Wow!!! It’s been three weeks since students have arrived for the start of this new school year. I would lie if I didn’t say I am exhausted. I have the same 11 students as last year so I know their families quite well. I have two new students whom I am getting to know. I had one new para and one returning para who quit after day 5. The new para has given notice so now I’m waiting for two new paras to join our class.
Trying to get to know new students, assess returning students and begin state testing is keeping me very busy. Teaching routines and procedures takes a long time as well. Fidelity and consistency are hard to teach to new staff.
I’m trying to implement new things in the classroom including Show and Tell and Weekend News. I’m also creating a monthly newsletter.
I continue to advocate for my students every single day that I arrive at school. I want to give their parents the tools to help them have a successful time with their children in and out of their home. We practice a lot of routines that can be transferred into the home as well as out in the public. Walking in a line, holding a door open for someone, saying please and thank you, eating over a desk, cleaning up after yourself, putting your shoes on, unpacking a backpack and repacking and waiting are all routines that we practice every single day.
This weekend was a total bust if I’m gonna speak truthfully. Saturday I was completely exhausted and could not even think about working. Today which is Sunday is a family celebration. I’m planning on working but, in reality, what do I foresee getting done? 🤔🤔
Have a wonderful Sunday everyone. Keep those procedures and routines implemented no matter how hard they are. In a few weeks, you will notice such a difference, I promise you.