Planning to be out is pretty much on every teacher’s list of things she would rather NOT do. It’s hard to put into words every little thing that we do for every single minute of the day. Follow along below to learn how to plan for a substitute teacher. Please note, that I realize that … Read more
How to teach students to build reading stamina is a lesson we begin on the very first day of school (or close to it). Not only is teaching students to build reading stamina important for students as readers, but it’s important for me to keep guided reading running smoothly. Creating an environment where students are … Read more
If you’re looking for an easy back to school student gift you’re in the right place! I recently posted this picture on my Instagram account (follow me), and I got lots of requests to make it available! Aside from a welcoming smile, and warm environment, I think a small gift to give students is a … Read more
I have all the heart eyes for author, Maria Dismondy! Her books are powerful, and offer real-life examples of how students can take ownership of solving their own problems. Throughout this post, you’ll find Amazon Affiliate links. This means I receive a small commission if you purchase something through that link, at no extra cost … Read more
Ask me about my favorite part of our school day? Morning Meeting. What (do I believe) has the biggest impact on my classroom culture/community? Morning Meeting. How do I build relationships with 25 different students? Morning Meeting. Where do I find the time for my students to build relationships with their peers? Morning Meeting. How … Read more
I wanted to share how I use (and have used for several years) a token economy in my classroom. I taught at different PBIS/PBS schools for 7 years, and a token economy is the perfect addition to what your school is already doing! I’ve used this system in 1st, 2nd, and 4th grades, and absolutely … Read more
I always like to think of January “back to school” as sort of a reset after Christmas Break. Everyone feels refreshed, and ready to tackle the second part of the school year. It’s also the perfect time to revisit some of the growth mindset books I shared with my students at the beginning of the … Read more
It’s no secret that I love books! I especially love books that help my students understand kindness, community, friendships, and teach valuable life lessons. The follow list of books is pretty extensive back-to-school read aloud list. I don’t read these all in one day, but rather spread them out over the course of the first … Read more
It’s no secret that I am a MAJOR fan of class jobs – I mean…many hands make light work, right? Aside from having 20 or so helpers around the classroom, there’s a whole bunch of other reasons I think class jobs are super important: Helps build a sense of community…this is OUR classroom Gives students … Read more
My students love to talk. #chattiestclassever But I don’t want them to just be talkers. I want them to be thinkers too. And, I want them to be able to support what they’re thinking with reasons. That’s when I started using discussion starters. Keep reading to find out how you can try discussion starters FREE. … Read more
It’s official…the aliens have arrived, and taken over my sweet little first graders. It actually happened a couple of weeks ago. #facepalm I needed to get my kiddos under control and keep the calm #likeyesterday. So you know all those adorable stickers at Target that are only $1??? Well, I buy them like I need … Read more
If you’re looking for must-read books for elementary teachers, then you’re in the right place. It’s almost summertime, and I’m already thinking about what professional development books I’d like to read. I don’t really get to do much PD reading during the school year because I’m just so dang busy. #teacherproblems With so many teacher … Read more
