Wow! What a great opportunity the We are Teachers site and their partners gave to my students!

i can't wait to start working with the students and our networking possibilities.

Thanks to every one that voted for us!

OK, so I'm still a bit confused about the spin and win Virtual pet, BUT I LOVE WINNING!

Both Golden Lop & Chester are easy to take care of, don't eat much as far as I can tell, and are very good at hiding.

 They are the easiest classroom pets I have ever had!

If you happen to know there where abouts, please let me know...

-Was trying my luck on the wattage page- such a gambler, I am.

I won! Conner- Virtual Pet...

Oh, where is Conner? What can he be? Does he come with adoption papers?

Do I have to feed him? Does he need to go to the vet?

Can he come to my classroom and become our mascot?

If you know the whereabouts of Conner, please let me know...I think he misses me already...

Having time to just "be" isn't something that happens a lot. This week I gave this gift to my students. I declared it "no homework week" The students worked in class on daily skills. They were reminded of my promise, "no homework" and really showed they could focus during class time. They were able to get time to use as they wanted instead of homework. Of course, I stressed how great it would be to use the extra time to read a book of their choice. :)

Time for me to read- I have time this break!

As my teaching week comes to an early end, I find I'm thankful for many school related topics.

Students that give the extra effort at all times.

Students that give the extra effort at grade time.

Students that give what they can under thier personal circumstances.

Parents that give the extra effort to help thier children.

Parents that give what they can under their personal circumstances.

Co-workers that give, give, give...

My ability to give what I can, as often as I can, with all the help I'm given.

Thank you!

Having the resources of Personal Learning Networks is amazing! I have learned so much from my sites in the last few months, it is unbeliveable!

When I have a question or I request, it doesn't take long for them to help -- the world is a good place!

Dear Teacher Friends,

I wanted to let you know that I am participating in a Microgrant program sponsored by PCI Education and an online community, called WeAreTeachers. The 10 recipients of this grant receive $200 to aide their work with special education students, as well as a flip video camera.  Recipients are selected through an online voting process. SO -- If you have a moment, I'd really appreciate you going online and voting for my project. It would really mean a lot to me to have your vote and support! Just go to http://www.weareteachers.com/web/602148/1 and follow the directions there.  

Thanks, KarlaDuff   teacher6th

Wondering why it takes so long to get ready to be gone 1 day...

I spend so much time making sure every detail is covered in my 4-prep day that I would be better off just being at school.

Do others have suggestions to make the planning an easier process?

I have created a general information sheet to help with classroom routine and management. I can't seem to just let things happen. Class/student expectations is a big part of my teaching.

I have on hand extra sheets and videoes if an emergency calls me away.

Monday, I'll be gone and I have left plans that will hopefully be what veryone needs...

Yesterday was a great day At my middle school! The local Honor Guard and Auxillary teamed with the 6th graders to show our Thanks to all veterans. I add pictures to my page.

THANK YOU, Veterans!

Had the day off-comp time for P/T conferences. Proud that I was unplugged until 9:00 pm.

Hard to believe how being plugged in has become a part of my routine-good and bad.

I was pleasently pleased when I opened up a server folder to start a unit and found a power point I created last year! I love it when things seem to come together-this doesn't always happen!

With my house full of sneezing and coughing, I'm really hoping my students are all feeleing well enough to be at school tomorrow! It is always hard starting a new unit with enthusiasm when 1/2 the class is home sick.

Anyone have classroommanagement ideas for handling so many gone?