Slow and Steady Wins the Prize...

The first months of school have come and gone and I finally feel that I am into my school routine. I have dug myself from under the back to school chaos and can walk confidently in the hallways with a plan.

What I have learned from my students recently is that they are too getting into the routine, but they can not walk as confidently. They learned this routine from me, and just because I am ready to forge ahead, they still need me to go at a slow and steady pace to be successful.

With this slow and steady pace...they walk confidently and feel more at ease.

Teacher Appreciation

The beginning of the school year is very exciting for many. I have always loved the first days of school. The new paper, pencils, and folders are so important and come with so many promises and goals.

As a teacher I have received many gifts during the holidays or at the end of the school year. This past school year I had a family who would surprise me on random days with a cup of coffee or with flowers. It was always a kind gesture and always put a smile on my face. During conferences I mentioned my gratitude for the surprises, and quite simply the mother (also an educator) responded, "We want to instill an appreciation for educators in our children." She is right, I felt appreciated by these small gestures throughout the school year. It is always nice to receive a gift during the holidays and as a farewell at the end of the year, but these were extra special, just for me on a day that my student was glad I was her teacher.

So I have made it my personal goal to instill the same in my children. This year we are starting off my favorite time of year with a back to school gift. On a daily run to Target we grabbed a few things from the travel isle for about $1.00 each. Tylenol, hand sanitizer, and a small first aide kit. In addition, we tossed in some vitamin C packets, two water bottles, a box of tissues, and a few apples and oranges. My son wrote on lined notebook paper, "Have a healthy school year!" and VIOLA!~an under twenty dollar back to school gift!

Be thoughtful~

Tara