Monday
One teacher, full of ideas for the day, welcomed her class.
Students flew into the classroom
Many made more than one trip back to their locker
One didn't want to read, or do math, or do anything
but talk with his buddy at the top of his lungs.
The whining started early - "She's ON my DESK!"
A friendship was rekindled with one who was away.
Books were written, markers broken, pencil tips snapped.
Arguments about who was first and who cut in line.
Lunch time couldn't come fast enough
Three ice packs after recess.
Many clothespins shifted from green light to yellow light.
No matter what we tried, someone was left out or bothered or
sad...sad... sad.
Two emails and one phone call home.
One exhausted teacher.
Tuesday
One reflective teacher, working on only 4 hours sleep, welcomed her class.
Students remembered their folders and made only one trip to the classroom.
Kids asked about the schedule... "Just like yesterday? Good!"
Books were read, turn and talk was fine, EEKK buddies were helpful.
The little bit of whining was redirected.
Only a few bandages needed for paper cuts - lots of authors today
One discussion about one collaborative scary story (please, no blood, okay?)
Children remembering to raise their hands
Sifting of rocks, gravel and sand in science (overheard: "Mrs. R is SO COOL!")
One chocolate bar to the custodian who swept up the mess
One tired and calm teacher.
Lessons learned: When you stay calm, they stay calm. Take your time. Don't sweat the small stuff.
Love the juxtaposition of these two days! I also love the details you chose to include - especially the paper cuts. Here's to more days like the 2nd one!
ReplyDeleteOur attitude makes all the difference in the world! Love the little moments that could easily go unnoticed, like the paper cuts for the authors or the chocolate bar for the custodian and a teacher full of ideas!
ReplyDeleteGet a good night sleep and tomorrow will be on repeat ... except it's a Wednesday so the schedule is a little different!
Thanks for this important reminder about how powerful we can be in the classroom. We really do make a whole lot of difference in how the day unfolds! Hope you have a DAY 2 kind of day today!
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