While reading Chapter 1 of Shattering the Perfect Teacher Myth by Aaron Hogan, I found myself reflecting on how to help students engage more with the texts they are reading. Even when they appear to be reading, they are not always having a conversation with the text. Many students do not realize they should be. I am amazed at the difference when I am modeling inner voice by having a conversation with a book. Then, I ask them about the inner conversation with their books. The more I model and reteach the more they practice what they see and hear. They also need choice. A question I ask myself is “Are they interested in what they are reading?” We may want them to be learning about a certain topic, but have we considered the options available for learning and provided voice and choice. It is like providing a choose your own adventure book, but with a variety of options, including articles, ebooks, multi media and traditional books. In some cases let them do the research (make sure you have taught them how) and find the materials and bring it to you. The empowerment with appropriate support can yield amazing results.

While reading Big Magic by Erin Gilbert, I realized my two words are Findng Treasures. I believe there are treasures in us all. I am always trying to find those treasures in myself and others. If we could all be looking for treasure and sharing the treasures we have think about what an amazing place we would have in which to live.

As studnets were working on their word sorts I wondered how could they share their understanding of their word sorts when I realized a #WordSnap would be an option.

when I read Lead Like A Pirate over the summer, I was also learning about balance. It is easy for me to get caught up with school and all that I need to do. I find that it is helpful ti at least have a good environment to be reading in. I enjoy learning so it makes seperating home and school a little more difficult.

i thrive on building relationships and have found it truly engages students when you build a reltionship and show them you have an interest in them, their interests, and culture.

over the summer, I took part in our districts research academy. It was a blend of reading, online conversation and meeting in person to dig deeper into our topic. I have been researching Competency Based Education and look forward to learning more as the year goes on.

I was fortunate to hear Erik Palmer speak at the Wisconsin Title 1 Conference in April 2017. He was very engaging and brought home the need to teach speaking with his examples actively involving the audience.

This #Snap was inspired by a student who periodically sends me an email to update me on her reading. At the end of fourth grade, she found the Serafina series and read it voraciously. She continues to update me as books are released. Helping students reveal the treasure of reading is why I do what I do.

I am truly fortunate to have the opportunity to grow while collaborating with others in my district. We learned about Co teaching from Susan Hantz. It is January and I still see teachers using ideas we picked up at the workshop. Teachers are also looking at ways they can work together to benefit students through teachers working together.

It was great to have teachers join me to help welcome students back to school.

At the beginning of the school year, our literacy team covers classrooms so teachers can complete assessments. It is a great time for us to build relationships with students and support teachers. They need to know we are all in it together and that we are willing to support them so they can complete assessmnets we alll need in order to personalize instruction for our students.