gifted education – Soapbox: The Way I see Things

Slice of Life Day 4: Mind Blown

Animated picture of a man reading a book

I always leave class smiling when students experience a mind-blowing moment. Experiencing one for myself today? Well, it made getting out of bed absolutely WORTH it.

Slice of Life Day 3: Are You Stuck?

I work hard to use language that builds a secure, independent community of learners. Who knew my students were listening?

Slice of Life Day 2: Today…

Some days start with a whimper, or a bang. Today started with a barrage…

Slice of Life Day 1: What Slice of Life Does

At this time of year, I search my neighborhood for signs of spring, hunting for hints of wonder. Today’s writing came to me in much the same fashion.

Slice of Life Tuesday: It’s Not Terrible

Last year was a turning point for me. As a teacher, I decided to give up much of my work outside of school in exchange for a deeper, fuller presence with my students. I pledged to bring less of my job home with me so that I could apply more of myself during the day.Continue reading “Slice of Life Tuesday: It’s Not Terrible”

Slice of Life Tuesday: Winter Poem

Today’s poem is about winter, but it’s really for all of us feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or alone.

Slice of Life Tuesday: Writing Group!

Last Thursday, I got to host an online writing group with some of my students. I’m still smiling.

Slice of Life Tuesday: Getting Brave

A notebook that reads "Ridiculously Good Ideas"

I did it! I finally crafted a work of allegorical fiction. I’ve published the first excerpt this week, and I’ll publish the next part of the story on Slice of Life Tuesdays.

Poetry Month Day 9: Depending on When You Met Me

Today’s #Verselove poetry challenge is to compose a “depending on when you met me” poem. It’s a good way to think about all of the “me’s” I’ve been over the years, and to whom.

Slice of Life Day 21: Coming Together

A collage of squirrels looking at a tree

It wasn’t expressly planned, but it was a very happy coincidence that the days before spring break turned out to be the days my fourth graders and I constructed the artwork for our Leo Leonni anthology. We’re still a work in progress (I mean, aren’t we all?) but I thought I’d share the latest.