How Lucky I Am to Have Something that Makes Saying Goodbye So Hard

I thought I would be doing more blogging of this school year, but I was kind of busy with a little thing called teaching, going to Target a few too many times, and being a dog mom…but really, this year was extremely busy in a good way.I feel like it was just summer and I was setting up my classroom, and here I am taking down my bulletin boards and saying goodbye to my kiddos.

I am extremely grateful for this year. (Extremely times ten)

I don't want you to perceive that everything this school year was perfect for me. I still encountered barf, germs, and whines, awkward teacher observations, heartbreaking stories, those tough students who never seem to be absent…. and all those other pretty teacher things :).  It wasn't perfect, but it was better. I have come to terms that we as teachers will never have a "perfect" year, no matter how many years are under our belts. However, things will become better year by year, and you find your own sense of perfection. I've also learned to be grateful for the good times…I know things could of been tougher and much uglier (I had my fair share last year), so this year I have been extremely appreciative of the things that did go well.

Education is by far the hardest careers out there, mentally and physically… and I think there's beauty within the chaos. In a strange way, I really don't want an easy job. I want a job that challenges me to be my best, love harder than I ever thought I could, and create more than I could ever imagine. Teaching does that for me.

To really sum of this year, I would have to say God gave me grace.

You never know what types of students you will be dealt in the beginning of the school year, and I was anxious based off of last year's set. I prayed a lot over the summer that He would  allow this teaching experience to be better, and redirect me that this is what I need to be doing. I prayed that He would give the words to best communicate to my students to make them successful. I prayed for community and positive vibes for the entire year.

I am grateful that God fulfilled those prayers.

Now to be letting go of the students I prayed over, endlessly worked on skills, built relationships with, loved full heartily, and laughed with a ton….is plain HARD! (as I type this my eyes are about to burst with tears)

Until you're a teacher, you'll never understand the feeling of letting go of something you worked so hard on. Working with students who only knew 7 words coming into first grade, and leaving reading 190 words... but more importantly he has the confidence to read aloud! Or having a student who was tremendously shy and would not talk to you for months talk and now they talk your ear off. To help a student write a smidgen of their success story is truly an honor. It's completely insane all the great things teachers get to be a part of that we often forget.

Last year I really doubted myself as a teacher, and really thought about changing paths. God knew I needed this group of smarties to redirect my thoughts and I cannot thank these little humans enough.

I am convinced my students taught me more this year than I taught them. They taught me kindness is contagious and much needed in the world. They taught me to believe in myself, and to never give up (something I always tell them but always seem to forget). They reminded me never to assume, because you don't know someone's story. They taught me to always look forward to to Tuesday because duh,  it's always Taco Tuesday….But more importantly these kids taught me to love and how to accept love, even when I felt like I was unlovable.

I feel extremely honored to have worked with these firsties and to have had them a part of the room 6 family. I hope they go out into the world and show their golden hearts and their cute little smiles. This goodbye has been extremely hard. Thank you parents for sharing your littles with me.

xoxo- Miss Short

Here are some pictures of our last day together…excuse me while I cry.

Teacher Praise

{Warning: This blog post might be ridiculously long because I have too much GOOD stuff to share}

Yahoo!!! I survived the first week of school, and I can say it was AMAZING!


I had a bunch of mixed feelings about starting this school year. I was super stoked about returning to the school I completed my student teaching at and working for the district I grew up in…But I was nervous how my students were going to be. Like REALLY nervous.

Some of you already know this, but I wasn't giving the "best" situation last year. I decided to take on a challenging task of teaching a fist grade ELD classroom midyear (I mean, how hard could it be…right?!). I was the third teacher for these kids. I had a lot of students with major behavioral problems. When I say "war zone", I'm talking about scissors and chairs being thrown, kids trying to stab one another with pencils, six year olds cussing, and etc.. These kids were mature in the sense of knowing the nasty part of the world. As much as I tried to work my booty off and love the heck out of these kids, I never felt like I succeeded. Having this experience, I was worried I might come across the same thing and realize teaching wasn't for me.

Luckily I have been blessed with a new beginning.

Each year isn't going to be perfect, but I felt more prepared and energized to begin this school year. I knew where I stood as a teacher and the goals I had as an educator.

My classroom dynamic it completely different from what I experienced… and that's a good thing. ( I know it's probably too soon to tell but I'm optimistic about this year… ).

From day one I told my students that I appreciate and care about them. I told them they were already smart, but they are going to make their brains even bigger this year. I reminded them to NEVER to give up. I emphasized that tattles are EW. I made it an importance that we work as a team because we are a family. I explained to them that we all NEED to learn. I told them that I set high expectations for them because I believe in them. I taught them the value of ONLY using kind words and actions to others. We laughed, we danced, and celebrated our first week together.

The amazing part of all this stuff that was sprinkled into their little brains, is that they reflected everything I could ever ask for as teacher. Simple things as reminding their neighbor they need to push in their chairs so others don't trip, or offering to tie someone's shoe when my hands were full…. and even saying "thank you" to the lunch ladies who served them. I'm in love with watching my students run into my classroom every morning with a big smile on their face! I enjoy hearing the "Thank yous", "You're really nice Miss Short", "This is fun", "You're  so silly." - I very rarely heard these comments in my last placement. I don't expect my kids to always adore me, but I'm a fan of respect! I am extremely grateful that my students and I respect one another.

Of course I want my students to grow academically, but I also want my students to leave my classroom and reflect kindness. I want their hearts to grow bigger so they can love every ounce of a person and the world. Teachers teach more than academics, people!

Another huge change for me is the support I have from the parents. I have never received so many kind words from parents. The other day an aunt came up to me and said, "Thank you for teaching the young generation. I know it's not an easy thing to do, and you do it for so little money." <-----Wait what?! I was so thrown off by this statement. It's something us teachers want to hear from others, but when you hear it, it's like "WOW, maybe I do have some value and can make a difference!". Or, the comment, "She must really like you, she never opens up to adults that quickly". - I feel honored kids feel safe with me.  "Your classroom is beautiful"- I try really hard to make my classroom look inviting, and to hear so many nice comments about it really warms my heart. Everyday I have had items donated to my classroom. Do you know how nice it is not to worry about how am I going to provide for 22 kids?! Goodness I feel so blessed with this situation.


My district supplies textbooks to ALL students, and if you run out they will get you more! You might think, "Well, duh!"… Ha. Arizona schools are hurting. My last school I wasn't as fortunate, and other schools aren't always able to get the resources they need. Being at bigger school district, I feel supported to successfully do my job. This excites me!

My staff.. Holy Moly, Guacamole are they great! Everyone walks around with smiles on their faces and WANTS to help one another out. I love the positive atmosphere. My first grade team is fab! We communicate, share things, and laugh a lot! We enjoy cute things, which is a huge plus ;)

I appreciate all of my friends and family support. Being closer to my school this year, people all over have offered to help me set up, cut out things, donate items, etc. I am beyond grateful for everyone's generosity and encouraging words towards me. It really makes me work harder knowing people all over are cheering my kids and I on. You have NO idea what a difference you make in my life! With the  negativity in Arizona's education, it is extremely humbling to know that people outside the field know the importance of education and are willing to help teachers support their students.

My heart is honestly the happiest it has been in FOREVER! Yay for 2015-2016 school year! Best of luck to all of you teacher friends out there. Sending happy thoughts and prayers to you and your kiddos.

Here are some pictures of this year's classroom….don't worry I have next year's theme picked out ;)

 "Big Wall of Knowledge" aka Calendar Wall

Meet the Teacher Inofrmation

Desk found for $15, and my dad spray painted!

Chevron stool for the win

This crate reminds me to get writing samples from students

 I ran out of wall space so I put butcher paper on the back of a book shelf to place student's jobs on it. 

 Anchor chart wall. We will display big concepts we are learning that week up on the wall.

 File cabin for $5 and painted :) 

                                       Centers Extravaganza 

                                          

 Desk fairy notes to motivate kids to keep their desk clean.

 Sub emergancy kit…So many weddings this year I'll be gone a couple of times.

 Goodbye paper clutter

 Love stationary 

I'm in love with carpet squares. Keeps my kiddos in their personal space

These are a Few of My Favorite Classroom Things

The new school year is slowly approaching us! Eekk! Are you ready?! {I'm pretending to be}

Some of you have been asking about items I recommend getting for your classroom, so I created a list of my top 10 items I HIGHLY suggest you getting (and then some)! There's a ton more I suggest…but at least it's a start :) 

Before we begin, check with your school and inside your classroom to see what is provided, or what you can get with your teacher budget. Always make a list of supplies you would love to have donated by parents, and express the importance of the item you are asking for! Chances are they will send the items with their kiddos! 

1. A Super Duty Pencil Sharpener

Make sure you have THE best pencil sharpener ever (sometimes you have to buy the expensive ones)… and do not let your student use it! I only taught for 5 months and my students broke two of them within that short time (rookie mistake)! Make sure to have a very clear pencil sharpening procedure! A simple task like this can be a nightmare if you don't set a policy with your students! Check out Amazon for a good price on nice pencil sharpeners. 

2. Student Mailbox Center

It is so helpful to have an area where you can place papers that need to be sent home with students. I labeled my mailbox with my student's number with a binder clip , so they know exactly where to put their papers. I even have a system if students are done with a task they can help file with my persimmon, or if I have big kids who want to help me during their recess. 

*If you're interested in the one above, please contact me. My dad made mine!  #RoseWoodBlvd

3. Mini Whiteboards 

Sometimes you get lucky and have these already in your classroom… if you don't go to Home Depot. Home Depot has a thing called "Tile Board" (or something like that), and they will cut for you multiple times if you say you're a teacher…otherwise you only get one free cut if you're not a teacher. The board cost $15! I had mine cut 12x12, but you can do whatever size you prefer! Have students have whiteboards allows them to be engaged and it easier for you to easily see what they know. Winner winner chicken dinner! 

4. Reward System

I honestly have so many reward systems, and somehow they all tie into each other. The best way to get a hold of your classroom management is to have a reward system. Focus on the positive behavior people!   Some suggestions are a punch card that leads to a treasure box prize, Class Dojo Points, Behavior Clip Chart, Team Points…. etc.! Make it clear to students on how they can earn positive rewards! I got a plain treasure box from Hobby Lobby and painted to make it look fun for kids! 

5. A Desk Calendar

Go get a desk calendar to leave on your desk (no kidding)! It's so handy to jot down notes, dates, and numbers while your multitasking! It also helps me keep my desk clean because I need to see my calendar. It's pretty much a mind thing…but hey, it works for me and it could work for you! I got a super cute one at Target (of course).

6. A Paper Organizer- File, Grade, and Copy

Here's a fun fact about me… I'm not classified as OCD, but I am a clean freak! I hate piles of papers. I found this cute idea on Pinterest and of course made it. Once my students are done with something I collect it and put in the grade drawer… at the end of the day or week I open up the drawer and grab the papers and grade it! Same thing goes for all the drawers! You can find cute labels on TPT or they are super easy to make your own!

7. Center Organizers

I have only been in the primary grades where I have seen centers take place, but that doesn't mean you can't incorporate them if you are in the upper grades. If you haven't thought about incorporating centers, you need to! I love being able to work in small groups with students on goals that are set for the groups I place them in. Depending on how you want to set up will depend on how many "organizers you need". I got all my organizers from the dollar store. I use blue for reading, white for math…. If you don't like the colors they have to offer, spray paint them! Last year I had 8 centers for both subjects, with three students in each of them…but if you'd rather have fewer centers, than your groups will be bigger. Be wise on how you place your students in the groups! You want your centers to run smoothly, and without your assistance so you can work on the small group at that time. Try to schedule your centers when you have extra assistance in the classroom.

*I also recommend getting some type of cue that shows that you can't be bother during this time. I wear a princess crown that makes me invisible. This ensures I have quality time with the kids I am working with. 

*Students know where to go by the pocket chart I have in place for my centers. 

8. Homework Folders

No matter what your views are about homework… You should have some type of folder that is the "traveling folder" for your students. I found paper folders with prongs at Staples for 15 cents for the first 30! I always make sure to get them all in the same color, so I can easily ask students for their "blue" folder. My cooperating teacher had the best homework folder system I have seen, so I took this idea from her! On the front I label it with a cute sticker that says "Homework Folder", and on the top right corner their name and student number are on it. Every Friday when they are due I can easily go through and see which numbers are missing. On the inside I put a page protector in the prongs where I place a weekly newsletter for the parents. On the left side I put the homework, or items I need the parents to return. On the right side I put graded work that parents can keep. ( I label the pockets, so there is no confusion). 

* I also have a basket in my room where students place their homework folders if they finished that week early. It's a super easy procedure to teach your kiddos!

9. Community Stash Organizers

My students have their own set of crayons, glue, scissors, and etc…. However, I also have a "Community Stash" for them to use if needed. My students know that whatever is borrowed needs to be returned. I use the 8x11 drawer paper holders to organize crayons by colors. I got these shower basket holder things that went on sale after the dorm sales were over, that I place glue, markers, and what not.  At the end of the day when we clean up, if there are items on the floor no one claims, my students and I put them in the community stash. This way there's no waiting for someone to claim it. It also encourages students to check the floors before they leave so there stuff doesn't end up there! 

10. Pencils (Of course another organizer)

Even though you can order pencils from your school, you can never have enough it seems. Have fun pencils, plain pencils, whatever you want! A system that really works for me is the buckets of pencils where one is labeled "Sharp", and the other "Not Sharp". Students trade their pencil for a sharp one if it breaks. This eliminates them trying to sharpen it while your teaching, or complaining they don't have! Your job is to make sure that your bucket of sharpen pencils are enough! Again, I do not suggest having your students use your pencil sharpener. Again another system I took from my cooperating teacher is having students bring two pencils up in the morning to have sharpened (most the time it lasted the whole day). If  both break they have to go to the bucket to trade, or find a friend near them with a sharpen pencil. 

Random Shenanigans by Natalie (more stuff I suggest)

•   Scentsy Pot- Make sure to place in area your kids won't play with. Also find a scent that is light and won't be harmful to student's allergies. There are certain smells out there that actually can influence behavior. For example, lavender helps calm people down. 

•   Secret Teacher Kit- Make sure you have a bag or something to hold everything that can help you do your job better! For example, my go to kit has Advil, allergy medicine, bobby pins, hair ties, female products, lotion, deodorant, snacks, and etc. I even suggest bringing another pair of clothes to leave in your classroom/car. You never know when you might spill on yourself….or a horrific accident could happen with a student throwing up on you (it has happened to my friend before). Also bring sandals for those days where you stay longer and your feet hurt, or if you make the wrong decision of shoes. 

•   Ziploc bags of All Sizes- The perfect organizer for almost anything! Always check the dollar store! Or if you work with little ones, it's a great way to send home missing teeth!  ;) 

•   Lysol Wipes/Hand Sanitizer- Need I say more? 
 -  Fabric Bulletins/ Table Cloth/ Wrapping Paper- If your school allows to use fabric, I highly recommend making your bulletin boards with it! It last longer! Some schools you have to spray with fire spray (check out your policy first).  If you can't get away with it, go get a plastic table cloth or wrapping paper. I used wrapping paper that was on clearance at Hobby Lobby last year! Hobby Lobby has really thick wrapping paper and holds up pretty well! 

•   Carpet Square/ Rug /Duct Tape- Best way for students to sit on the floor and know their boundaries. Last year I used duct tape and it worked amazingly! This year I found carpet squares for each student super cheap at Treasures for Teacher! Remember to make sure you take them home and clean them every once in a while. 

I hope this helps you get started! What other items do you suggest?!