Whew!

This has been my "catch-up "weekend but I'm not sure I'm "caught-up." Last week was a very interesting week--doing something I completely enjoy--visiting classrooms! The week started out with my annual "Day in the Life of...". (Last year, I did a "Day in the Life of a 6th Grader--this year I moved up to 7th grade!). I can truthfully say, I had so much fun! Shelly Wolfe, a current MAT candidate, accompanied me. We started the day at 7:45 and lasted until the day was over, 3:15ish. Seeing the day from a student's perspective should be required of every teacher. We often see from only one perspective--our own. Personally, I don't know how these guys are able to focus on anything. They change classes every 50 minutes or so. Each teacher has a different management style (what if I forget what this teacher expects of me?) About the time I get focused on one subject, it's time to change! Something to think about.
It happened to be raining las Monday so, instead of going outside after lunch, the boys sat quietly in the gym for 20 minutes (glad I didn't have to keep them quiet!). The girls were allowed to go stand at the from of the school under a covered drive for their 20 minutes.
During the past week I visited in 6 different schools--4 different schools systems. Amazing differences in classroom management styles, the way content in presented, teacher/student engagement...many things. I visited in 3rd, 6th, 7th, and 9th grades. Much to ponder.