We are finally moving back to the farm next weekend! I've been living with Brady's parents ever since starting school in August besides the weekends. It was an interesting and blessed experience. I have a much better appreciation for farm life and the in-laws. Who else can say that they had to live with their in-laws for almost four months? It's given me some insight on what a farm wife needs to be like. It also gave me a chance to show Brady's parents how much their son means to me. They learned A LOT about my life as a teacher, which is something that is hard for many people to understand. I'm hoping that little detour will help us in the future.
Our house in Vermillion is so close to being complete. The unfinished basement now has everything it needs like doors, paint, shower, vanity, carpet, flooring, etc. Brady needs to finish some minor details like installing the vanity downstairs, transition pieces upstairs and the baseboard trim downstairs. We're hoping to list the house the beginning of next week. I'm so excited to finally live with my husband full time. Now we're moving into a house about a quarter of a mile away from his parents' farm.
Two weeks ago, I had a very difficult couple of days at school. One of my students said some very inappropriate comments toward me, which I had to handle in a very calm manner and deal with them. My reading class was being very difficult one day that I couldn't handle it and had to get some other teachers to help. The next day I was so stressed out that I got sick at school and had to take the rest of the day off. Here's a scenario from the next day: My reading class tends to come in after lunch very rowdy. I started them out in the hall in a single line and reviewed what they should do when they came into the classroom-sit down quietly and start "tracking" with their finger. I let them go in. As soon as one student talked (which only took about five seconds), I told them to start back out in the hall. This took the kids SEVEN TRIES. SEVEN! It also wasted about twenty minutes of our ninety minute class. My kids that listen well got very upset at the loud students. One even said, "Mrs. Folck, this isn't fair to the kids that are listening! Why can't you just keep those other kids after school?" I calmly told them that this lesson was about being responsible as a class community. The best part came next. One student turned to another and said, "CAN YOU PLEASE SHUT UP SO WE CAN FINISH THE LESSON?! I DON'T WANT TO STAY AFTER SCHOOL!" The loud student looked at the first with a sneer. He shrugged his shoulders. Eventually, the class calmed down. Many of them were upset that they had to finish their independent work/check out during recess and after school. This past week was so much better BECAUSE of the previous week. We even got our lessons done early every day. Maybe I'll get this fourth grade class to be more responsible......one day at a time.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Another Rez and Being Hitched
Since I've last posted a ton has happened! Brady and I got married in August. We then started work two days after we got married, meaning we had to drive from Indiana to South Dakota all in one day. This year I teach fourth grade. Let's just say they are not nearly as cute as my kinder kids. I only have 13 kids, which doesn't seem like a lot. But, with the attitude they give it feels like a class of at least twenty. Some days I really enjoy teaching fourth grade because of the content. Other days, I want to have my kinder kids back. It's mostly because of the fact that I miss being a mom to the little ones.
The other reservation I now work on seems a lot different than Pine Ridge. It's very different experience for me not living in a community of volunteers. It makes going out into the reservation community more difficult and time consuming when I actually get a chance. The parents have been very welcoming at least. Right now I live with Brady's parents in Bloomfield, NE during the week days since it's only 45 minutes to school. On the weekends I go to Vermillion, SD to be with Brady while he works on the house. This weekend we finished landscaping the front yard and fixed some of the siding on the back of the house. Tomorrow we are going to fix the railings on the front steps and paint the siding. Brady made a massive list that we've got to do before we can even THINK about listing the house to sell. We're hoping that we can move back to Bloomfield at the end of October even if the house doesn't sell right away.
Recently I got to Skype with two of my neighbors/previous students from Pine Ridge. It was the most wonderful feeling to see them all grown up! They are still the curious, ambitious kids that I once knew. It made me feel so good when my friend Chelsea told me that they were so excited to talk with me :) I'm grateful that my old life is still a part of my weekly life. I talked to the first grade teacher from Red Cloud and planned a Friday to come visit with the kids. I can't wait!! Hopefully they will be a little shocked. I'm guessing that I'll probably get mobbed.
Now, onto being a wife. It's been a bit chaotic since Brady and I only see each other on the weekends. Working on the house takes up a lot of our time together, but I'm so grateful that Brady is an excellent handyman. He makes working on projects way more fun. He's always been so supportive and I just need to remember all this hard work will be worth it as long as we can be together.
The other reservation I now work on seems a lot different than Pine Ridge. It's very different experience for me not living in a community of volunteers. It makes going out into the reservation community more difficult and time consuming when I actually get a chance. The parents have been very welcoming at least. Right now I live with Brady's parents in Bloomfield, NE during the week days since it's only 45 minutes to school. On the weekends I go to Vermillion, SD to be with Brady while he works on the house. This weekend we finished landscaping the front yard and fixed some of the siding on the back of the house. Tomorrow we are going to fix the railings on the front steps and paint the siding. Brady made a massive list that we've got to do before we can even THINK about listing the house to sell. We're hoping that we can move back to Bloomfield at the end of October even if the house doesn't sell right away.
Recently I got to Skype with two of my neighbors/previous students from Pine Ridge. It was the most wonderful feeling to see them all grown up! They are still the curious, ambitious kids that I once knew. It made me feel so good when my friend Chelsea told me that they were so excited to talk with me :) I'm grateful that my old life is still a part of my weekly life. I talked to the first grade teacher from Red Cloud and planned a Friday to come visit with the kids. I can't wait!! Hopefully they will be a little shocked. I'm guessing that I'll probably get mobbed.
Now, onto being a wife. It's been a bit chaotic since Brady and I only see each other on the weekends. Working on the house takes up a lot of our time together, but I'm so grateful that Brady is an excellent handyman. He makes working on projects way more fun. He's always been so supportive and I just need to remember all this hard work will be worth it as long as we can be together.
Sunday, May 26, 2013
What Leaving Looks Like
Ran into some old volunteers this weekend and reminisced about last year. That was good. We talked a lot about how God works in mysterious ways. Many had no idea that their life would be completely different this year, me being one of them.
So, kindergarten graduation was rough. I lost my voice and could barely emit a squeak at all. My Assistant Principal gave my speech for me and that proved to be pretty entertaining for everyone. I will miss these kids so much, even though my life with them this year as emotional and crazy. Teaching this class was probably the most rewarding thing I've ever done in my life.
This week I have whats called Kindergarten Roundup. Basically I do some testing with the kids who are trying to get into our kindergarten class for next year. There are only 20 spots in the class and about 40 kids get tested to get into the spots. It's very intense since this is a private school. This year though it's strange for me, because I won't have these kids next year. It is one of the things about being a volunteer that is extremely difficult-this whole leaving process. I know that I'm leaving but I'm in denial. I backed up some things in my classroom that I plan on taking with me, but it's all so strange. I won't be in the same classroom, let alone the same school. A whole new grade beckons which I am absolutely not prepared for.
Friday I got in a discussion with a fourth grader about why I'm not coming back next year.
Beau-"Oh yeah, you're getting married. Guess that's important. Wait, why can't he move his farm out here?"
Me- "Well, it doesn't quite work that way..."
Beau- *Getting all excited*, "You can teach the new kindergarten class, he can farm here, and I can move up to fifth grade. See! It all works and we can all be happy! I don't want you to be out of our lives Miss Abby, just like my kindergarten teacher and my second grade teacher."
The sad part about this conversation is that he already knows that more volunteer teachers will come in and out of his life. Even worse is the fact that by the time he's a senior, he will have had at least ten volunteer teachers that leave while he attends to this particular school. Although being a volunteer is amazingly wonderful, it also has a rough affect on the students. I'm hoping that after my departure that I'm not "just another volunteer to them". I've started to say my goodbyes to the first through fourth graders and each one gets harder to deal with. Last week, my old class (now first graders) and my current class gave me a set of placements that they had each written messages on and laminated. I absolutely loved this gift because I can actually use it next year!!! Honestly, I've cried alot the last three weeks. I don't want to leave this this beautiful place and these inspiring kids. Everybody keeps telling me that I shouldn't be sad because I have so much to look forward too. Yes, I get that. I have a wonderful man that I get to spend the rest of my life with and a new job that will challenge me in multiple ways. This new life is exciting and I feel so blessed. At the end of the day though, I feel so glad that I've gotten this experience out in Pine Ridge. While I may not be ready to move on, I know that their lives will go on and my students will become older, ready to conquer the world. But, I want to freeze these shots of them in my mind. They are perfect.
So, kindergarten graduation was rough. I lost my voice and could barely emit a squeak at all. My Assistant Principal gave my speech for me and that proved to be pretty entertaining for everyone. I will miss these kids so much, even though my life with them this year as emotional and crazy. Teaching this class was probably the most rewarding thing I've ever done in my life.
This week I have whats called Kindergarten Roundup. Basically I do some testing with the kids who are trying to get into our kindergarten class for next year. There are only 20 spots in the class and about 40 kids get tested to get into the spots. It's very intense since this is a private school. This year though it's strange for me, because I won't have these kids next year. It is one of the things about being a volunteer that is extremely difficult-this whole leaving process. I know that I'm leaving but I'm in denial. I backed up some things in my classroom that I plan on taking with me, but it's all so strange. I won't be in the same classroom, let alone the same school. A whole new grade beckons which I am absolutely not prepared for.
Friday I got in a discussion with a fourth grader about why I'm not coming back next year.
Beau-"Oh yeah, you're getting married. Guess that's important. Wait, why can't he move his farm out here?"
Me- "Well, it doesn't quite work that way..."
Beau- *Getting all excited*, "You can teach the new kindergarten class, he can farm here, and I can move up to fifth grade. See! It all works and we can all be happy! I don't want you to be out of our lives Miss Abby, just like my kindergarten teacher and my second grade teacher."
The sad part about this conversation is that he already knows that more volunteer teachers will come in and out of his life. Even worse is the fact that by the time he's a senior, he will have had at least ten volunteer teachers that leave while he attends to this particular school. Although being a volunteer is amazingly wonderful, it also has a rough affect on the students. I'm hoping that after my departure that I'm not "just another volunteer to them". I've started to say my goodbyes to the first through fourth graders and each one gets harder to deal with. Last week, my old class (now first graders) and my current class gave me a set of placements that they had each written messages on and laminated. I absolutely loved this gift because I can actually use it next year!!! Honestly, I've cried alot the last three weeks. I don't want to leave this this beautiful place and these inspiring kids. Everybody keeps telling me that I shouldn't be sad because I have so much to look forward too. Yes, I get that. I have a wonderful man that I get to spend the rest of my life with and a new job that will challenge me in multiple ways. This new life is exciting and I feel so blessed. At the end of the day though, I feel so glad that I've gotten this experience out in Pine Ridge. While I may not be ready to move on, I know that their lives will go on and my students will become older, ready to conquer the world. But, I want to freeze these shots of them in my mind. They are perfect.
Monday, May 6, 2013
The End of the Kindergarten Saga
My second year of teaching kindergarten is almost done! My kids have come so far. Looking back at previous posts from February and March help me realize how lucky I've been this year. They went from angry and aggressive five year olds to motivated young individuals who will become the future leaders of Pine Ridge. It's stunning to see where they are at now. They really have developed into a team who looks out for one another.
Funny story
We have a giant concrete dinosaur on our playground. A lot of my kids used to climb up on his back by using a hole in his knee. Well, that was repaired, finally and the class was too little to get out without help. I look over to see one student on his hands and knees while another child stepped onto his back to heave himself onto the dinosaur. The child on the ground let four more kids use his back to get on. This was a child that used to throw things around the classroom and hit other kids every day in the beginning of the year. I love that he has blossomed into a compassionate child and who looks out for the younger kids in the class.
In other news besides the classroom
This Friday I had an interview at a school in Santee, SD which is a reservation near where Brady is from. I got a job offer to teach fourth grade there next year! Here was my thought process: " Well, I would rather have gotten the kindergarten position but it's a real salaried job!!! With great health insurance!!!! AHHHHH FOURTH GRADE!" See, here's what makes me nervous. I've only taught kindergarten the last two years and student taught in second grade. Fourth graders are completely different. They are way more independent but the content level is waaaaayyy higher (as it should be). I wouldn't have to tie shoes or deal with kids peeing their pants, but I would have to deal with hormonal children and lots of girl drama. The class only has twelve kids in it which is awesome though! So, overall I'm really excited and super nervous. Brady and I have a crazy amount of life stuff to figure out-when to move back to the farm, finishing his current house, a few wedding things, getting me a car, insurance, etc. Being an adult is scary and expensive by the way. I have so much stuff to figure out! At this point the wedding will be way easier to handle :)
Funny story
We have a giant concrete dinosaur on our playground. A lot of my kids used to climb up on his back by using a hole in his knee. Well, that was repaired, finally and the class was too little to get out without help. I look over to see one student on his hands and knees while another child stepped onto his back to heave himself onto the dinosaur. The child on the ground let four more kids use his back to get on. This was a child that used to throw things around the classroom and hit other kids every day in the beginning of the year. I love that he has blossomed into a compassionate child and who looks out for the younger kids in the class.
In other news besides the classroom
This Friday I had an interview at a school in Santee, SD which is a reservation near where Brady is from. I got a job offer to teach fourth grade there next year! Here was my thought process: " Well, I would rather have gotten the kindergarten position but it's a real salaried job!!! With great health insurance!!!! AHHHHH FOURTH GRADE!" See, here's what makes me nervous. I've only taught kindergarten the last two years and student taught in second grade. Fourth graders are completely different. They are way more independent but the content level is waaaaayyy higher (as it should be). I wouldn't have to tie shoes or deal with kids peeing their pants, but I would have to deal with hormonal children and lots of girl drama. The class only has twelve kids in it which is awesome though! So, overall I'm really excited and super nervous. Brady and I have a crazy amount of life stuff to figure out-when to move back to the farm, finishing his current house, a few wedding things, getting me a car, insurance, etc. Being an adult is scary and expensive by the way. I have so much stuff to figure out! At this point the wedding will be way easier to handle :)
Sunday, March 3, 2013
What Learning Looks Like
Just thinking about the title of this post makes my heart so happy.
This was my Friday: One of my students, RF was having a fantastic day. He used to have a lot of displaced anger that he would take out on the other students and teachers. This child has turned into one of my favorites this year, oddly enough. During station time, he went over to every single child in our class (16 kids) and gave them a hug. Not his usual "I'm going to try and squeeze you to death" hug, but a "I'm a normal, happy go lucky six year old". I watched and my jaw dropped. I started laughing with joy and one of the other kids after seeing my reaction said, "Miss Abby are you crying again," to which I responded with "Nope, I'm really happy." It seriously made my whole week to see a child come from such an angry place to one filled with so much happiness.
Another neat moment of the day happened during my reading station. One of my students, JC, will be retained because she is academically very low compared to the rest of the class. I gave her a worksheet to work on that had four problems on it. Each one had a picture on top and then two words to pick from. Her job was to sound out the word and circle the correct one. She did the whole thing by herself without asking for help!!!! I was so shocked that I probably didn't breathe for that whole minute. She talked to herself like this, "Okay, it's a picture of a bag. B-A-G, bag. Starts with B and ends with G. Next one. It's a picture of a pin, P-I-N, pin. Next one. Goat, G-O-T. Goat. Wait, nothing starts with G, uh huh. Try again. Ram, R-A-M. Got it!" I almost said, "Hell yah!" out loud but luckily I caught myself. Even thinking about this moment makes me smile so big.
Thank goodness for these kids.
This was my Friday: One of my students, RF was having a fantastic day. He used to have a lot of displaced anger that he would take out on the other students and teachers. This child has turned into one of my favorites this year, oddly enough. During station time, he went over to every single child in our class (16 kids) and gave them a hug. Not his usual "I'm going to try and squeeze you to death" hug, but a "I'm a normal, happy go lucky six year old". I watched and my jaw dropped. I started laughing with joy and one of the other kids after seeing my reaction said, "Miss Abby are you crying again," to which I responded with "Nope, I'm really happy." It seriously made my whole week to see a child come from such an angry place to one filled with so much happiness.
Another neat moment of the day happened during my reading station. One of my students, JC, will be retained because she is academically very low compared to the rest of the class. I gave her a worksheet to work on that had four problems on it. Each one had a picture on top and then two words to pick from. Her job was to sound out the word and circle the correct one. She did the whole thing by herself without asking for help!!!! I was so shocked that I probably didn't breathe for that whole minute. She talked to herself like this, "Okay, it's a picture of a bag. B-A-G, bag. Starts with B and ends with G. Next one. It's a picture of a pin, P-I-N, pin. Next one. Goat, G-O-T. Goat. Wait, nothing starts with G, uh huh. Try again. Ram, R-A-M. Got it!" I almost said, "Hell yah!" out loud but luckily I caught myself. Even thinking about this moment makes me smile so big.
Thank goodness for these kids.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Second Year
It has been almost eight months since I've last posted. Way too many days ago.
This year out at Pine Ridge has been very different than last year. I'm a second year teacher, thank God! I have plans to rely on from last year and that has been so beneficial. My class this year has ten boys and seven girls compared to seven boys last year and thirteen girls. More girls=more drama while more boys=more fights/what appear to look like bar brawls almost. I've never witnessed a more active and violent group of five year olds in my life. August through December was a whirlwind of emotions and complete chaos. You never knew what they would do. I've seen students backhand others in the face, children throwing chairs around the classroom,and children hit multiple teachers. Yep, just another day in kindergarten apparently. A few of my students have very difficult home lives. Most have great support at home where they are disciplined and taught respect.
Although,
The beginning of January my students showed me how far they had come. They finally understood that they had to take care of each other as a class. Then, I got a new student from a public school. Any new student at our school comes on a thirty day trial basis. When he came, he started to act out just like his mother said might happen. The last two weeks he has become extremely aggressive and refuses to do transitions, like going to lunch or PE. I have had to physically pick him up several times and move him to different rooms. On Friday, he refused to do another transition. He began throwing things around the classroom. I had my aide take the rest of my class on a bathroom break so that they didn't get hurt. At that I removed the student from the classroom and took him to the office. Once my class got back from the break, they all went back to sit in their carpet squares. Two students got up and starting cleaning up the giant mess which was spread across my entire. Here's the thing-I never asked them to do that. My aide and I sat in complete silence. All the sudden, the other fourteen students got up in unison and cleaned up the mess without a word. I sat in my rocking chair and started to cry. This simple action was a huge milestone for my class and amazingly beautiful to watch. They got what I've been trying to teach them all year long-work as a team and be kind to others. After they finished and sat down one of my little boys said, "Miss Abby we don't want you to cry anymore,". I attempted to explain to them that they were tears of joy and that my little ones were growing up into such responsible kids which made me happy. Even thinking about it now I can feel a smile coming to my face :)
In other news,
I got engaged in November to Brady and couldn't be happier. He is the most consistent, hard working, and loving man that I've ever dated. I feel so blessed to have him in my life and wish I told him that more. We're getting married August 3rd in Valpo, IN where I grew up. When I went home over break, we pretty much planned the whole wedding. We only have a few things left to do like finish decoration plans, deal with the flowers, and send out invitations. People kept telling me it would be stressful, but honestly it hasn't been too bad. Part of it might be because I feel so much more content in my community as a second year and now know how to blend facets of my life together. Truthfully some days it is very difficult to be in a long distance relationship out here. It's mostly because I feel like I'm living two very different lives-being a young volunteer out on the Rez and almost being married. I feel so old!
Another big blessing this year has been the Pourier family. I had one of the kids, Precious, as my student last year and she will be my flower girl at the wedding. I'm extremely close and attached to her family. They are my family out here who I visit at least once a week. Whenever I go to their house it's always crazy, but I absolutely love that about them. One of the three girls will play with my hair after dinner as we watch a movie. They call it "Miss Abby Salon Time" from what I've heard. Precious's grandmother's name is Alice. She is from Santee, a reservation near where Brady lives. In fact, whenever I go to Vermillion, Alice comes with me and I drop her off with her sisters. If you can't tell, I could talk about them forever. They have kept me sane during my difficult and chaotic school year.
During our volunteer retreat this past weekend I thought a lot about the double life that I lead. I've already started to miss Red Cloud even though the school year isn't over. Today my kids and I got into a discussion about Brady coming to visit next week. Here are some favorite quotes:
Jhonna-"So, when Mr. Brady comes, will he bring you your baby?"
Me- "Umm, no. We don't have a baby."
Jhonna-"Are you sure?"
Me- "Yep. I haven't popped one out."
Jhonna- "When you come back next year can you bring it? Please?"
Kingston-"Is Mr. Brady a dog?"
Me- "No. I can't marry a dog."
Kingston- "Oh ya, I forgot. Silly me!"
C Tuff-"When Mr. Brady comes will he hold your hand?"
Me- "I can't hold his hand at school."
C Tuff-"Good. That's my hand. I'll fight him for it."
And that is why I love kindergarten.
This year out at Pine Ridge has been very different than last year. I'm a second year teacher, thank God! I have plans to rely on from last year and that has been so beneficial. My class this year has ten boys and seven girls compared to seven boys last year and thirteen girls. More girls=more drama while more boys=more fights/what appear to look like bar brawls almost. I've never witnessed a more active and violent group of five year olds in my life. August through December was a whirlwind of emotions and complete chaos. You never knew what they would do. I've seen students backhand others in the face, children throwing chairs around the classroom,and children hit multiple teachers. Yep, just another day in kindergarten apparently. A few of my students have very difficult home lives. Most have great support at home where they are disciplined and taught respect.
Although,
The beginning of January my students showed me how far they had come. They finally understood that they had to take care of each other as a class. Then, I got a new student from a public school. Any new student at our school comes on a thirty day trial basis. When he came, he started to act out just like his mother said might happen. The last two weeks he has become extremely aggressive and refuses to do transitions, like going to lunch or PE. I have had to physically pick him up several times and move him to different rooms. On Friday, he refused to do another transition. He began throwing things around the classroom. I had my aide take the rest of my class on a bathroom break so that they didn't get hurt. At that I removed the student from the classroom and took him to the office. Once my class got back from the break, they all went back to sit in their carpet squares. Two students got up and starting cleaning up the giant mess which was spread across my entire. Here's the thing-I never asked them to do that. My aide and I sat in complete silence. All the sudden, the other fourteen students got up in unison and cleaned up the mess without a word. I sat in my rocking chair and started to cry. This simple action was a huge milestone for my class and amazingly beautiful to watch. They got what I've been trying to teach them all year long-work as a team and be kind to others. After they finished and sat down one of my little boys said, "Miss Abby we don't want you to cry anymore,". I attempted to explain to them that they were tears of joy and that my little ones were growing up into such responsible kids which made me happy. Even thinking about it now I can feel a smile coming to my face :)
In other news,
I got engaged in November to Brady and couldn't be happier. He is the most consistent, hard working, and loving man that I've ever dated. I feel so blessed to have him in my life and wish I told him that more. We're getting married August 3rd in Valpo, IN where I grew up. When I went home over break, we pretty much planned the whole wedding. We only have a few things left to do like finish decoration plans, deal with the flowers, and send out invitations. People kept telling me it would be stressful, but honestly it hasn't been too bad. Part of it might be because I feel so much more content in my community as a second year and now know how to blend facets of my life together. Truthfully some days it is very difficult to be in a long distance relationship out here. It's mostly because I feel like I'm living two very different lives-being a young volunteer out on the Rez and almost being married. I feel so old!
Another big blessing this year has been the Pourier family. I had one of the kids, Precious, as my student last year and she will be my flower girl at the wedding. I'm extremely close and attached to her family. They are my family out here who I visit at least once a week. Whenever I go to their house it's always crazy, but I absolutely love that about them. One of the three girls will play with my hair after dinner as we watch a movie. They call it "Miss Abby Salon Time" from what I've heard. Precious's grandmother's name is Alice. She is from Santee, a reservation near where Brady lives. In fact, whenever I go to Vermillion, Alice comes with me and I drop her off with her sisters. If you can't tell, I could talk about them forever. They have kept me sane during my difficult and chaotic school year.
During our volunteer retreat this past weekend I thought a lot about the double life that I lead. I've already started to miss Red Cloud even though the school year isn't over. Today my kids and I got into a discussion about Brady coming to visit next week. Here are some favorite quotes:
Jhonna-"So, when Mr. Brady comes, will he bring you your baby?"
Me- "Umm, no. We don't have a baby."
Jhonna-"Are you sure?"
Me- "Yep. I haven't popped one out."
Jhonna- "When you come back next year can you bring it? Please?"
Kingston-"Is Mr. Brady a dog?"
Me- "No. I can't marry a dog."
Kingston- "Oh ya, I forgot. Silly me!"
C Tuff-"When Mr. Brady comes will he hold your hand?"
Me- "I can't hold his hand at school."
C Tuff-"Good. That's my hand. I'll fight him for it."
And that is why I love kindergarten.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Summer 2012
Summer school is halfway over. I have 12 first graders and 1 second grader in my class. They are pretty amazing. Not as responsible as and independent as I thought that they might be. But, the neat thing is that summer school is a really awesome version of learning. We have a solid "learning" academic block in the morning, and then rotate through different stations in the afternoon. I'm doing a science activity each afternoon. Mondays-Wednesdays we have those activities and then Thursday we either do a whole group activity for two hours or watch a Disney movie :) On Friday we go on a fieldtrip. Talk about the best summer teaching ever, right?
One of my biggest highlights has been getting to know the other two classroom teachers out there. Sister Rita (yes, a nun) teaches the 2nd/3rd/4th class. She hais such a beautiful soul and has taught for over 30 years out here. Sister Rita is one of the funniest and most creative teachers I've ever met especially being an older teacher. Never thought I'd be friends with a nun, truthfully.
Brian teaches the 4th/5th/6th class. He was a volunteer at 0LL for three years and is now a salaried teacher there. Some how even then he is strict with the kids, he really makes them laugh.
This week I've gotten to hang out with my student Precious's grandma, Alice and Precious's dad, C-Boy to go to a sweat and a ceremony with them. My friend Claire got to come with me to this time. I hadn't been to a sweat or ceremony in so long and it felt so good to be back there. Yesterday we went to Sundance. Sundance is a traditional Lakota ceremony that lasts four days where people pledge to dance. Some men and women are pierced. There is a lot more that goes into it but I don't necessarily feel comfortable explaining it. Most medicine men each host one sometime throughout the summer if they feel a call to do so. Our students's parent, Rosa, pledged to dance for the first time this summer and invited to come see her. The whole experience was one of the most amazing things I'll ever see in my life, guaranteed. The ceremony was beautiful and one of the Red Cloud 5th graders was dancing in it. At the end of each day, the dancers do a particular dance. Then, the people who are there to support them go in the main circle. All of the dancers come by with either eagle feathers, a piece pipe or some just who use their hands for this part. They touch the spectators with those objects on the shoulder or on the head. It is a very humbling experience to be a part of the ceremony and something that I will never forget.
I love South Dakota. I love giant storms out in the Badlands. I love my students and their families. I love feeling like I'm finally making a difference with my actions out here. I love feeling like I've found a family out here even though my actual family is so far away. I love knowing I have at least one more year here.
One of my biggest highlights has been getting to know the other two classroom teachers out there. Sister Rita (yes, a nun) teaches the 2nd/3rd/4th class. She hais such a beautiful soul and has taught for over 30 years out here. Sister Rita is one of the funniest and most creative teachers I've ever met especially being an older teacher. Never thought I'd be friends with a nun, truthfully.
Brian teaches the 4th/5th/6th class. He was a volunteer at 0LL for three years and is now a salaried teacher there. Some how even then he is strict with the kids, he really makes them laugh.
This week I've gotten to hang out with my student Precious's grandma, Alice and Precious's dad, C-Boy to go to a sweat and a ceremony with them. My friend Claire got to come with me to this time. I hadn't been to a sweat or ceremony in so long and it felt so good to be back there. Yesterday we went to Sundance. Sundance is a traditional Lakota ceremony that lasts four days where people pledge to dance. Some men and women are pierced. There is a lot more that goes into it but I don't necessarily feel comfortable explaining it. Most medicine men each host one sometime throughout the summer if they feel a call to do so. Our students's parent, Rosa, pledged to dance for the first time this summer and invited to come see her. The whole experience was one of the most amazing things I'll ever see in my life, guaranteed. The ceremony was beautiful and one of the Red Cloud 5th graders was dancing in it. At the end of each day, the dancers do a particular dance. Then, the people who are there to support them go in the main circle. All of the dancers come by with either eagle feathers, a piece pipe or some just who use their hands for this part. They touch the spectators with those objects on the shoulder or on the head. It is a very humbling experience to be a part of the ceremony and something that I will never forget.
I love South Dakota. I love giant storms out in the Badlands. I love my students and their families. I love feeling like I'm finally making a difference with my actions out here. I love feeling like I've found a family out here even though my actual family is so far away. I love knowing I have at least one more year here.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
It's Almost Summer Time
Sometimes it feels like I've been here in South Dakota for ten years even though I've only been here for 11 months. Sometimes it feels like I've been dating Brady for ten years even though we've only known each other since January. Sometimes I really like both of those feelings.
I'm officially done with my first year of teaching besides kindergarten round up! This is when the new students come in to get tested for next fall and try to make it into Red Cloud. It's crazy. I have about 36 kids trying to get into 18 spots. The parents so far have been great and it makes me feel like staying for a second year will make such a big difference since I have a real year of teaching under my belt. I know what to expect, thank God.
This summer I'm teaching first/second grade during summer school at our sister school at Our Lady of Lourdes. While I'm sad that I don't get to be with the kids that I know so well, I'm really pumped to get to have older kids for a month. Don't get me wrong I love kindergarten but it's nice to have kids that are responsible. Have to say though, I do miss second grade from time to time.
In other news:
I've grown really close to several of my students' families this semester especially. They've talked me in as a granddaughter and daughter in so many ways. This makes me so excited for what could happen this summer-getting to go to Sundances, ceremonies, and to visit with these special people in my life. I've grown particularly close to one of my student's grandmas or "unchi" as they say in Lakota. She is such an amazing woman that's had a very interesting life and she's taken me under her wing to teach me more about traditional Lakota ways. Each week I go over to their house at least once to sit and visit with the family. As my student's dad says, "Don't ever be a stranger, you hear me?". That's how much I love this family. They are blunt, funny, and hard working people who put their family above all else. It's a beautiful thing.
This month marks my two months dating Brady. He's such a dependable, nice, funny and amazing guy. I'm very lucky to have him my life and I couldn't be more grateful. God is good :)
I'm officially done with my first year of teaching besides kindergarten round up! This is when the new students come in to get tested for next fall and try to make it into Red Cloud. It's crazy. I have about 36 kids trying to get into 18 spots. The parents so far have been great and it makes me feel like staying for a second year will make such a big difference since I have a real year of teaching under my belt. I know what to expect, thank God.
This summer I'm teaching first/second grade during summer school at our sister school at Our Lady of Lourdes. While I'm sad that I don't get to be with the kids that I know so well, I'm really pumped to get to have older kids for a month. Don't get me wrong I love kindergarten but it's nice to have kids that are responsible. Have to say though, I do miss second grade from time to time.
In other news:
I've grown really close to several of my students' families this semester especially. They've talked me in as a granddaughter and daughter in so many ways. This makes me so excited for what could happen this summer-getting to go to Sundances, ceremonies, and to visit with these special people in my life. I've grown particularly close to one of my student's grandmas or "unchi" as they say in Lakota. She is such an amazing woman that's had a very interesting life and she's taken me under her wing to teach me more about traditional Lakota ways. Each week I go over to their house at least once to sit and visit with the family. As my student's dad says, "Don't ever be a stranger, you hear me?". That's how much I love this family. They are blunt, funny, and hard working people who put their family above all else. It's a beautiful thing.
This month marks my two months dating Brady. He's such a dependable, nice, funny and amazing guy. I'm very lucky to have him my life and I couldn't be more grateful. God is good :)
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Tractors, Cows, and the Nebraska life
Once again I'm a horrible blogger and can't keep up with life. Another month flew by so fast. This whole school has been chaotic and tested me a multiple ways. Only a month until the end of school. So much to teach my kids in so little time!
We had last Thursday, Friday and Monday off for Easter Break. I took a 6 hour long trip to Vermillion, SD to meet up with a guy that I've been dating. He works as an engineer out there for now but really wants to move back to work on the farm where he grew up. I spent a couple days out there with Brady in Vermillion and then we went to Bloomfield, NE to the farm. Talk about the life of a farmer! I went into their machinery shed and literally stopped in my tracks. Everything was so much bigger then I ever imagined! I got to sit in the combine (massive I might add) and helped him use the disc thrower to till part of their fields. He said if I could drive a bus then I could drive a tractor. Theoretically....
Even thought it's only been a few months since we've known each other it's already the healthiest the relationship I've been in for a number of years. He makes me feel protected and needed. We both work hard at the relationship and give the same amount. Brady cooked me breakfast every day that I was there. He makes me laugh until my stomach hurts. We both have Crohn's and he knows what it feels like to "have a bad day". We have so many similarities it still makes me nervous. I know though that things work out for a reason and I can use what I learned from my past to make this relationship work. Coming out here to SD has helped form me into the person I want to be and I did that being single. I feel secure enough in myself now to feel comfortable in a relationship. I'm lucky to have a guy in my life like Brady. It's crazy how much life can change in a year isn't it?
We had last Thursday, Friday and Monday off for Easter Break. I took a 6 hour long trip to Vermillion, SD to meet up with a guy that I've been dating. He works as an engineer out there for now but really wants to move back to work on the farm where he grew up. I spent a couple days out there with Brady in Vermillion and then we went to Bloomfield, NE to the farm. Talk about the life of a farmer! I went into their machinery shed and literally stopped in my tracks. Everything was so much bigger then I ever imagined! I got to sit in the combine (massive I might add) and helped him use the disc thrower to till part of their fields. He said if I could drive a bus then I could drive a tractor. Theoretically....
Even thought it's only been a few months since we've known each other it's already the healthiest the relationship I've been in for a number of years. He makes me feel protected and needed. We both work hard at the relationship and give the same amount. Brady cooked me breakfast every day that I was there. He makes me laugh until my stomach hurts. We both have Crohn's and he knows what it feels like to "have a bad day". We have so many similarities it still makes me nervous. I know though that things work out for a reason and I can use what I learned from my past to make this relationship work. Coming out here to SD has helped form me into the person I want to be and I did that being single. I feel secure enough in myself now to feel comfortable in a relationship. I'm lucky to have a guy in my life like Brady. It's crazy how much life can change in a year isn't it?
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Biggest Blessings so Far
Sooooo much has happened since my last post a few weeks ago:
1. One of my students was dismissed from my Red Cloud. We've worked very hard with this student all year long, but ultimately he kept making bad choices (throwing things, hitting people) and had to be sent to a different school. In the end while I'm sad that he's gone, it's the best option for the rest of the kids in my class. When one student consistently runs around the classroom, defies authority at every chance, and throws chairs/stools/benches every day it is very dangerous in a classroom setting. Last week was the first week that he was gone. It has made me into a happier and more effective teacher.
2. Last Sunday, one of my students invited me over for Indian tacos which is a big deal around here. Her grandma told me that she tried to call me at 9:30 the night before and started crying when her mom wouldn't let her. This is a student that I have grown very close to this year. Her grandpa died last year. She was his whole world and it is still a difficult process to go through. I think I've grown so close to her because my grammy died when I was in kindergarten second semester. I would cry every day and my teacher would put me in time out. She never asked me what was wrong to get to the root of the problem. There are some days where this student just can't handle the world- she cries, stumbles around, and simply can't tell me what's wrong. I know what's wrong without her having to say a word. She feels that hole which is missing from her heart. I get her. Her family was amazing. Dinner turned into the dad asking me to come with him to a sweat and a ceremony with the whole family. It was the best blessing I've had this semester. All of my hard work has paid off. At least one family can see how much I truly love their child.
3. Last night I went to a ceremony for Rosa's family. Whenever we go to a ceremony with them I feel like a part of their family too. Because of their hospitality South Dakota has become "home" to me and I couldn't be more grateful. Next weekend Rosa's aunt, Teresa, will show several volunteers how to make a star quilt.
4. This week one of my camp friends will be in Oglala for a mission trip. Next weekend another friend comes to visit all weekend. The next weekend my parents come to visit and I can't wait!
Well, I'm off to church soon. Later today, Erin and I are going over to the first grade teacher's house to spend the day/night. Miss Stacy's family all does rodeo so we get to ride horses and learn how to rope. Here comes another busy month!
1. One of my students was dismissed from my Red Cloud. We've worked very hard with this student all year long, but ultimately he kept making bad choices (throwing things, hitting people) and had to be sent to a different school. In the end while I'm sad that he's gone, it's the best option for the rest of the kids in my class. When one student consistently runs around the classroom, defies authority at every chance, and throws chairs/stools/benches every day it is very dangerous in a classroom setting. Last week was the first week that he was gone. It has made me into a happier and more effective teacher.
2. Last Sunday, one of my students invited me over for Indian tacos which is a big deal around here. Her grandma told me that she tried to call me at 9:30 the night before and started crying when her mom wouldn't let her. This is a student that I have grown very close to this year. Her grandpa died last year. She was his whole world and it is still a difficult process to go through. I think I've grown so close to her because my grammy died when I was in kindergarten second semester. I would cry every day and my teacher would put me in time out. She never asked me what was wrong to get to the root of the problem. There are some days where this student just can't handle the world- she cries, stumbles around, and simply can't tell me what's wrong. I know what's wrong without her having to say a word. She feels that hole which is missing from her heart. I get her. Her family was amazing. Dinner turned into the dad asking me to come with him to a sweat and a ceremony with the whole family. It was the best blessing I've had this semester. All of my hard work has paid off. At least one family can see how much I truly love their child.
3. Last night I went to a ceremony for Rosa's family. Whenever we go to a ceremony with them I feel like a part of their family too. Because of their hospitality South Dakota has become "home" to me and I couldn't be more grateful. Next weekend Rosa's aunt, Teresa, will show several volunteers how to make a star quilt.
4. This week one of my camp friends will be in Oglala for a mission trip. Next weekend another friend comes to visit all weekend. The next weekend my parents come to visit and I can't wait!
Well, I'm off to church soon. Later today, Erin and I are going over to the first grade teacher's house to spend the day/night. Miss Stacy's family all does rodeo so we get to ride horses and learn how to rope. Here comes another busy month!
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Puppy Soup, Ceremonies, and Dinosaurs
This weekend I had the opportunity to go to two ceremonies, one on Friday night and the other last night. There was a small group of us went on Friday even though our friend Rosa didn't go. It was exactly what I found out that I needed and especially last night's ceremony. Last night I noticed that the rattle was right above me from the noise and felt a hand on my shoulder. It was what the Lakota people call a spirit. The spirit gave me a sense of relief.
On Saturday during the morning and afternoon, we celebrated my friends birthday. We went to an awesome coffee shop and then to a park with huge ceramic dinosaurs. This weekend was amazing with being in the local community from the ceremonies to Rosa's brother's birthday and then hanging out with the volunteers. I'll fill you guys in on school stuff sometime this week when I have time.
On Saturday during the morning and afternoon, we celebrated my friends birthday. We went to an awesome coffee shop and then to a park with huge ceramic dinosaurs. This weekend was amazing with being in the local community from the ceremonies to Rosa's brother's birthday and then hanging out with the volunteers. I'll fill you guys in on school stuff sometime this week when I have time.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Frustration Meets Results
The end of January left me frustrated with school and community. I didn't feel comfortable with certain things that were amidst. Now, I've put myself in uncomfortable situations where I have had to be a grown up about things and face my fears head on. Due to numerous serious conversations with two particular friends here I have seen a drastic change in the way that I view my life here.
Last weekend a few of us went to a Lakota sweat over at a medicine man's house. We were invited by the family that we prayed for. Never have I ever felt so a part of a family like this. The next day we went to one of the girls birthday parties. I have two of her cousins and all of the aunts were there. It was awesome because I had never been to a little kid party as an adult. I'm finally being supported by the administration about one of my students. It makes me feel like the rest of this year will be okay.
Tomorrow we leave for retreat with all of the volunteers, all 20 of us. A couple of weeks ago, I did NOT want to go. But now, I feel a lot more comfortable with my own house community and other friendships. I feel like I'm a part of the bigger community-the Lakota community. Now I can teach better, relax in my house, and pour my heart into what I came here to do. Maybe part of this is because I finally had my camp interview with very good results. We'll just have to wait and see what God has in store :)
Last weekend a few of us went to a Lakota sweat over at a medicine man's house. We were invited by the family that we prayed for. Never have I ever felt so a part of a family like this. The next day we went to one of the girls birthday parties. I have two of her cousins and all of the aunts were there. It was awesome because I had never been to a little kid party as an adult. I'm finally being supported by the administration about one of my students. It makes me feel like the rest of this year will be okay.
Tomorrow we leave for retreat with all of the volunteers, all 20 of us. A couple of weeks ago, I did NOT want to go. But now, I feel a lot more comfortable with my own house community and other friendships. I feel like I'm a part of the bigger community-the Lakota community. Now I can teach better, relax in my house, and pour my heart into what I came here to do. Maybe part of this is because I finally had my camp interview with very good results. We'll just have to wait and see what God has in store :)
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
God Works Part II
God does Work.
It's been awhile but here are some blessings in my life lately:
-Being invited to two Lakota ceremonies by a local family
-Getting a package from my parents today which included cookies from my dad and silly song cd's from my mom for my kids
-Getting an email from a student's parent which said, " Abby, I know that this is your first year teaching kindergarten, and I know that dealing with my son has taught you a lot this year especially as your first year, but I wanted to say thank you for all that you do." It's amazing how a year long struggle can be so prosperous. This is why I am here.
-After getting this email, one of my kids came over during nap time, put his head on my lap and promptly fell asleep for a whole 25 minutes
-Getting an email from camp saying thanks for donating money to a scholarship camper and being able to express how much I love Camp T
-Truly intentional talks with people in my community that make my heart happy
The last month I've realized more and more how God has shown himself in my life. I have people that truly and deeply care about my well being. My kids talk about God a lot and it's amazing how beautiful our "God talks" continue to be. One of the student's parents invited me to be a part of a local Lakota ceremony this weekend. I'm excited to get myself out of my comfort zone and explore the Lakota culture. Camp has come back into my life with completing my application for my fourth summer and being able to help send a child to camp for the first year ever. In that way my life has come full circle. I continue to be amazed at how fruitful my life here as a single person has become. This semester so far has brought healing, a new confidence in my abilities, and my love for teaching constantly growing until I think that I will burst.
It's been awhile but here are some blessings in my life lately:
-Being invited to two Lakota ceremonies by a local family
-Getting a package from my parents today which included cookies from my dad and silly song cd's from my mom for my kids
-Getting an email from a student's parent which said, " Abby, I know that this is your first year teaching kindergarten, and I know that dealing with my son has taught you a lot this year especially as your first year, but I wanted to say thank you for all that you do." It's amazing how a year long struggle can be so prosperous. This is why I am here.
-After getting this email, one of my kids came over during nap time, put his head on my lap and promptly fell asleep for a whole 25 minutes
-Getting an email from camp saying thanks for donating money to a scholarship camper and being able to express how much I love Camp T
-Truly intentional talks with people in my community that make my heart happy
The last month I've realized more and more how God has shown himself in my life. I have people that truly and deeply care about my well being. My kids talk about God a lot and it's amazing how beautiful our "God talks" continue to be. One of the student's parents invited me to be a part of a local Lakota ceremony this weekend. I'm excited to get myself out of my comfort zone and explore the Lakota culture. Camp has come back into my life with completing my application for my fourth summer and being able to help send a child to camp for the first year ever. In that way my life has come full circle. I continue to be amazed at how fruitful my life here as a single person has become. This semester so far has brought healing, a new confidence in my abilities, and my love for teaching constantly growing until I think that I will burst.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Too many people grow up. That's the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up. They forget. -Walt Disney
Class is back in session.
Have I told you lately how much I love my kids? Well, I do, a ton.
They are simply wonderful. One of my more rambunctious kids was gone today. It made me really appreciate how much my students have changed behavior wise over one whole semester. This morning I had to do a ton of testing while my aides taught. It was fun too to see how far my aides have come teaching this past semester. It's crazy how much kindergarten students learn over the span of five months. My kids now know geometry, how to write numbers 1-20, over twenty "sight" words, and can now sound out consonant vowel consonant words by blending. Their brains begin to adapt into massive learning sponges. I. love. it.
I've really begun to like teaching kindergarten, as much as I hate to say that. I always swore that I would stay far away from this grade since my mom has taught it for over twenty five years out in Indiana. But, the kids make me want to stay in this grade and at RC forever. I'm already starting to miss my students for next year. They can't leave my class. I'll miss them too much.
Have I told you lately how much I love my kids? Well, I do, a ton.
They are simply wonderful. One of my more rambunctious kids was gone today. It made me really appreciate how much my students have changed behavior wise over one whole semester. This morning I had to do a ton of testing while my aides taught. It was fun too to see how far my aides have come teaching this past semester. It's crazy how much kindergarten students learn over the span of five months. My kids now know geometry, how to write numbers 1-20, over twenty "sight" words, and can now sound out consonant vowel consonant words by blending. Their brains begin to adapt into massive learning sponges. I. love. it.
I've really begun to like teaching kindergarten, as much as I hate to say that. I always swore that I would stay far away from this grade since my mom has taught it for over twenty five years out in Indiana. But, the kids make me want to stay in this grade and at RC forever. I'm already starting to miss my students for next year. They can't leave my class. I'll miss them too much.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
I Teach Because
The other day I started reading Teach for America blogs again. One of them was from a kindergarten teacher who talked about the slump that she was in. One of her students was frustrated when he couldn't draw his 3 the right way. In her haste to help the teacher said, "It's not that you can't, you just can't YET." That's how I feel a lot of the time with my kids. Last week one of my professors gave me some books on classroom management and a curriculum called Tribes. It's about splitting the class into smaller groups to teach them the value of a hidden curriculum with ideas on different weekly life skills such as cooperation and responsibility. Each day we will do a community circle with a new activity. To say I'm excited would be an understatement. I can't wait to get back and redo my entire classroom with more kinder friendly ideas!
I titled this post for a reason so here's my recent list.
I teach because.....
these kids are lovable and capable.
these kids make everything in life seem so much better.
these kids come in barely knowing their alphabet and leave kindergarten knowing how to read.
these kids are the future of their community.
Me and some of my kids ice skating the day that I left :)
One of my kids and my favorite third grade teacher, Miss Claire, sneaking into the picture
POTHOLDER HEADBANDS!
This is the dog that Claire and I somewhat adopted a for couple of weeks while we waited for a volunteer to take her home for Christmas. Well, Claire kept her for most of the time and I babysat when she was otherwise occupied :) We named her Weekend since she originally was supposed to be a weekend dog, but this puppy definitely stole our hearts along the way.
I titled this post for a reason so here's my recent list.
I teach because.....
these kids are lovable and capable.
these kids make everything in life seem so much better.
these kids come in barely knowing their alphabet and leave kindergarten knowing how to read.
these kids are the future of their community.
Me and some of my kids ice skating the day that I left :)
One of my kids and my favorite third grade teacher, Miss Claire, sneaking into the picture 
This is the dog that Claire and I somewhat adopted a for couple of weeks while we waited for a volunteer to take her home for Christmas. Well, Claire kept her for most of the time and I babysat when she was otherwise occupied :) We named her Weekend since she originally was supposed to be a weekend dog, but this puppy definitely stole our hearts along the way.Saturday, December 24, 2011
Changes at Home
The last week at home has been.....different.
Parents are going through a rough patch. My sister is now engaged. Yes, I'm happy for her. But, it's not just any guy. It's the same guy she dated for two years in high school. It's the same guy who told my sister that I was mad at her because I "wasn't as pretty as her." A lot happened during their relationship that caused me not to like him six years ago. Now, he has a five year old of his own from a previous relationship. My mom has told me that this guy has changed a lot and that I need to be nice of him. Does she not remember six years ago when she chased him from our house? Well, I do. Maybe people can change. I know that it's Christmas Eve. While I'm grateful for a ton of stuff in my life, I'm way worried about this new change for our family.
Parents are going through a rough patch. My sister is now engaged. Yes, I'm happy for her. But, it's not just any guy. It's the same guy she dated for two years in high school. It's the same guy who told my sister that I was mad at her because I "wasn't as pretty as her." A lot happened during their relationship that caused me not to like him six years ago. Now, he has a five year old of his own from a previous relationship. My mom has told me that this guy has changed a lot and that I need to be nice of him. Does she not remember six years ago when she chased him from our house? Well, I do. Maybe people can change. I know that it's Christmas Eve. While I'm grateful for a ton of stuff in my life, I'm way worried about this new change for our family.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Away from the Ridge
Blah.
I strongly dislike being away from Pine Ridge. It feels like half of me is missing when I'm back in Indiana. Truthfully, I miss my kids a ton. Tomorrow I'm going into my mom's kindergarten classroom in the afternoon and talking to my dad's seventh graders in the morning. At least I'lll be back around some students for a bit.
I strongly dislike being away from Pine Ridge. It feels like half of me is missing when I'm back in Indiana. Truthfully, I miss my kids a ton. Tomorrow I'm going into my mom's kindergarten classroom in the afternoon and talking to my dad's seventh graders in the morning. At least I'lll be back around some students for a bit.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Picture Time!
I finally got some pictures of my students at Red Cloud :) This one is when they each got stuffed animals.
Here they are doing some thank you notes for other donations for Christmas.
Cory is one of my rowdier kids, but he passed out for a solid 20 minutes that afternoon with help from his new duck.
This one is from Halloween right before we went Trick or Treating on our campus.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Potholder Headbands
One of my kids has been suspended until January. That sums up last week.
In other news, we have only 1.5 days until we the start of Christmas Break. I fly out on Thursday at 2. But, that morning I'm going on the elementary fieldtrip to go ice skating with the kids. Awesome :) I can't wait to see my kids skating. It will be awkward and really funny. This whole week we're doing Christmas activities with little education value and I'm perfectly okay with that.
Lately I've been missing camp. I think it might be because I've been wearing a lot of potholder headbands. They are slowly taking over the school.... It's time to get in my references and see what God's plans turn out to be for the summer.
Tomorrow expect a picture of my kids in their potholder headbands. Yes, all 20 of them are getting one.
In other news, we have only 1.5 days until we the start of Christmas Break. I fly out on Thursday at 2. But, that morning I'm going on the elementary fieldtrip to go ice skating with the kids. Awesome :) I can't wait to see my kids skating. It will be awkward and really funny. This whole week we're doing Christmas activities with little education value and I'm perfectly okay with that.
Lately I've been missing camp. I think it might be because I've been wearing a lot of potholder headbands. They are slowly taking over the school.... It's time to get in my references and see what God's plans turn out to be for the summer.
Tomorrow expect a picture of my kids in their potholder headbands. Yes, all 20 of them are getting one.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Teachable Moments
It's now December.
Woah.
Last week flew by. We finally had a normal week with no interruptions besides a Highway Patrol presentation on Friday. Here is a quote that explains a lot about last week:
--This was after I had to tell the kids that I apparently had apes in my classroom instead of kindergarten students...
Student: "Miss Abby, I know why those kids are being bad."
Me: "Why?"
Student: "Because they are sinners. We are all sinners."
Apparently that's what I get for being in a Catholic school and for this student's dad being a Baptist pastor :)
My kids are hilarious. This week I did some really random activities that turned into some awesome learning situations. It started because I found a big bin of stuffed animals in the back room. We used them to find lines of symmetry. We also used these to work on our sight words by doing aerobics with the animals as we spelled out each word. We used them to talk about finding equal shares today and sort them into matching piles. I had no idea that you could use stuffed animals for so much.
I love getting turning certain times into quality one on one time with the kids. Some days we have a rest time during the afternoon. During this half an hour span, I like to pull kids to help me do little tasks. I usually pull out kids that are having a rough day. Other days I pull out the kids that tend to get lost in the middle. We stuff folders, put papers in binders, or move desks around the room. It's fun to learn about each child even if we don't talk. I pulled out one of my kid's, Emileigh, on Friday during rest time. I had to put a progress reading check up in binders. I would write the result on the check in list and then Emileigh would put them in the binder. It was really funny because we got almost all the way through without talking and then all the sudden she let out a huge sigh. After she sighed, Emileigh just gave me one of those, "why are you making me do this" kind of looks and finished her job. We didn't talk at all. I know it sounds weird but I love those kind of moments with my kids.
Woah.
Last week flew by. We finally had a normal week with no interruptions besides a Highway Patrol presentation on Friday. Here is a quote that explains a lot about last week:
--This was after I had to tell the kids that I apparently had apes in my classroom instead of kindergarten students...
Student: "Miss Abby, I know why those kids are being bad."
Me: "Why?"
Student: "Because they are sinners. We are all sinners."
Apparently that's what I get for being in a Catholic school and for this student's dad being a Baptist pastor :)
My kids are hilarious. This week I did some really random activities that turned into some awesome learning situations. It started because I found a big bin of stuffed animals in the back room. We used them to find lines of symmetry. We also used these to work on our sight words by doing aerobics with the animals as we spelled out each word. We used them to talk about finding equal shares today and sort them into matching piles. I had no idea that you could use stuffed animals for so much.
I love getting turning certain times into quality one on one time with the kids. Some days we have a rest time during the afternoon. During this half an hour span, I like to pull kids to help me do little tasks. I usually pull out kids that are having a rough day. Other days I pull out the kids that tend to get lost in the middle. We stuff folders, put papers in binders, or move desks around the room. It's fun to learn about each child even if we don't talk. I pulled out one of my kid's, Emileigh, on Friday during rest time. I had to put a progress reading check up in binders. I would write the result on the check in list and then Emileigh would put them in the binder. It was really funny because we got almost all the way through without talking and then all the sudden she let out a huge sigh. After she sighed, Emileigh just gave me one of those, "why are you making me do this" kind of looks and finished her job. We didn't talk at all. I know it sounds weird but I love those kind of moments with my kids.
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