WOW! Common Core....it really is here

Hi Fellow Teacher Bloggers,

It really is here!  Common Core has come in with a bang!  I'm feeling overwhelmed, but suprisingly I am not feeling like I can't do it.  I think this is going to work out well in the end.  I don't know about you all, but I feel like I'm back in school again.  The mountain of paperwork is tremendous, but the good part is that we actually get to practice what we've been reading about.  My kids (school kids) are responding really well.  We have a tight schedule and all of our subjects are interrelated.  I find that the biggest problem over the last couple of weeks is quite frankly, the paperwork.  So, if someone out there has a list of hints to tame the paper tiger that has taken over both desks, please seek me out and guide me through your system.  :-) 

Now, aside from the paper tiger, I love the room!  It's coming together quite nicely.  It is the Hollywood Theme from The Clutter-Free Classroom (www.CFClassroom.com).  My kids are really enjoying being the stars.  The red carpet was a hit and my reading groups (Studio Names) are excited to hear their group names being called.  I feel really good when I look around my room and know that I've created a warm, inviting place for my students to learn.  We have "Jay-Z" and "Beyonce" (with $1 store microphones) lead the class in learning their math facts.  We  have a couple of cozy areas to take their shoes off and enjoy reading a book.  We're observing plants grow (lima beans) and journaling and illustrating.  I have to say it again!  I LOVE THIS JOB!   Happy Teaching and welcome to the fray for those of you who are just starting back to school!

Kimberly

check out my blog: www.teacherspayteachers/Store/The-Teachers-Workspace

We're Off and Running

Hi Fellow Bloggers,

If you're as overwhelmed, exhausted, and exhilarated as I am after this last week, throw your hands in the air!  Boy, I didn't realize that it had been so long since I blogged.  The first week went by in a blur.  I'm still getting to know my little cute friends!  They are wonderful!  I'm furiously making centers, so I'll have more to create for my store soon!  I promise.  Ok, my birthday is fast approaching!  I've set a goal to have at least 100 followers (secretly, I want 200), by then.  It's August 29th.  So, be on the lookout next week for a a special creation that I'm making to say thank you for following me.  I think I promised some pics of my classroom.....well, I'm still setting it up!  But, I will get those online as soon as I can.  I'd love some feedback, especially from those of you who are the perfect organizers.  You know who you are.....you use every nook and cranny to the fullest possible potential and you make it practical and beautiful.  I could use that energy and insight.Well, gotta go get the kids ready for bed, grade papers and start reading for the Reading Bowl!  Yeah!  I LOVE TEACHING!

Kimberly

check out my store:   www.teacherspayteachers/Store/The-Teachers-Workspace

First Day Jitters!

I'm not talking about the book!  I'm talking about me!  Well, tomorrow is the big day!  I've tried to play out every scenario, but it is what it is....jitters!  I'm really excited because I met some awesome parents and kids at my open house.  They were supportive and I can't wait to work with both this year!  I can't stay long tonight, I have to go to bed.  I just wanted to blog because it's been a couple of weeks.  Wish me luck and blessings! 

Kimberly