Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Too Much Togetherness

Today was a TAKS testing day, as it was in all other Texas schools as well. Because I teach in a grade that does not take the test, we were not allowed in the building other than to move in and out for specials and getting lunch (to go back to class and eat).

I have several groups of kids that are pulled out of class throughout the day. I am fortunate to have a very academically and behaviorally challenging group this year. I will admit, the fact that they are pulled out for counseling, math tutoring, reading tutoring, dyslexia classes, and speech does help. It keeps the numbers low in my room and I can actually teach. I know! A teacher that can actually teach, not just maintain order and control all day long.

Well... today I had ALL of my students ALL day long and it was exhausting!!!! They were whining, arguing with each other, and talking nonstop all day. I love my students but it was a bit too much today.

More of the same tomorrow! Woo-Hoo!!

On a more positive note...
One of my students did an adaptation of a book we have been reading in his journal today and it was AMAZING!! I predict wonderful things for this kid. Hopefully he can get his act together behaviorally and accomplish greatness in his lifetime.

** Good luck again tomorrow Texas teachers!

Monday, April 28, 2008

TAKS

Just want to send a big hug and hello to all of the Texas teachers out there doing TAKS this week.

You've done all you can... my fingers are crossed for you and your students!!!

Saturday, April 26, 2008

Tag... You're It

Mr. Teacher tagged me for this a while back. I have not been blogging or reading them lately so I just now noticed. Lots of stuff going on lately. It looks interesting though. I'm not going to tag anyone but would love for some others to post it if they would like.

Rules:
1. Pick up the nearest book
2. Open to page 123
3. Find the fifth sentence
4. Post the next three sentences
5. Tag five people and acknowledge who tagged you.

The closest book to me is a book I am currently reading to my daughter. We read a few pages a night. It's, The New Kid on the Block, poems by Jack Prelutsky. Not too interesting but here goes.

It's hard to fault the Zoosher's taste
(a mushroom belt adorns its waist),
and gaily wrapped about its head
are radishes-some white, some red.
Just why the beast behaves this way
is rather difficult to say,
as here beneath a bush it lies,
with mashed potatoes on its eyes.