Tag Archives: elementary teaching

Upon Re-Entry

I’ve been here. I’ve returned to school after a devastating loss before, and I did it again today. Days like these are strange, tiring and full of uncertainty. Will I be able to hold myself together? Can I make it through? Do I have it in me to accept the “we missed you’s,” the knowingContinue reading “Upon Re-Entry”

Encouraging Signs

It all started with a super-cute dog video. (Go ahead and watch. it’s only about a minute long.) And then a question. “Is this language?” Boy oh boy, did THAT ever stir up conversation. For me, as a teacher, this could not POSSIBLY have gone any better. I wanted students to be engaged from theContinue reading “Encouraging Signs”

Stepping Back Up to the Soapbox

I have a lot of soapboxes to stand on when it comes to education. I mean…c’mon. Just look at the name of my site. It’s easy to get riled up about things when you feel as passionately I do about teaching, when you have as much faith in public schooling as I do. One ofContinue reading “Stepping Back Up to the Soapbox”

Joy in the Time of COVID

So many moments of wonder,Of joyTo hold high and to honor – A real live letter from a student pen palColleagues who find strength in one anotherThe college son who just feels like a chatBlue skies, uninterruptedA new recipe that worksWalks with friendsWatching people you love do what they love All these moments of wonder,OfContinue reading “Joy in the Time of COVID”

So Much for a Soft Landing

I meant to take it easy on my kiddos today. I really did. They’re just coming back from break, and I was fully prepared for a slow start to ease them back into big ideas, big thinking. It all started when I realized we needed to finish up our conversation about Dr. Seuss’s allegory YertleContinue reading “So Much for a Soft Landing”

On Gathering Moss

Elementary teachers have a solid reputation as pack rats. And for good reason. The sheer amount of STUFF it takes to teach elementary school is mind-boggling. Here’s the tip of the iceberg:-books for reading-curricular materials-office supplies-student supplies-teacher files-games, puzzles, activities, art supplies, writing supplies, room decor… …and that’s only for one grade level. Those ofContinue reading “On Gathering Moss”