Are You On The Pathway To Common Core?

Sprinkle Teaching Magic's Book Review: Pathways to Common Core      

Pathways to the Common Core (Accelerating Achievement) by Lucy Calkins, Mary Ehrenworth and Christopher Lehman 2012 by Heinemann Press

You may recognize one or more of the authors.  Their expertise lends credence to the assertions and suggestions provided in this book.

The verdict  is still out about the Common Core State Standards (CCSS).  Are the standards developmentally appropriate?  Will the changes occur in a way that supports both students and teachers?    To answer the wealth of Common Core questions circulating through the staff room and board room, we turn to experts in the field who have jumped into the deep end of Common Core and have tested the waters.  Pathways to Common Core includes information about writing, literature, speaking and listening common core standards.  The authors include warnings, resources, priorities, processes, suggestions, examples and  myths. The authors connect the many CCSS dots for K-12 teachers, so teachers will make informed decisions when putting energy into the changes.

  Pathways to Common Core gives educators a practical blue print to launch CCSS.  The first 21 pages offers an authors’ introduction to CCSS, which is clear and concise.  We are reminded in this introduction that the CCSS document explicitly says, “the Standards define what all students are expected to know and be able to do, not how teachers should teach” (2010a,6) The authors highlight key CCSS guidelines, such as cross-curricular literacy, respecting the professional judgment of classroom teacher, and stressing the importance of critical citizenship. The introduction also includes a helpful three step implementation process for a district to use to launch CCSS, which will not break the bank and give teachers essential support.  

 Chapters two through five focus on reading standards. The message is clear that tackling the reading standards may result in possible pitfalls. The authors provide solutions to these anticipated pitfalls by naming proven programs that are already on the market, such as Fountas and Pinnell system for leveling for K-8.   Grade level examples (K-12) are given to explain student progress toward a reading skill. Chapter three includes a four step process to guide implementation of CCSS reading instruction. Technology resources and web sites are highlighted such as the RWP website http://readingandwritingproject.com/ and Goodreads, an online system.  Chapter four has a well defined teacher collaboration approach using Charlotte’s Web to gain deeper understanding of the teaching strategies for reading instruction. Chapter four also provides reading strategies and examples of how student engagement would look in a high functioning reading lesson. Next, chapter five delves into reading informational texts and what it means to focus on “close reading” which is textual analysis, not personal response. First, informational text skills are highlighted and then the authors explain the implementation process and how to overcome the challenges.   If you like getting the big picture of CCSS, the first half of the book will have you wanting more.  

Chapters six through nine cover the writing standards.  The authors emphasize that “the standards issue a call for extremely high levels of proficiency.” p107  The examples  provided of student writing help clarify the writing expectations for different grade levels. The kindergarten writing sample has created a stir.  On a bright note, you will be happy to learn that “Common Core writing standards seem utterly aligned to the writing process tradition...” p112 Chapters seven through nine presents a wealth of information as an overview for the following three writing genres: argument, narrative and information writing.  Each chapter concludes with very helpful ideas for implementing the featured writing genre. The authors provide a piece of sage advice for districts, namely, to start CCSS professional development using writing as a focus area.  

Speaking and listening standards can be found in chapter ten.  Put simply, the skills that students will practice are 1) talking together to understand texts and 2) students making oral presentations. A major shift for many classrooms is emphasized----- a requirement that students “make strategic use of digital media and visual displays of data to express information...”p. 167  The suggestions about teaching vocabulary and grammar will also start a rich discussion with your colleagues.  

Chapter eleven is a critical chapter to discuss as a staff.  Change is not easy, so the authors become the cheerleaders for how to make the change happen.  The title of the chapter---- CCSS-Aligned Assessments Fuel Whole-School Reform is the center of the change movement.  A faculty book study using Pathways to Common Core is sure to engage EVERYONE.  

In the comments below let me know how you are feeling about Common Core?  Will you consider reading this book?  Do you have another book that has been helpful?   How is your district getting ready for Common Core? 

Report Card Tips

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 Report Cards---Testament to Your Teaching Artistry

Report Card Day descends and a feeling of dread builds.  The hours spent on report cards is often perceived as anti-climactic, less than scientific, and final.  Teaching to the whole child is critical, and yet the report card does not adequately represent the whole child.  Doubt surfaces  as  grades are entered. A teacher realizes that the grade may demoralize the student, cause the parent to question one’s teaching practice,and act as the gatekeeper, restricting a student from moving to the next math level, honors English, etc. Maybe the teacher dismisses the exercise with a quick reminder to themselves that the student earned the grade and with that the teacher feels justification for the grade. OR  Maybe for a fleeting moment a teacher realizes that the skills needed to report authentic grades was not emphasized during pre-service, that district  professional development never touched on grading or report card guidelines.  With that, teachers are left to their own devices to fill in the report card and move on.  It is time to breath new life into this out dated reporting system and put the heart, creativity, humanity into the reporting process, so reporting becomes a celebration and a motivational tool for academic success.  Can this be done without creating more work for the already stressed, and overworked teacher?  Yes.  Will the changes blend with the current system of reporting?  Yes  Will the dread change to desire? Yes 

What will the reporting process look like that increases student competence, confidence and courage?  How will the reporting process become part of your teaching artistry? When students read what you write on the report card, the message will become one of their vivid memories of their year with you and it will help them define their next steps? There are three changes that will put you on the path of profound reporting.  First, infuse report card comments with data that emphasizes student personality traits, eight ways to be smart, and the 42 developmental assets .  Second, set aside time through out the semester for student reflection after assessments. Student reflection (written or oral) will include analyzing the rubric results, realizing their misconceptions, comparing essays to see progress, setting goals etc. The student understands why he/she received the final report card grade.  Third, provide a system that allows the student voice to become part of the reporting process and empowers the student.  

Following are examples of specific traits to observe for ample data to include in the report card comments. Consider observing student personality traits, which will serve students well both socially and academically.  During the semester gather anecdotal notes about the following personality traits: competitive, active, cheerful, friendly, courageous, curious, flexible, resourceful, innovative, generous, helpful, honest, self-reliant, persistent, liked by peers, self-controlled, sensitive, considerate of others.  Another layer of student data is Howard Gardner’s 8 intelligence. At the start of the year provide the student with a survey that assesses their strengths in the eight intelligences.  Students analyze the results of the survey, understand their intelligence strengths and realize that their strengths will be the building blocks to improve the weaker intelligences. By highlighting the specific intelligent assets in a report card (musical, spatial, linguistic, logical-mathematical, etc.), the student receives a motivational message that he/she has an expertise to build academic success and build confidence. With confidence comes resiliency, and the Project Cornerstone 42 developmental assets provide a gateway to help students thrive.  Keeping the 42 assets in mind as you assess students will provide a wealth of good data to include in the report card comments.  

The next important consideration is the actual grade on the report card and how to make that grade meaningful for the student.  Providing time for students to reflect on their test grades, essay scores is time well spent.  Students may set goals and track progress.  The student is aware of the grade outcome and takes ownership.  In addition, consider this simple system which provides students with an opportunity to contribute their voice to the report card process.  Distribute a blank report card template to each student and have them fill out the report card with grades and comments.  If students have collected their reflections, you may want to ask them to include some quotes from the reflections as testimonials to his/her academic success.  

Here are some examples of report card comments that I wrote this week for my students.  Names have been changed! Enjoy!

Suzy

Ways To Go:

-Suzy is successful in all academic areas

-Concepts and classwork come easily for Suzy because she focuses when directions and instruction are given. 

-Suzy performs well on assessments.  Her short answers on assessments are always well thought out and she uses proof from the chapter in her answers. 

-Suzy raises her hand to participate!

-Suzy is a delight to have in class.  She is such a dear soul who always tries her hardest.  She aims to please and is well liked by her peers because of her kind disposition and her willingness to help.

-Suzy is neat and careful.   

Ways To Grow:

-Writing is a focus area for Suzy.  Revising her first draft.  Looking up spelling words in a dictionary. Keeping each paragraph focused on the topic.  Adding details, opinions, and vivid words will continue to be an area I will support. 

-Now that Suzy is comfortable speaking in front of the class, I want her to practice speaking in a louder voice with more confidence and expression.

Brent

Ways To Go:

-Brent is filled with smiles and has a fun loving spirit.  His classmates enjoy his energy and want to be around him.  

-He participates in class discussions

-Brent is putting more effort in his short answers.  He is using proof and responding with more details.

-Brent works hard to complete his class job and responsibilities.  He aims to please me and his classmates!

Ways To Grow:

-More consistent neat handwriting and desk organization

-Brent needs to work on planning out his time better both in class and at home.  When given quiet work time in class, Brent will choose to read a book.  I try to guide him to complete assignments with an upcoming due date.  Also, he will spend time on trivial items instead of seeing the bigger picture.  For example, he spent lots of class time coloring the ocean over and over again on his explorer map.  I eventually stepped in and assured him it looked good and to move on.  He had a hard time realizing coloring the ocean once was enough and working on the explorer speech was a top priority.  He tends to procrastinate and then is left frustrated by the workload.  Brent is very capable and can work independently.  I hope as the year goes on he realizes just jumping in will make the assignment easier.  My goal is to prepare him for successful study habits next year in Middle School.  

Julie

Ways To Go:

-Julie is successful in all academic areas

-Concepts and classwork come easily for Julie because she focuses when directions and instruction are given.  

-Julie performs well on assessments.  Her short answers are always well thought out and she uses proof from the chapter in her answers. 

-Julie loves to participate in class discussions.  She is such a deep and critical thinker that her participation really helps shape and advance our learning.  

-Julie digs deep into learning with resilience and problem solving skills.  Her brow is always furrowed and she is able to make connections and understand.  I have noticed this skill during our persuasive unit when we researched our pro and con topics.  Dense informational text does not phase her.

-Julie works well in teams.  She exhibits leadership roles and is able to listen to others while having her voice heard.

-Julie is very intuitive and picks up on critical pieces of information.  She is a problem solver.

-Julie is such a creative and vivid writer with a strong voice!

Ways To Grow:

-My goal is to help Julie foster successful girl friendships.  Help her discover ways to express her thoughts and frustrations when it comes to friends.  Cool off and take a break when there are disagreements, misunderstandings, or hurt feelings.  To adapt to changes in friendships and have resilience.  

How To Get Ready Before You Head Out To Teach!

A key part of being totally present for my students starts a few hours before the students arrive in the classroom.  I have a “before school routine” that helps start the day on a positive note. I wake early enough to make time for breakfast, which is sooo important.  Starting your day with some protein is a must.  My standby breakfast is centered around eggs/egg.  Somedays I opt for an egg white omelet, other days I will have a soft boiled egg.  An egg is just enough protein to keep me going until mid morning or longer.  To have that extra time for breakfast, I often lay out my clothes the night before.  There are several default outfits that I rotate through the weeks because they are so comfortable. 

When I grab my clothes in the morning, I am looking for comfort; so my clothes are often soft knits, pants with stretch, and light weight sweaters.  Recently, I am shifting toward a scarf for added pizzaz to any outfit or a chunky necklace. A colorful infinity scarf can be used with many outfits. I always look forward to fall, so I can wear my boots with jeggings.  

For a couple of years I did not set aside time for putting on make up, but that has completely changed.  Now my make up routine has become a critical piece of my morning routine because I feel I am putting on my happy, pop of color, alive and energetic teacher face.  I don’t stop at my face.  Over the years I have my favorite go to hair styles that change up my look.  I have fine, thin hair, so I know how to compensate; maybe I’ll use a doughnut shaped form that creates an instant teacher bun (so professional), an alligator clip, a spunky low or high pony tail to keep the hair away from my face.  

Give your morning routine ample amount of time.   Leaving photo copying and science lab prep for the hour before school starts is a bad idea.   Many unexpected, critical must dos erupt in the morning after arriving at school, a parent conference that was not planned, a teacher rushing in with an emergency, and more.  So doing the copying the day before is the smarter way to ensure sanity and ensure lesson plan readiness.  Because I have a 35+ minute commute, I have time to contemplate what I am going to do as soon as my car lands in the parking lot. I am ready to have a great day with my 25 wonderful 5th graders!!!!

How do you get ready in the morning?  What are your tips?  I always need new ideas and love hearing from you!  

My Teacher Story

   

I fought the idea of being a teacher.  Why?  All things pointed to a teaching career.  I loved my magical kindergarten teacher; I pretended I was a teacher at an early age, I loved playing teacher in my mother’s classroom.    I knew how hard she worked; I felt the respect for teachers was not what it should be, I wanted more! However, like a magnet, teaching drew me in.  Freshman year of college, my mother, the summer school principal, hired me as a teacher.   Other summer school teachers thought I was a credentialed teacher; I realized this was within my skill set.   Then my college roommate decided to get a teaching credential.  I caved.  I changed my major and now after 8 years of teaching, I reflect on my teaching journey.   

The first couple of years I was consumed with being the perfect teacher; every waking hour was consumed by planning, prepping, perfecting every detail.  The teaching obsession was not healthy.  Fortunately, during those first couple of years, I had an amazing mentor, who supported me.  I cleared my credential with the help of the BTSA (Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment) mentor program.  I also had teacher colleagues who shared their ideas with me.  But soon my teaching world started crumbling around me.  The double whammy in my district was the economy and also declining enrollment. So I moved from one school to another school and then eventually got laid off, even with five years of seniority, tenure and outstanding reviews.  This tragic realization came with wounds: lost teacher friends, hurt feelings, loss of innocence around school politics, the realization that everyone is expendable.  I had not taken care of myself, put on weight, gave up precious work out time.  I was depleted.  The stress of moving every year from school to school, from grade level to another grade lever had taken its toll on me.  I was depleted.   Then fortunately, a new realization took hold, the next district that hired me as a kindergarten teacher had many wonderful qualities, change was good and I learned many things about my self through the forced change.  In addition, I realized I rocked as a resilient person, who would not be afraid of change.  My students were always the joy of my life.    So when my boyfriend decided to take a job two hours away, I decided to interview at a job that would mean I could be near him.  And when I was hired, it meant I was starting over AGAIN, new district, no credibility with parents, no teacher friends and going from kindergarten to 5th grade!  On the other hand I was teaching the gifted students and only 18 students. The stress accelerated when my mother had surgery and then my father died.  I was running on fumes. But I survived. My students took my mind off of the family hardships.  I had an amazingly supportive group of teachers at my grade level that looked out for me and supported me through this hard time.  

Teaching is not glamorous. I am not here to sugar coat it or be fake with you.  I want to make more money, more respect.  Teaching pushes all of my buttons.  I am a control freak, perfectionist, and competitive person.  I hate that a bell dictates my schedule and when I need to go to the bathroom.  There have been many times that I question if this is the right profession for me and when can I get out!  The politics, test score chasing, and overall bureaucracy make the job overwhelming.  Because of layoffs and jumping around I know that I am jaded.   Having the opportunity to teach a grade level for more than one year may change my mind completely about teaching!  I admit I  feel everyone is watching, parents, students, administration, the community, the world, test scores!!!!!!! 

The pressure is intense.  Every step could be a land mine  So why do I keep doing it?  My classroom. My students.  My classroom is my home.  I love decorating it, I love creating new curriculum, I love seeing an idea I have come to life with my students,  I love laughing with them, I love looking out at my class and thinking I did it----- the systems, the routines, the enthusiasm I had a part in this. I think back to my kindergarten teacher often.  She made teaching magical for me.  I have a drive to make learning magical for my students.  

(A special sign I had made for my first year of teaching!)

(My first year teaching kinder!  My mom helps go through the large book collection.  What a treasure...what a job!)

(One of my many moves!)

Sorry for the poor poor poor quality of this photo.  Just a little photo fun old school style.  Rainforest Open House.    I assembled a large Kapok tree in the middle of my classroom.  My first Halloween was dressed up as Tacky the penguin.  Ahhhhh yes, my old red ford focus.  This little sporty car took me to and from work.  When I taught my first year of kinder my mom came to school as Zero The Hero's wife for the 100th day of school.  Lots of great memories!

Back To School Teacher Fashion

Today the talk is teacher fashion.  The colors, the styles, the places to shop will help you move forward on your back-to-school shopping!  Let's start NOW!

Click HERE for Part 1 Teacher Check List

Click HERE for Part 2 Classroom Management 

Click HERE for Part 3  How To Navigate School Politics

Part 4

How To: Teacher Fashion 

Teachers never grow old of the excitement that happens in August to mark the beginning of a school year. And I am not thinking about a new classroom desk arrangement!   Our unbridled excitement is, of course, SHOPPING for school clothes!!!!  Our heart races, our eyes dilate and our mission is intense.  We want comfort, color, some classic, maybe preppie, a tinge of trendy, and a whole lot of fun!  No teacher jumpers with the applique apples; we are talking about functional, fashionable and fantastic mix and match outfits.   

Yes, teachers can wear denim in the classroom.  Any fashion guru will tell you that denim in the work place must follow some simple rules.  Choose dark denim pants, with no holes that scream grunge look. Next consider the rise of the jeans/ pants; no low rise.  Bending over in the classroom needs to be part of your fashion consideration, so a mid rise pant is a must.  The high rise is not a comfortable fit for me.  But if that is your pick, try NYDJ for comfort and tummy control.  The new ankle length jean is ala Audrey Hepburn, and so stylish.  The trick is to find a pair that actually hit the ankle and that hug the ankle.  White House Black Market offers some very comfortable Jeggings that are not too tight and have the stretch that will give you comfort all day long and conservative pockets in the back.  A pair of dark, light weight trouser denims are so practical, as well.  And don’t forget a denim vest to punch up an outfit.  Note: the rage in California is a denim jacket with a black maxi dress, simple but classic comfort.

Pops of color will brighten up your day and keep the student’s attention on you.  Choose  a red/pink, coral skinny belt to put over your favorite Tee or blouse.  Bring the color pop into your shoes.  Don’t be afraid to give your feet the spot light.  Keep the color coming with some chunky jewelry to have that put together look.  Big for the fall is emerald green and magenta.  Some popular color combos include cobalt blue paired with black, steel grey and yellow, dark brown and black.  

Have fun with the top that you pair with your pants.  I love polka dots, rolled up sleeves, geometric patterns, the peplum look, and comfy cotton Tees.   Most of my tops are cotton knit to add comfort.  Vince Camuto has become one of my favorite designers of late.  His bold colorful top design, featured in the video, gives me a lot of color options for pairing.  Liz Claiborne created the cotton, roll up sleeve blouse with the pretty buttons.  I liked it so much I decided to get a black one as well.  Old Navy provided the  polka dot shirt, which will be a main stay for that fun Friday look.    

The classic black dress is a must.  The sleeveless black dress worn in the video was a Black and White store find.  I also found a mid calf knit black dress at the Gap that I have worn so many times this summer and will be a go to dress for school.  In recent years, my closet basket is full of colorful scarves that punch up the black dress.  I believe this caveat: One can never have too many white tops/blouses!  AND LBD’s  in every length keeps us on top of the fashion game.   

Where do you shop for your school clothes?  These stores came through for me.  Goodwill can be overwhelming for some, but if you have the time and you want to treasure hunt, give it a try.  Start with a vision of beautiful jewelry, fun scarves, a sweater, and with a positive attitude; you will find treasures on the cheap.  JCP really came through for me this week.  I found pants, shoes, tops, accessories at JCPenny.  When all else fails, I always have luck at White House Black Market.  Their clothes are so well made and have classic style with comfort.  Old Navy had a couple of shirts that worked and unfortunately Macy’s pants were not long enough, but I found a pretty black and white skirt.  This rounds out the stores that helped me put the outfits together.

Enjoy your back to school shopping extravaganza!  

Make sure to subscribe to my teaching Youtube Channel so you get an update when a new video is posted.  Off to pick up Mr. Winemaker's family from the airport.  All the way from New Jersey!  Can't wait to see them and have a fun week.  What are you up to?  OH!  And instagram me pics of your teacher outfits.  Be sure to tag me @shesparkletv and #teacherfashion.  I love to see your teacher looks!  

                                        

Part 3 Teacher Survival Guide Post on Navigating School Politics, AND Teacher Pay Teacher Linky!

PART 3: New Teacher Survival Guide Series

Click HERE for Part 1

Click HERE for Part 2

How To: Navigate School Politics


Yes, you will find love, appreciation, and respect in your teaching profession.   Most students will give you all three, which will sustain you and bolster your resiliency.  To find and nurture love, appreciation and respect with your principal, colleagues and parents is often a trickier proposition. There are some cautionary maneuvers that are necessary during the first couple of years of teaching that will serve you well.  Faculty meetings, conversations with the principal,  relationship building with colleagues and parents are deemed the cautionary zones.  Always tap into your incredible intuition as you go about your business of the day.  More than likely if you follow your intuition all will be good. But when your intuition does not kick in or there is a full moon the following helpful tips will serve as a life vest in those choppy waters of politics.  

Your relationship with your principal is a keen consideration when looking for love, appreciation and respect.  During faculty meetings generally keep your mouth shut, especially if there is a heated topic.  This axiom holds true for the first couple of years when you are walking the tight rope of tenure.  When there is break out time for collaboration at table groups during a meeting, your input can be mashed with other comments and your voice can be discreetly heard.  Often you will have several questions after a faculty meeting; it is better to write those questions down and seek out a colleague who will provide the answers.  Usually there is a senior colleague who will dominate the meeting with comments and questions.  Let this person run the gauntlet, and you will stay safe.

What about the day to day interactions with the principal?  Note: safe and productive conversations with the principal have some boundaries as well.  The administration offices/office is a cautionary zone.   There are certain times when you will know without a doubt that a visit to the principal’s office is mandatory.  Some let’s-get-to-the-principal’s-office incidents would include a destructive student bully, a parent abusing his/her child, or signs of child neglect by parents.  However, generally you will not be visiting the principal’s office frequently; instead a low profile is advised.  When you do pop your head in give a brief update on something remarkable, awesome and fabulous that happened in your classroom that day.  This communication provides a nice, celebratory break for the principal.  Whenever you are grateful for something the principal has done to make your life easier, then a smile and a thank you goes a long way in building a solid relationship. 

Next, you need to consider your interactions with parents.  Relationships with parents are built slowly!  Do not fall into the trap of telling a parent your life story; it is better to keep a professional relationship.  A parent on a field trip may send out a message that he/she wants to be your good friend; this is a cautionary zone!  Yes, you will tell parents at back to school night some tidbits about your background, but use your good intuition or ask a colleague when in doubt about how much to share.  Never, let on that you have had very little experience teaching or  experience with a grade level.  Remember you have several years of experience acquiring your credential which qualifies you to teach several grades and your student teaching COUNTS!  Your relationship with parents is nurtured through parent conferences, newsletters, and friendly calls home to tell them about how wonderful Johnny was at school  today.  Parents are your support.  Parents are on your team to ensure that their child succeeds. Answer parent emails promptly.  Read your emails to parents two times before sending them off.  If upset about an email, better to wait a day before responding.  These tips will keep you in the happy zone.

Your happy zone is also dependent on your relationship with colleagues.  The politics around colleague relationships is a grey zone, which means exceptions exist. So these cautionary tips will help you determine possible red flags along the way.  Again, build your relationships with fellow teachers slowly, no life dump during an introductory conversation.  If you notice the colleague is a habitual gossip, but also hysterical and smart.  Proceed with caution.  Enjoy the jokes, but keep the relationship professional until you can be sure she/he has your back.  Avoid gossip at all cost, and in particular comments to colleagues about the principal.  The first few years of teaching are intense  emotionally and physically; you are vulnerable and often fragile.  Choosing the right colleague with whom to confide is part of the cautionary zone.  Better to confide with a best friend outside of your work during the first few months on the job.  Eventually, just one trusting colleague will make your journey easier.  Pick that person with care.

Each year the politic game gets easier.  You will know all the MOVES!  

Last but NOT Least!!!!  A new video! Be sure to watch and then join the linky. 

Curriculum Maps and Part 2 of the Teacher Survival Guide Series

PART 2: New Teacher Survival Guide Series

Click HERE for Part 1

Summer thoughts about teaching usually include ideas about classroom management systems and procedures.  A month before school starts you are hoping for the perfectly well behaved students that will hang on your every word, laugh at all your jokes and eagerly raise their hand to contribute.  But reality dictates that every teacher needs a bag of discipline tricks when things go awry.  Having reference books on discipline is helpful.  Instituting consistent prevention measures will delay issues.  And also, vowing to partner with parents, which is the cement that provides a foundation for effective discipline.  These are just a few get-you-started ideas that will ease your mind for the fall back to school kick-off.

To begin, explore classroom management advice from an expert.  Check out some of these favorite reference books on classroom management:    

1. Discipline with Dignity  --New Challenges, New Solutions  3rd edition 

        by Richard L. Curwin, Allen N. Mendler and Brian D. Mendler

     2. Conscious Classroom Management  by Rick Smith

     3. Tools for Teaching by Fred Jones

     4. The Well-Managed Classroom by Harry Wong

   

For grades 5 and up, I would recommend Rick Smith’s book Conscious Classroom Management.  Each of these books has a good track record of providing practical, workable suggestions.  

Yes, some veteran teachers will advise that a teacher should not smile for the first month of school as the way to assert a no nonsense classroom. But that is not going to serve you well.  Instead, rely on these techniques: build trust with your students, get to know your students, lead by example, emphasize student affirmations , build a sense of community, provide a student friendly classroom that allows students to take more control of their environment, teach students how to work cooperatively with one another, build on student’s strong talents (Howard Gardner’s 7 intelligences), create lessons that are connected to the real world, scaffold lessons for mastery, hang new ideas on student’s prior knowledge to increase confidence and understanding, decide three classroom rules or norms that are emphasized, look for students that are doing what is expected and give them praise, use proximity (standing near a student) to discourage misbehavior.   Decide which idea you would like to develop in more depth and use your colleagues and reference books to launch your program.

Don’t under estimate the importance of communication with parents.  Parents who are given a clear picture of a teacher’s expectations and a window into what is happening in the classroom on a weekly/ monthly basis are more likely to support you when a  classroom behavior issue surfaces.   A newsletter to parents is money in the bank for a teacher, and here are a few more sure fire ways to get parents on your side: email parents when students are doing well, choose a student who is struggling to meet expectations and give him/her five minutes of one on one time with you for a week or more then share some of the positive interactions with the parent.  Schedule a parent conference when you sense you need more information about a student who is acting out.  Parents will sense that you truly care and help you build a plan. 

Stay tuned for more Teacher Survival guide posts to come!!!

Hello sweet teacher friends!  How is summer treating you?  The weather cooled off quite a bit this past week and I am loving the 80 degree temps as opposed to 100+! I took full advantage of the cooler weather and spent a week on house organization.  Check out my before and after bathroom video below.  Do you have any home projects you are working on this summer?

Then I spent three days in my classroom.  Mission:  Jump in and get work done before the custodians start the yearly carpet cleaning.  Oh the purging!  Oh the dust!  Oh the HORRER!  Ok... maybe that is a bit dramatic but STILL!!!! I feel great about all I got done.  Now I can focus on curriculum planning.

Have you entered my Erin Condren $25 gift certificate giveaway?  You still have time!  Click HERE to enter! 

I just uploaded a new video on my Sprinkle Teaching Magic You Tube Channel.  This video is all about Curriculum Maps.  Summer is the perfect time to plan a lunch date with colleagues and create/ revamp curriculum maps.  I design my curriculum maps using Power Point.  This video gives you a taste of how curriculum maps work best for me! Do you use a curriculum map?  Let's collaborate.  Leave me a comment with your curriculum map tips and tricks.

Thank you for stopping by Sprinkle Teaching Magic!  What are you up to this week?  My childhood friend from first grade is visiting today!  Can't wait for some girly time.  Cheers!  

New Teacher Survival Guide Series and Tackling Our Storage Units

If you are one of the excited teachers coming on board in 2013/2014 school year, there are a few things that will ensure success. Beginning in this post, I will give some key ideas about how to mentally and emotionally build the foundation to keep you self- assured as you head into the new school year. Here are some key ingredients to ensure a successful start to the school year. Later posts will include more information about each essential ingredient. 

Please let me know if this list was helpful in the comments below.  Stay tuned for more New Teacher Survival Guide Series Posts!

New teaching video where I discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of a teacher's storage unit!



If you like, check out what I have been up to this summer! More video diaries to come soon on my personal YouTube channel Shesparkletv.

Power To The Pink Slipped!

Pink conjures up such happy memories for me.  As a little girl everything had to be pink; pink clothes, pink bedroom, pink My Little Ponies, and pink hearts on everything!  Not much has changed.  Even now, I choose pink for my toes, pink salmon to eat, pink bubble gum to smack loudly, and everywhere you turn in my classroom you see pink!  All this being considered, I find it quite unfortunate that lay off notices, which I receive year after year, are called “pink slips.” Why not Puke Green Slips?  Or Black Slips?  Glow In The Dark Slips?  I guess the color is irrelevant and the bottom line remains the same, year after year; no matter the color, pink slips carry the same upsetting news...You’re laid off!   Even to this day, despite years of pink slip news, the little girl, all dressed in frilly pink that exists deep within my soul, is still very upset upon receiving a pink slip.  Was it me?  Did I do something wrong?  I tried my hardest.  Am I good enough?  Why do the others get to stay and I have to go?  Like being the last picked for teams at recess or rushing to the cafeteria door only to find you got chorus yet AGAIN in the school play.  The news never gets easier to take.  

Whether or not you have been pink slipped, I am sure the pink slip process has touched your life in some way.  Maybe you know a colleague who has gone through the process or will go through the process this year; if you are a parent, maybe your child’s teacher received a pink slip, or maybe it touched a teacher friend you know, or maybe you received a lay off notice.  Regardless, we are all saddened, confused, frustrated, scared, disheartened...the list of words to define this process goes on and on.  My hope is that this blog post causes the word to spread.  What words?  Well, words from a teacher that has been through the process multiple times, words from a teacher who considered leaving the profession, words from a teacher who could have taught next door to you, words from a teacher who decided to stick it out and ride the pink slip wave, words from a teacher who did not succumb to this horrible process, but instead has survived to be an even better, more dedicated colleague and professional.  My words are about hope, solidarity, resilience, courage, and determination.  Spread the word.

Let’s start with some background.  RIF (Reduction in Force) notices, Pink Slips, are always distributed on March 15th in California, according to Ed Code.  This week begins the emotional roller coaster.   “Temporary” teachers may receive a letter explaining that their contract has ended.  Those teachers who were hired as “Probationary” or even tenured teachers will receive RIF notices.    Welcome to the Ides of March!  I have ridden the RIF emotional roller coaster for multiple years, and I know with certainty that this year will be like other years.  Injustice,  emotion, confusion, disillusionment, back stabbing, panic, and a general feeling of anxiety and disappointment is the aftermath of the RIF process.  Teachers, whose moral has been fractured, remain professional and dedicated to their students for THREE long months!  School ends.  Packing boxes arrive. The classroom is packed up; colleagues come by and give goodbye hugs; the principal writes a letter of recommendation.  The job hunt begins.  This past year I secured a new job, grade level, and district a week before school started.  I was lucky.

The RIF process turns my world upside down, but I am comforted by some important lessons I have learned the hard way.  I NO longer: 

*Point fingers

*Take the process personally    

*Define myself as a teacher who can only teach one grade level       

*Define myself by a particular district    

*Think a stigma is associated with being RIF’d

*Expect to understand the process or get a sense that fairness is in the process

*Expect anyone to give me a pity party, comfort me, and miss me when I am gone

*Try to control the situation

Instead I take solace in the following thoughts:

*I went into this profession not because I thought it would be easy or because, contrary to popular belief, teachers get summers off, but I became a teacher to make a positive impact on students.  

*The educational SYSTEM is BROKEN, but I am not!

*I CAN teach any grade, and these experiences will make me a more qualified teacher!  

*Any district will provide opportunities for me.

*No matter where I teach, I will meet fellow educators who inspire me and become new friends.  

*I can update my resume with an additional grade taught and another district. 

*I have my teaching blog to follow me wherever I go!

*Teachers, both past and present, have gone through this process and have stories and wisdom to share.

*I am a highly qualified educator.  A pink slip will never take away my credential or masters in educational administration.  

*The large collection of cards I have saved over the years from parents, students, and colleagues paint a picture of the true educator that I am.

In the past, I told everyone and anyone about the injustices I had seen or experienced.  I thought I was the only one who truly knew the pain of pink slips and resented those who I THOUGHT, had never seen the hardships I had faced.  I was easily riled, and I ranted about topics such as tenure, merit pay, and the general state of education.  The lens I looked through was not a rosy shade of pink, but instead a hazy, harsh shade of red resentment and anger.  My attitude was completely unproductive and slowly ate away at me.  Don’t get me wrong, I would love to bring Barbara Walters, Ellen DeGeneres, Oprah Winfrey, and Matt Lauer together as a power team to do a hard hitting journalism expose on the underbelly of education and dig up all the dirt and shock the American public into action!  Barbara would make everyone cry, Oprah would deliver the hard hitting facts and throw in some cars for laid off teachers, Ellen would use witty jokes and dancing to call the American people to action, and Matt Lauer.... well he would be the eye candy of the operation. Phew, see just talking about that gets me all pumped up!       

But what can I do NOW?  I can focus on the present and lead and educate with a quiet grace that speaks rationally and from experience.  Recently, I started a teaching blog.  For several years I hesitated to create a teaching blog because I thought changing grades would interrupt the flow of the blog.  Then it hit me, why wait for my life to start?  With my blog created, I knew no matter the teaching circumstance, I  sprinkle teaching magic everywhere I go.  Yes, in my 30’s I thought I would have job security, but I am slowly coming to terms with job uncertainty, as it is for most of my generation.   What’s new?

This is my world right now. Am I laid off?  Yes.  Are there people in the world going through harder times than me?  Yes. Do I know the names of the employees at the storage unit I use year after year?  Yes.  Do I hoard packing boxes?  Yes.   Do I get frustrated when people assume I am a young, single female with no children, so I will "bounce back"? Yes, extremely!  Do I worry I will have a job to pay rent, put food in my mouth, and survive emotionally? Yes.  Do I have job nightmares that haunt me the last three months of school and all summer?  Yes. Do I tear up when I  think I will move to a new school and not see my students at my previous schools grow through the grade levels?  Yes.  Do I pout, kick, scream, mope, put on a fake smile, push back the tears, and collect myself?  Yes.  Do I, and will I continue to teach my little heart out day in and day out and make a difference in my students lives?  YES!!!!  And that’s what we do!  Old, young, pink slipped, not pink slipped, parent, friend, colleague, mother, daughter, out of the teaching profession, and in it, we stick together; offering support for one another.  Are you with me?  I hope the answer is yes! Power to the pink slipped!!!!!  Raise awareness.  

Last years boxes.

The pink slips may come and go but this is the heart of teaching.  

A beautiful bouquet given to me by my kinder cuties at recess.  Love. 

These are the slips that matter most!

That's me through the eyes of a second grader.  All dressed in pink with my big earrings!

A slight blurry picture of my first stuffed animal class.

I would love your thoughts and comments!