Ah, beginning of the year writing samples. They are the best, aren’t they? {eye roll} It’s clear that most kids have not picked up a pencil all summer long, let alone written words, and…

Every August, I take a poll in my 5th grade classroom. Everyone gets to vote for their favorite subject. Each year, hands wave for reading, science, writing and social studies. But, inevitably, math is…

One of the best things about 5th graders is their ability to adapt to a new situation and make it theirs in a heartbeat. AND I love using that to my advantage when it…

I am not a huge fan of Field Day. There. I said it. I know I’m probably in the minority here, but it is not one of my favorite days. Yes, the kids have…

If you know me, you know that a good sort is one of my favorite instructional strategies. I actually think my grade level colleagues get sick of me saying, “Let’s use a sort to…

Whether you are a teacher, parent, or student, Christmas can be a tough time of year when you are looking for that perfect gift. Here are a few fun ideas for that special teacher…

Hey everyone! I’m a little late to the book study party this week, but I wanted to share some thoughts on chapter 2. I’m loving this book more and more, and I hope that…

Today is the first day of our collaborative online book study on Mathematical Mindsets by Jo Boaler. I am so excited to be reading this book and to hear/read what others are thinking! Have you ever…

Has this ever happened to you? You teach a lesson, let’s say, about adding fractions. As you’re walking around the classroom, lots of kids have correct answers – even a few that you wouldn’t…

Today is the day!!!! THE SUPER BOWL! If you know me (and even if you don’t) you probably know what a HUGE Broncos fan I am, and today…the Broncos are playing in the SUPER…