Aluminum Foil Boats Race Day!

Today was another fun day of Summer School. I'm really getting the hang of this multi-age group thing. And today was Race Day, the day we've been working toward all week! I'm pretty sure that I was just as excited as the kids (maybe more). After spending the school year so focused on our state standards of learning and standardized testing, it is such a breath of fresh air to educate (and learn) without all of the pressure. 

Summer School Centers & Math Project

This week I have been working in Summer School, which has been a great experience. This year I'm working with kindergarten through second grade students. After working with 4th grade this year it has been a surprising and fun experience. I have to say that the week is going really well -- with the exception of one child's injured hand because she tripped on her flip-flops. Other than that it has been a dream.

Since I'm working with different age and ability groups I'm doing a combination of literacy centers/small groups and whole group activities.

The Summer School Blues Have Faded!

Yesterday I posted about having the Summer School Blues. I was a little apprehensive (as I always am in the beginning) about having multiple grade levels, but I'm pleased to report that the day went smoothly. My students were fantastic and there were only seven of them. 

So tonight this is me...

Clip art from mycutegraphics.com

Well, except I'm clearly not a boy. Or blonde. But you get the idea -- I'm happy!

I've Got the Summer School Blues...

This is me right now...

Clip Art by MyCuteGraphics

...(scared face)...because tomorrow is the beginning of Summer School. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE seeing the kids. It's the idea of teaching multiple grade levels that frightens me (K-3). I know many teachers out there do this already on a daily basis -- and I salute you! But my teaching experience generally encompasses one grade level at a time. The only exception to this rule is Summer School or our summer program for gifted and talented students. But Summer School is the most difficult since I'll have three or four grade levels at a time, with no assistance (except from my 6th grade son) or supply funds, and the students are mostly struggling students who often are not happy to be coming to school during their vacation time. 

So I have a plan! Here is what I plan to do. Let me know what you think.