Grade 8!

I am so excited for this upcoming block. My grade 8 class is fabulous and I am so excited to work with my associate. I am still nervous but I know that once the first few days pass, I will feel integrated into the class. Having Tiffany and Scott at my school will be a great help as well, and we are planning on leading some extracurricular initiatives together. I am really looking forward to this and wish everyone the best as well!

...3 weeks left!?

they said the year would go fast - but this fast!? i can't believe i am here, struggling to complete all these major assignments that i never thought would actually come due! but it has been quite the ride until now...sharing great times like our recent bowling night and valentines day treats are memories i will always remember!

so here i come grade 8 --- and SOUTH AFRICA!!!!!!! teacher's college is turning out to be quite the year :) and until the next post...

Social Issues Day 2

I want to thank all who took part in organizing both social issues days because they were wonderful! This past one for me was especially touching. I was emotionally challenged when listening to the real life account of the Holocaust. I can't even begin to describe or express my reaction without saying - i actually teared up! It will be something I will always remember...and most importantly, something I intend to speak about in my classroom where appropriate. Stories need to be told because we cannot have history repeat itself.
Tribes also fantastic because it is a cleaver approach to classroom management. The term tribes can be thought of as 'teams,' and it helps students feel as though they have a purpose - that they are part of something in addition to the classroom community. Integrating Tribes into DPA, gym and even recess are just some ideas, as creative thinkers can use this collaborative approach while teaching all disciplines. It is fun, realistic and adaptable in all classrooms. I can't wait to purchase the book!