My class of first and second graders is working through the scientific method. We have been doing several science experiences a week for the past four weeks. I love how they ‘get it’. Several of my teacher friends think I’m crazy for introducing this concept so early. Those are the same friends who also think I’m […]
Opinion
Posted inFeatured, From the Front Lines, Opinion
A Light to Turn On
[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] Little people. That is whom I teach. I have a room full of loud, curious, eager, fidgety little people who I must teach Reading, Math, English, Social Studies, Science, critical thinking, […]
Posted inFeatured, From the Front Lines, Opinion
Going Against the Flow: Student Self Worth
I view my ‘job’ as an educator as so much more than just focusing on academics. So many times I act as nurse, counselor, mother and friend first, then teacher. Some of the most important skills that children will take with them through life extend far past reading, writing and arithmetic. I had the opportunity […]
Posted inCurrent Events in Education, Opinion, Parents
What Is The Most Important Thing A Teacher Can Ever Do?
“To be endowed with a benevolent disposition, and to love others, will almost infallibly procure love and esteem; which is the chief circumstance in life, and facilitates every enterprise and undertaking; besides the satisfaction, which immediately results from it.” — David Hume, “Of Impudence and Modesty” My youngest daughter, Emma Kate, was born two months […]
Posted inClassroom Management, Elementary School, Featured, Opinion
Wiggles, Giggles and Learning
The volume level in my classroom is not normal. And by that I mean it’s not silent. Or quiet. Or even remotely close to whispering. My classroom is noisy, busy and sometimes a bit chaotic. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. Now don’t get me wrong. We do quiet down, and even go […]
Posted inFeatured, From the Front Lines, Opinion
Those Quaint Quirks of Kiddos
One of my favorite things about being a teacher is overhearing the things that kids say. Even better is hearing the things that parents say at drop off or pick up. I decided to compile a list of funnies from the past two weeks. Some of them leave me giggling randomly through the day, others, […]
Posted inCurrent Events in Education, How to Fix Education, Opinion, Principals' Corner
Custodial Care: Respecting the Essential Education Support Services
Who are the custodians at your school? Do you know them by name? Do you know their strengths and weaknesses? Are you reliant upon them? The crazy mess with custodial services in Chicago has made national news. Last year the Chicago Board of Education contracted custodial services with Aramark and Sudexo. Sudexo is primarily working […]
Posted inElementary School, Opinion
Extending A Helping Hand: Mentor
Teaching is a blending of science and art. Colleges across the nation prepare teachers to write lesson plans, understand discipline and teach content. Interwoven in a great classroom, however, is experience and heart. If you are a new teacher, find veteran teachers in your building who have strengths and ask questions. If you are a […]