My second graders amazed me with their recent project! They used a template I created to write a fun little paragraph introducing themselves. Then, they got creative and designed their very own self-portraits using Microsoft Paint! Putting their writing and artwork together, we made a fantastic hallway display that showcased their hard work and personalities. I'm so impressed with their dedication and talent! 

Get ready to party! My 4th graders teamed up with their math teachers to plan the ultimate "party of the century." To spread the word, we got creative with digital design. Using Canva, the students designed their own invitations, complete with party details and eye-catching graphics. It was amazing to see their imaginations run wild and their design skills blossom. 

After learning about coding at an age appropriate level, all grades participated in  Ozobot activities. Students used color codes to command the ozobot to do certain skills. They created paths at differentiated levels. First and second grades used path puzzles and third and fourth grades used blank paper to create their own path. Students worked collaboratively in groups. 

As a typing activity, first grade students used giant keyboards to match keys to their correct place on the keyboard. Keys on the keyboard were capital and keys on the individual keys were lower case to reinforce literacy skills. 

Students created pixel art by answering correct answers on an assessment. This assessment was self-checking. They knew that the answer was wrong if a pixel didn't appear. Once finished, they had to share the completed picture with me. I created this assessment in a spreadsheet program. 

While studying fables, we produced a large scale "Readers Theatre" play. Each group chose a fable. They created puppets for their characters. Groups took turns presenting their fable to the class. 

During a graphing lesson, we used different colored candies to create our graph. This gave students a real life, hands on example of what we were learning.  Students were excited to use a manipulative and get a sweet treat! 

My first graders collaborated in Social Studies to create a map of our town. They included places that were important to them, their school, and important landmarks.

Technology is engaging! We used a Google Jamboard to create our own, individual maps during Social Studies. 

We learned about engineers and what they do. I challenged my students to build a structure out of toothpicks and gummy bears that could withstand the weight of a composition book. They really enjoyed the opportunity to get creative and rise to the challenge!

I created a Google Jambord that students could use for "virtual manipulatives" as they needed. They liked the convenience of this tool. 

I've built some really wonderful relationships with families over the years. Communication is key. As they say, it takes a village. As a teacher, I believe it's my job to collaborate with parents to create the best educational experience for their child. 

Small groups provide a safe place for differentiated learning. It also provides a time for me to get first hand knowledge about what my students know and what they are absorbing.

Sometimes, you've got to have fun! This is a picture from "Camp Read-a-lot". My students had been working so hard. I created a camp themed classroom for one day only! All activities were camping themed. We sat in our desk tents and used lanterns. They had a blast!