i think she really means it…

Teacher’s High

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008 | Sara the Teacher | 2 Comments

I’ve experienced “Runner’s High,” and I’ve definitely had some good days of teaching, but today probably tops them (or at least comes pretty close!).  I taught my students an algebraic lesson using the “Fourfold Way.”  We created toothpick patterns (with toothpicks), figured out recursive rules, and plotted points from a table.  My students did so well!  I always write in colors to differentiate between steps and to point out patterns, but today I had my students write in colors as well.  I couldn’t believe how well that worked!  They were understanding (on an elementary level) linear functions!  And they *all* were involved.  Every last one of them!  My students…the “Far Below” and “Below Basic” scoring kids were understanding algebra and asking good questions!

‘Tis a good day in Mrs. Jones’ world…

Let’s Face It…

Thursday, September 11th, 2008 | Random Thoughts | 1 Comment

It’s taken me 28 years to admit this, but…

I’m a morning person.

I like the crisp clean air…the still, quietness that surrounds the city…the calm before the storm of the day’s event…

It’s also my most productive time.  I’m amazed how much I can get done an hour before school starts.

On the flip side…afternoons stink!  I have very little to show for my two hours spent in my classroom after school working (if you call reading google reader and checking out drphil.com “working”)!

A Rather Random Update

Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008 | Sara the Teacher, Sara the Wife | No Comments

This first week of school seems to be going quickly! I have met all of my students and they appear to be a good group. Their mathematical level is very low (some of them are still struggling with “borrowing/regrouping!”), but I’m up for the challenge. It’s somewhat of a welcome relief after all the teachers I’ve come in contact with these past few weeks. I’m “home” again!

Several of my students from last year have stopped in to say “hello” over the past couple of days. The high school campus is right next door to the middle school. It’s good to see them again. They are growing up. This year’s kids seem so much younger and don’t know “my ways” yet. I will not worry though; I’ll whip them into shape soon enough and will cherish them as much as the others (I hope).

I’ve been listening to John Mayer‘s latest release “Where the Light Is, Live in Los Angeles.” WOW! Is he ever a good blues guitarist! I can’t get enough of this two-disc set! I think my new favorite song (at least for this week) is “In Your Atmosphere.” Whew…good stuff.

My cousin Emily (yes, she’s my cousin) had an awesome post yesterday! Sure is cool to work on the Warner Bros lot… Go here to read about jamba juice and zac levi…

Nate and I had an incredibly relaxing weekend over the Labor Day holiday. We were given an amazing gift of a getaway weekend at the Four Season’s Biltmore in Santa Barbara. We got hot stone massages, ordered room service, had a champagne brunch, rode bikes to Stearn’s Warf and lounged by the pool. It was AMAZING! It was our first experience with such luxury. Our cottage was across the street from the beach and we listened to the ocean 24/7. It was true bliss! I shall write more details about our weekend at another time.

Until next time, friends, I hope you all are making a smooth transition back into the regular schedules and routines the Fall brings…