Let's Get Acquainted Linky Party

Hey Bloggers!

I've been crazy lazy lately.... I think I deserve it though. I went to a 3 day IB 101 course to learn about the program and its components. I learned a lot, but I am still worried about how to implement the program to fidelity while also keeping up with Common Core and state standards.... real world teacher problems right?

Anyways, I am linking up with Mrs. Reed at Flying into First Grade for her Let's Get Acquainted Linky Party. Here's how it works: You choose three topics in a row (horizontal, vertical, or diagonal) like a tic-tac-toe board and share about each topic.

 I am going to share about the first vertical row.

I went to _______ college and a favorite memory

I went to Auburn University, otherwise known as the "loveliest village on the Plains".  War Eagle! I had an AMAZING experience at Auburn. I was super involved in everything from college recruitment to admissions office, and from College of Education Student Council to joining a wonderful sorority. My absolute favorite memory, however, was enjoying the wonderful football games and tailgates. Even if I did not go to a game, I was definitely at a tailgate enjoying the atmosphere... and the food.

Share about your first year of teaching

Wow! My first year was truly survival of the fittest. I taught third grade in Opelika, AL (5 minutes from Auburn). I had absolutely no experience teaching that grade level and did not think I would enjoy it at all, but a job was a job. However, after that one year, I realized that this was the PERFECT grade.. seriously!! I loved everything about that year. I cherished the kids and my wonderful coworkers. The kids were my guinea pigs and I loved testing developing my teaching practices with them. It was honestly one of the best first year teaching experiences anyone could ask for.

My favorite grade to teach and why

Well, I pretty much mentioned it above but I will reiterate it again... THIRD GRADE ROCKS! I am kind of bias because it is the only grade I have taught, except Kindergarten for my internship. Does that count? Anyways, the kiddos at this grade are at the perfect age were they admire their teacher, are eager to please, love to learn, and their personalities are beginning to flourish and shine. They understand my sarcasm wit and humor, and  they are independent and creative. If I ever had to move to another grade, which I think is coming next year, I would want to stay as close to third grade as possible, like 2nd or 4th.  If you have never tried teaching this grade, you seriously should consider it! Like call your principal right now and request a grade change... all joking aside :)

Well, that's a little about me. As always visit Mrs. Reed at Flying into First Grade and join the party!

And the summer begins....

So I was very pumped about starting my blog last year, and then..... life got in the way. These are the things that have taken place since I blogged last:

1. I finally finished my Masters degree and dealt with Georgia Certification to try to upgrade my certificate. I was denied 4 times! Yes, 4 times! However, with a little persistence and going up the chain of command, I finally got the upgrade..... 3 months after my graduation.

2. Our school underwent the long awaited and dreaded CRCT.... ugghh!  Personally, I think the only people who dread the CRCT are the teachers. My kids loved that week. All I kept hearing was "Ms. Pete, I love CRCT week. We have no homework, extra recess and testing treats. This week rocks!". In my head, I'm just praying that they are taking their time and reading all of the questions and answer choices. Fortunately, every third grade student at our school passed the reading portion, so no student had to retake! Woo Hoo!

I received cute testing treats ideas and notes from http://polkadottedteacher.blogspot.com/2012/04/! See her cute blog for ideas!

3. I went back to Auburn to roll Toomer's Corner for the last time! I can't believe the trees are now gone. WDE!

They were so gorgeous when they were rolled! Looks like snow!

4. My brother and sister got married in May. All eyes on me now.... no pressure.

4. The end of the year was a blur... awards day, 5th grade graduation, field day, luau day, slumber party, end of the year party, Wax Museum. I was so tired on the last day of school that coming back the next day to complete PR folders was more dreaded than the CRCT.

Classroom Slumber Party. The kiddos wore pajamas and brought pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, and teddy bears and enjoyed two movies while Ms. Pete cleaned the classroom and started PR folders :)

Field Day. I was so tickled when the kids went to the karate station and learned some techniques. They were so cute  tough.

 5. MIAMI! On the Friday after the last day of school (which was on a Wednesday), we were mandated to  to go professional development. Very cruel. We were told this two weeks before the date. However, I already made plans to go to Miami to celebrate Memorial Day with all of my friends. So, I took the deduction in pay check and went to Miami. I am so glad I did.

As for my summer plans... I don't really have any, which is exactly what I wanted! I am, however, determined to blog more and start selling on Teachers Pay Teachers. I have finally been convinced to sell the tons of resources I have made for work. I just need to perfect them and then share them. Hopefully, life won't get in the way again.