Well? What happened to it?!?
Wednesday was cold and off-and-on rainy. By dinnertime, it had turned into one of those drizzly, miserable days that make you want to curl up on the sofa with a cookie, a warm drink, and the TV remote or good book. By bedtime, it was sleeting with rain mixed in and a prediction for snow in the morning. Further predictions were made for the early part of next week for a mixture of snow and ice.
Sigh.
April begins Friday. Can somebody please bring on the spring?
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Day 132: Help for Students With Deployed Parents
This is a first for me. In all of my years of teaching, I have never had a student with a parent who has been deployed. I have had plenty of students whose parents were in the military but not on active duty in another part of the world.
Until now.
I have a student who's father was deployed to Afghanistan about a month ago; he will be gone for a year. I have been monitoring this student for signs of anxiety, depression, etc. Up until about a week ago, everything seemed to be going pretty well. However, this past week has been a different story. I have pulled this student to the side and asked if there is anything on her/his mind, if there is anything s/he wants to talk about, etc. The response is always "No." I can clearly see that there is something going on, but I think s/he is too embarrassed to say anything about how s/he is feeling.
I have asked the guidance counselor to stop in when she gets a chance, but she has been pulled to monitor (and provide make-ups) for our state standardized tests. She will be doing this for at least another week. In the meantime, I'm trying to figure out strategies to help my little friend.
Does anyone out there have any suggestions? Books to share? Websites to share? Techniques to share? I will be glad for anything you can send me! You can leave them in the comment box below.
Until now.
I have a student who's father was deployed to Afghanistan about a month ago; he will be gone for a year. I have been monitoring this student for signs of anxiety, depression, etc. Up until about a week ago, everything seemed to be going pretty well. However, this past week has been a different story. I have pulled this student to the side and asked if there is anything on her/his mind, if there is anything s/he wants to talk about, etc. The response is always "No." I can clearly see that there is something going on, but I think s/he is too embarrassed to say anything about how s/he is feeling.
I have asked the guidance counselor to stop in when she gets a chance, but she has been pulled to monitor (and provide make-ups) for our state standardized tests. She will be doing this for at least another week. In the meantime, I'm trying to figure out strategies to help my little friend.
Does anyone out there have any suggestions? Books to share? Websites to share? Techniques to share? I will be glad for anything you can send me! You can leave them in the comment box below.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Day 131: Calling All Cooks!
Today we began the next story in our anthology. We are reading Jalapeno Bagels by Natasha Wing. If you aren't familiar with the story, it is about a little boy of diverse cultures who is trying to decide what treats to take into his class for International Days to represent his heritage. His mother is Mexican-American and his father is Jewish. His parents own a bakery that make tasty treats from both cultures. The recipe for the bagels is a representation of both cultures coming together.
As a class project, I ask my students' parents to submit one or two simple recipes that represent their family heritage or culture.* I ask for two because I know that some of my students come from diverse backgrounds, just like the boy in the story. Over the years I have gotten recipes from all over the world: France, Puerto Rico, Germany, Ireland, China, India, Vietnam, Iran, Lebanon, and Mexico, to name a few. I can't wait to see what recipes are submitted this year!
Once all of the recipes have been submitted, I type them up and organize them into cookbook sections. I then submit to book to be copied so that each child has a copy to take home as a keepsake.
Do you have any neat heritage/culture projects you do? Feel free to share in the comment box!
*This project can also be used for a cultural/heritage unit in social studies.
As a class project, I ask my students' parents to submit one or two simple recipes that represent their family heritage or culture.* I ask for two because I know that some of my students come from diverse backgrounds, just like the boy in the story. Over the years I have gotten recipes from all over the world: France, Puerto Rico, Germany, Ireland, China, India, Vietnam, Iran, Lebanon, and Mexico, to name a few. I can't wait to see what recipes are submitted this year!
Once all of the recipes have been submitted, I type them up and organize them into cookbook sections. I then submit to book to be copied so that each child has a copy to take home as a keepsake.
Do you have any neat heritage/culture projects you do? Feel free to share in the comment box!
*This project can also be used for a cultural/heritage unit in social studies.
Day 130: Help for Japan
Day 130 saw the arrival of a school-wide project to help Japan. One of the first-grade teachers on my staff created a fundraiser that all students can participate in and benefit the victims of Japan's earthquake and tsunami.
The project is fairly simple: Each student does five jobs/chores around the house to "earn" $5.00. Once the jobs are done and the student has "earned" his or her reward, that money is place into an envelope and turned in to me. I then forward the envelopes on to the teacher in charge. She has contacts at the Red Cross who will send along our donations and letters of encouragement. It is projected that if each child in our school participates, we can raise over $3,000 to help provide supplies and meet the needs of the Japanese people. For students who can't afford the $5.00 donation (or choose not to participate), the teachers have signed up to be sponsors for those students and donate in their place.
I explained the idea to my students and they are very excited to begin this project. I will keep you updated as to our progress. I can't wait to see what we do!
The project is fairly simple: Each student does five jobs/chores around the house to "earn" $5.00. Once the jobs are done and the student has "earned" his or her reward, that money is place into an envelope and turned in to me. I then forward the envelopes on to the teacher in charge. She has contacts at the Red Cross who will send along our donations and letters of encouragement. It is projected that if each child in our school participates, we can raise over $3,000 to help provide supplies and meet the needs of the Japanese people. For students who can't afford the $5.00 donation (or choose not to participate), the teachers have signed up to be sponsors for those students and donate in their place.
I explained the idea to my students and they are very excited to begin this project. I will keep you updated as to our progress. I can't wait to see what we do!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Day 129: Dear Governor, What'd I Ever Do to You?
Day 129, from the standpoint of teaching my class, was a typical day. No issues, no worries.
And then...
We had an emergency union meeting regarding my state governor's budget proposal for public education.
I wish I could say that everything was roses.
But it's not.
Gee, where to begin? Well, first I would like to say that I am pleased (at this point) that our governor has not taken away or rallied to take away our collective bargaining rights. Past that, I am not pleased. Not pleased at all. Here is a list of why my sunny day suddenly turned cloudy:
1. Pay freeze. All public school employees, from custodians to cafeteria workers to secretaries to principals to teachers, have been asked to take a pay freeze for this coming school year, or there will be furloughs in my school district. The governor says the districts across the state must do this to save the state thousands and thousands of dollars. This, after he has proposed to cut over a BILLION dollars to public education and public state universities. If ALL of the bargaining units in my district (and I dare say, others) do not accept pay freezes for the upcoming school year, then there will be furloughs, with notices as early as May. In my district alone, that equates to a MINIMUM of 49 positions across all areas.
2. Cuts to the education budget. My district stands to lose nearly 20% of its funding from the state. Our district projected a $927,000 shortfall after our budget was done earlier this month. The district offered early retirement to those who were eligible and came close to a balanced budget. When the governor gave his address (just several days later), that shortfall grew to $2.6 million. I don't have to tell you what that means for any district in this situation.
(Interestingly, businesses and other companies/corporations have not been asked to "share in the sacrifice" to help make my state more fiscally sound. In fact, companies have been allowed to use a nearby state for P.O. box mailing addresses while the companies do business here, thereby avoiding fees and taxes that should be paid to the state.)
3. 18 new proposed bills affecting teachers and other workers in education. Some of the more pressing ones:
Sorry, but until they've taught a mile in my shoes, they have nothing to say. Yes, I'm a teacher, and that entails a lot more than nine months of work. Some of my roles:
...I KEEP COMING BACK BECAUSE I BELIEVE IN EDUCATION.
And then...
We had an emergency union meeting regarding my state governor's budget proposal for public education.
I wish I could say that everything was roses.
But it's not.
Gee, where to begin? Well, first I would like to say that I am pleased (at this point) that our governor has not taken away or rallied to take away our collective bargaining rights. Past that, I am not pleased. Not pleased at all. Here is a list of why my sunny day suddenly turned cloudy:
1. Pay freeze. All public school employees, from custodians to cafeteria workers to secretaries to principals to teachers, have been asked to take a pay freeze for this coming school year, or there will be furloughs in my school district. The governor says the districts across the state must do this to save the state thousands and thousands of dollars. This, after he has proposed to cut over a BILLION dollars to public education and public state universities. If ALL of the bargaining units in my district (and I dare say, others) do not accept pay freezes for the upcoming school year, then there will be furloughs, with notices as early as May. In my district alone, that equates to a MINIMUM of 49 positions across all areas.
2. Cuts to the education budget. My district stands to lose nearly 20% of its funding from the state. Our district projected a $927,000 shortfall after our budget was done earlier this month. The district offered early retirement to those who were eligible and came close to a balanced budget. When the governor gave his address (just several days later), that shortfall grew to $2.6 million. I don't have to tell you what that means for any district in this situation.
(Interestingly, businesses and other companies/corporations have not been asked to "share in the sacrifice" to help make my state more fiscally sound. In fact, companies have been allowed to use a nearby state for P.O. box mailing addresses while the companies do business here, thereby avoiding fees and taxes that should be paid to the state.)
3. 18 new proposed bills affecting teachers and other workers in education. Some of the more pressing ones:
- One bill would allow districts to furlough teachers for purely economic reasons. Seniority would not be the deciding factor in these decisions. Not only that, but the furloughs would be allowed without school districts being required to cut costs through other means.
- Another bill would allow a version of merit pay for teachers. Basically, if your test scores are reviewed and your class is not meeting the goal set aside by the state, you could be fired. Note that this does not take the makeup of your class into account. So if I have students who are learning the language, or students with special needs, or students who came to you as a lower group because of outside factors (lack of parent support, undiagnosed learning disabilities, etc.), I could risk kissing my job goodbye.
- Another bill would permit uncertified school nurses to be in the buildings. (Sorry, but as a parent with a child with asthma and another with allergies that can result in anaphylaxis, I'd want a certified nurse in the building.)
Sorry, but until they've taught a mile in my shoes, they have nothing to say. Yes, I'm a teacher, and that entails a lot more than nine months of work. Some of my roles:
- Educator,
- Counselor,
- Parenting coach,
- Literary expert,
- Confidante,
- Entertainer,
- Nurse,
- Psychologist,
- Crisis manager,
- Psychiatrist, and
- Parent...
...I KEEP COMING BACK BECAUSE I BELIEVE IN EDUCATION.
Day 128: More Testing and Reading (For Me)
Day 128 was a regular school day. My students worked on grammar, read a little, worked on drafts of their reports, learned about pioneers, and discussed how to find the perimeter of a shape.
I guided them through the day, worked on sub plans for Friday afternoon (out of town for my brother-in-law's wedding), and prepared to take on some duties for Scholastic.
Once I got home, I tried a new product for Scholastic. (Sorry, can't tell you. I mean, I could, but then I'd have to erase your memory Men In Black style. Trust me, this is better.) I also began perusing one of two books for book reviews to be submitted for the Scholastic Book Clubs Facebook Page. Those two done in between dinner and evening activities for my church.
And speaking of Scholastic, I am going to have another visit by members of the staff. This time they are going to be talking to the first- and second-grade teachers about what areas we feel there are gaps in regarding our curriculum. For example, I know my grade struggles with finding grade-level appropriate books on landforms, bodies of water, and map skills. Most of the books are geared toward older readers or are watered down too much. I'm not sure when the visit is yet; we are still trying to coordinate schedules.
How about you? Do any of you first- and second-grade teachers have any areas you would like to see addressed? Leave a comment and I'll put the topics on my list.
I guided them through the day, worked on sub plans for Friday afternoon (out of town for my brother-in-law's wedding), and prepared to take on some duties for Scholastic.
Once I got home, I tried a new product for Scholastic. (Sorry, can't tell you. I mean, I could, but then I'd have to erase your memory Men In Black style. Trust me, this is better.) I also began perusing one of two books for book reviews to be submitted for the Scholastic Book Clubs Facebook Page. Those two done in between dinner and evening activities for my church.
And speaking of Scholastic, I am going to have another visit by members of the staff. This time they are going to be talking to the first- and second-grade teachers about what areas we feel there are gaps in regarding our curriculum. For example, I know my grade struggles with finding grade-level appropriate books on landforms, bodies of water, and map skills. Most of the books are geared toward older readers or are watered down too much. I'm not sure when the visit is yet; we are still trying to coordinate schedules.
How about you? Do any of you first- and second-grade teachers have any areas you would like to see addressed? Leave a comment and I'll put the topics on my list.
Day 127: Testing, Testing...and Writing?
Day 127 (Tuesday, March 22) saw the dawning of the final days of state standardized testing. Our color theme days were coming to an end. And we were still taking advantage of every free minute!
We were working away on our animal reports. I still hope to be finished with them by April 1. Most of the children have a lot of good information to begin with, so going from there should be smooth sailing (relatively speaking, anyway!).
A union meeting was called to discuss possible pay freezes for our district. My state is another in an unfriendly climate for education. More on that later.
For now, send good thoughts our way.
We were working away on our animal reports. I still hope to be finished with them by April 1. Most of the children have a lot of good information to begin with, so going from there should be smooth sailing (relatively speaking, anyway!).
A union meeting was called to discuss possible pay freezes for our district. My state is another in an unfriendly climate for education. More on that later.
For now, send good thoughts our way.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Don't Worry
Just a quick note to say I haven't gone anywhere...just a little busy. Once I update, you'll understand.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Day 126: Spring Showers
So the warm weather didn't stick around long. Last night brought thunderstorms which faded down to a steady rain that held on until early this morning. Along with the rain came temps in the low 60s . I would like them to stay around, but we will be in the mid 40s by Friday. Still, better than the snow/sleet/ice we had just over a month ago!
Day 125: Beautiful Weather Has Arrived!
Friday (March 18) was a dream of a day. I woke up to temperatures in the 50s(!) and ended the day in the very high 70s. The day had a gentle breeze, daffodils were pushing through the soil, crocuses were in bloom, and the sun was shining brightly.
The warm weather was a harbinger of spring...and the annual opening of some local frozen treat places, including Rita's Italian Ice. (Love the mango and black cherry gelatis. Yum!)
Bring on spring!
The warm weather was a harbinger of spring...and the annual opening of some local frozen treat places, including Rita's Italian Ice. (Love the mango and black cherry gelatis. Yum!)
Bring on spring!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Day 124: Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Today was St. Patrick's Day, so the building was bathed in green. We had a good day today, some of which is highlighted below.
In the afternoon, we had an assembly on Irish dancing. One of the second-grade girls is a competitive Irish dancer and offered to dance for us a few weeks ago. She partnered up with a first-grade girl who also studies the art. During the assembly, the girls wore their full costume and performed for kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. They also answered questions about dancing, Ireland (one has been there already), and the costumes. As a surprise treat, our assistant principal also performed an Irish dance she remembered from her days as a competitive dancer. She explained that her grandmother was from Ireland, and Irish dancing was a huge part of her childhood. I think the children were very impressed with what they saw.
When we returned to the classroom after the assembly, we were greeted with the work of "leprechauns." Student desks were moved; chairs were stacked or on top of desks; bookbags, lunchboxes, and jackets were strewn about and hanging from various surfaces; and math manipulatives were all over the floor, along with the whiteboard and easel they usually rest on. The students (being the sweet children they are) immediately began cleaning up the room (after they got over the shock, that is). Then they promptly began searching for the leprechaun, which they didn't find. No gold or wishes for us today.
Even so, I hope you were able to enjoy the luck of the Irish a bit yourself!
In the afternoon, we had an assembly on Irish dancing. One of the second-grade girls is a competitive Irish dancer and offered to dance for us a few weeks ago. She partnered up with a first-grade girl who also studies the art. During the assembly, the girls wore their full costume and performed for kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. They also answered questions about dancing, Ireland (one has been there already), and the costumes. As a surprise treat, our assistant principal also performed an Irish dance she remembered from her days as a competitive dancer. She explained that her grandmother was from Ireland, and Irish dancing was a huge part of her childhood. I think the children were very impressed with what they saw.
When we returned to the classroom after the assembly, we were greeted with the work of "leprechauns." Student desks were moved; chairs were stacked or on top of desks; bookbags, lunchboxes, and jackets were strewn about and hanging from various surfaces; and math manipulatives were all over the floor, along with the whiteboard and easel they usually rest on. The students (being the sweet children they are) immediately began cleaning up the room (after they got over the shock, that is). Then they promptly began searching for the leprechaun, which they didn't find. No gold or wishes for us today.
Even so, I hope you were able to enjoy the luck of the Irish a bit yourself!
Day 123: Teacher Fail
I really should have known better. Really.
Remember I told you about the animal report projects I assigned to my students? And about the web sites I gave for research? On the letter I updated and printed in a hurry because I only had a 30-minute break that day? Yeah, well, there was a problem.
The day after I sent home the projects, I received an e-mail from one of my parents stating that one of the sites was showing inappropriate content for children. She wasn't angry or anything, but thought I should know so I could warn the other parents. I will not go into what content, but I think you know where I am going with this. Anyhow, I checked the site and sure enough, what I read there made me blush.
Insert thought here: Oh no. (Along with a monster-sized panic attack, stomach flip flops, a cold sweat, and an overpowering feeling of doom.)
Insert second thought here: WHAT happened?
Well, it seems that the nature site I have used for the past three years has either been bought by a new owner or hijacked by someone. (I'm thinking the latter because the information used by my students in the past was still there, but there was what appeared to be chat boxes all over the page, like new search windows. These boxes held the questionable and rather disturbing content.)
Insert third thought here: FIX IT! NOW! BEFORE OTHER PARENTS GO TO THE SITE AND SEE THE CONTENT AND THINK YOU'RE AN IDIOT TEACHER FOR EXPOSING THEIR CHILDREN TO SUCH FILTH AND RALLY TO HAVE YOU FIRED! (Not sure they would go that far, but it really was a pitchforks and torches moment in my mind.)
SO...
I sent out an emergency e-mail to all of my parents explaining what happened and taking full responsibility. I also sent them a replacement link (which I tested before I sent). I also had my students copy a note in their planners, telling the parents to avoid the one site and use the other. No issues since.
Catastrophe averted. Pitchforks and torches stored safely away.
Lesson learned. I will be sure to double check the websites before I assign them for use. I usually do, especially if it is something we are doing together in class. I was simply in a rush and didn't take that extra step. Totally my fault. Won't happen again.
Like I said, lesson learned.
Remember I told you about the animal report projects I assigned to my students? And about the web sites I gave for research? On the letter I updated and printed in a hurry because I only had a 30-minute break that day? Yeah, well, there was a problem.
The day after I sent home the projects, I received an e-mail from one of my parents stating that one of the sites was showing inappropriate content for children. She wasn't angry or anything, but thought I should know so I could warn the other parents. I will not go into what content, but I think you know where I am going with this. Anyhow, I checked the site and sure enough, what I read there made me blush.
Insert thought here: Oh no. (Along with a monster-sized panic attack, stomach flip flops, a cold sweat, and an overpowering feeling of doom.)
Insert second thought here: WHAT happened?
Well, it seems that the nature site I have used for the past three years has either been bought by a new owner or hijacked by someone. (I'm thinking the latter because the information used by my students in the past was still there, but there was what appeared to be chat boxes all over the page, like new search windows. These boxes held the questionable and rather disturbing content.)
Insert third thought here: FIX IT! NOW! BEFORE OTHER PARENTS GO TO THE SITE AND SEE THE CONTENT AND THINK YOU'RE AN IDIOT TEACHER FOR EXPOSING THEIR CHILDREN TO SUCH FILTH AND RALLY TO HAVE YOU FIRED! (Not sure they would go that far, but it really was a pitchforks and torches moment in my mind.)
SO...
I sent out an emergency e-mail to all of my parents explaining what happened and taking full responsibility. I also sent them a replacement link (which I tested before I sent). I also had my students copy a note in their planners, telling the parents to avoid the one site and use the other. No issues since.
Catastrophe averted. Pitchforks and torches stored safely away.
Lesson learned. I will be sure to double check the websites before I assign them for use. I usually do, especially if it is something we are doing together in class. I was simply in a rush and didn't take that extra step. Totally my fault. Won't happen again.
Like I said, lesson learned.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Day 122: Animal Reports
As a wrap-up to the Amazing Animals theme in my reading series, I always have the students write animal reports. The students get to practice researching and writing nonfiction text. I tell them they are going to be the "experts" on their animal. Students choose three of their favorite animals, and I assign them at random. Once their organizer is done, we have a writing workshop to write out our reports. After that is finished, we hike to the computer lab and find photos to go along with our reports. The end result is a project that looks like an official scientific report.
I'm pretty excited to see what my students come up with this year. In the past, most of my students have done "popular" animals: lions, red-eyed tree frogs, shark, various dinosaurs, tigers, dolphins, and polar bears. Only three of those animals made the cut this year. On the list this time are animals like peacocks, snowshoe hares, cottonmouth snakes, giraffes, hippos, and veined octopus.
The organizers are due this coming Tuesday. I plan to have the projects written by Friday or the following Monday at the latest. (How will I have time, you ask? My state is taking its yearly academic tests in reading, writing, math, and science in Grades 3 and up, so we second graders have some extra time in our schedules!) I will post pics of the final projects once we have them finished.
Stay posted!
I'm pretty excited to see what my students come up with this year. In the past, most of my students have done "popular" animals: lions, red-eyed tree frogs, shark, various dinosaurs, tigers, dolphins, and polar bears. Only three of those animals made the cut this year. On the list this time are animals like peacocks, snowshoe hares, cottonmouth snakes, giraffes, hippos, and veined octopus.
The organizers are due this coming Tuesday. I plan to have the projects written by Friday or the following Monday at the latest. (How will I have time, you ask? My state is taking its yearly academic tests in reading, writing, math, and science in Grades 3 and up, so we second graders have some extra time in our schedules!) I will post pics of the final projects once we have them finished.
Stay posted!
Day 121: Snow Make Up-Again
Friday, March 11, was our second snow make up day. The students didn't seem to mind that they were in school. In fact, they rather welcomed it!
Thing is, we were reading about dinosaurs. If I know nothing else, I know that all you need to do is mention the word "dinosaur" and all eyes and ears are yours. Additionally, we were creating our new habitat for our milkweed bug colony in science. (Yes, live insects!) I don't mind the insects in my room, but I have had parents in the past avoid visiting whenever we had our colonies (three in a year). Sad thing is, I think the eggs are dead. They are supposed to be yellow, red, or orange. Mine (and those of the other second-grade teachers) have turned to a dull shade of brown. Methinks we will have to reorder!
I also let the children know we would be working on our animal reports, with the specifics to be covered on Tuesday (no school Monday). That was exciting news for them, too. Almost as exciting as the dinosaurs. Ah well. We can't all be rock stars!
Thing is, we were reading about dinosaurs. If I know nothing else, I know that all you need to do is mention the word "dinosaur" and all eyes and ears are yours. Additionally, we were creating our new habitat for our milkweed bug colony in science. (Yes, live insects!) I don't mind the insects in my room, but I have had parents in the past avoid visiting whenever we had our colonies (three in a year). Sad thing is, I think the eggs are dead. They are supposed to be yellow, red, or orange. Mine (and those of the other second-grade teachers) have turned to a dull shade of brown. Methinks we will have to reorder!
I also let the children know we would be working on our animal reports, with the specifics to be covered on Tuesday (no school Monday). That was exciting news for them, too. Almost as exciting as the dinosaurs. Ah well. We can't all be rock stars!
Day 120: Two-Thirds Gone
What? Where did the year go? It's hard to believe that in 60 days' time, I will be releasing yet another class to move on to third grade. Where has time gone? It seems like the first week of school was just last week.
But then I look back at all of the things we have learned and done together. Of how much my students have grown physically, socially, and academically. Of the new skills my students have learned and the old skills they have perfected. Of the skills they have yet to learn and master before the year is through. (No pressure, right?)
Two-thirds gone.
One-third to go.
Wow.
But then I look back at all of the things we have learned and done together. Of how much my students have grown physically, socially, and academically. Of the new skills my students have learned and the old skills they have perfected. Of the skills they have yet to learn and master before the year is through. (No pressure, right?)
Two-thirds gone.
One-third to go.
Wow.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Day 119: Reteaching
I returned to school today to a class frustrated with the substitute. You know how your students are; they will tell you like it is! Truth is, they didn't like him/her. Not that the sub was strict or anything, but more along the lines that s/he didn't go through the routine like I had written out.
"S/he told us today was going to be different." That's what they were told. As a teacher and former substitute, I know you can't always recreate every little detail of the classroom teacher. As long as you stick to the basic routine, things should be fine. No. Not this one. Things that I wanted gone over weren't gone over like I asked them to be in my three-plus pages of detailed notes. Even with my substitute helper (a student who is there to help the sub with the nuances and details of our daily routine), things were mixed up. Students were left on their own to do things without explanation. Parts of the routine were skipped totally. And it's not that my students were bad, they just had a hard time adjusting to the person in charge.
I have students who rely on our routine as a comfort. Any change in the routine without explanation can cause meltdowns. These two struggled all day. Work that was assigned had to be retaught and gone over again when I returned. I basically lost a day of teaching. You all know how frustrating that can be, especially if you teach under a district timeline, like I do. The good thing is I was able to get my students back on track and get the skills covered, understood, and applied.
Thing is, this person used to be a teacher. What....?
What about you? Have you ever had a substitute you weren't pleased with?
"S/he told us today was going to be different." That's what they were told. As a teacher and former substitute, I know you can't always recreate every little detail of the classroom teacher. As long as you stick to the basic routine, things should be fine. No. Not this one. Things that I wanted gone over weren't gone over like I asked them to be in my three-plus pages of detailed notes. Even with my substitute helper (a student who is there to help the sub with the nuances and details of our daily routine), things were mixed up. Students were left on their own to do things without explanation. Parts of the routine were skipped totally. And it's not that my students were bad, they just had a hard time adjusting to the person in charge.
I have students who rely on our routine as a comfort. Any change in the routine without explanation can cause meltdowns. These two struggled all day. Work that was assigned had to be retaught and gone over again when I returned. I basically lost a day of teaching. You all know how frustrating that can be, especially if you teach under a district timeline, like I do. The good thing is I was able to get my students back on track and get the skills covered, understood, and applied.
Thing is, this person used to be a teacher. What....?
What about you? Have you ever had a substitute you weren't pleased with?
Day 118: The Day After the Bug
...and it was!
Tuesday I awoke feeling a lot better. My stomach was still tender to touch, though. I ate foods other than oatmeal and they stayed where they were supposed to. Yes!
I still felt a little weak, but I managed to get some laundry done. I worried about my class because I didn't recognize the name on the substitute list on the e-mail through work. (We use a system called Aesop to fill our slots for subs, and she wasn't on my list of preferred subs.) You know how it is. We worry that the kids will get everything while we are out, or that we will have to reteach everything when we return.
My physical therapist did see me that day; I figured I had better get in because I hadn't been in for four days and I was starting to ache a bit. (I go three days a week.) They went a little easier on me because my stomach was still tender, but I got a good session in anyway. They have me doing stretches, exercises to build up my muscles, STIM (muscle stimulation through electrode patches) sessions, and X-taping. The latter is my favorite because it's like a permanent brace on your leg and supports your muscles. The tape goes from your thigh to your calf, crossing behind your knee to create a support. The first time they taped me, I was able to go up and down the stairs with no pain for the first time in six months. I get taped once a week, and it stays on for about three to four days before I have to take it off and let my muscles relax a bit.
Oh, and speaking of my knee pain, they finally figured out the culprit. I have back problems that have affected the nerves in my leg, which are affecting my knee joint and the muscles around it, causing the weakness and pain I've been experiencing. Quick backstory: I injured my back when I delivered my son a few years back. The delivery also caused my pelvis to be out of line for several months before it was caught and supposedly remedied. Enter a car accident less than a year later. Several years down the line, here I am, trying to get put back together again. I feel like Humpty Dumpty. The good news is that I should be back to my old self by summer vacation. Can't wait!
Tuesday I awoke feeling a lot better. My stomach was still tender to touch, though. I ate foods other than oatmeal and they stayed where they were supposed to. Yes!
I still felt a little weak, but I managed to get some laundry done. I worried about my class because I didn't recognize the name on the substitute list on the e-mail through work. (We use a system called Aesop to fill our slots for subs, and she wasn't on my list of preferred subs.) You know how it is. We worry that the kids will get everything while we are out, or that we will have to reteach everything when we return.
My physical therapist did see me that day; I figured I had better get in because I hadn't been in for four days and I was starting to ache a bit. (I go three days a week.) They went a little easier on me because my stomach was still tender, but I got a good session in anyway. They have me doing stretches, exercises to build up my muscles, STIM (muscle stimulation through electrode patches) sessions, and X-taping. The latter is my favorite because it's like a permanent brace on your leg and supports your muscles. The tape goes from your thigh to your calf, crossing behind your knee to create a support. The first time they taped me, I was able to go up and down the stairs with no pain for the first time in six months. I get taped once a week, and it stays on for about three to four days before I have to take it off and let my muscles relax a bit.
Oh, and speaking of my knee pain, they finally figured out the culprit. I have back problems that have affected the nerves in my leg, which are affecting my knee joint and the muscles around it, causing the weakness and pain I've been experiencing. Quick backstory: I injured my back when I delivered my son a few years back. The delivery also caused my pelvis to be out of line for several months before it was caught and supposedly remedied. Enter a car accident less than a year later. Several years down the line, here I am, trying to get put back together again. I feel like Humpty Dumpty. The good news is that I should be back to my old self by summer vacation. Can't wait!
Day 117: Stomach Bugs and Other Unpleasantness
Oh, what a way to wake up.
Last night I went to bed feeling fine. A little tired, perhaps, due to the fact that I had just finished another weekend working at my other job. I woke up feeling quite a bit less than stellar, thanks to the rumblings in my stomach. Cue several mad-dash-type trips to the bathroom before leaving for the day. (Leaving for the day, you say? Yes. I had no time to request a sub, especially for a Monday morning. Deadline for that was 5:30 a.m. I was still sleeping, oblivious of what was to come, at that hour.) I took some medicine to help keep things under control and went in to work.
Somehow I made it through the day with no true incidents. I did fight off nausea off and on all day, but I kept that at bay with ginger ale. By the end of the day, my sub was requested for Tuesday and my plans were ready. Cue the second sick day of the year.
I canceled physical therapy and spent the remainder of the evening in bed, sleeping away whatever it was that was attacking my body. My meals of the day consisted of oatmeal and ginger ale. I know, sounds fabulous!
Tuesday should be a better day...
Last night I went to bed feeling fine. A little tired, perhaps, due to the fact that I had just finished another weekend working at my other job. I woke up feeling quite a bit less than stellar, thanks to the rumblings in my stomach. Cue several mad-dash-type trips to the bathroom before leaving for the day. (Leaving for the day, you say? Yes. I had no time to request a sub, especially for a Monday morning. Deadline for that was 5:30 a.m. I was still sleeping, oblivious of what was to come, at that hour.) I took some medicine to help keep things under control and went in to work.
Somehow I made it through the day with no true incidents. I did fight off nausea off and on all day, but I kept that at bay with ginger ale. By the end of the day, my sub was requested for Tuesday and my plans were ready. Cue the second sick day of the year.
I canceled physical therapy and spent the remainder of the evening in bed, sleeping away whatever it was that was attacking my body. My meals of the day consisted of oatmeal and ginger ale. I know, sounds fabulous!
Tuesday should be a better day...
Days 112-116: Read Across America Week
I know, I know. A group of days all together? Well, yes. These days cover Read Across America Week. At my school we have a theme day for each day of the week. Here's the rundown of what we did each day:
Monday: School Spirit/Book and a Buddy Day
Monday (Day 112) was the last day in the month of February. In my school this is our designated School Spirit Day. The students wore our school colors and brought a book to share with a buddy. During independent reading time (all week), they read with a buddy and got to share some ideas about each book.
Tuesday: Crazy Hair/Socks Day
Tuesday (Day 113) was one of the favorites for the week. The students came in with all manner of crazy hair and/or socks. There was colored hair, just-got-out-of-bed hair, many ponytails, braids, colored hair extensions, and an updo held in by pencils (mine). The socks ranged from mismatched to various prints (tie dye, stars, stripes, sport figures, words, and slipper socks).
Wednesday: Dr. Seuss Day
On Wednesday (Day 114) we wore our red, black, and white to represent The Cat in the Hat, one of the best-known Dr. Seuss characters. We also brought in our favorite Dr. Seuss books to share with the class. The cafeteria served birthday cake in honor of Theodore Giesel's birthday. In the past we had volunteers dress as the Cat in the Hat and visit the students during lunch, but that didn't happen this year.
Thursday: Pajama Day
Thursday (Day 115) was the most favorite day of the week. The students came to school in their pajamas. They also brought their slippers, stuffed animals, blankets, and their favorite bedtime book. We camped out on the floor of the classroom with our books and read to each other.
Friday: Beach and a Book Day
Friday (Day 116) was a day spent at the beach. The reading specialists in the school turned our cafeteria into a beach for the day, complete with inflatable palm trees, beach balls, and the sounds of the Beach Boys and the ocean waves. Each grade level was assigned a block of time to come and visit the beach. The students brought in a book, a beach towel, and sunglasses. When we got to "the beach," laid out our towels. Once we were situated, we played a few games of beach ball volleyball, where the students tossed around about 12 beach balls to Beach Boys songs. After that, we settled on our towels and listened to the sounds of the ocean while we read. It was hard to leave after our session!
Throughout Read Across America Week, the morning announcements include a snippet or two from different Dr. Seuss stories. The children have to guess which story is being read. It always amazes me how many stories my students know! I also push aside our regular read aloud during this week to read different Dr. Seuss stories to the students. A few years ago I bought Your Favorite Seuss: A Baker's Dozen by the One and Only Dr. Seuss, and I read to my students from that. I like to include some of the background information the book has for each story. For example, the Grinch character is based on Theodore Giesel himself. And the story Green Eggs and Ham was written on a bet from a publisher that Theodore Giesel couldn't write a story that used less than 50 individual words. (He won, by the way.) The children always get a kick out of those little extras.
Some other activities we do during this week are:
*We complete a sequencing activity with Green Eggs and Ham.
*We rate the Cat in the Hat in The Cat in the Hat Comes Back as if he were a student (listening skills, problem solving, etc.).
*We explore Seussville on the computer during lab.
The children really enjoy the things we do this week, and it sort of jump starts them again, even though some of their minds my be looking ahead to spring already.
If you are looking ahead to next year and want to look up books to plan your Read Across America Week or Dr. Seuss Day, check out this site. You will find resources for books, board games, videos, movies, and a comprehensive listing of all Dr. Seuss books.
Monday: School Spirit/Book and a Buddy Day
Monday (Day 112) was the last day in the month of February. In my school this is our designated School Spirit Day. The students wore our school colors and brought a book to share with a buddy. During independent reading time (all week), they read with a buddy and got to share some ideas about each book.
Tuesday: Crazy Hair/Socks Day
Tuesday (Day 113) was one of the favorites for the week. The students came in with all manner of crazy hair and/or socks. There was colored hair, just-got-out-of-bed hair, many ponytails, braids, colored hair extensions, and an updo held in by pencils (mine). The socks ranged from mismatched to various prints (tie dye, stars, stripes, sport figures, words, and slipper socks).
Wednesday: Dr. Seuss Day
On Wednesday (Day 114) we wore our red, black, and white to represent The Cat in the Hat, one of the best-known Dr. Seuss characters. We also brought in our favorite Dr. Seuss books to share with the class. The cafeteria served birthday cake in honor of Theodore Giesel's birthday. In the past we had volunteers dress as the Cat in the Hat and visit the students during lunch, but that didn't happen this year.
Thursday: Pajama Day
Thursday (Day 115) was the most favorite day of the week. The students came to school in their pajamas. They also brought their slippers, stuffed animals, blankets, and their favorite bedtime book. We camped out on the floor of the classroom with our books and read to each other.
Friday: Beach and a Book Day
Friday (Day 116) was a day spent at the beach. The reading specialists in the school turned our cafeteria into a beach for the day, complete with inflatable palm trees, beach balls, and the sounds of the Beach Boys and the ocean waves. Each grade level was assigned a block of time to come and visit the beach. The students brought in a book, a beach towel, and sunglasses. When we got to "the beach," laid out our towels. Once we were situated, we played a few games of beach ball volleyball, where the students tossed around about 12 beach balls to Beach Boys songs. After that, we settled on our towels and listened to the sounds of the ocean while we read. It was hard to leave after our session!
Throughout Read Across America Week, the morning announcements include a snippet or two from different Dr. Seuss stories. The children have to guess which story is being read. It always amazes me how many stories my students know! I also push aside our regular read aloud during this week to read different Dr. Seuss stories to the students. A few years ago I bought Your Favorite Seuss: A Baker's Dozen by the One and Only Dr. Seuss, and I read to my students from that. I like to include some of the background information the book has for each story. For example, the Grinch character is based on Theodore Giesel himself. And the story Green Eggs and Ham was written on a bet from a publisher that Theodore Giesel couldn't write a story that used less than 50 individual words. (He won, by the way.) The children always get a kick out of those little extras.
Some other activities we do during this week are:
*We complete a sequencing activity with Green Eggs and Ham.
*We rate the Cat in the Hat in The Cat in the Hat Comes Back as if he were a student (listening skills, problem solving, etc.).
*We explore Seussville on the computer during lab.
The children really enjoy the things we do this week, and it sort of jump starts them again, even though some of their minds my be looking ahead to spring already.
If you are looking ahead to next year and want to look up books to plan your Read Across America Week or Dr. Seuss Day, check out this site. You will find resources for books, board games, videos, movies, and a comprehensive listing of all Dr. Seuss books.
If you have any ideas or other neat sites, drop me a post!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Saturday: Day Two of Scholastic Meetings
Saturday, February 26, I awoke around 6:45 to be dressed and ready for room service, scheduled to arrive somewhere between 7:15 and 7:30. Breakfast was prearranged by Scholastic; all we had to do was call down to guest services, tell what time we wanted breakfast, and present a coupon to room service when they came to the door.
After breakfast I met Carol in the lobby again, along with the other teachers. We went back to the Scholastic building for the second round of meetings. The walk was much better than the previous day; it poured on Friday! Saturday was just windy.
We got back to the building where we posed for a group picture, then got to business. We talked about what books we use in class, how we incorporate books into lessons, what types of skills we cover, and what reading intervention programs are used. We also had a chance to meet with the editorial teams in small groups to talk about what topics we would like to see covered in book offerings. (I have a hard time finding books that cover map skills and geography on a second-grade level to supplement my Social Studies geography unit. And guess what? They are planning to create a series on just that!) The last thing we did before breaking for lunch was meet with the design teams in small groups to talk about the design of the book club fliers themselves. Be on the lookout for some changes come this fall...
After the meetings, we were treated to lunch upstairs in the Greenhouse. The Greenhouse is on the top floor and it is like a sunroom where you can have meals al fresco. It was actually too cold to dine al fresco, but the sunlight coming in was warm.
When lunch was over, we were taken to a room where we got to rate and help choose offerings for the new Teacher Bonus catalog. FYI: There are some really neat things coming your way!
Once we finished with the Bonus catalog items, we were given some time to be on our own. So I went along with four other teachers who are also self-professed foodies. We went on a mini food tour, in the manner of Food Network/The Cooking Channel. We started right at the end of the block with Baked by Melissa, a place that specializes in mini cupcakes.
From there we hopped on the subway and trekked up to Union Square. There we hit the Shake Shack for burgers, fries, and shakes. Actually, I only had the fries. I just can't do burgers out! (For a self-professed foodie, I know that's akin to sacrilege. Sorry. Just can't do it.) But, the fries were SO GOOD! I could eat them all day. And you can get them with toppings. Be still my heart!
When we finished, we went across the street to Eataly, an Italian market. There were so many people, they actually had security at each entrance letting people in a few at a time. We were fortunate to get in at the same time. And once we got in...! Wow. There were restaurants and stalls of everything. Chocolate (which was yummy), wine, pastry, cheese, sausages, bread, spices, cooking utensils, cookbooks, fruits, veggies, etc. I could have stayed there all day. But we had more places to go.
After Eataly we traveled on to Crumbs Bake Shop, where we sampled more cupcakes. I split a carrot cake cupcake with one of my colleagues, while the others split a S'mores cupcake--complete with a giant marshmallow baked right in the center. Heavenly.
From Crumbs, we had to hustle into a taxi and get back to the hotel for dinner with everyone else. I know what you're thinking: How are you going to eat dinner after you ate all afternoon? The trick is to order one thing and share it with everyone so you only have a taste. Then you still have room for dinner!
We made it to the hotel with two minutes to spare--literally. We hopped on a chartered bus that took us from the hotel down into the Times Square area where we had dinner at Carmine's. Ah, Carmine's. We were shown to a private dining area thanks to heavy velvet curtains dividing up the dining room. The food was out of this world. Everything is served family style, from the bread to dessert. I tried a little of everything that came to to table: fried calamari with spicy sauce, chicken marsala, penne with vodka sauce, cappelini with tomato sauce, Caesar salad, steamed seasoned broccoli, and eggplant parmesan. The eggplant parmesan was my favorite. It was layered like a lasagna and melted in your mouth. When the main course was over we were served dessert: tiramisu, cannoli, an ice cream concoction, and something like a chocolate cake. I tried a bit of all and they were equally delicious.
After dinner we were treated to the show Jersey Boys in the August Wilson Theater. The show was unbelievable, I think in part to the intimate setting of the theater. I definitely recommend this show. GO!
Once the show was over and we got back to the hotel, we said our goodbyes/goodnights because some of us (like me) were leaving early the next morning. Some of the other folks went on to a place called Please Don't Tell, but I was tired. And coming down with something, I think. (By the time I got to bed I was dealing with a blocked ear and sinus issues.)
I went to bed full of ideas and high hopes for the year to come. Stay tuned!
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This is the coupon we had to present...
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We got back to the building where we posed for a group picture, then got to business. We talked about what books we use in class, how we incorporate books into lessons, what types of skills we cover, and what reading intervention programs are used. We also had a chance to meet with the editorial teams in small groups to talk about what topics we would like to see covered in book offerings. (I have a hard time finding books that cover map skills and geography on a second-grade level to supplement my Social Studies geography unit. And guess what? They are planning to create a series on just that!) The last thing we did before breaking for lunch was meet with the design teams in small groups to talk about the design of the book club fliers themselves. Be on the lookout for some changes come this fall...
After the meetings, we were treated to lunch upstairs in the Greenhouse. The Greenhouse is on the top floor and it is like a sunroom where you can have meals al fresco. It was actually too cold to dine al fresco, but the sunlight coming in was warm.
When lunch was over, we were taken to a room where we got to rate and help choose offerings for the new Teacher Bonus catalog. FYI: There are some really neat things coming your way!
Once we finished with the Bonus catalog items, we were given some time to be on our own. So I went along with four other teachers who are also self-professed foodies. We went on a mini food tour, in the manner of Food Network/The Cooking Channel. We started right at the end of the block with Baked by Melissa, a place that specializes in mini cupcakes.
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| These are my tasties: S'more, Coconut Cream, and Cinnamon. They were moist and fluffy. Delicious! |
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| You literally walk up to the window, place your order, and walk away with goodness in your hands. |
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| The Shake Shack. |
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| It was about 40 degrees that day, but we were toasty thanks to the outdoor torches above the tables. |
When we finished, we went across the street to Eataly, an Italian market. There were so many people, they actually had security at each entrance letting people in a few at a time. We were fortunate to get in at the same time. And once we got in...! Wow. There were restaurants and stalls of everything. Chocolate (which was yummy), wine, pastry, cheese, sausages, bread, spices, cooking utensils, cookbooks, fruits, veggies, etc. I could have stayed there all day. But we had more places to go.
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| So crowded. But worth it! |
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| Yum! |
We made it to the hotel with two minutes to spare--literally. We hopped on a chartered bus that took us from the hotel down into the Times Square area where we had dinner at Carmine's. Ah, Carmine's. We were shown to a private dining area thanks to heavy velvet curtains dividing up the dining room. The food was out of this world. Everything is served family style, from the bread to dessert. I tried a little of everything that came to to table: fried calamari with spicy sauce, chicken marsala, penne with vodka sauce, cappelini with tomato sauce, Caesar salad, steamed seasoned broccoli, and eggplant parmesan. The eggplant parmesan was my favorite. It was layered like a lasagna and melted in your mouth. When the main course was over we were served dessert: tiramisu, cannoli, an ice cream concoction, and something like a chocolate cake. I tried a bit of all and they were equally delicious.
After dinner we were treated to the show Jersey Boys in the August Wilson Theater. The show was unbelievable, I think in part to the intimate setting of the theater. I definitely recommend this show. GO!
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| The marquee as we walked to the theater. |
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| The program. |
I went to bed full of ideas and high hopes for the year to come. Stay tuned!
Just a Little Nervous (Day 111, Part Two)
Sorry for the hiatus. Since my last post, I worked at my other job over the weekend and battled with a stomach bug I caught from who knows where. I'm home today, regaining my strength for tomorrow. I feel MUCH better than I had. AND my computer is behaving again. Things are good.
Anyhow, let's continue. So after we get into the boardroom and everyone gets settled, the meeting begins. We went around and introduced ourselves to everyone with the aid of a short video on each of us. (Remember I told you the Scholastic staff took pictures when they came to visit my classroom? That's where the pictures went.) After our introductions, the "folks in charge" introduced themselves. We were introduced to the VPs of different departments as well as key players in each department. We were also introduced to the owner of Scholastic, who sat in on every minute of the meetings. (No pressure, right? No seriously, he was great. Very personable and interested in what we had to say.)
Throughout the course of the day, we were asked our opinions on everything from online ordering vs. paper orders, ease of use of the Scholastic website and its features*, how we get our students interested in reading, what types of books we should offer to help students who speak other languages, how to help new teachers be aware of the resources Scholastic offers, and even packaging/sending of orders.
*Speaking of features, did you know that Scholastic has the following items:
After sitting in the meetings all day (and a little shopping!), we were treated to dinner at O'Nieals in Soho. There were probably about 50 or so folks who went to dinner. Not just the teachers, but some of the folks on the staff at Scholastic. I was seated next to one of the ladies that visited my classroom who works on the BookTalk blog, a designer/artist, and one of the other folks that works on the blog. The place was amazing...be sure to look at the link above to see what I mean. Dinner was very tasty. I would definitely go back again.
By the time dinner was over, it was about 9:30, 10:00. I went back to the hotel and called my two back home to wish them goodnight. Then I showered and hit the sack. I was just a bit tired!
Saturday's adventures up next...
Anyhow, let's continue. So after we get into the boardroom and everyone gets settled, the meeting begins. We went around and introduced ourselves to everyone with the aid of a short video on each of us. (Remember I told you the Scholastic staff took pictures when they came to visit my classroom? That's where the pictures went.) After our introductions, the "folks in charge" introduced themselves. We were introduced to the VPs of different departments as well as key players in each department. We were also introduced to the owner of Scholastic, who sat in on every minute of the meetings. (No pressure, right? No seriously, he was great. Very personable and interested in what we had to say.)
Throughout the course of the day, we were asked our opinions on everything from online ordering vs. paper orders, ease of use of the Scholastic website and its features*, how we get our students interested in reading, what types of books we should offer to help students who speak other languages, how to help new teachers be aware of the resources Scholastic offers, and even packaging/sending of orders.
*Speaking of features, did you know that Scholastic has the following items:
- A Facebook page? There are links/pages for teachers, parents, Read 180, etc. There are even pages for specific reading series.
- A blog that highlights favorite books, recommended books, and upcoming titles/subjects? There are book summaries, teacher reviews, author interviews, and links to books by topic. There's also a link about the meeting with the Scholastic Advisors. (Check out the February 28 post on the site.)
- Many, many resources for us teachers to use in the classroom, from lesson plans to printables, teaching resource guides to activities?
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| This is on the wall to your right just before you enter the store. |
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| This is the entrance from the lobby. |
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| The Magic School Bus houses most of the science section, along with sofas and a television showing videos for the little ones. |
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| Would you like a ride on the Magic School Bus? |
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| All of the walls are decorated with different characters from different reading series. I took this section of the wall because these are characters my students would recognize. |
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| This was huge! I'd say he was at least 8 feet tall. |
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| One of the MANY mini displays throughout the store. |
By the time dinner was over, it was about 9:30, 10:00. I went back to the hotel and called my two back home to wish them goodnight. Then I showered and hit the sack. I was just a bit tired!
Saturday's adventures up next...
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Just a Little Nervous (Day 111, Part One)
Friday, February 25 was Day 111. While my students went through their usual Friday routine, I met with the person in charge of the Advisor program, met the teachers I hadn't met the night before at dinner, trekked to the Scholastic headquarters, and began a series of meetings on all sorts of topics relating to how teachers can use Scholastic more efficiently.
Where do I start?
I woke up that morning around 6:15. I hadn't slept well because I was a bit nervous about meeting everyone, and it took a bit for me to get used to the noise in the city. You know, sirens, horns, and...a jackhammer. Yes, a jackhammer. At 10, 11:00 at night. (I remember griping to my husband that morning, saying, "Who on earth jackhammers at NIGHT?" He, being the one of sound mind, politely reminded me that the traffic during the day is probably pretty busy, so the construction is done at night. Sort of like when the crews are repaving a road or something.) Oh well, I was still a bit cranky and sleep-deprived. (If you haven't guessed, I'm a light sleeper.)
So anyway, I got up, took a shower, and got dressed. I didn't eat the yummy room service breakfast; I wasn't hungry. (Nerves, I guess. And about the breakfast, I'll post more on that later. Just one word now: scrumptious!)
I went downstairs to meet CAROL, the person in charge of the Advisors. I've tried to think of a way to describe her, and what I came up with when I talked to my husband was this: "She's like an old friend you've never met." Seriously. When I got downstairs, she was sitting in a chair talking away to some of the other folks. Whenever someone new came into the lobby, she would ask their name and give them their name tag, along with a hug you would expect from a long-lost friend. No airs here, people. She was genuinely pleased to see each and every one of us. I don't know how else to describe her, except maybe to add in that she was sort of like a mother or grandmother. She had something nice to say to everyone and constantly checked in on us throughout the weekend to make sure we weren't overwhelmed or tired or hungry or anything else. She's funny, quick-witted, and a snappy dresser. (She likes crazy socks just like I do, too.)
So after we met Carol, we trekked on to the Scholastic headquarters, which was a few blocks away. It always amazes me when New Yorkers say "Oh, it's just a few blocks." To me, a few blocks is like one or two. This was a bit more, but worth it!
We were then shown into a conference room where we were greeted by even more Scholastic staff. The room was huge. (Cue my nerves again.) In the middle was a U-shaped series of tables where we sat, 11 on one side, 11 on the other, and various VIPs in between. Behind the tables were several (three, I think) rows of chairs on all sides, from one set of walls to another. Those were for the Scholastic staff who were going to be sitting in. By the time everyone was in, there wasn't enough room for all the staff and quite a few ended up sitting on the floor wherever a spot could be found.
More on Day 111 later; seems my computer has had enough tonight! Stay tuned!
Where do I start?
I woke up that morning around 6:15. I hadn't slept well because I was a bit nervous about meeting everyone, and it took a bit for me to get used to the noise in the city. You know, sirens, horns, and...a jackhammer. Yes, a jackhammer. At 10, 11:00 at night. (I remember griping to my husband that morning, saying, "Who on earth jackhammers at NIGHT?" He, being the one of sound mind, politely reminded me that the traffic during the day is probably pretty busy, so the construction is done at night. Sort of like when the crews are repaving a road or something.) Oh well, I was still a bit cranky and sleep-deprived. (If you haven't guessed, I'm a light sleeper.)
So anyway, I got up, took a shower, and got dressed. I didn't eat the yummy room service breakfast; I wasn't hungry. (Nerves, I guess. And about the breakfast, I'll post more on that later. Just one word now: scrumptious!)
I went downstairs to meet CAROL, the person in charge of the Advisors. I've tried to think of a way to describe her, and what I came up with when I talked to my husband was this: "She's like an old friend you've never met." Seriously. When I got downstairs, she was sitting in a chair talking away to some of the other folks. Whenever someone new came into the lobby, she would ask their name and give them their name tag, along with a hug you would expect from a long-lost friend. No airs here, people. She was genuinely pleased to see each and every one of us. I don't know how else to describe her, except maybe to add in that she was sort of like a mother or grandmother. She had something nice to say to everyone and constantly checked in on us throughout the weekend to make sure we weren't overwhelmed or tired or hungry or anything else. She's funny, quick-witted, and a snappy dresser. (She likes crazy socks just like I do, too.)
So after we met Carol, we trekked on to the Scholastic headquarters, which was a few blocks away. It always amazes me when New Yorkers say "Oh, it's just a few blocks." To me, a few blocks is like one or two. This was a bit more, but worth it!
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| This is the Scholastic building from across the street. (Sorry about the corner being cut off; I thought it was all in the frame.) This is where the magic happens. |
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| This is the view as you walk up the 550 block of West Broadway. You can't miss it. |
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| Here is the Scholastic mascot, Clifford. The window was the size of a true shop window; I was nearly on the curb to catch this shot. |
We walked in through security in the lobby and went straight up to the second floor, where we were greeted with various members of the Scholastic company and Clifford.
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| The welcoming committee. |
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| This is the view from the door, looking straight ahead. |
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View from the door, pointing into the room. You can only see the beginning of the first of three rows on the right. I was sitting in the seat with the giraffe bag hanging from it. |
Upon entering the room, we were greeted with a slideshow showing all of the Advisors from this year. We were also greeted with an official Scholastic workbag, filled with goodies.
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| This is a map showing where the Advisors came from. The little dots on the map were actually stars that kept flickering in and out, so I tried to get a shot with all of them lit. There should be 22 little dots from the West Coast to the East Coast, North to South. |
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| New workbag. Snazzy! |
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| Contents of the new workbag. Very generous of Scholastic. I especially like the blue bag in the middle. It is a reusable bag that has the "Reader's Bill of Rights" on the reverse side. Really neat. |
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Happy, Happy! Joy, Joy! (Day 110)
I am very pleased to announce that I was able to get the problem with my phone fixed by a nice man from Verizon, who was able to direct me to the exact link to get my driver downloaded for my phone. I spent about an hour doing what should have taken about 10 minutes, thanks to the oh-so-clear directions on the Verizon link. Really, who writes these things anyway? Is it really so hard to write clear directions? (Actually, it must be. I spent a summer rewriting technical manuals for some companies that will go unnamed, and let me tell you, it was T-O-R-T-U-R-E. Don't even get me started on that!)
ANYHOW, I was able to move ALL of my pictures onto my computer and put them into files, burn a disc to show my students, and put some in a file to share with you. (Enter my happy dance! Really, more like a chair dance, but excited/happy/delirious dancing all the same. Honestly, I think my children thought I was having a fit!)
So where to begin? How about the beginning? If you've been following, you know I have been in communication with Scholastic Publishing Company because I was chosen as a Teacher Advisor. (Check the 'Scholastic' tags to the right.) Last week, I spent several fantastic days with the powers that be and the other 21 Advisors. I have decided to post by what we did each day, mostly to save your eyes and my fingers. (That of course, means this week's posts regarding my class will probably be sort of mushed into combined posts.)
With that said, away-ee we go!
Thursday, February 24, 2011 was Day 110. On this day, while my students were reading about ants and creating fact sheets, I was preparing for the plane ride to New York (via Newark Airport). While they went through first recess, lunch, special, and social studies, I went through security at one airport, got on a plane, traveled, got off the plane, met one of the other advisors, and traveled into New York City. We traveled to SoHo, where we checked in at the SOHO Grand Hotel. The place was unbelievable. My room was on the 7th floor, diagonally across from the building where they hold the Tribeca Film Festival. Here are some pics of the view from my window, from left to right. (The window was so big, I had to take three pictures to get everything in.)
The intersection in the last picture is Broadway and Canal. The hotel is very close to both Chinatown and Little Italy.
That evening, all of the advisors met together for dinner at a place called Puglia's. The dinner was good. They served us family style at the beginning of our visit: two types of salad, bread, and wine. I don't drink, so I don't know how the wine was, but the salads and bread were very tasty! Then the waiters took our orders. I ordered the Eggplant Parmesan, which was good, but the sauce was a little thin for my taste. (I like my sauce THICK!) After the entree, we were served coffee and dessert (again family style, on a huge platter). Oh. My. Goodness. I had a bite of the cheesecake and a cannoli. They were de-licious! Oh, and did I mention we were treated to live entertainment during dinner? Our meal was accompanied by a keyboardist and two singers who proceeded to belt out tune after tune of Italian favorites. They even got us in on it! It was loud, but it was fun!
After dinner we went back to the hotel to get ready for Day 111 (Friday). That's when we would meet all of the folks from Scholastic and the other teachers who hadn't come to dinner with us. I could hardly wait!
More tomorrow...
ANYHOW, I was able to move ALL of my pictures onto my computer and put them into files, burn a disc to show my students, and put some in a file to share with you. (Enter my happy dance! Really, more like a chair dance, but excited/happy/delirious dancing all the same. Honestly, I think my children thought I was having a fit!)
So where to begin? How about the beginning? If you've been following, you know I have been in communication with Scholastic Publishing Company because I was chosen as a Teacher Advisor. (Check the 'Scholastic' tags to the right.) Last week, I spent several fantastic days with the powers that be and the other 21 Advisors. I have decided to post by what we did each day, mostly to save your eyes and my fingers. (That of course, means this week's posts regarding my class will probably be sort of mushed into combined posts.)
With that said, away-ee we go!
Thursday, February 24, 2011 was Day 110. On this day, while my students were reading about ants and creating fact sheets, I was preparing for the plane ride to New York (via Newark Airport). While they went through first recess, lunch, special, and social studies, I went through security at one airport, got on a plane, traveled, got off the plane, met one of the other advisors, and traveled into New York City. We traveled to SoHo, where we checked in at the SOHO Grand Hotel. The place was unbelievable. My room was on the 7th floor, diagonally across from the building where they hold the Tribeca Film Festival. Here are some pics of the view from my window, from left to right. (The window was so big, I had to take three pictures to get everything in.)
The intersection in the last picture is Broadway and Canal. The hotel is very close to both Chinatown and Little Italy.
That evening, all of the advisors met together for dinner at a place called Puglia's. The dinner was good. They served us family style at the beginning of our visit: two types of salad, bread, and wine. I don't drink, so I don't know how the wine was, but the salads and bread were very tasty! Then the waiters took our orders. I ordered the Eggplant Parmesan, which was good, but the sauce was a little thin for my taste. (I like my sauce THICK!) After the entree, we were served coffee and dessert (again family style, on a huge platter). Oh. My. Goodness. I had a bite of the cheesecake and a cannoli. They were de-licious! Oh, and did I mention we were treated to live entertainment during dinner? Our meal was accompanied by a keyboardist and two singers who proceeded to belt out tune after tune of Italian favorites. They even got us in on it! It was loud, but it was fun!
After dinner we went back to the hotel to get ready for Day 111 (Friday). That's when we would meet all of the folks from Scholastic and the other teachers who hadn't come to dinner with us. I could hardly wait!
More tomorrow...
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
FRUSTRATION AND ANGER AND MORE FRUSTRATION!!!
Sorry friends, but I have reached my limit! I have been desperately trying to get all of my wonderful pictures downloaded to share with you. Seems my phone does not want to cooperate.
Here's the deal:
I upgraded my phone last fall. All of my pictures that were on the old phone transferred over. I was told the phone was set and that everything should have been fine.
Fast forward to last night, when I was trying to download the 60-plus pictures I took while in New York. I had bought a card reader so I could transfer over my pics and put them on the computer for easy posting. Did I say easy? How about un-BELIEVE-ably hard! (I know that's spelled wrong, but go with me here!) The only pics that transferred over were the ones that transferred over when I upgraded my phone.
So I called Verizon customer support for, well, support, only to be told that "the pictures are already saved automatically to the card." Really? Then WHERE ARE THEY? I have three "albums" when I open the gallery on my phone: downloads, saved pics (on the SD card), and "camera" (or the ones I took and can see but apparently can't transfer anywhere else.). After spending 20 minutes on the phone with not one, but two reps, no solution was given save e-mailing all of the pictures to myself. WHAT? THAT'S my advice? What's support for then?
Apparently, the SD card is supposed to save all new pictures automatically. (It doesn't.) There should be an option in my camera menu to rename/move/save new pics to the SD card. (There isn't.) I should be able to go in through settings and set the camera to save automatically. (Nope again.)
So then I get the grand idea to hook up my phone via charger/USB cable to the computer to download the pictures that way. Genius! Or so I thought. The cable needs a driver to be downloaded to read the information from my phone. So I went to Verizon's website and, lo and behold, there is no such driver available for download...unless I missed it somewhere in my two-plus hours of searching. I even tried to have Windows search for a compatible driver to download. Crash. Burn. Flames.
I have just sent Verizon an e-mail asking them to fix this problem before I lose my mind. So until then, you all will have to wait. Not because I don't love you, but because I really cannot fathom e-mailing all of those pictures and reformatting/resaving them when there is supposed to be a device on the phone to make all of that easier in the first place.
Stay tuned, friends. Stay tuned.
Here's the deal:
I upgraded my phone last fall. All of my pictures that were on the old phone transferred over. I was told the phone was set and that everything should have been fine.
Fast forward to last night, when I was trying to download the 60-plus pictures I took while in New York. I had bought a card reader so I could transfer over my pics and put them on the computer for easy posting. Did I say easy? How about un-BELIEVE-ably hard! (I know that's spelled wrong, but go with me here!) The only pics that transferred over were the ones that transferred over when I upgraded my phone.
So I called Verizon customer support for, well, support, only to be told that "the pictures are already saved automatically to the card." Really? Then WHERE ARE THEY? I have three "albums" when I open the gallery on my phone: downloads, saved pics (on the SD card), and "camera" (or the ones I took and can see but apparently can't transfer anywhere else.). After spending 20 minutes on the phone with not one, but two reps, no solution was given save e-mailing all of the pictures to myself. WHAT? THAT'S my advice? What's support for then?
Apparently, the SD card is supposed to save all new pictures automatically. (It doesn't.) There should be an option in my camera menu to rename/move/save new pics to the SD card. (There isn't.) I should be able to go in through settings and set the camera to save automatically. (Nope again.)
So then I get the grand idea to hook up my phone via charger/USB cable to the computer to download the pictures that way. Genius! Or so I thought. The cable needs a driver to be downloaded to read the information from my phone. So I went to Verizon's website and, lo and behold, there is no such driver available for download...unless I missed it somewhere in my two-plus hours of searching. I even tried to have Windows search for a compatible driver to download. Crash. Burn. Flames.
I have just sent Verizon an e-mail asking them to fix this problem before I lose my mind. So until then, you all will have to wait. Not because I don't love you, but because I really cannot fathom e-mailing all of those pictures and reformatting/resaving them when there is supposed to be a device on the phone to make all of that easier in the first place.
Stay tuned, friends. Stay tuned.
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