The Count Down is On

There's only one more full week before school begins. To some this means one more week to enjoy time off with family and friends. To me, it means now I really have to get stuff done! I have a list 2 pages long of things to do before vacation ends. I'm being optimistic in hoping that it all gets done, but realistically I know that only the necessities will be completed. Some other years that may have bothered me, but this year, if it means that I get to spend some more time with my daughter it's OK with me. Good luck to everyone completing their own list - hope you can enjoy this last week!

DON'T FORGET TO SIGN UP IN MY LAST BLOG FOR FREE SPELLING SOFTWARE!

SpellQizzer Software - FREE FABULOUS GIVE AWAY!

Recently I was lucky enough to try out a new spelling software called SpellQuizzer. It is exactly what it sounds like - a program that quizzes students/children on their spelling words. You can either choose the pre-programmed words (which there are many) or you can record your own word and sentence. It is very user friendly and easy to use for students. I had my 7 year old try it out and she not only was able to use it, but enjoyed the novelty of it!

I definitely plan on using this software in conjunction with my spelling program at school this year. I am going to incorporate it during my reading time as one of my centers for the kids to use during independent. This is going to be great extra practice for my struggling kids.

I also plan to use it at home with my kids. Having 3 kids life gets hectic and I try to read and work with the older 2 every night. Sometimes between dinner, faculty meetings, planning, and my second job that can be quite a challenge - I think I found a way to help on those busy nights!

Now, for the FREE GIVEAWAY - you can win a free license for this wonderful spelling software! All that is required it a useful spelling tip/suggestion! Be the first to post your tip and win! How much easier can it be! Also, please include your e-mail address so that I can forward on your prize - get posting and win! I can't wait to read your suggestions!

Check out this spelling program at www.SpellQuizzer.com

My classroom!

I finally made it into my room today! I had way more boxes to unpack than I realized. So, I took a deep breath and delved in. I managed to unpack them all and check everything in, but now I have to put it all away! I have moved to a smaller room this year, so it's time to clean out! I think I managed to fill 3 garbage cans and several boxes. I'm quite proud. As many others in my profession are, I too am a pack-rat! I feel the need to hang onto that stack of copies I never used 2 years ago, but this year might be the year! However, I trying to turn a new leaf! I recycled a huge box of papers and tossed it or gave it away if I haven't or don't plan to use it. Who needs all the clutter? Let's hope I continue to purge when I go in Thursday and don't hang on to it all anymore!

Heat!

Anyone else finding it near impossible to get motivated in this heat? I'm having a very hard time getting anything done with this heat. Sophia isn't helping either - my 5 month old. This heat does not agree with her and she has become quite the fussypants, very unusual for her. I know summer is supposed to be hot, but I didn't mind the cooler temps so much...oh well before you know it we'll be up to our ears in snow!

SmartBoard Training!

I'm so excited to attend some additional training this week for my new SmartBoard! I have worked with SmartBoards for 2 years now and am finally able to take some advanced training. I'm so eager to be able to use mine this year! I have had the chance to work with them for the past 2 years in my coteachers' rooms, but at long awaited last I will finally have one in my room! I'm excited to finally be able to incorporate the technology into my lessons - it's such a great tool. Hopefully the training will be informative and I'll have some great tips to share!

New Spelling Program

This year, my co-teachers and I are trying out a new spelling program - Sitton spelling. For years we have used Zaner-Bloser and have found that for the kids who naturally spell well it is great, but for those who struggle we don't see any improvement. Our 3rd graders have been exposed to it with some success, so we're giving it a shot. I'll keep you up to date on our progress and I hope that you'll share any advice and opinions you have. Keep an eye on my website for handouts and other resources.

Great website!

I absolutely love this site! It has wonderful products to buy, but even better, you are buying them from other profressionals.

My favorite part is that you can earn money, not just spend it! I have made over $700 this year using this site with honestly minimal effort. I have spent maybe 3-4 hours putting up content that I already created for my classroom. It's easy and I love the fact that my creations are being used by others.

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Signup?ref=jennferfer

My website

Interested in some teaching resources? This is my school webpage. Feel free to use anything you find on it. I am always adding more to it. It is geared toward 4th grade, but can be adjusted to many levels.

Teachers using Everyday Math will particularly enjoy it!

http://www.atticacsd.org/webpages/jkieffer/

Summer Vacation

Is it just me or should summer vacation be renamed? I'm sure many other teachers agree when I say that it is anything but a vacation. It is a time to finally print and organize those 2,000 pictures you took during the year and left sitting on your digital camera. It's time to finally organize the kid's rooms (again and again), so that hopefully they can keep them clean on their own (yeah right!). It's time to work on curriculum for the up coming year and re-vamp your spelling program. I feel like I work harder and run around more during the summer than during the school year! It's a constant race to see how much I can fit into a day!