The new semester begins...

This semester is off to a great start. I am teaching one class with my bestie Hayleigh which is so exciting. It has been awesome to work with her and see what a talented teacher she is. She has the perfect balance of serious, slightly playful, and warm. Our students so far are doing a really great job. It is quite a large class but thankfully we are getting through it together. I can't wait to continue working through out the semester together and learn what I can from her. <3

My other classes are off to a great start as well. I have put into place some new ideas as well as some new books to use with the class including "7 Habits for Highly Effective Teens." I loved the book and am hoping the students will learn to use the strategies as they need them in their life. I also use "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens" which by far is their favorite because I created a worksheet that goes with each one of the headers so we do a small activity after each one. I like both of these books because it makes for great transition from school to work which I am always looking for and it allows for great discussion in class about what they want from their life and how to get there.

The Leap

Comparing and contrasting parts of the atom. A good example of students engaged and learning. Note: the bottom portion is not as effective with learning. 

This past week, my students have been developing powerpoints on specific topics including: air pollution, water pollution, renewable and non renewable resources and solid and hazardous wastes. One of my students googled air pollution and up came a picture of a dog which he initially used in his presentation until I informed him that dogs have very little to do with ozone depletion. Hence, my drawing. (Kids do the strangest things)

I have decided to take a huge leap and apply for my National Board certification. I am excited to begin this journey on evaluating my teaching practices and to prepare myself to reflect on the good, bad and ugly (note dog and ozone depletion comment) of my classroom. I was able to attend a seminar yesterday about the process and I began to become extremely anxious but I know that the outcome of this process will make me a better educator even if the instructions to one portion is 300 pages long. I am relieved that there are 8 other teachers from my school that are slowly easing their way into this process as well. We will be able to support each other along the way.