Blog Posts

Turning Transitions into a Favorite Part of the Day

It all started because I didn't enjoy the transitions that are a part of classroom life. For whatever reason, clapping, chimes, and even silent signals just didn't feel right. So instead, I play music. When the students hear a song they end whatever they are doing and head to the meeting area. I really don't… Continue reading Turning Transitions into a Favorite Part of the Day

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Launching Reading and Writing Workshop with the help of Ekua Holmes

Beginning the year feels BIG to me, and I want it to feel BIG to kids too. To prepare, I reread my notes from a professional development session about deeper learning, and I paused at this list: AntiracistCurious and CreativeAdaptable and CourageousEmpathetic and Equity-MindedAdvocates, Collaborators, and LeadersAbility to Build a Life of Possibility This list… Continue reading Launching Reading and Writing Workshop with the help of Ekua Holmes

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Day 40 Part II – “Now It All Makes Sense. That Is Why It Is Hard.”

On the day before winter break, a student shared with me that school felt hard, and I left for break without a chance to listen (To read part 1, click here.) This comment surprised me, as reading, writing, and math seem easy for him, and I am continually thinking about how to extend his learning.… Continue reading Day 40 Part II – “Now It All Makes Sense. That Is Why It Is Hard.”

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Day 10: The Ups and Downs of Partner Reading in a Socially Distanced Classroom

When I envision partner reading in first grade, I see children sitting side by side holding a book across their laps, joyfully reading together. They point to the parts of the text they love, laugh together, and coach each other as they problem-solve. I know that vision doesn't work with COVID, but I was determined… Continue reading Day 10: The Ups and Downs of Partner Reading in a Socially Distanced Classroom

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Day 4 – A Writing Workshop Tool that Builds Agency and Independence

It is day four of teaching first grade, and one tool enables the kids to be more independent writers - Seesaw. I can't describe how much I love this platform. Right before writing workshop ends, students log into Seesaw. First, they take a photo of what they wrote, and then they read their writing. Now… Continue reading Day 4 – A Writing Workshop Tool that Builds Agency and Independence