Keep Calm and Test On

This week is EOG week!

Like I told my students, "it's been ten years since I have administered a standardized test".  

Students:  "Didn't you test at [primary school]??"

Me:  "Yes, but not 'you might lose your job' test".

There are many rules to being a test administrator (especially one who implements specific testing mods) and it requires a lot of reading, highlighting, and rules.  

And, even though I tell my kids not to focus on scores and numbers but just work hard (I confess I get focused on scores and numbers, insert breathing into a paper bag).  I take on a lot of stress this time of year (my own fault).

This week I  needed something positive, so I decided to write (by hand) each one of my students a letter (are you impressed?  I could have did it in cursive also.  I know cursive).  

It really made me feel better because I was able to focus on attributes that were important.  

#MyKiddo

If you are like me, end of year never brings a lot of money (because you have spent it all on yearbook, summer clothing, parties, upcoming camps, trips, etc), but I do encourage you to take the time to remember a teacher that may have impacted your child's life whether it be a phone call, a note, or a candy bar (we scoff at nothing).  A small offering of appreciation goes a long way.    

For Connor's Teachers:

By middle school, I think most are done with the "teacher gifts" but I couldn't let this year go by without thanks.   This team helped Connor Me relax a little more this year.  

I think Connor found some real joy in learning.

 


ela- dr. teal/math- expo/ ss- pencil sharpener/ science- choc. covered peanuts

I gave each one something small they needed in their classroom paired with one little tube of chapstick BEE-cause they rock. 

For Carlee's teachers:

These two teachers are just special.

They really took Carlee far, and helped her with a lot of issues (anxiety, shyness, letter recognition, confidence).  

I got cracked up at my friend's son (who loves his fourth grade teacher so much) who wants to buy his teacher a $500.00 necklace.   I feel the same way about our two K teachers.  I went with a more budget friendly gift of tin summer buckets complete with a beach towel, Pioneer Woman water bottle (don't you love Pioneer Woman??), and summer magazine.  

I ask everyone to set yourself a goal this weekend:

hug a student and/or a teacher because they need it! 

Educational Day Out

What. A. Year. And it is almost over.

As you know, I made the change from primary school to middle school this year (more on that later).  One of the biggest concerns I had with my big move was: Connor.  Not only would I be following my pre-teen son to middle school but I would also be responsible for implementing his interventions and progress.  To be honest I had no idea how it would go but if you have ever spent anytime with me and Connor, well this pretty much sums it up: 

At the end of this school year, I can tell you that I have learned a lot of awesome things, met a lot of awesome people, but 100% the most awesome part of this year was being near my son (I know, can you believe it!?).  I am very proud of him.

Actually Connor and Carlee have both had a great school year and I am so thankful that my job allowed me to be a part of it.  I know Darren's job makes it difficult for him to take part in field trips/events, so I really appreciate it more. 

Here are a few highlights from our educational days out.  

 Super Stoked to Watch the DASH Game

Score

I got one pink bat and one black bat.  

#goDASH

Bolt the Mascot  

I love this picture.

100% boy joy

Science Center

Carlee's Favorite:  Sting Ray Petting

(after all the children boarded the bus, we stayed behind and went back to pet some more)

Three Amigas & Fashionestas

JAWS

Dino Exhibit

 Glow in the Dark Fish

I absolutely loved spending the day with my doll and her class!  

We learned so much and had a blast (it's also really, really awesome when the kids get sooooo excited that you are with them).  :)

Do what you can to take an Educational Day Out!  You won't regret it.  

85-91: End of Year

See more end of year Moments Here.

Surprisingly, the end of the school year has been a bit more challenging than I thought it was going to be but finally today my loose ends were tied up.  Even though I only worked three days this week, it really took it out of me.  I didn't even go to the gym for the first time in eight weeks.  I've just felt really tired and lost motivation. 
We have a busy summer ahead but I'm looking forward to a little break and spending time with my family. 

Day 85:

One RAD 5th Grade GRAD.

This kid has blown me away with his academic growth and progress.   #amazing  

Day 86:

.....and FINALLY School is OUT! 

Day 87:

Carlee's first experience at the race track-

It lasted about 22 minutes before I had to take her home and the boys hitched a ride later that night. 

#princess 
#dressesuptothetrack
#momsgirl

Day 88:

I was a fan of Twilight, Hunger Games, and Divergent books.

I am so wondering about this series??

hmmmmmm.

Day 89:

Now for the lovely task of room clean up.  

One would think that end of year is a breeze once all of the children leave but the truth is that teachers no longer have critical time to work in their rooms throughout the year.  Gone are the days of spending time cleaning out closets, lesson plan tubs, file cabinets, and just getting organized.  All of this waits until the end of year.

My room was a serious job.  

Not only that but we have more changes coming around the bend.....  

details soon.  

ROOM CLEAN UP AND ORGANIZATION
and the Final Countdown to Summer

Day 90:

The boys of the school entertained themselves this week.  

No matter what age, thank goodness for 1. ramps  2. monster trucks  3. forts

Day 91:

Remember Stanley and Pretzel Day?  

Meet Amanda and Wet Nuts Day

Yep,

 I look forward to one thing at the end of the year picnic-

ice cream with a vat of wet nuts.

  

The Bomb.Com

The day was made complete with another outing with my partner in paperwork (and crime).

I always get the wildest colors and she always gets beige.  BEIGE. With all of the other sparkly colors out there?  I don't even get it.

color A:   I can't remember but something like 'Showstopper'.   

 color B:  Pearl of Wisdom

 


Anyway, we have a lot of fun and my toes sparkle more in the sun!  

For tonight, I'm lounging on the couch with my alarm set to tackle and pack for another weekend adventure (C's Retirement Party)!!   Whoooo. Hooooo.

It's SUMMER. 

78-84: Moments

Day 78: 

 Summer VAYCAY is filling up fast.........

No summer snoozing! 

#plans

Day 79:   

Remember as a kid mixing up all of the soft drinks together and calling it a Suicide?

That is still happening with this generation and it is still totally gross. 

Day 80:

Just practicing a few fishing moves... outside.... in the grass.....

Day 81:
The practice paid off.  #outdoorboy

Day 82:

Each year, end of year celebrations and saying good-bye is bitter sweet.

My always fun, always dramatic, always tearful graduation is a favorite. 

When these kids start crying, we all start.

There is much love in this room and for that I am thankful to God. 

83-84:

Mrs. C's Retirement Lunch

Can you guess her celebrity crush (and the theme of our lunch)?

Celebrating Transitions and Friendships!

The days are long but the years are short. 

Rock Middle School Boys