~*First Grade Lilly Pad*~

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Happy fall everyone! I hope this year has been running smoothly and you have gotten back in the swing of things since that nice long break of summer!

I know it sure is hard to come back from that. I enjoyed the time with my kids and the time to create and get a little ahead in the home department. As a teacher, school stuff tends to overwhelm home responsibilities, like laundry. I would so rather lesson plan that do laundry.

However, being that it is post Thanksgiving and we are quickly approaching the Christmas season I wanted to wish all a very happy season! I love this time of year. I always decorate my classroom and we partake in Holidays Around the World. The kids are always fascinated by all the different countries and customs. Especially the dress and food.

The good news? It's almost December... we're halfway there! Remember to stay focused and enjoy the remaining time with your class. I know in first grade December to January is when that magic light bulb turns on and we really start to grow and gain tremendous amounts of knowledge! So, good luck and may God bless the rest of your year!

Sincerely,
B. Lisson @1stgradelillypad

Monday, July 18, 2016

Teachers are the Best

This last year was very difficult for me. It was one of those years that makes you question your motives for becoming a teacher. We've all had them! I made it through and so will you. As teachers we are pushed to the brink each year and we battle the feelings of inadequacy each week. I mean seriously, thinking logically how is it possible to serve 18-26 students' every single need, every single day? Well, to be honest it takes the kind of individual that deals well in high-stress environments and it truly is an art form. Keeping a class full of judgmental kids engaged is truly a feat worth pursuing. We all have our bag of tricks- games, tone variations, dancing, singing and of course scouring TPT for the cutest and most engaging activities. But, one must wonder, why? Why do we subject ourselves to this constant stressful crazy profession?

That one is easy... if not us, who? These kids need us. Most of them will never tell you that you are the best and most consistent person in their lives. That said, teaching is not for the light hearted. It is a constant internal battle. We push ourselves to the brink in order to promote success in our class and within our school. We are one for all. My best piece of advice is to become close with your team. Share ideas, plans, activities and most of all the occasional chat or dinner. This will make you a team that is, all for one!

Good luck in the coming year and when things get hard, remember that you are needed.