I could squeeze out a few more minutes, I would split the struggling group into two groups and have one leave the fifth grade material for fourth grade skills. I just cannot seem to be able to make the move.<br />
<br />
My in-flipping is at least allowing me more time to work with students that are not "getting it". In a perfect world, every student would get quality teacher time each day. In my world, the struggling get the most. I individualize the single student, and cheer on the top two students as they watch a power point. I cannot get videos made for each group. Not.enough.time.in.my.day!<br />
<br />
I use Voki Presenter ($29.95) to make my instruction videos. The kids like that the avatar I use is an improved version of me. They are begging to teach a lesson themselves, using their own Voki. Voki is like having 25 clones of me. Unfortunately, the Voki cannot answer questions they may have. After the Voki lesson, students may have task cards, a practice worksheet, or an online lesson.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.voki.com/presenter/playPresentation.php?id=5cc3749a6e56ef6d656735dff9176074#.VPYrNMX7GeM.blogger">Check out Voki Presentation</a><br />
<br />
My students like the improved Mrs. H provided by the Voki avatar, but also love having a dog, of famous person teach their lesson for the day. Their curiosity gets them to want to see the lesson just to see who the guest teacher is for the day. A few students are giving up recess time to record the voice portion for a lesson their Voki will teach.<br />
<br />
As a note: if you use iPads for your in-flipping, you need a browser like Puffin that allows for Flash. Puffin is free, but I still need to download it on our grade level iPads. Some of the Edmodo features works better with Puffin and Google Chrome.<br />
<br />
Edmodo has several apps you can add-on. CK-12 Math Practice is one I use for skill practice after my lesson.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SWssrWrngqg/VPYlYHoTtJI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/NUKz_mXDjns/s1600/Untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SWssrWrngqg/VPYlYHoTtJI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/NUKz_mXDjns/s1600/Untitled.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--THK7IIKV7w/VPYlzuzrLWI/AAAAAAAAEqY/Digu-K7Hy0c/s1600/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--THK7IIKV7w/VPYlzuzrLWI/AAAAAAAAEqY/Digu-K7Hy0c/s1600/2.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
Yesterday, I used a math exit ticket to assess their ordering decimals knowledge. Today I assigned a Tenmarks lesson as a review of the skill for the students that scored earned a 1 or 2 out of the 3 questions on the exit ticket. Tenmarks is a free site. I assign a lesson with ten problems.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qL4kfVu2H6k/VPYmYT5GUkI/AAAAAAAAEqk/-F_-pBvW-9E/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qL4kfVu2H6k/VPYmYT5GUkI/AAAAAAAAEqk/-F_-pBvW-9E/s1600/3.png" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Students have three hints they can use. There is also a video clip. The site will read the problem for students by chosing the speaker icon. It is a great supplement to my lesson I have already taught. It also uses a format similar to our standardized test, where multiple answers might be correct. This is helpful practice with M-Step test scheduled for April. I hate the thought of having to teach to a test. In-flipping gives my students experiences that prepare them for the test, while covering my curriculum expectations. Reading math and solving math on a computer may be a difficult thing for some students.<br />
<br />
Do you do any flipping or in-flipping? I am just beginning to use this format. I like what I can do with it, but need more time in my days and nights to make the videos.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-62792496216618718292015-03-01T21:32:00.000-05:002015-03-01T21:32:29.824-05:00Currently March 1With the weeks of cold, and the fact we haven't see grass in well over a month, March crept up slowly! I cannot believe it is March 1st already. This means it is also time for Farley's Currently.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RiMDxgFTsNo/VPPHPgQpG8I/AAAAAAAAEnk/7Wu11FyIlHg/s1600/march15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RiMDxgFTsNo/VPPHPgQpG8I/AAAAAAAAEnk/7Wu11FyIlHg/s1600/march15.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I like listening to television while I work on the computer. It usually doesn't matter what is on, just that it is on. Funny, when I work at school, I prefer silence. Maybe because it is usually noisy there. At home, the dog likes to sit at my feet or cuddle on the couch. The youngest is home, so the dog is with her tonight. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My son and his girl friend recently announced their engagement. She compliments him. They are beginning plans for their wedding. Cannot wait for their visit in two weeks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My lesson plans need to be completed. So many extras to fit in before we go to camp in two weeks. I have a special guest coming this week, a PLC meeting during the day Wednesday, and a Mystery Skype this week. We also have a planned Fire Drill. Snow is still about a foot deep. That should be fun for the classes that go out side doors without sidewalks. Lol! Looking forward to it all, except the substitute plans for Wednesday morning. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The house and my classrooms are both in desperate need of a good cleaning. That may be my Spring Break plans after all! I need to at least clean some before son's visit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have had so many inside recess days, but only three snow days. The few inches of snow today won't keep us from school tomorrow. They are predicting snow, sleet, freezing rain, then rain for Tuesday. We will likely have school as it standardized testing for Juniors in Michigan. Also, our superintendent takes great pride in not cancelling school. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spring Break for me isn't until April 2nd. We have Parent Teacher Conferences all day on April 1st. It will be our longest spring break in my 32 years. With family all on different schedules, my break will be uneventful. I hope to get some cleaning, reading, and projects completed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-13531117110110042682015-02-25T11:45:00.000-05:002015-02-25T11:45:06.876-05:00Plickers Works!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CB5H9tqW-7M/Upkt4vwKQMI/AAAAAAAACPg/iLQ4ym6oazA/s1600/WWW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CB5H9tqW-7M/Upkt4vwKQMI/AAAAAAAACPg/iLQ4ym6oazA/s1600/WWW.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last Wednesday's What Works post talked about how I am using exit slips to assess my students. I also talked about using a Senteo response system. While I like both of those assessment options, I don't always like the preparation it takes to get things set up for both. My response system can be quirky. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On one of those days, where technology was not my friend, I happened to come across a post about using Plickers. I had not heard of Plickers, but was eager to try something that I had more control over. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
The Plickers app is available for Apple OS and Android. It is a free app available for iPads or smartphones or tablets. Students names need to be entered. A predesigned code, like a QR code is printed for each student. I printed on cardstock.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
The questions can be typed for display, like on a smartboard, or Apple TV (two devices needed - one to display, and one to scan). Alternatively, you could read the questions aloud. The questions can be multiple choice or true/false. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Students turn their card so their answer choice points up. The letters are small, so students cannot "cheat" from across the room. I put small answer choices on the back of the card, so students can easily decide which way they want to turn the card. My students stand in rows, so I can quickly scan the room.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CiH6c-9c2tY/VO36-JfT_0I/AAAAAAAAEl0/CyR_s7NJbcI/s1600/cd.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CiH6c-9c2tY/VO36-JfT_0I/AAAAAAAAEl0/CyR_s7NJbcI/s1600/cd.png" height="320" width="183" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cards 1 and 2 for 2 students</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The cards are scanned quickly with an iPad, iPod, or smartphone. I recommend not laminating the cards, as the half sheet card reflects light when laminated, making it more difficult to quickly scan the answers. I have students hold the cards against their chest when they have made their choice. The Plickers program will let me know when it has recorded the answers, and who still needs to answer. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ohXh_Wvon5o/VO36UCHL40I/AAAAAAAAEls/Bf4-D1X5FPs/s1600/Untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ohXh_Wvon5o/VO36UCHL40I/AAAAAAAAEls/Bf4-D1X5FPs/s1600/Untitled.png" height="312" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My students like Plickers as a pretest or a quiz. I like the instant feedback and access to the data, the ease of use, and the price. My only real cost was for the cards, as a device is almost always within reach in my classroom. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-17215002948920361122015-02-24T11:29:00.000-05:002015-02-27T00:07:06.918-05:00You Are My Hero!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlYzkzj1u_g/VOygRCfFT7I/AAAAAAAAElc/b8NFpXdJD7s/s1600/Sale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlYzkzj1u_g/VOygRCfFT7I/AAAAAAAAElc/b8NFpXdJD7s/s1600/Sale.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks Melon Headz Illustrating and KG Fonts</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss">Teachers Pay Teachers</a> is having a sitewide sale tomorrow and Thursday. As educators, we often get a bad rap. The public often doesn't understand all the things we go through to educate our students. The public doesn't realize how much personal income teachers pump back into their classrooms. I know my own classroom has benefited from thousands of dollars spent on units or worksheets, furnishings, decorations, storage and organizational materials, and thousands of novels purchased for my classroom library. Teachers Pay Teachers is letting the teachers know how much they are valued. They really are heroes to their students, families, and communities.<br />
As a tribute to all those teachers out there, I am joining Teachers Pay Teachers in offering 20% off of my store. With the additional savings, you will save 28% off any item in my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss">store</a>. It is my way of trying to help you provide for your students, while saving you some cash.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-7176575656642482332015-02-18T16:41:00.002-05:002015-02-18T16:41:11.134-05:00Addressing Professional Goals - Testing, Testing <div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CB5H9tqW-7M/Upkt4vwKQMI/AAAAAAAACPg/iLQ4ym6oazA/s1600/WWW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CB5H9tqW-7M/Upkt4vwKQMI/AAAAAAAACPg/iLQ4ym6oazA/s1600/WWW.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I work under a
contract that includes merit pay. We use the Danielson model for teacher
evaluation. As part of the process, we have to do a mid-year self-assessment.
As I worked through the assessment, I pinpointed some strengths and weaknesses
in myself or my teaching. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am going to do a couple of posts
on what I am doing to address these professional goals.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0pt; unicode-bidi: embed; word-break: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">One area that I am working on is
aligning my assessment with my instructional outcomes. I am using a variety of
formative and summative assessments. One of my favorite formative assessments are exit slips for
math, reading, and writing. I purchased the sets of passes from Melissa O'Bryan last summer. They are common core aligned, so you just need to print the relevant slip for the day. They are easy to use. They do require printing and storing the slips. They give you a snapshot of how students are doing on the concept. You can graph responses to track student progress, so you don't need to keep the individual slips. You can check the exit slips out <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Exit-Slips-BUNDLE-Grades-3-6-955240">here</a>, in her <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Melissa-Obryan/Category/5th-Grade-Resources">store</a>.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_5GfEz4Rn3M/VOT_P1Nx4ZI/AAAAAAAAEkc/d6nzStwbxcw/s1600/Presentation1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_5GfEz4Rn3M/VOT_P1Nx4ZI/AAAAAAAAEkc/d6nzStwbxcw/s1600/Presentation1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I also use technology based assessment. My students love the instant feedback. I was using a Senteo response system for all of out selection tests for stories from our anthology. Our system is older, so I am limited to multiple choice, true/false, and numerical answers. My neighbor and I both use Senteos, sometimes at the same time. They are great for giving feedback, and grade the test for me. It helps save time. What I don't like, is that the technology can be quirky. Sometimes the computer acts up, or the receiver cannot "find" our class. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jBi0IBx7Rgo/VOT_gRTacZI/AAAAAAAAEkk/NbGpkHaLSMk/s1600/20150218_104048%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jBi0IBx7Rgo/VOT_gRTacZI/AAAAAAAAEkk/NbGpkHaLSMk/s1600/20150218_104048%5B1%5D.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Class and individual results are easily accessible. I can easily see what concepts were difficult and may need to be readdressed. I export the results on an excel spreadsheet. It makes transferring to the grade book easier. Overall it works well, but there are other ways that use other devices that I will get into in next week's installment. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a6urxc3nS3I/VOSxCm7jClI/AAAAAAAAEiI/hKWqvtBtSxk/s1600/test.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a6urxc3nS3I/VOSxCm7jClI/AAAAAAAAEiI/hKWqvtBtSxk/s1600/test.png" height="379" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In the meanwhile, I would love to hear what works for you.</div>
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-56071284465049324962015-02-01T13:09:00.000-05:002015-02-01T13:09:09.348-05:00Currently a very snowy Feb. 1stIt is February 1st and time to link up with<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2015/01/currently-february.html"> Farley for her Currently Linky</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2aJkG_jqTv4/VM5noPvrQJI/AAAAAAAAD_k/Dd0ZgBZOC68/s1600/Feb15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2aJkG_jqTv4/VM5noPvrQJI/AAAAAAAAD_k/Dd0ZgBZOC68/s1600/Feb15.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After last year's record sixteen snow days, we have only had one this year. Our luck will likely change for tomorrow, as it is snowing as I type. We have been north of most of the storm paths, but the bull's eye is right over Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Every hour it seems the local meteorologists have changed the forecast. They are now predicting 10 to 14 inches of snow by the time it ends tomorrow morning. Winds should bring drifts of three feet. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My husband bought a new snow blower. Our old one is very picky, and doesn't like to start for me. He knows me well, and knows I will clean the drive before he gets home tomorrow. He didn't want me to have to shovel by hand. The new one has an electric start, and is lightweight. It should be much easier for Princess, Hubby, and me to use.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have a long list of things I want to do if I have the day off. Today, I completed one, by making a delicious breakfast for us. I am making snacks for the game tonight as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope we get a snow day, or it will not be fun driving the country roads to get to school. The winds should drift over many. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have been making a few lessons for my kids. Although it isn't really "flipping" because many of my kids don't have computer access at home, it does allow me to add technology to my lessons. I was posting to my password protected website, but want it to be easier for kids to access. Videos are on my thinking and needing list. Only problem, I hate hearing myself on videos!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My Pageant title is because I love technology and often are sharing, and encouraging my colleagues to try new things. It often backfires, as then they want me to share the technology with them. That means less time for my kids to have it. Argh! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How are you spending your first day of February? Link up!</div>
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-60200165119762094322015-01-26T17:43:00.000-05:002015-01-26T17:43:31.074-05:00Semester's end and honoring studentsToday was the start of our new semester. I would love to be able to say kids came in to a new set up, and that I was raring to go. Unfortunately, Friday was the end of the first semester, and grades were due at 8:00 AM this morning. For the first time since we went to computerized grades, my grades were almost finished when I left here on Friday. I only had one set of writing papers to finish, and the comments to add to that section of the gradecard. I procrastinated all weekend. I blog stalked, read Twitter feeds, pinned on Pinterest, and more. I lived my outside life. Finally late last night I slapped the last comments down, and called it a night.<br />
<br />
I am emotionally wiped out. I just spent an hour discussing with my teammates about our upcoming awards program. Last year we started doing honor roll recognition at the end of each semester. The program is wonderful if your child has one of the top academic honors in a subject area, is an all A, or A/B student. What message are we sending to our RTI students, or Special Ed. students that won't earn one of these awards? Last year I spent an hour on the phone with a parent on the Saturday morning following that first awards program. She was worried her son might hurt himself. He cried himself to sleep every night for weeks following the program. He saw himself as a failure. Another child sat in a fetal position throughout the program, sobbing uncontrollably. She didn't get an award, and knew she never would based on grades. So many of my students in my two classes are great kids, just not the top in academics.<br />
<br />
What message should I send my students this year? I could give awards in my classroom separate from the assembly. The other parents would never see them beam as they are recognized for their achievements in behavior, or character, or whatever I deem appropriate. Will that token award be enough to erase the idea of failure from their mind, as I try to get them ready for high stakes testing?<br />
<br />
I would love to know if you do an awards program for academics. Do all students get something? Should they all get something? I am looking for some guidance as I try to do right by my kids.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-76942619782144831852015-01-21T17:06:00.002-05:002015-01-21T17:06:43.928-05:00ReviewI live and teach in a state that used to do testing in the fall. We spent the first few weeks reviewing all of the previous years standards. We seldom got test scores back before spring, which rendered them almost useless. It was too late to really make an impact on those that had just missed proficiency. At-risk students had usually been receiving support in RTI.<br />
This year we are finally joining the rest of the country in doing our state proficiency test in the spring. Testing windows vary. Our window for fifth grade begins the day we return from spring break. It runs for the next three weeks. This year we were going to do Smarter Balance Assessment, but the state decided to go with two versions of a new test, the <a href="https://wbte.drcedirect.com/MI/#login">M-Step</a>. One is a paper/pencil and the other is computerized. We have opted to do the computerized test. This new test is very different from the old "MEAP". It is much more like Smarter Balance. It is also testing common core standards. They have opened a <a href="https://wbte.drcedirect.com/MI/#login">Spring Preview Test.</a> I am going to give my students plenty of time to check out the sample questions. Luckily, this group of students did a pilot of Smarter Balance as third and fourth graders, so the test question format should be familiar.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, our math curriculum is not aligned. To prepare students for the test I am supplementing my math curriculum with task cards and other activities. I don't have as much time to make products as I would like, so I look for good deals. By following blogs and facebook pages, and stores on Teachers Pay Teachers, you can get lucky and win products. My textbook series doesn't get to operations with decimals for a few more weeks, so I jumped at the chance to grab some task cards and activities for centers. I happened to find to great products to help with decimals.<br />
The first product was from Melissa O'Bryan from <a href="http://wildaboutfifthgrade.blogspot.com/">Wild About Fifth Grade</a>. Melissa sent me her <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/New-Years-Decimal-Centers-Grades-4-6-1032168">New Year's Decimal Centers</a>. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="New Years Decimal Centers Grades 4-6" src="http://mcdn1.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/New-Years-Decimal-Centers-Grades-4-6-1032168-1421623092/original-1032168-1.jpg" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bp05mVKJy_k/VMAh05VQAuI/AAAAAAAADoU/35U1XVDVmAY/s1600/PhotoGrid_1421877515109%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bp05mVKJy_k/VMAh05VQAuI/AAAAAAAADoU/35U1XVDVmAY/s1600/PhotoGrid_1421877515109%5B1%5D.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What I loved about this set is that it included Task Cards, Independent Worksheets, and Math games. Students practiced rounding decimals, ordering decimals, adding decimals mentally, and multiplying decimals. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My second product was from Verena Scrivens at <a href="http://scrivens5thgrade.blogspot.com/">Diary of a 5th Grade Teacher</a>. She sent me her <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dividing-with-Decimals-Task-Cards-1035282">Dividing Decimal Task Cards</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Dividing with Decimals Task Cards" src="http://mcdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Dividing-with-Decimals-Task-Cards-1035282/original-1035282-1.jpg" /><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This set helped fill the requirements for dividing with decimals. I liked that Verena has the CCSS listed on each task card. This was helpful when determining which particular standards my kids still need to practice. This was a great way to practice skills, and made planning a breeze.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" /><br />
<br />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-67601494956872530072015-01-15T23:14:00.000-05:002015-01-15T23:14:33.035-05:00Re:marks Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I recently had an opportunity to take a look at a new product. The product was from <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Re:Marks Personalized Designer Address Stamps. The stamp comes with </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">a designer self-inking stamp featuring an interchangeable die plate. It allows you to use a single stamping device for all of your stamping needs. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hA4qHol3qJA/VLg6GHKBKpI/AAAAAAAADk8/Gw9PbmIkT8M/s1600/20150114_165128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hA4qHol3qJA/VLg6GHKBKpI/AAAAAAAADk8/Gw9PbmIkT8M/s1600/20150114_165128.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can get a plate with your address, a mo<span style="font-family: inherit;">nogram, one for greeting cards, etc. The setup is for a square stamp image. The stamping device is a sturdy design. I like that you can use one device for several different stamps. I think the only thing that would make it better would be for it to have additional storage for the other plates you might want. </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;">It would be helpful for organizing and storing multiple stamps.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F5nlN97DFNc/VLg6GD3nIUI/AAAAAAAADk4/VVYi_cqqgrA/s1600/20150114_165047_000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F5nlN97DFNc/VLg6GD3nIUI/AAAAAAAADk4/VVYi_cqqgrA/s1600/20150114_165047_000.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The one that I received was a "Thank you"</span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> stamp design, a double sided black ink cartridge, and a redeemable certificate for a custom stamp design of your choice. So many choices made it difficult to choose my free one. They have so many styles from which to choose. You can even design your own stamp by uploading your own image. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PFYZZUQ/ref=s9_simh_gw_p201_d1_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0K89TK5WGVETZPN7KNTZ&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846">A direct Amazon.com link to Re:Marks product</a> will allow you to purchase your own Re:Marks Stamp. I have used Re:Marks stamps before and love them. The ink lasts. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I used my stamps to make Thank You cards for gifts my students gave me. It was fun, and a breeze to do with the Re:Mark stamp. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qwS973fi2qI/VLg6GKR7lcI/AAAAAAAADlA/H5yYoUGaFw0/s1600/20150114_165545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qwS973fi2qI/VLg6GKR7lcI/AAAAAAAADlA/H5yYoUGaFw0/s1600/20150114_165545.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you are looking for a great stamping product, check out Re:Marks Stamps. They are a good dependable product with some great design choices.</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-51151091427883443732014-12-31T16:34:00.000-05:002014-12-31T16:34:29.508-05:00January 1, 2015 Almost I was just thinking about <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/12/currently-january-20015.html">Farley's Currently</a> linky because I need to run the copies of "<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Currently-for-Your-Classroom-2nd-Edition-1388044">Currently in the Classroom</a>" for my kids to do as homework on Monday. I saw that Farley posted the latest linky, so here goes...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ezaydzOyQnU/VKRoEHIGO1I/AAAAAAAADGQ/5W0lUuZlLz8/s1600/jan15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ezaydzOyQnU/VKRoEHIGO1I/AAAAAAAADGQ/5W0lUuZlLz8/s1600/jan15.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have watched a lot of "cheesy" Hallmark movies during vacation. I don't know which one is playing because the storylines are so similar, just the actors and actresses seem to change. Lol. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hubby came home just in time to help me haul bags of clothing and old toys and stuffed animals to the donation center. Just in time for the tax write-off. Getting rid of the old makes more room for the rediscovered things hiding in the closet and dresser. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Christmas tree and lights will need to come down soon. I hate the thought of it because that can only mean vacation is almost over.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have a pile of papers to grade. It would be wonderful if an elf or fairy showed up to grade them for me while I finish this post.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have a lingering cough. Probably picked up from one of my eight or nine students that had bronchitis and other ailments before break. I don't sleep well with a cough, so I need it to go away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am slowly trying to remake my classroom into a literacy lounge. Think Barnes and Noble. I wouldn't mind a hot chocolate bar to go along with the stand up desks. I have a variety of seating choices, but need the stand up desks to meet the needs of some of my kiddos. I hope I can get funding for them from Donors Choose or Adopt-a-Classroom. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What is Currently going on in your life? Link up!</div>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-14327739091224959042014-12-30T21:00:00.000-05:002014-12-30T21:00:00.084-05:00One Word ResolutionIn reading some blog posts, I noticed several were linky parties about resolutions. I decided to link with <a href="http://primarypowers.blogspot.com/2014/12/one-word-resolutions-linky.html">Primary Powers for their One Word Resolution</a>. I never seem to be able to keep resolutions. I make them on January 1st each year. In a good year, they might last a month. Most of my resolutions are lucky to be in place after a week. Setting a one word resolution is different. I think by choosing just one word may work as a focus for me.<br>
<br>
I considered many before I chose what I thought was the perfect one for me.<br>
So what is my word?<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KfLBlMoqq5M/VKMXXxvKzpI/AAAAAAAADDI/Q9OP2SFzDSM/s1600/Word.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KfLBlMoqq5M/VKMXXxvKzpI/AAAAAAAADDI/Q9OP2SFzDSM/s1600/Word.jpg" height="300" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
The new year has me thinking quite a bit about being appreciative. As my own children get older, and have lives of their own where hubby and I are less of a significant influence, it makes me <i>appreciate</i> every moment we have together. <br>
<br>Hubby is the love of my life. He has supported me through so many difficult times and walked beside me in new adventures. He has always been my biggest cheerleader. Although I may not always say it or show it, I really do <i>appreciate</i> him!<br>
<br>
After thirty-one and a half years, I can still say I love teaching. I have been fortunate to be able to have my "job" change just enough to keep me challenged, interested, and revitalized when I needed it. Along the way, teaching became a part of me that cannot be easily separated. I do <i>appreciate</i> having a career I love.<br>
<br>
So for 2015, I will <b><i>appreciate</i></b> everything that life has to offer. <br>
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png">Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-67080168713377548222014-12-04T16:52:00.000-05:002014-12-04T16:54:24.202-05:00A Fun Book to Share and a GiveawayI love books. I purchase almost one book for every book my students purchase from the book club. I have a variety of books in my classroom collection, but am always looking for new ones. I recently received a copy of a book written by Ali Maier. The book, <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Made-Write-Summer-Maggie-Journal/dp/0989375501">Mom Made Us Write This in the Summer</a></u>, is a graphic novel. It tells the story of twins, Max and Maggie, during the summer before they enter fifth grade. Like many siblings, the two love to drive each other crazy. After an argument in the beginning of summer their mother decides they will share a writing journal. Her hope is that as they write and read entries, they will gain greater insight and understanding of their twin. Each of the siblings will take turns writing in the journal. They will respond to the other's entry after they read it. Told through their drawings and "handwritten" journal entries, they realize that although they have different interests, they really do love and support each other.<br />
<img src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JYYtJrpyCl4/VICIcevKdSI/AAAAAAAADC0/IqtlRrfo3FU/s1600/IMG_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JYYtJrpyCl4/VICIcevKdSI/AAAAAAAADC0/IqtlRrfo3FU/s1600/IMG_0168.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I received the book in the mail, but made the mistake of opening it in front of my students. Two of my students argued about who could read it first. I had to wait for them to finish, so I could read it. It is a fun, quick read. It could be a great way to encourage your own students to write. The author also has a Shared Journal and Family Quiz book. I think I will use this book next year as a lead into my shared journals in my writing center.<br />
<br />
The author, Ali Maier is lives in Cleveland, Ohio where she loves to write, read, and spend time with her family. She has a degree in Elementary Education from John Carroll University.<br />
<br />
I was given an opportunity to give a copy of the book to one of my readers. If you would like a chance to win the book, click on the Rafflecopter. Don't want to wait to win it? You can purchase it by clicking <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Made-Write-Summer-Maggie-Journal/dp/0989375501">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="3da065505" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3da065505/" id="rcwidget_rymt9sdy" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-19992607385096292732014-12-01T00:11:00.001-05:002014-12-01T00:11:25.172-05:00It is Currently TimeI cannot believe it! Today is December 1st. I have so much to get done before the last day of school for the holidays. I am joining Farley for her monthly <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/11/currently-december.html">Currently Linky</a>. I cannot believe I am in the top twenty to get it posted.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/11/currently-december.html"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ovFHNoddJgs/VHv0ABfkWAI/AAAAAAAADCg/ZLf6B9RPjTM/s1600/dec.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The news was running late with football running late. I am exhausted after a long weekend. I tried to fit in too much. I loved spending time with my girls on Thursday, and to steal a few minutes with my husband. Cannot wait for his schedule to change soon. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I really need to go to bed. This will feel like a very long week. I need to leave for school earlier in the morning, so I will not hit the snooze button. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I find myself wanting to decorate for Christmas. I put lights on my shrubs today when the temps were in the sixties. Now I want to put the tree up, but need to rearrange some things. I work in a school where we are allowed to put up Christmas trees, although my tree usually is in our school colors. I wait to put up that tree until after we read the chapter where Father Christmas arrives in <u>The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe</u>. We are starting the novel tomorrow. It is one of my favorites.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I need to get my grades entered. Progress reports go home one day next week. I don't like them to go home so close to break, as it makes it hard to get all the late work done before vacation begins.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am going to give three people one item from my store. Go to my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss">store</a>. Find an item you would like, and leave me a comment with your email. I will have my kids pick three random numbers Tuesday. In the meanwhile, happy shopping at the <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss">TpT</a> and <a href="http://www.teachersnotebook.com/shop/marciahoj">TN </a>sales. I have lots of things on my wish list and a gift certificate to spend!</div>
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-75568762651338151372014-11-28T15:28:00.000-05:002014-11-28T16:01:01.370-05:00Cyber Monday Sale<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEs24hdyi3Y/VHi9trwTM6I/AAAAAAAADCE/oN8ZDPHByxQ/s1600/3am_Cyber%2BSale%2B2014-C2.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss">Thanks to the 3AM Teacher for this banner.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I know many of you probably spent part of yesterday or today shopping. I did go out for some things I needed for some important projects, but spent most of the day at home. I should be working on projects. I have some ideas that I would love to finish before Cyber Monday sales begin. We will see if wishes become reality. If not, <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss">my store</a> is still going to be on sale. Stop by and see what I have to offer.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-87811886170378199152014-11-16T18:29:00.001-05:002014-11-16T18:29:06.957-05:00Sunday ScoopI should be finishing my lesson plans for the week, but am blog stalking instead. I found lots of wonderful freebies on the <a href="http://createteachandshare.blogspot.com/2014/11/teachers-thanking-teachers.html">Teachers Thanking Teachers</a> linky. So many good things. Hope I can find room to squeeze them into my plans. While I am at it, I have decided to link up with the Teaching Trio and their <a href="http://teachingtrio.blogspot.com/2014/11/sunday-scoop-111514.html">Sunday Scoop</a> linky. (Seems linky parties are all I am motivated to blog about lately.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bfstJ4k_fiQ/VGkvI3h3CtI/AAAAAAAADAQ/Ug-xofJsrzA/s1600/Sunday%2BScoop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bfstJ4k_fiQ/VGkvI3h3CtI/AAAAAAAADAQ/Ug-xofJsrzA/s1600/Sunday%2BScoop.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have most of my plans finished. Just need to tweak the video for my math lesson for tomorrow, and add math plans for Thursday. I copied all my work for the week last week, so I just need to sort it by class and day. That shouldn't take long. My laundry pile is growing, so that cannot wait. I need to throw in a load or two tonight while I watch television.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am building co-chair for school improvement, and also serve on the district team. I am presenting Standard 3: Teaching and Assessing for Learning. I should be able to do this standard in my sleep. It is who we are as a building and a district, besides who I am as a teacher. My biggest fear is that I may not know the other buildings (Middle and High School) well enough, or that my team mate is too laid back in his part of the presentation. Those fears will probably keep this perfectionist from falling asleep at a decent hour.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I give lots of choices to students to showcase their book knowledge to go with their independent reading. One student has a sibling that recorded so many "Talk Shows" three years ago, that I couldn't upload them to my website. The talk show (think Oprah's Book Club) is also the favorite activity of the younger sibling. Lunch with the two lovely girls will be a highlight of my day. It is fun to watch them take on a new persona and to hear about the book they read. They pack so much into the 5 minute video! Then we are eating lunch, away from the cafeteria and the lounge. It makes my lunch so much more enjoyable. The only problem is it is right before my presentation. Hope my nerves don't get the best of me while I am enjoying their company.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hope your week is fast and fun! </div>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-6687730162415808912014-11-09T08:00:00.000-05:002014-11-09T08:00:03.377-05:00Veterans DayNovember 11 is Veterans Day. In the past my teammate did a wonderful program with our fifth graders at the area cemeteries. She invited parents, past and present members of the Armed Forces. The older veterans looked forward to every year. They came to participate with playing Taps and giving the Twenty-one Gun Salute. She retired last spring. The tradition has ended.<br />
<br />
I don't teach Social Studies, and haven't for five years, but do teach writing. I decided I needed to do something special for my students to show their appreciation for all those who have fought for our freedom, and continue to fight our fight.<br />
<br />
I created this freebie. Students are going to listen to the song "In Flanders Fields" and read the poem by John McCrae. We will look at photographs of the Tomb of the Unknown,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/05/Tomb_of_the_Unknowns_crack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/05/Tomb_of_the_Unknowns_crack.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and Arlington Cemetery, among others.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cd/Arlington_National_Cemetery_2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cd/Arlington_National_Cemetery_2012.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
(Photos from Wikimedia)<br />
<br />
Then, they will write a thank you to a veteran or member of the Armed Forces. We will display a copy of the letters, a copy of the poem, and a Poppy Craftivity. The original letters will be sent to veterans in our community, or family members.<br />
<br />
Click on the link if you would like a copy of the <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Veterans-Day-Writing-and-Craftivity-1544798">Freebie</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BxkaO5AHe6Y/VF59SiwdLjI/AAAAAAAAC_c/YHgUkGk2Vb0/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BxkaO5AHe6Y/VF59SiwdLjI/AAAAAAAAC_c/YHgUkGk2Vb0/s1600/Slide1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcNcNaj-6uQ/VF59LgKVTMI/AAAAAAAAC_U/AEA1sx9zm2c/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcNcNaj-6uQ/VF59LgKVTMI/AAAAAAAAC_U/AEA1sx9zm2c/s1600/Slide2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-31mCpJBvdnM/VF5-S6AuIvI/AAAAAAAAC_w/NNBLPZT9-U0/s1600/Poppy%2BPReview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-31mCpJBvdnM/VF5-S6AuIvI/AAAAAAAAC_w/NNBLPZT9-U0/s1600/Poppy%2BPReview.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-88108411566736875182014-11-08T12:02:00.002-05:002014-11-08T12:02:23.313-05:00If you don't have anything good to say...It has been forever since I posted with any regularity. When I look at my posts since school started, I have barely posted anything. My only "regular" posts were part of a linky. Not good! My mother used to tell me that if I didn't have anything good to say, then I should say nothing at all. I guess I may have taken her words literally as of late. It was a rough start.<br />
<br />
My mother has been on my mind a lot lately. Tomorrow, my siblings and I are dividing the antiques and valuables that she painstakingly cleaned, repaired, and refinished. She has been gone for twenty-nine years, but my father had maintained the house with her treasures in place for these many years. He has been in a nursing home for almost two years. He needed daily care that we could not guarantee would be given at home. He is still in relatively good health. He still goes out to some sporting events, dinners, and outings with the nursing home. It is time to close out the house and settle some estate issues. It won't be easy.<br />
<br />
Lately, most things haven't been easy. My class had two students added at the beginning of the year that put me over contract. I wrote about it <a href="http://learninginbliss.blogspot.com/2014/09/overwhelmed.html">here</a> and <a href="http://learninginbliss.blogspot.com/2014/09/im-making-lemonade.html">here</a>. One of those extras left the state a couple of weeks ago, Thursday was M's was a sweetheart. She worked every day with my aide, as she needed directions restated, and information given in other ways because of a language issue. M and another student had been in unique situations in other schools. My aide was a true advocate for them in my room and the other classes.<br />
<br />
I will be without an aide beginning Monday, as I am no longer over contract. It will be a difficult transition. My students and I have grown to depend on DE. She integrated herself into our routine, helped with students without needing prompting from me, and became a friend. She would read me, and knew just what to say to lighten my darkening mood. She regularly issued me theme songs for the day.<br />
<br />
I know she read this blog, by a comment she made in her email to me Friday night, after receiving notice from the principal that her position was over. (She was suppose to have had Monday to tie up loose ends, and to give us time to talk with the kids.) I misjudged her. I know my comments in the post hurt her. I regret that I did not make it easier for her. It must be hard to take on a role of aide, when you can be a substitute making more money. As a Christian, I think she has a true desire to make a difference in the lives of students. She did just that, daily, hourly, and by the minute in my room. I will miss her laughter, her friendship, and her songs, but know "I will survive."<br />
<br />
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-64019878533706082882014-11-02T00:09:00.003-04:002014-11-02T00:09:52.440-04:00Currently November It's November. Time for <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/11/currently-november.html">Farley's linky</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EKsmpRyIqZY/VFWp2sFIZoI/AAAAAAAAC_A/KNkGRf7yR4c/s1600/nov.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EKsmpRyIqZY/VFWp2sFIZoI/AAAAAAAAC_A/KNkGRf7yR4c/s1600/nov.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I know living in southeast Michigan means cold weather and November go hand in hand. It was relatively warm Wednesday and Thursday. Friday brought colder air and some snow flurries. Today was cold and windy. My furnace is cranking out the heat. A register is by my feet. Toasty!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was the coldest Cross Country State Meet I can remember in 13 years. We have had 4 girls teams, many individuals, and today our second boys team ran at Michigan International Speedway. The CC State Meet is held there every year. It is one of the few places that can accommodate all divisions of competitors, the spectators and parking. It isn't very spectator friendly, I watch the start and wait at the finish for the runners. I can always pick out our runners. Funny, because it is usually through a camera lens that I watch them run. Today was no different. We had four of our seven boys finish in the top half of the 3.1 mile race. They are All-State Academic recipients. So proud of them, and my hubby, the head coach.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I should be working on grades. We were told we had until November 9th for grades to be submitted. Friday afternoon that directive was changed to Monday morning. After reconsideration, I now have until 3 PM Tuesday. Think I can procrastinate a little longer. I have to finish a few sets of papers and projects first. I don't "quit" taking grades until the last day of the quarter. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am looking forward to that extra hour of sleep tonight with the time change. My only regret is that the change throws off my body clock. I also hate that it is almost dark by the time I get home most nights. Yuck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I always read Andrew Clements' <i>No Talking </i>to my kids in November. We even try the contest between boys and girls to see which group can go the longest without talking. It gets them thinking about rules and they hold each other accountable. I hope it helps with this group of talkative kids.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, time to wrap up. What is happening in your life <b><a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/11/currently-november.html">Currently</a></b>?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-75557905710220230822014-10-02T11:36:00.000-04:002014-10-02T11:37:56.035-04:00Currently<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I cannot believe it is already October. I feel like I am never going to get back on track or blogging regularly. Maybe this will be the month. I am approaching my 3rd anniversary of this blog, so I need to get busy and think up some way to celebrate.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the meantime, I am linking up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/10/october-currently.html">Megan Farley at Oh Boy, 4th grade!</a> for her Currently October linky party. My kids are doing their Currently in the Classroom tonight. I love using it as it gives such insight into what they are thinking and glimpses of their life outside of my classroom.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ob4Iu_sWeA/VC0-eDqw6lI/AAAAAAAAC-c/np84HEFYQi0/s1600/oct..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ob4Iu_sWeA/VC0-eDqw6lI/AAAAAAAAC-c/np84HEFYQi0/s1600/oct..jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I started this post earlier today. My husband was watching sport center. You can always tell who the last one was watching television at my house. Hubby leaves it on sports channels or WGN, while my choice is HGTV, TLC, or Food Network.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I rearranged my room, but haven't shown pictures yet. A simple change suggested by a friend has made a huge difference. It feels bigger. Now if I could only get rectangular tables! I'll show pics soon. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had a pile of grading to do. We are sending progress reports on Monday. I burned through a stack while waiting at the doctor's office this morning. Now I just need to post those grades.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hubby took a new job in December. He works almost every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We get little quality time together. He has Saturday off. We have a Cross Country race that morning, but hope to get dinner and a movie later. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had high hopes of finishing lots of projects this summer, but didn't get them finished. Then I started back to school with my most difficult start ever, and my house suffered. It needs a thorough cleaning of all rooms, but I will settled for the ones I see daily...kitchen, bedroom, bathrooms, family room. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My treat is that I am offering <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss">20% off my math products</a> through Sunday, or you can get my reading poster in the color of your choice. For the discount go to <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Learning-In-Bliss">my store</a>. Want the poster? Just comment below, telling what color, and give an email address.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yuiBhHgtDSg/U979bNi6k0I/AAAAAAAAC3U/e3aNTKqBJRE/s1600/preview%2Bof%2Bgood%2Bbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yuiBhHgtDSg/U979bNi6k0I/AAAAAAAAC3U/e3aNTKqBJRE/s1600/preview%2Bof%2Bgood%2Bbook.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have a good rest of your week. It is homecoming in my district and home district. Only thing that would make it better (besides a two-hour delay like today) would be jeans, but jeans are not allowed any more. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/proxy/vTuCrz4xcR1a2YJAZQabS3-FXje6isu0T5ieNl14ZasCTxdnrsZm8O2skdAVfEuRH1c-GtTHXOwBvKUP6u680s6NhARIoFUfyP9mm5BCLASR" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" /></a>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fi1102.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fg447%2Feschaff%2FTAW%2Fsgn2.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/proxy/vTuCrz4xcR1a2YJAZQabS3-FXje6isu0T5ieNl14ZasCTxdnrsZm8O2skdAVfEuRH1c-GtTHXOwBvKUP6u680s6NhARIoFUfyP9mm5BCLASR" -->Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9090178849126857389.post-46038333766450594472014-09-27T17:41:00.000-04:002014-09-27T17:41:37.997-04:00I'm Making LemonadeThis has been my worst start...ever?<br />
<br />
We hired a permanent (or semi-permanent) aide. She has been very helpful. Her keen eye has caught many learning errors kids have. She works very closely with two of my kiddos, and the rest of the alphabet kids. The downside is she is a Type A personality that likes to be in charge. She is capable of running over my teaching partner, my teammate (during Science and Social Studies) and me. I know she means well, but sometimes it is hard to take.<br />
<br />
On top of all of all the usual stuff, yesterday arrived with a two hour delay. <strike>Yippee!</strike> Two hours of extra sleep, didn't come. I had been up late grading papers. Hubby thought I had overslept, and I needed to get grades entered. I arrived at school to a pancake birthday treat for a student, a tattletale situation that was the last straw, and hungry kids that missed breakfast. (We don't serve on delays as the kitchen has to get lunch ready). I had the behavioral specialist come talk to my kids that hate each other. I know, hate is a powerful word, but when last year's teacher(s) didn't stop their hatred, it continues. My teammate interrupted to say he had to have my kids, (didn't even discuss our adjusted schedule yet), and off they went. The pancakes would have to wait.<br />
<br />
A half hour later, when my kids were back just getting settled, here comes the principal for drop in eval number 1. <strike>I wanted to tell him to go away.</strike> Ten minutes in and our tech coordinator walks in with a reporter to interview and get pictures of my kids using iPads a grant had bought. The secretary buzzed in (three separate times), and my room was chaotic! Kids were taking AR tests on our novel, finishing a review and finalizing their interactive journals for the book, and taking one of four different levels of spelling tests. I was helping a student catch up (missed 6 days with that horrible virus!). Really! Why come observe on a two hour delay?<br />
<br />
I wanted to close my door at lunch and cry. My aide wouldn't leave and I had kids in reading at recess. I had three lovely ladies show up to do a Lunch Bunch on the book <u>Liar, Liar</u> by Gary Paulsen. They had made my day. I still had an IEP, reading buddies, a stack of papers to grade and copying to do during planning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R3jYekBQtsU/VCcq_AGTCvI/AAAAAAAAC-M/S0OG8Q-URR0/s1600/liar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R3jYekBQtsU/VCcq_AGTCvI/AAAAAAAAC-M/S0OG8Q-URR0/s1600/liar.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
Dismissal couldn't come soon enough. I whined to my teammate about how hard the day had been, and went back to grab my stuff to go home. A quick check of my email caught me off guard. The principal had already sent notes on the visit! From what I could gather without his interpretation is "He gets it!" My attempt to salvage my crazy morning with my differentiation looked better than it felt to me. That, or my aide had told him she was worried I was packing up never to return. TGIF!<br />
<br />
Hope your week was better than mine, and may your lemonade be only as tart as you like!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9090178849126857389" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="" /></a></div>
<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g447/eschaff/TAW/sgn2.png" />Marciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881667829332315497noreply@blogger.com