Consolidation

Our city previously had 2 districts, last year they were consolidated into 1. There have been many changes that came along with consolidation. This year they are moving around many Principals and Vice Principals. This change is for the best but will take several years to get use to everything. I am excited to see what the future holds and nervous about more changes!!

New Standards

We were informed the last week of school that next year we will be teaching Common Core Standards. These are like national standards that will be implemented around the United States. Students will not be tested on these standards until 2014, but the K-2 students now, will be those students tested then. So our district decided to go ahead an implement the new standards for K-2 starting the 2012-2013 school year. I had the opportunity to look at the new standards, they seem very overwhelming. The concept of the new standards is to teach the main topics entirely, instead of a little of everything. I agree with the concept, although it will be a big adjustment. We should be use to change, it seems our standards, curriculum, etc... is always changing. At least we will be moving toward something that will benefit our students.

New Classroom

I have been in the same classroom, Room 9 for the past three years. It was my first and only classroom I've ever had. I have gotten use to my room, it was "mine" or so I thought. I found out last week that I will be moving to a new classroom. Not only me, but almost every teacher in my school. As you can imagine, it was pure chaos. The administration decided that each grade level needed to be closer together. To complete this task, we got a new classroom assignment. I will now be located at the end of the 1st grade hallway, along with all the other 2nd grade teachers. This will be a big adjustment because my new classroom is alot smaller than my old classroom. There is also limited storage space. On the plus side, I have carpet in my new room. :) I am sad to leave my old room, but I am excited for the opportunity to redecorate my new room. I have already moved almost all of my stuff to my new room, but I will have to come in throughout the summer to get it organized and ready for the next school year.

Sweet Sweet Summer Time

This week was the last week of school. YAY! We are officially on summer vacation. It is hard to believe that the school year is already over, it went by fast. We have had many fun and exciting days that we will always remember. This was a short week because Monday was Memorial day so there was no school, Tuesday we took the students to the park, Wednesday was our party, and Thursday was just a half day. I hope that my students will read a good book and practice their math facts over the summer so they will be ready for 3rd grade!!!