A Clean Desk #SOLC19

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Two Writing Teachers

When the student opened her desk, I winced as I looked inside.

"That desk has roaches," her classmate stated.

"No, it doesn't," replied the owner of the desk.

Since the bell rang, I asked the student if I could help with her desk.  

"You worked hard for me today," I told her.  "So I would like to help you."

I offered to stack her notebooks and books, and then place all the papers in a folder.

She said I could.

I started the deep dig into her desk.  I placed books and notebooks to the side.  I moved past paper, after paper, after paper, finding assignments and newsletters from long ago. 

I think about how discouraged she must be each time she opens her desk.  It got away from her.  

I find her folders and place important notes and classroom coupons and math charts inside.

Her classroom teacher helps me decide what papers should stay or go.

Books get returned.  Pencils sharpened.  The desk is wiped clean inside and out.

I didn't do this chore for praise.  I don't intend to berate the desk's owner tomorrow.

I just wanted to help this child have a chance to succeed tomorrow, with a clean desk.

Passion for positive changes #SOL16 30/31

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It's election day at the University of Iowa.  The students are deciding who will run their student government today.  My oldest daughter, Lindsey, has been a key part of getting her candidates elected.  When she started college, it was as a business major.  Then she figured out that her passion is more about people and policy.  She then changed to a double major in communications and political science.  She's drawn to others who want to create positive changes for people, the environment and life in general.  

This campaign has been a learning process.  Lindsey has figured out what's important to her, and she inspires the people around her to stand up and speak up for what they believe in.  She and the rest of her party have made solid decisions about their platform: support for students (especially mental health care), safety, diversity, inclusive initiatives, and more.

I know this campaign has been time consuming, stressful and lots of hard work.  I know my daughter has grown emotionally and figured out more of her strengths.  I've worked hard to keep myself from checking in with her constantly and making sure she's eating, sleeping and doing her homework (#teachermomproblem).

I couldn't be prouder of this kid.  I wish her BLOC party (Better Lives on Campus) much success in their endeavors to win the election and make positive changes to the university.

I am running for UISG senator because I see this opportunity as way to ensure all students' concerns are being heard and needs are being met. I hope through this position I will be able to work towards a more inclusive and supportive university.  I'm ultimately working to give back and better the Hawkeye community, a community that has already given so much to me.

You have touched our heart #SOL16 23/31

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One of our first grade teachers went on maternity leave in January.  Her long-term sub, Mrs. M., is just lovely.  She's organized, kind, and very patient with the kiddos.

Tomorrow is her last

Today I walked into the first grade room (I pull groups three times each morning - I'm a regular visitor) and told Mrs. M.  that I would be taking her friends.  I told her she would understand later.

I beckoned to a few friends that I usually don't take, and whispered to them in the hallway,

"Today we are making a secret surprise for Mrs. M.  Tomorrow is her last day."

They beamed and made "Os" with their mouths.  (Six and seven year olds are usually not trusted with secrets.)

I walked each group (this took 30 minutes!) to my room, explained the project, helped them make their mark, then walked them back.  They all assured me they would not tell Mrs. M about the project.  (I saved the usual announcer for my last helper.  Smart, right!?!?)

Later, I brought the project back to Mrs. M and the kiddos helped present it to her.  There were hugs and happy tears and shouts of joy.  Of course I don't have a picture - this morning was all about getting Mrs. M her present.  (Here is a pic from Pinterest to give you the gist.  I had the students put their fingerprints in a heart, then sign their names on the bottom.)

Image from Pinterest Link

We will miss you, Mrs. M!  

Please take care! 

We hope to snatch you up to teach in our building soon!

Volunteers #SOL16 12/31

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Two Writing Teachers

The text message read, "I'm basically visiting for spring break!  I'm in Illinois right now!"

My oldest has a keen sense of humor.  Lindsey is traveling from Iowa to Michigan to spend her spring break in the service of others.  The U of Iowa has eight Hawkeye Service Teams across the US providing manpower to local nonprofits.  I'm proud of Lindsey for giving her time this week.  I think she will benefit from the week even more than the people she will assist.  I can't wait to hear all about it, especially the work she will do with a group who works with children to help them publish their stories.

This morning Allison and her friend, Jillian, headed to their high school to work at Cupcakes for a Cause.  The special education department holds this event each year to benefit a local foundation. As someone who is usually dragged out of bed each morning, Allison surprised me by getting up early (!!) to set up the event.

I'm very proud of these two.  They both chose to help others.  I sometimes feel like I could give more through an organization, but I can also forgive myself for taking time to know my students and figure out my new job.  Serving others comes in waves and should be one of our priorities.  So many people benefit.

(Hmmm.  Maybe I should write up my Little Free Library plans today.  I hope to set one up in my yard this summer.  More slices to come about that process!)

   

More Love Letters #SOL16 8/31

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It started with me stumbling on this Ted Talk:

Hannah Brencher: Love letters to strangers

I shared it with Lindsey, my oldest daughter.

Who spent time on the More Love Letters website and 

noticed that Campus Cursive groups were encouraged on college campuses.

Lindsey wrote an email, was accepted

to run the UIowa chapter

with the help and support of her friend, Rachel.

Letters have been written by their fellow res hall residents,

and the Campus Activities Board.

The world can always use more love letters, so

maybe you will be inspired to write a love letter 

to someone who needs one,

perhaps a person you know or

someone you don't.

Student leaving a note of encouragement
on UIowa campus.

Taking Care of My Customers

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When I need a quick lunch during the school day, I like to stop at the Culver's near our school.  Sure, their burgers are tasty and the custard is yummy, but the reason I keep going is their customer service. Everyone who works there has a smile on their face, even when it's busy or they are taking out the trash.  They will stop by your table and clear your place if you are finished eating.  They always thank you for coming.

I'm trying to recognize the customers in my life and treat them very well.  Sometimes it's tricky (when working with demanding adults) but most times it's very easy (when I see students).

My customer service habits include:

• Smiling and waving at students I see in the hallway.
• Chatting with students as they unpack their bags or wait in lines.
• Practicing great listening skills.
• Thanking colleagues for new information, papers, or stopping by.
• Ensuring my students that I'm glad they came to my class and worked so hard.
• Reminding former students that they can borrow books from my room.
• Trying to smile -- even when I'm tired, crabby or frustrated.
• Being approachable

What are your customer service skills?  I'm glad I've reminded myself to keep smiling.