Wrapping up the Week

Just reflecting on my past week with my kiddos! My students are getting into their routine and meeting my expectations! They are really doing a fabulous job with everything I put in front of them and I'm super happy with my class this year! I am still being very strict with them but I think they are really starting to know me and the lighter/silly side of me. I'm still feeling like this multi-tasking teacher though: 

This past week we had three birthdays in our class: Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Parents must have been busy in January of that year! I have five kids with birthdays in September. The kids were super excited to take home the birthday bag and eat cupcakes in class.

This week I had my kids bring in family photos. I sent home this letter explaining that I wanted the our classroom to represent their families and feel more like home for my students.

Click here to download this letter for free.

This is how I am displaying their family photos. All of them aren't up just yet but I think they look really nice! Each picture is above that students' cubby.

I also attached these boy/girl signs I've had for a long time above their notebooks. I separated their notebooks into cubbies and wanted to make it easier for them to get them quickly. This was my solution! These notebooks are not kept in their desk because they are used for centers not desk work. I have a readers response journal, poetry journal, and spelling journal. I also have a science journal in their right now because we haven't used those just yet....eventually those will be in their desks.

Speaking of science....I have tons of little scientist who love exploring! This week we have been talking about making observations and sorting objects. We made a anchor chart about what making a good observation looks like and sounds like. We also made another anchor chart about sorting objects by color, size, shape, and texture. I didn't take pictures because we make them together on the SmartBoard and their is too much glare. I'll have to try and figure that out. Anyway I made these observation trays for my kids to observe and sort. They loved this and were so excited when they got to switch trays. They all had magnifying glasses which are totally not necessary but a fun tool to use.

This week I also took some time to catch up on things I like! I started working out with some co-workers and we're doing the T25 workout. It's great because it is only 25 minutes but it's pretty intense. My legs were sore! I also read the Divergent series this week. Yes, I finished two books in one week. These books are amazing! It was such a fast read! I started last Sunday and finished the first one on Friday night. Then I immediately downloaded the next book Insurgent and finished it today. Yes, I am fully aware I'm a book nerd. I love it! Now I'm waiting for the third book to come out October 22. I already pre-order it!

Through all of that I'm getting ready for Open House tomorrow night! Stayed tuned this week  to find out all about how I do Open House! Have a great week!

Meet the Parents

Parent conferences are just around the corner for most teachers. We are slightly (understatement of the year) overwhelmed with bats, spiders, pumpkins, report cards, red ribbon week, character day parade, and parent conferences! So while you're thinking in your head..."yeah I know I've met the parent...I'll just put some stuff together for the student and be fine" take a step back and make sure you are prepared!

So what can you do when you meet those parents for report card conferences?

1. Make them comfortable! I know this seems like a silly one but make them feel welcome in your room. I always sit with my parents side by side for conferences because it feels more like your working together than if you sit in your teachers chair facing them.

2. Be prepared with all data and document. Have a folder ready for each conference filled with student samples, goals, tests, and books they've read. Show them samples and books that their child should be reading by the end of the year and where you want their chid to be academically by the next quarter. 

3. Have a clear plan in mind of goals for both reading and math. Let the parents voice their opinions in what they want their student to accomplish this year as well. Remember it is a partnership and if the parent feels like that they will be more willing to help out! 

4. Explain clearly all state standardized test and teacher lingo. Remember that not everyone has a degree in Education.


5. Make sure you have all special forms such as 504 plans, IEP's, ANI's (Academic Needs Information), and Reading Deficiency  letters ready to update and explain to parents.


Anyone have a any nightmares conferences? I told a parent that her student was below grade level but improving and making progress everyday (you know those kids who just need an extra push to get there....or a little more time). The mom burst out into tears telling me her family problems and how she tires to help him but she is so consumed in everything else going on in her life and she feels like this is her fault. She cried through the whole conference. I had a box of tissues for her and tried to keep the conversation on her child. Parents can be very tough to deal with but put your best foot forward and be super prepared for anything!


Happy Conferencing!

Here are some comments for report card and conferences to help you stay positive! 

Education World's 100 Comments

Fabulous 4th Grade Froggies 

Report Card Comments