Long Monday . . . . . .

Still correcting midterm exams. Still annoyed that the grades are pretty bad. The only thing that is reassuring to me is that the other 9th grade teachers told me that their students tanked their exams too. There is something about disappointment in numbers . . . .

I really need to get to bed. I'm tired and my stomach is upset and blah. I really can't afford to get sick right now. Way too much stuff to do. Why is there never enough time in the day to get everything done?????

I'm a list person. I make lists for everything. I also have a planner that I use to help me stay organized.

How do you get everything done that needs to get done in a day????

Busy weekend

Not much to report here.

I'm working all weekend at Paws. Correcting my midterm exams. Which by the way, the kids are tanking them! :-( The only reassuring thing that got me through last week was that all the other freshman teachers told me that the kids tanked their exams too. Looks like we will have more failures this 2nd quarter than we thought. :-( When will my freshman realize that they will not get socially promoted next year and that they have to pass all of their classes this year?

Grades have to be in by January 31st. I've already entered in all my 2nd quarter averages into my grading program so all I have to do is finish correcting the exams and plug those numbers into the program. Afterwards, I take those grades and type them into the school grading program.

I'm also trying to stay warm. It's been a tad bit cold here the past few days. I think my blood is thinning out because I can't handle the cold weather like I used to "back in the day." :-)

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

As I was driving home last night from the movies, I saw a sign that stated the current temperature here in New England: 3 degrees!!!!!!

Two words came to my mind as I read that temperature: This sucks! :-)

Stay warm all! :-)

Random Thoughts . . . . . . . .

Just some random thoughts:

*My Patriots lost on Sunday - I'm officially in morning. :-(

*Go Bears! Kick some serious Colt-ass! :-)

*As of Tuesday, I am in midterm exam hell! :-(

*Oh, I should mention that today after school, I went to photocopy those midterm exams and every single photocopier in my building was out of paper! Does that mean that my students do not have to take their midterm exam tomorrow? Just wondering! :-)/:-(

*Just got back from dinner with Janet and Lauren to celebrate Janet's b-day. Thanks ladies for a wonderful night out. And, remember, follow your feelings - you'll do the right thing. :-)

*As I was driving back home this evening on Route 495, the snow flurries kept coming and going - very strange! I'm not ready for icky snowy weather. :-(

*A local high school had a horrible tragedy last week. Read about it here. The student that stabbed the other student has Asperger syndrome - a form of autism. I have had a few students over the years that had Aspergers. I also have a friend that her son was diagnosed a few years ago. There are so many different forms of it and my fear is that a stereotype will develop because of this horrible event. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and school community during this tough time. :-(

*Is it Friday yet??????????? :-)

Good Luck Bears and Patriots!

I just wanted to give a shout out to the Bears and Patriots today -

The Bears are playing the Saints - a really tough team to beat. Go Bears!

The Pats are playing the Colts today - Go Pats!!!!!!!

If the Bears and Pats win today, off to Superbowl XLI for both teams . . . . will it be another Superbowl XX???? Bears 49; New England 10????

Only time will tell . . . . .

TGIF!!!

Cold. Tired. Need rest. Getting ready for midterm exams next week. Correcting hell. Grades. Ugh!

Anyone have any industrial strength caffeine??????

It's cold here in New England

We are currently experiencing a cold spell here in New England. We went from 70 degree weather in January to 15 degree weather! Crazy stuff!

Good news is that my classroom in the modular is nice and toasty! Why? Because I can jack up the heat . . . that's why! :-)

Bad news is that I control the thermostat for my classroom and the classroom across the hallway from me. The poor guy across the hallway . . . .he's got the windows opened and is sweating his $%&$#@ off! Oops . . . .

Today was a long key day. The students are coming off of a four day weekend so they were pretty calm for the most part. We start midterm exams next week so I'm prepping them for exams and trying to make a one last chance at teaching curriculum that needs to be taught - thank you MA Curriculum Frameworks! :-) 1st rule - cram as much information down their throats as humanly possible the week before exams. They will hate you with a stormy passion! 2nd rule - scare them and freak them out about the exam (Ex: tell them the exam is over 40 pages and keep a straight face!).

I'm so evil . . . . . I adore freshman . . . . you can torture them to the fullest extreme and truly get away with it. There is a place in hell for me. You know that, right?????

Is it February break yet????????

Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday

Happy Birthday to one of the most courageous men of our time. He fought for the rights of others and for humankind.

A Nobel Peace Prize winner in 1964, he risked his life for civil rights. I sometimes wonder if my students really understand and get the significance of what this amazing man accomplished in our history.

If you are looking for some reading on MLK, Stanford University has some nice documents.

MLK's "I Have A Dream Speech" is one of the most inspirational speeches in our history. Read it here.

"We cannot walk alone.
And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.
We cannot turn back."

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

Helping out the college students

Let's hope this goes through the legislative process.

Read here to find out more.

Coming from someone that had undergraduate and currently has graduate students loans, every little bit helps! There is no reason why the average American can't get a college education at a reasonable price.

Do I like having to write out that check to the US Department of Education every month for my graduate student loan? NO! But, I have a Masters degree and no one can take that away from me! Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that the State of Massachusetts requires teachers to get their Masters degree but not compensate us the salary or cost of living raises that we deserve. Oops! Forgot about that!

Finally, the weekend!

It's been a long week but not a long week. I know. That makes no sense at all.

Long week at school. Students that just don't want to be in school. Students blaming me for them failing not just my class but all their other classes too. A week full of non-productive meetings. Yes, that's one of my pet peeves. If I'm going to sit in a meeting, please let it be productive.

I chaperoned the senior dance on Thursday evening (no school for kids on Friday due to a professional day for teachers). Didn't get home until after 11:00 pm. Made for a long night. And, I had to be back at school on Friday for the professional day.

Another pointless professional day. It was painful. I do mean painful to sit in meeting after meeting without falling asleep.

It's the weekend and I get to play catch up with my personal and professional life. Joy!

We have one more week until midterm exams. I get to cram as much content down their throats as humanly as possible. Joy!

So, is it time for February break yet????????

War Debt

At the close of 2006, England paid off its debt from World War II to the United States and Canada.

Read about it here.

The U.S. loaned England 4.33 billion in 1945 at 2% for 50 years (apparently there were 5 years that Great Britain had to defer payments because of economic hardships). The money was used to rebuild Great Britain after the war.

World War I war debts have still not been repaid. Ummmmm???????

I'm curious . . . . how long will it take the United States to repay the money it is borrowing for fighting in Iraq?????? Ummmmmm????????????

Thanks to my peeps! :-)

Thank you everyone for your kind thoughts and words over my last post.

I do care too much and I need to let it go. Kids will be kids. I wonder how they would react if I stole from them? But, it's not in my nature to steal from someone.

And, yes - they need to prove to me that I can trust them again.

I see them tomorrow - the last block of the day (we are on block scheduling so I see my students every other day - Ex: Red Day and White Day).

I wonder how they will act?

Am I too trusting?

Question: Am I too trusting?

Situation: Today, I was teaching about coins from around the world in my 9th grade World Studies class. I brought in some of my money from Europe to show my students what foreign money looks like since the majority of them have never seen money from Europe (I have euros and Pounds). I had scrapbooked two pages of my England/Northern Ireland/Ireland trip from the summer of 2004 in one of my books so I brought that in to show the students.

I passed around the pages to the students. Most kids were quite inquisitive about the money. I want to point out that this money for the most part has no value here in the United States. At one point, a 5 pound note was taken out of the little pocket on the scrapbook page. I had no idea who took it. There are 30 students in the class and not one of them would "fess up" to who took it. So, I told them that I would stand out in the hallway and let them figure out who took it. If the money was placed on my desk, there would be no questions asked. End of drama. No one would admit to taking it so I went down to the Assistant Principal's office(my co-teacher watched the class for me) and told him what happened and he came down to my classroom to get it straightened out. Still, not one kid admitted to taking the money. The AP told the students that no one would leave until the money was returned to me (it was the last block of the day). Finally, one student asked if she could go to the AP's office for "something". 10 minutes later, the AP returns with my money. The student that left told me she was covering up for someone else. I told the class that I can't trust them anymore and that they would have work hard to gain my trust again. They showed absolutely no remorse at all for the incident and that has me a little bit concerned. These are kids that have not been taught to be held accountable or responsible for their actions.

I am disappointed in them. And, I feel like I can no longer trust them. Add teaching not to steal to my list of responsibilities as a classroom high school teacher! Ughy!

Happy Birthday Janet-poo aka Nutty! :-)

This picture was taken in 2002 at Janet's Bridal Shower.

Go over and wish Ms. Janet a very happy birthday!

I've been friends with Janet since my days at Pagenet in the 90's. She is one of the most nicest and kindest people I've ever met. Her compassion and love for her friends is one of the best things about her. She helped me through some tough times with my ex-fiancee and I will never forget her support and the strength she gave me during one of the most tough times in my life.

She's a great lady and deserves so much happiness. Thanks Nutty for always been such a great friend and support to me!

I love ya kiddo!!! Much hugs and love on your special day!!!! :-)

A short week . . . . .

I survived my first week back after the holiday break. It was a short week but a LONG week too! :-)

A gorgeous full moon had the kids a little more excitable than normal too.

Spent my weekend working at Paws. It's not as busy as it was over the holidays. We had a crazy weather day on Saturday in New England . . . . 70 degrees in January is just not "normal". I also spent the weekend trying to get some school work completed.

This week is also a shortened week in a sense. On Friday, I have a professional day so no students. On Thursday, I'm chaperoning my first school dance at my new school. Should be interesting. :-)

I might meet with some of my "babies" of the Class of 2003 for dinner this week. It's sort of a ritual that we started after they graduated. They are seniors at UNH this year! I can't believe that they will be graduating this May - time flies by so quickly. We meet at some restaurant in the Plaistow area for dinner and catch up. It's so nice that they still want to keep in touch with me and let me know what's going on in their lives.

We also have the following Monday off for Martin Luther King, Jr.'s B-Day. Gotta love these shortened weeks -

Have a good week! :-)

Happy New Year!

Happy 2007 Everyone!

I made it back to MA - had a wonderful time in IL. Thanks to Mom, Dad, Mandy, and Mia the Yorkie for a wonderful visit. I was able to see a ton of family and friends during my stay. If I missed ya this visit, I'll try and get ya the next time. :-)

My friend Joann organized an evening out with the girls. We had such a nice time at the Maples and then went back to Jo's house to chat and catch up. Here is a picture:

Thanks Lea for emailing the pictures out to everyone. :-)

I went back to school on Jan. 2nd. When I arrived in my new digs, there were boxes everywhere! So, I had to unpack all my stuff. I'll post a picture of my new classroom soon. I like being in the modulars. I have heat! :-) And, the best part, I can control the temperature in my classroom. My new space even has windows! Bonus! :-)

Hope everyone enjoyed their holiday and New Years - what did you do for the holidays? Post your answers and I'll post mine later on. :-)

Merry Christmas and see ya in 2007!

I fly to IL today to be with my family so I'll be taking a little bit of a break from blogging.

I just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy 2007!

Thank you everyone for reading my blog and being such a wonderful support to me this year. 2006 was a challenging year for me, personally and professionally.

Be good. Be safe. Peace out 2006! :-)

Quick update in the life of M-Dawg

Middle Ages Projects came in on Thursday and Friday. Most of the kids did a nice job. I only took pictures of the castles. Here are a few pictures:

The creativity of my students always amazes me!

This castle has three floors built into it - it reminds me of a doll house the way it was designed. Every castle was required to have architectural labels for each feature.

FYI: A lot of the students did not do the paper that was a required component of the project. Therefore, their grades will be penalized for this action. When will they ever learn??????

Middle Ages Projects are due tomorrow!

So, my students have been working on a Middle Ages Project since the middle of November. The project is due on Thursday and Friday (depending on if it's a Red or White day - we are on block scheduling). Plus, I'm giving them a quiz on the Middle Ages. Yes, I'm aware that I'm being tough by giving them a project and a quiz right before vacation! :-)

The kids had a choice of seven possible projects: Disease Journal, Cook book of Recipes of Middle Ages, Comic Strip, perform live or do a video of the day in the life of a peasant, castle model, Baseball trading cards of Middle Ages people, and a picture book. There is more to this project but this is the Cliff Note version. They also have to have a two-page paper (typed, 12 point font, double space) paper to accompany the project. And, they have to have a bibliography (MLA format, of course). Students had the choice to work individually, with a partner, or in a group of three. They also have to present their project to their classes on the due date.

The kids have been procrastinating on the project - I know it! I took them down to the library the past few days for some research time and computer use. I got the vibe that most of them don't have everything completed at this point. I've already been getting the questions: "Can I turn the project in late?" Yes, but you lose a letter grade for every day you don't turn the project into me. After three days, don't bother turning the project into me. "Can I turn in the project and not the required paper?" I don't suggest it since the project is worth 80 points and the paper is worth 20 points - you are assuming that you will get the full 80 points on the project. Those 80 points are NOT free! I'm already getting drama about how "certain" groups or partners are not "playing well with others" (not doing any work and dumping all the work on one person in the group). I warned them in the beginning to choose their partner or group carefully since it's going to be their grade impacted by doing or not doing the project.

Once the drama ends, here's hoping for a good, quality product turned in the next few days. I'll take pictures of the projects and post them at a later date.

Students are off the wall excited and crazy this week . . . .

Only four more days until Christmas break . . . . . . . . . . . .

Soon, this will be me relaxing at my folks house. . . . . . . .

Not soon enough! :-)

A crazy busy week

It's going to be a crazy week in the life of M-Dawg.

I'm supposed to be evaluated some time this week. Never mind that our contract states that evaluations needed to be completed by December 15th. So, I need to come up with a creative, student centered activity for my freshman World History class. I'm in the middle ages so I thought I'd do a Middle Ages Charades game to help them review for their quiz at the end of the week. If anyone has any other suggestions, I'm up for them! :-) My students also have a project due at the end of the week before we head off for a much needed break.

I also need to finish packing up my classroom. I'm being moved into the modulars over the break. I'm so thrilled because I'll actually have a "real" classroom. What do I mean by that? Well, a classroom that will have heating/cooling, white boards, windows, and clean air! The littlest things in life make me so very happy! :-) I started packing last week so I have a ton of boxes all over my classroom. The walls are so bare! The kids told me they don't like the bare walls. I promised them that we will decorate our new classroom space once we get out into the modulars.

Oh, the faculty at my school will be voting on whether or not we are keeping block scheduling on Tuesday. I personally like it. Most of the kids like it too based on a survey that was given to them during homeroom. I hope the faculty does the right thing and votes to keep the block. I get so much more accomplished with the kids on block scheduling.

I'm also working at Paws on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Late hours too. I need to pack and get ready to leave for IL on Saturday evening. It will be good to just get away and just rest and relax for a week. I'm debating about whether or not I should bring any school work with me. Ughy! The life of a teacher! :-)

Have a good week everyone! :-)

PS My blog was referenced over at the AFT blog - check it out! :-)

A busy personal day

I took a personal day today because I needed to get a ton of stuff done. I was hoping to sleep in a bit this morning. That didn't happen!

My weekends are spent working at my part-time job. I have grades due on Wednesday so I need to get caught up on correcting.

To Do List:
*Christmas shopping
*Recycle cans and bottles
*Correcting/Grades
*Put up Christmas tree
*Do Christmas cards
*Take Ellie to the vet for her annual check-up and shots
*Meet Lauren and Janet for dinner (Maybe - Lauren is feeling under the weather so we may not meet - feel better Lauren!) at Macaroni Grill in Burlington, MA.

As you can see, my personal day isn't exactly a day of rest. Oh well. Tis the season! :-)

AFT Challenge

On the AFT (American Federation of Teachers) blog, they are encouraging educators to post a picture of their classrooms and describe what their classroom and school environment is like on a daily basis. You can read the post here.

This is what my classroom looks like right now.

My school is currently under construction. Everything is covered in dust. We hear drills and hammering all day long due to the work that is being done in my area of the building. The goal is to renovate the entire building inside and outside. There are no computers in the classroom - I usually bring my laptop into school everyday. Internet is limited in the building. I was spoiled at my previous school with all the technology in the world. At this school, they don't even encourage the use of email! After the construction, supposedly all classrooms will have internet. Yet, they can't even guanarntee that the teachers will get a computer for thier own desk. My classroom does not have heat - in fact, since the beginning of November, the A/C has been on in my room. Everyday, I submit a form to the building and grounds dept. to report the freezer that is my classroom. The temps range from 48-55 degrees. I'm being moved over the Christmas break into the modulars so I've been told that heating my classroom is not a priority. Meanwhile, my students and I wear our winter coats, hats, and mittens in the classroom.

The lights flicker on and off throughout the day. I'm on the top floor (4th floor) so my classroom ceiling also leaks when it rains. As you can see from the photo above, the lights were flickering off when I took the picture.

When I move into the modulars in January, I will have heat in the winter and A/C in the warmer months. I will also have whiteboards and NOT chalkboards (I'm not a huge fan of chalkboards - the chalk dries my hands out terribly).

I've been contemplating about investing in a LCD projector so I can do my PowerPoints. I'm currently using an overhead projector and spend my own money on the overheads. Long term, it's probably cheaper for me to invest in the LCD projector. I spend anywhere between $1000-$1500 of my own money on school supplies per school year. I'm not reimbursed any of that money from my school. And, Congress didn't renew the tax break ( The Teacher Tax Relief Act of 2001) for teachers (it was only $250 a year but every little bit helps) so now I can't even deduct my school expenses. :-(

A list of "stuff" in my classroom that I've purchased with my own money:

*Boom box - I play music when I teach different units. I also like to listen to the radio after school when I'm correcting and getting work done in my classroom. I also buy music that relates to a lot of units in World History or US History. For example, I played the SchoolHouse Rock songs, I'm just a bill and The Preamble when I taught the Constitution Unit in my US History class.

*Book Shelf - I place my personal book collection on the shelf. I also have a shelf for books that kids can check out or borrow from me.

*Books - most of the teaching materials I have in my possession, I've bought with my own money.

*Pencil sharpener - I guess my school doesn't think it's necessary for kids to sharpen their pencils for taking my notes or tests?????

*I always keep a supply of general school supplies such as pencils, pens, folders, binders, etc. I teach in a low socio-economic community so sometimes these kids have no money to purchase supplies. I also keep some granola bars and other muchy food in my filing cabinet for those kids that didn't eat breakfast.

*My digital camera - I'm always taking pictures of the kids while they are working on projects and activities. I also use some of the pictures in my lectures or PowerPoints.

*Posters - I have inspirational posters around my classroom to encourage the kids to work hard and about positive attitudes and learning.

*DVD's and video collection - any movies that will help out with my teaching, I usually purchase them. For example, while teaching the Middle Ages, I'll show my students Monty Python and the Holy Grail or A Knights Tale (the opening clip to show knights and jousting).

This list could go on and on - but, I think you get the point. Let's hope that our government (and the public) gets the point that there are a lot of teachers out there that are GOOD teachers that really are invested (emotionally and economically) on our youth. And, our working conditions need to change. Some schools in this country are literally falling apart and nothing is being down about it. Advocate that our legislature do the right thing for the youth of America - they are our future!

Happy Birthday Cheryl!

Cheryl is the gal dressed in pink!

Happy Birthday Cheryl! To my high school friend - we've been through so many ups and downs over the years yet we both always land on our feet! You've been such a great supportive friend to me over the years. You've got the heart of gold and I love ya kiddo!

Thank you for your kindness and friendship - enjoy your day with Brian and the boys - you deserve it!

Hugs and much love from MA! :-)

Response to my Christmas Questions

Thanks everyone for sharing your responses! My wish is for you all to get what you want for Christmas and to be happy and healthy for 2007.

What is my first memory of Christmas?
Opening presents with Mom, Dad, and Mandy - near our first live Christmas tree ever! I still remember that smell - it's the best smell in the world. Oh, and my first Barbie doll! :-)

What do you like about the Christmas season? What do you dislike about the Christmas season?
I like being with family and friends over the holiday. I don't like the craziness and hypocrisy of people in the malls and shopping and the rudeness of people pushing and shoving in the stores - isn't it tis the season folks?

What do you want Santa to bring you for Christmas?
Gift cards from the following locations: Barnes and Noble, Staples, Pier One Imports, Yankee Candle, and Pottery Barn.

Oh, my Amazon Wish List is here.

Most importantly, I want to be in IL with my family and friends. I fly out on December 23rd so watch out IL! :-)

I've been a bad blogger lately . . . .

Sorry everyone. It's been a crazy few weeks and the rest of the month of December doesn't look like it's going to slow down much for me.

I'm alive and kicking. Just busy. School is keeping me quite busy. I've picked up more hours at Paws for the month of December. And, of course, the holiday season is just insane too.

Look for a post of some interesting pics of Spirit Week at my school. Tell me again why I want to be class advisor because it's certainly NOT for the pay! :-)

To entertain me for my reading pleasure, please answer the following questions:

1) What is your first memory of Christmas?

2) What do you like about the Christmas season? What do you hate about the Christmas season?

3) What do you want Santa to bring you for Christmas? (If you celebrate Christmas)

Happy answering! :-)

PS I'll respond to my own questions in another post later on in the week.

I missed my blogging anniversary!

Major duh on my part! I missed my blogging anniversary in November. Thanks Lauren for reminding me.

It's been an interesting year for me. Lots of growth. Some set backs too. This blog has allowed me to vent my feelings and emotions in a healthy way. I've had fun with blogging too. Posting not only my thoughts and ideas but some great pictures. I've also been very blessed to have some great feedback from some great folks in my life.

To all my blogging pals out there - thanks for reading and being there for me. Your comments and support mean so much to me.

Keep on posting - :-)

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!!!!

Mom and Dad were married on November 29, 1969. The above picture was taken in Hawaii on their 25th anniversary. Check out the young parents I have! Look at these sexy folks! :-)

I don't know where this photo was taken but it looks like they were having a good time. Mom and Dad always have a good time no matter where they go. They both enjoy traveling (maybe this is where I get my travel bug). In another year or so, Dad will be taking early retirement and the plan is to sell the house and RV full time all over the country. I'm hoping they will get out to New England more often.

This photo was taken at my counsin's wedding. Again, they are having a wonderful time.

There are many things about my parents that I admire:

1) They accept each other for who they are - the good, the bad, and the ugly! :-)

2) They still hold hands and cuddle and grab each other after all these years! :-)

3) They love life and live it to the fullest! :-)

4) Their love of our family and acceptance of their goofy and silly daughters! :-)

Mom and Dad - I love ya and thank you for always being such wonderful and supportive parents to Mandy and I. We wouldn't be who we are today without your compassion, love, and support.

Happy 37th Anniversary and many more!

Hugs and Much Love!!!!!!!!!

Paws new web site is up and running for your online ordering pleasure!

For you dog and cat lovers out there, my store has the web site officially up and running for online ordering.

Check it out!

Woof! Meow! :-)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Eat lots of turkey, enjoy the time with your families, and watch some good football games!

I'm very thankful for a lot of things this year. My life was been tested a lot the past year. First, I'm thankful for a job. I've realized that a job doesn't make the person and to not take my job so seriously.

Second, I'm thankful for my family and friends. Without them, I would never have made it through all the crap I went through the past year. Mom, Dad, and Mandy - thank you for your love and support! I love ya's!

Last, Ellie the Cat! She's my little pain in the butt but also my baby girl!

Gobble Gobble!!!!

Happy Birthday Mom!!!

Look at this sexy lady!

This picture was taken in our swimming pool at our house in Dalzell, IL.

Happy Birthday Mom!

Mom is the most amazing lady that I know . . . . her spirit and passion for life is incredible! Mom is always there for me no matter what stupid things I've done throughout my life. You are always so supportive to Mandy and I with everything we do. You love us unconditionally. You make us laugh. You are the bestest Momma in the world!

Mom, I love you!

Happy Birthday and enjoy your day - you deserve the best!

PS Make Dad take you out to dinner tonight! :-)

Back to School . . . . and finished with grades!

I DID IT!!!

I even finished up earlier than I thought - I'm done with all my grades. I even printed out the grade sheets for the kids. My students will receive their printouts in class tomorrow and Thursday so they can see what they are getting for a grade in my class. I did give the kids a Keeping Score Sheet so they can actual keep track of their own grades but some of the kids don't use the sheet.

My week is filled and jam packed as usual - I had History Book Club on Monday after school. We read this book - it was pretty interesting. I learned a lot about our founding fathers. The book presented these men in a more human life than any other book I've read about them. We met at this place in Salem for the Book Club. Teachers from Danvers, Beverly, and Salem were allowed to sign up for this Book Club. It's affiliated throughout Salem State College. We read three books throughout the school year and they give us a $300 stipend! Pay ME to read a book, oooh yeaaahhhhh!!!!

I had a class officer meeting today after school with my freshmen. We are trying to get ready for Spirit Week next week. On Wednesday, I have a meeting with any freshmen that wants to help out during Spirit Week. Thursday, I work at Paws. Friday, I'm baking apple lasagna for my Brunch on Saturday. Saturday, I have a Delta Kappa Gamma function to attend. Saturday afternoon, I work at Paws. Sunday, I work at Paws. No down time as you can see!

Add to all of this that I had to finish grading projects and quizzes, type in my grades into my computer, and then enter the grades into the school grading program, it's just a typical week in M-Dawgs world!

Gee, maybe this is why I got sick????????????

Back to school on Monday

Well, I go back to school on Monday after having a mini-sick vacation for the past week. I still have the runny-nose cold thing but I'm MUCH better! :-)

It will be good to be back in my classroom again. I do miss my students. :-)

I have a ton of grading to do because grades are due on Wednesday. I've been working a ton this weekend on some grading and getting my grades into my computer. I have this great software program that I use to calculate out my grades for me - no doing math the old fashion way for me! :-)

The plan for Sunday:
*Finish putting grades into the computer
*Get as much correcting done as possible
*Bake pumpkin pie :-)
*Grocery shopping
*Little cleaning around the condo
*Maybe some last minute cuddle time with Ellie the Cat! :-)

Enjoy your weekend folks! :-)

Feeling so-so better

Not exactly a good way of putting how I feel but that pretty much sums it up!

I need to call my Dr. again today. The meds don't really seem to be working very well. My nose is still plugged up and my throat is still sore, puffy, and swollen. The fever has gone away which is good and the achiness is gone too.

It's been been a week today since this sickness drama started. I'm sick of being sick. Plain and simple.

I did go into Paws last night to work. Probably shouldn't have gone in but there is no one else to work for me. The owner still hasn't hired anyone else so we are still short staffed. The owner went away on vacation too. And, the new gal she hired back in August isn't picking everything up as fast as we would like so who knows what will happen with that . . . . .

I do work today - it's only 2:30-5:00 so it shouldn't be too tough (I hope). I open the store tomorrow and work 10-3. I have Sunday off which is a good thing.

How Democrat are you?

You Are 84% Democrat

You are a card carrying Democrat, and a pretty far left one at that!There's no chance anyone would ever mistake you for a Republican.

How Democrat Are You?

Get out there and vote!

It's Election Day Folks!

Get out there and cast your vote!

Do you think your vote won't make a difference? Well, it DOES make a difference!

Here's a little history behind Election day for ya!

Here in MA, the governor's race is hot and heavy! The Republican candidate is the current Lt. Governor Kerry Healey. The Democratic candidate is Deval Patrick. The Independent candidate is Christy Mihos. The Green-Rainbow candidate is Grace Ross. Deval Patrick is currently leading in the polls.

I voted for Deval. Why? Well, I'm sick of a Republican regime on Beacon Hill (that's in Boston for you Non-MA folks). And, I believe Deval will work hard for education in the state of Massachusetts. The current regime has cut education funding to an all time low and who is suffering? It's the kids . . . the future of our great nation!

The rest of the country is in a fight as well. The Democrats want control of Congress again. The public is fed up with a useless Republican regime - and, shall I say it, a useless President?

How will you vote?????????

Update on Dr's Appt.

The Doctor said that I have a nasty infection in my body. He put me on some strong antibiotics and Claritan to clear me up. He didn't seem to think that I have Whooping Cough -

I'm out of school today but I hope to be back on Wednesday -

Off to rest next to Ellie the Cat - :-)

M-Dawg called the Dr!

Update: I'm still not feeling well today. I did go into school because I had a freshman assembly for elections for class officers today.

I left shortly after the assembly -

I called my Doctor - and, I can't get in to see him until Tuesday morning at 8:15! I explained that at my school we have whopping cough going around the building (Word on the street is that there are four more cases of kids that have it). The Dr's office didn't seem to be too concerned. Great. I'll keep you all posted!

Right now, I'm going back to bed -

Pleasant dreams!

M-Dawg is a very sick Dog! :-)

Whatever the current choice of germ(s) going around my school, I've officially caught it!

First, one of my students was just diagnosed with Whooping Cough - not a good thing if you ask me. They seem to think it was caught in time so hopefully an epidemic won't occur at my school.

Second, I think I've officially run myself into the ground! I think that's why I got sick.

I left school early on Friday - I slept almost the entire weekend. I'm starting to feel somewhat better except my throat is killing me. I did go to the store and bought some good drugs to knock whatever is in my body out - cross your fingers!

If I'm not feeling better by Monday, I'll call my doctor. I promise. :-)

Since I slept all weekend, I got no school work done at all. The quarter ends on Wednesday. We have a professional day on Thursday (no kids) and Friday we have off for Veteran's Day.

My quizzes and projects will not get correcting on their own - I was wondering . . . is there such thing as the correcting fairy? You know. . . someone to correct all my papers and projects for me?

I think those drugs have officially kicked in! I'm seeing correcting fairies! :-)

Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween everyone!

The kids at school have been over the wall crazy and insane (in a bad way!). I don't know if it's the sugar high or just the time of the year.

I'm looking forward to this holiday being over soon. We might have some possible excitement in Salem - check this article out. And this article too.

I hope that all my students will be safe tonight and stay out of trouble. The police already blocked off the entire downtown area for the festivities for this evening.

I also want to wish my friend Audrey a very happy birthday today too! Hugs and much love!

I'm here. I'm alive and kicking.

Life has been interesting the past few days. I've been very busy.

I officially crashed today. I slept in. Relaxed. Paid some bills (OK, maybe NOT so relaxing). Catching up on emails and blogs. Etc.

I'm in that funk again. You know the funk. Feeling sorry for myself funk. Feeling lonely again. My life revolves around my job which is something I was hoping to not do this school year. I'm still having a difficult time adjusting to my new school. I feel stuck. That's the only way I can word it. Stuck. Stuck in this so called life.

My counselor told me to write out a list of some things that I like about myself. I can't even start the list. I told her it's a little hard to like someone when I don't even like myself. She also asked me what am I looking for in a man. All I can come up with is someone that is nice. I've asked my friends if they know of any nice, single men and I get a negative response from all of them. Come on, there has to be SOME nice guys out there??????? Or, is it that I'm not good enough????? I've tried the online dating thing. So, please don't say to try that because I've done it twice now and no luck. The second time, I had NO hits! Nothing!

UGHY!!! I need to get out of this pitty party. I'm sick of everyone telling me that someday my Prince will come! He's not coming. He's not there. So, now what?

I don't want marriage right now. I just want companionship. I guess I'm asking for too much. Next February, I will be 36 years old. Yes, 36! I'm beyond the Old Maid status at this point.

OK, I'm done feeling sorry for myself. Talk amongst yourselves . . . . . . . . . .

Thanks for the support everyone!

Let me tell you . . . I have the "bestest" peeps ever in my life.

To all of those that commented on the last post - thank you!

Katie is a former student of mine from Timberlane - she's not kidding about that class she was in her sophomore year! She's a student at UNH now - my babies are growing up! :-) LOTS OF LOVE and a shout out to the Class of 2003!!!! :-)

Cheryl also sent me an article from the Bureau County Republican newspaper via email. Thanks for the article - I agree with it.

I know that I shouldn't take everything so seriously. I just care too much about these kids. I truly feel that they are being screwed and they don't even know it.

I've gone to the administration about the SPED teacher a few times already. Remember, it's my first year so I don't want to piss anyone off yet. :-) All I can is advocate for my kids and myself.

Side note: It's going to be a busy week again so please forgive me if I don't email or blog. This is my only night off and I'm planning on crashing.

Bad day on Friday

My C Block class is going to be the death of me yet! They are a very needy and immature group of kids.

It's a co-taught SPED class with 30 kids! Yes, 30! According to their IEP, they are all supposed to get individualized attention - so, how does that work? It doesn't work! And, the SPED teacher that they have me with is incompetent and useless. He does nothing - absolutely nothing to help me or the kids. He falls asleep in the back of my classroom. That's about all the "work" he does in my classroom.

On top of it, I have some behavioral challenged kids in the class too.

Not a fun class. I have done everything that I can to "better" the situation - talked to the SPED teacher, talked to his supervisor, talked to administration, etc. I wrote out on an index card each student and what their accommodation needs thinking this would help him. He looked at the card and folded it and put it in his book bag and I haven't seen it since. I even signed up for the co-teaching workshop thinking that it might help. He didn't sign up for the workshop - when I asked him about it, he laughed in my face! I've tried to give him more responsibilities in the classroom and he wants no part of it. I can't force the man to do his job.

This teacher works with three other teachers in my dept and all three are having the same problem with him. So, apparently it's not just me.

I've tried to not let it bother me but my concern is always for the kids. Their needs are not being met. Legally, it's me that's responsible for the accommodations of these kids and following the IEP but the SPED teacher is supposed to provide support. That is not happening.

On Friday, the SPED teacher was absent. Usually, that's a good thing for me. He's already been out three days already so I have a feeling that this may be a pattern. However, I had to give a quiz and according to most of their IEP's, I'm supposed to read aloud the entire quiz to them. I ended up having to read the entire quiz to everyone in the class. Usually, the SPED teacher would take the kids (12 of them) to another classroom and read the quiz aloud to them. Meanwhile, I usually walk around the room and help kids. There is one of me. I can't help all the kids at the same time. And, don't even get me started on the middle school's writing of these IEP's - they are absolutely ridiculous! Most of the IEP's have over 35 accommodations when all you have to do is summarize them down to about 5! And, the IEP's "baby" the kids. Coddle them. Ughy!

It's very frustrating and I don't know what else I can do. I'm trying to handle the discipline problems. Most of the kids that are a behavioral problem will be kicked out of my class eventually anyway. And, most of them are failing the class too. I've called home, sent emails home, and letter home. Nothing. No support.

The bright light at the end of a real crappy day: I got this email from my friend Cheryl:

I saw this is our little morning paper this morning and thought I'd pass it on. I bet ya your students say that you inspire...
The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. William Arthur Ward

Thanks Cheryl for cheering me up - I really needed to read that email after having such a crappy day. Thanks kiddo! Love ya!

I have an addiction!

I have a confession to make. Maybe it's all those years of being brought up Catholic and feeling the need to confess something.

I'm addicted to pumpkin! Not just Janet's pumpkin pie - which is the BEST pumpkin pie ever!

I'm addicted to this. Oh my goodness! It's so yummy! I've been using it for almost a week and I'm in complete love!

Bath and Body has some new amazing scents - check out the store or web site!

Sad time for my school

We were informed of this incident yesterday. We had an emergency faculty meeting at the end of the day but my Principal didn't know/was told to not release names until family members could be notified.

We were updated today at a faculty meeting: two of the young men killed in the accident went to our school a few years ago. The only survivor of the crash is a current student - we were told today that he will be OK (minus the psychological impact obviously).

Police are investigating to see whether alcohol or drugs might have been a factor.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends at this tragic time.

Sometimes, I just wish I knew how to breathe . . . .

It's been one of those weeks. You know. Your schedule is so crazy that you can't even go to the bathroom or breathe.

I'm a YES person. The word NO is not in my vocabulary. I'm always the first one to volunteer to do something at school. Guess who said they would be the freshman class advisor? Yup! Me! I'm such a sucker! And, I'm always trying to be a better teacher so I'm consistently signing up for professional development stuff. I started a workshop today on Co-teaching with a SPED teacher. Plus, I have a second job.

It's official. I'm completely overwhelmed right now. And, I think I'm coming down with a cold. Joy! Of course it doesn't help that there is no heat in my building right now and the temps in the building are colder inside than outside.

It amazes me how relaxed I was on Sunday. I slept in. Met Carla for lunch. Judged the lip synch performances in the evening at Timberlane. I woke up on Monday morning feeling well rested and anxious to start my week at school. It's only Tuesday evening, I'm already exhausted! I still have the rest of the week - Early Release on Wed (faculty meetings and mini-workshops are planned for the afternoon), I have students staying every day this week for extra help, I just found out that I have parents coming in for conferences on Thursday after school and I need to work at my second job, I work on Thursday night until 8:00, etc. It's endless.

Yes, I created my crazy schedule. I know I need to say no??? Since it's my first year at a new school, I feel the pressure of trying to please everyone. It's a vicious cycle!

So, that's my ranting and raving for the week. Aren't ya happy you read my blog today????

Pictures from Kuwait

My cousin, Danny, has been stationed in Kuwait since last November (Dan's father and my father are brothers). He's due to come soon but he's been keeping touch through email. Last school year, Danny would email me at school and send pictures of what he was doing over there. My students would then email questions to him through my school email account. We had a nice little exchange going on between my students and my "little" cousin. I also had my students make Dan some cards and letters to cheer him up. I haven't had the chance to mail them out until recently so he just received them. He sent me an email to thank me and give me an update on what's going on with him. He also included a few pictures.

Here are a few recent pictures of Dan in Kuwait:

I am so proud of Dan!

Happy 1st B-Day Jeffrey!!!!!

Isn't this the cutest baby ever????

Happy 1st B-Day to Jeffrey! His mom, Traci, is a friend from IL. Traci and Mark have done a wonderful job with this little cutie pie!

Lots of hugs on your special day sweetie!

:-)

Progress Grades are Due on Thursday . . . .

So, do you think it's a bad idea to panic and just randomly give out grades to students?

Just checkin' . . . . . . . .

I'm in panic mode right now to get all my grades done. Good news: I can access the grading program from home. Bad News: I don't have computer access in my classroom at school so I'm forced to do them at home even if I don't want to.

I stopped off at Starbucks for a Caramel Macchiato - I think I may need the caffeine buzz for the evening!

:-)

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Check out this web site and click away!

Breast Cancer kills thousands of women every year. Early detection is the key to a high survival rate. Check out this site on how to perform a self-exam.

Don't just think that you can get breast cancer if it runs in your family (it runs in my family). You can get breast cancer even if the disease does not run in your family. Be pro-active! Start feeling yourselves up ladies! :-)

To Mom, a survivor - this post is for you! I love you!

Dad met Bono from U2 in Las Vegas

My parents were in Las Vegas this past week on a little vacation. They went out there with Aunt Jenence and Uncle Alfred (Mom's sister and husband).

My Dad actually met Bono from U2 at the Palm's opening of the Playboy Club! He sent me the picture but it's in a movie format and I can't figure out how to post it on my blog! Ughy!!!!

So cool Daddy!!!!! Bono is the man!

Lea and Gunther

This is the last picture taken of Gunther with Lea. Gunther had to put down last month. I mentioned that I would post of picture of Lea and Gunther at some point. Lea emailed me this picture.

Hugs to Gunther :-)

Some thoughts on the Shooting in Amish Country in PN

As a teacher, this incident scares the hell out of me. For obvious reasons, of course. When Columbine happened in 1999, it seemed like there was this huge wake up call on violence in all schools. I think a lot of folks out there have forgotten Columbine. As an educator, it's always in the back of my mind. Will one of my students do this? We tend to think violence only exists in the inner-city schools and it's soooo not true! Last school year, I had a student of mine that brought a gun into school. I worked in an effluent community - no diversity - and, it was the mother of that student that called in to say that she thought her son might have brought in a gun to school that day. The year before, I had one of my students that shot and killed himself on the front stairs of the school in the middle of the night after a fight with his girlfriend. Point: it doesn't matter where you live or the type of community you teach in, violence is always there.

I'm trying hard to process the events that took place in that school. I just don't get how someone can just randomly go into a school and start shooting innocent children. It's been a busy few weeks with school shootings. This one happened on a college campus in Canada. Another one happened in Wisconsin and the victim was a high school principal. And, of course the latest incident that has everyone completely shocked and stunned. The Amish are a group of people that are very peaceful and religious. No one deserves a tragedy like this to happen but the Amish? What did they do? This article from CNN tries to put the school shooting thing in perspective - what is going on in our schools? Is our government responsible? Schools? Family? All of the citizens in this country are responsible. It takes a village to raise a kid (Go Hillary!).

I was just told today that my school has a few gangs in it(I currently teach in school that is considered inner-city) - and, these gangs have been known to bring weapons into school. I teach four freshman classes and one sophomore class. From what I'm told, it's the upperclassmen that have large gang activity. However, Thursday night, a bunch of freshman girls were arrested due to some "problems" related to gangs. We are not being told anything else except to keep our eyes and ears out for any rumors or mentioning of violence.

Why am I sharing this information with you? Well, obviously these kids are reaching out for love and family. Same goes for the school shooting kids. They are reaching out for help - either emotionally or physically. All this violence just has me thinking of how can we, as a society, help these kids? How can we help them deal with their anger issues? I do not allow students to be made fun of or teased in my classroom. Respect is a huge rule in my classroom. I do realize that there are some teachers out there that do allow the teasing and tormenting. They need to do something. However, the parents need to take some responsibility as well. Don't duck your head in the sand when you notice your child behaving differently. Don't be your child's friend - trust me, they have enough friends. They need a PARENT! What about members of the community? What can they do? They can support positive after school programs by supporting them financially or volunteering their time to help establish those programs.

We need to work together folks! Otherwise, this craziness will continue!

The families of the victims are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

Good Bless!

M-Dawg, have you graded our quizzes yet????

The first year at any school can be a difficult adjustment to any veteran teacher. Not only do you have to learn over 100 student names, but you have to learn new faculty names, new policies and procedures, and a new curriculum in some cases. It can be a tad bit overwhelming.

I'm having a tough time trying to keep up with everything. I think I was spoiled at my previous job. I had so many resources and technology at my disposable to make my job so much easier. That is not the case at this school.

Correcting is eating me up alive right now. I have huge class numbers - in most of my classes, I have at least 29 students. I teach five classes - you do the math! I could stop giving homework but I don't think that would go over very well with administration or parents.

Oh, the answer to the above question - YES! I finally finished grading the quizzes on Mesoamerica and Africa! :-)

Welcome to October!

I love the fall in New England! There is something about this time of the year that I absolutely adore!

Here's a top ten list:

10) Topsfield Fair - America's oldest agricultural fair. You can check out the sheep, cows, and pigs and enjoy some great food and entertainment.

9) Pumpkin Festival in Keene, New Hampshire - See some amazing pumpkins carved into unique shapes and faces and all lit up at night.

8) Leaf Peeping - Check out this interactive map from Yankee Magazine! The colors of the trees are usually so vibrant and beautiful in the fall. I don't know if we will have a good fall out here this year due to the crazy summer weather we had but those leaves may surprise ya!

7) Apple Picking - Make those apple pies or apple sauce. I'm an apple crisp gal myself!

6) Hay rides - Charmingfare Farm up in Candia, New Hampshire has some great stuff up there. I did a haunted hayride once with some colleagues of mine from Timberlane as a faculty outing. We had a blast!

5) Go visit the Yankee Candle Flagship Store in Deerfield, MA - The drive on Rt 2 out there is one of the most beautiful drives in the fall here in New England. If you are into candles, Yankee is a must see! I'm a Yankee junkie - I love their candles! Another good time to go out to visit is around Christmas (if you can deal with all the tourists).

4) Pumpkin Picking - Mac's Apples in Londonderry, NH is a good place to go apple picking and find a nice pumpkin. They also serve pumpkin ice cream! Yummy!!!!

3) Davis Farm - Megamaze. I highly recommend this corn maze in Sterling, MA is so much fun! I went out there one year for a school field trip with the psychology classes at my previous school. The kids loved it! Warning: It's not as easy as it may sound to go all the way through the maze - every year there is a theme for the maze. In 2003, the theme was the lost kingdom (medieval). This year, the theme is the great movie maze. They have bridges and a lot of dead ends so it can be very confusing but loads of fun!

2) Salem, MA - Go visit Salem. The closer it gets to Halloween, the more freaker it gets in that city! Check out Laurie Cabot's store. Or the Witch Museum. Warning: the closer it gets to Halloween, the more tourists in Salem too! Can be crowded.

1) FOOTBALL! Go Patriots!!!!!

Please define the role of a co-teacher in my classroom!

OK, today we had an early release day - well, the kids got out early, not us. The teachers has to stay and get training on Special Education stuff.

One of the topics was co-teaching. At my school, SPED teachers are in some of the classrooms with the regular education teacher to "help out". I currently have a SPED teacher in two of my classes with me. The logic of having him in the classroom with me is that over half of students in each class are on IEP's (Individual Education Plans). So, each of these students has specific accommodations that by law, I need to fulfill. He is supposed to be walking around from student to student and help them out. He's supposed to be familiar with the kids that are on IEP (He doesn't even know what kids are on IEP's and they are on his case load - I've had to tell him which kids need help). Oh, I need to let you know that this is a man that is in his upper 50's and has done SPED for a long time and worked in MANY schools all over MA.

Issue #1 - I was supposed to get copies of my IEP's before school started. I never received any IEP's. So, I went to my co-teacher (twice) and asked him if he could please print out the IEP's of the kids that we have in class. He never did do what I asked him to do for me. I ended up going to two other SPED teachers and they printed out the IEP's for me. They asked why didn't Mr. #$@& do it? My response was that I've asked him twice and he still hasn't printed them out.

Issue #2 - I've heard absolute horror stories on this guy that's supposed to be helping not only the students but me too in the classroom. One by one, teachers have come up to me and told me that Mr. %$##@ is absolutely useless.

Issue #3 - When Mr. $##%% is in the classroom with me, he stands in the back of the room the entire time. He doesn't move around the room to help the kids. When he does have a "conversation" with a kid, it's confrontational. Which isn't a good trait to have with a teenager by the way!

Issue #4 - I've complained to my team teachers about this guy and they gave me a few suggestions on how to deal with it. One of the suggestions was to talk to one of the administrators to see if they could have a chat with Mr. %^$#@. I had a chat with my Housemaster (aka Asst. Principal) today. I'm trying to be diplomatic and professional because it is my first year at this school and I don't want to rock the boat. However, when I spoke to the Housemaster, he's noticed the same things about Mr. ^%##&. The Housemaster said he would speak to Mr. ^%#@.

Issue #5 - I realize that I can't change someone. However, I am asking for professional courtesy and respect. My #1 concern is the kids. Plain and simple! And, these kids are not received the services that they are supposed to according to their IEP. That's against the law!

Issue #6 - Mr. $##%^ leaves the room before the bell rings at the end of the day - before even the kids! And, during class, he will disappear for a while.

Oh, I might want to add that I have three years experience team teaching with two different English teachers and one year experience co-teaching with a SPED teacher. I've been VERY blessed by having some GREAT folks to work with in the classroom. Carla and Donna were amazing educators to work with in the classroom. We had so much fun and the kids learned a great deal from us. Betsy was great with our kids last year because she was always walking around the classroom helping the kids or adding to class discussions and keeping the kids focused. In all these examples, it was presented to the kids that my colleagues and I were a TEAM! That we work together.

I've tried to establish that TEAM attitude with Mr. %^$#@ as well. When I speak, I always say, "Mr. %$#^ and I would like . . . . "

So, the workshop today on co-teaching did clearly define the role of the SPED teacher in my classroom and it's what I originally thought it was - to provide support to the kids and teacher in the classroom. I heard it. But did Mr. %$#@&??????

I'll keep you posted . . . . .

Banned Book Week - Sept 23-30

Banned Book Week is September 23rd-30th this year.

The following is the top ten list:
*“It's Perfectly Normal” for homosexuality, nudity, sex education, religious viewpoint, abortion and being unsuited to age group;
*“Forever” by Judy Blume for sexual content and offensive language;
*“The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger for sexual content, offensive language and being unsuited to age group;
*“The Chocolate War” by Robert Cormier for sexual content and offensive language;
*“Whale Talk” by Chris Crutcher for racism and offensive language;
*“Detour for Emmy” by Marilyn Reynolds for sexual content;
*“What My Mother Doesn't Know” by Sonya Sones for sexual content and being unsuited to age group;
*Captain Underpants series by Dav Pilkey for anti-family content, being unsuited to age group and violence
*“Crazy Lady!” by Jane Leslie Conly for offensive language; and
*“It's So Amazing! A Book about Eggs, Sperm, Birth, Babies, and Families” by Robie H. Harris for sex education and sexual content.

Off the list this year, but on for several years past, are the Alice series of books by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain.

As an avid reader, censorship annoys me. I've read six out of the ten books from the above list. I think some of these radical groups need to get a life! Reading is important! Let's not discourage a kid from reading anything!

I'm in two Book Clubs - one is a group of teachers from my previous school and the second is a History Book Club through Salem State College.

I read for enjoyment. I've always been a huge reader. Growing up, it was tough to get me to stop reading a book. I love to read before I go to bed. So, I really don't get these folks out there that censor books.

Do me a favor - go to your local library or book store and read ONE of the books on the list from above.

I'm exhausted!

Yes, it's been a long week. I crashed last night. Next week will be even longer.

I work all weekend at Paws. I have a ton of school work to complete by Monday.

This is my week:
Sunday - Work at Paws.
Monday - Meet w/ 9th grade History teachers to do common planning.
Wednesday - Professional Day -Workshop on SPED and afterwards, a dept meeting
Thursday - Meet the Parent's Night - 6:30-8:30 - LONG DAY! I won't even bother coming back home. I'll just stay down there.
Friday - Girl's Night Out - Lauren organized a group of us to meet at Kowloon's in Saugus. I am VERY much looking forward to this!
Saturday - Work at Paws

Sorry I haven't been posting a lot. School is keeping me rather busy. I'm hoping that after September, I will get into a normal swing of things and not spend so much time at school. It just seems that there is never enough time in the day for me to get my stuff done. Ughy!

Hope everyone had a good week. Thanks for all emails and hugs!

General Tidbits

*Lea emailed me and said she'd send me a picture of Gunther the dog soon. Once I get it, I'll post it. Thanks everyone for the happy thoughts.
*I'm an official commuter now. I've noticed a "few" things:
-Do people know how to use their turn signal? Is it a new invention?
-Why do folks drive slow in the fast lane and then refuse to move over AFTER other drivers pass them?
-When there is an accident or someone is pulled off along side the road, why do drivers find it necessary to slow down, stop, and be nosey? I call this the nosey factor. It causes delays people! Knock it off! Just drive! Do you really want to see a dead body on the road?
*It's official - I've heard every single excuse in the book regarding why a student hasn't completed their homework the past week. Should I give them an A for creativity?????
*Chavez (President of Venezuela) calls GW Bush the "devil" - HELLO! Is this really news???
*Lastly, is it Friday yet? I'm exhausted! :-)

Hugs to Lea!

My friend Lea had to put down her dog today. She's very sad but knew that it was time.

Hugs and love to Gunther - one hell of a fighter!

Lea - you did the right thing - Gunther isn't suffering anymore.

Hang tough and keep on smiling!

Hugs! :-)

PS I thought I had picture of Gunther but I don't - So, I've posted this picture of Lea when she came out last April for a visit. The Salty Dog is a restaurant in Boston near Faneuil Hall.

General Observations of my First Week

I survived my first week at my new school.

This school is so different than my previous school(s). One, it's more diverse. I have students in my class that speak Spanish, Portuguese, Albanian, and Chinese as their first language. So, I have the challenge of not only teaching them World History but also the language barrier. I like having all the different cultures in my room - it's great for class discussions! Second, this school is the largest school I've ever worked in. My own high school in IL (Hall High School) was only around 400 students in the entire building! My new school is around 1400 students! Third, the lack of use and/or presence of technology in the school. I've been spoiled working at my previous school. In my old classroom, I had a teacher computer(with the Internet) with an LCD projector installed from the ceiling so I could show DVD's or do PowerPoints, I had four student computers in the back of my classroom for student use, a printer, a VCR, and access to Email. This school, nothing! I bring in my laptop to do some work. We do have a small computer lab for teacher use but they are OLD Macs! Email is not encouraged with the faculty. Everything given to us in paper format in our mailboxes so it's such a waste of time and paper. I feel like I've stepped back in time of at least ten years regarding technology. Fourth, there are only four photocopiers for a faculty of 200 plus. And, on a good day, if we are lucky, two of them are actually working. And, we are given paper by our Head Teachers or Dept Chairs so they monitor the paper use. Once we run, that's it! We have to buy our own paper. At my previous school, we had a photocopier in the dept office. Oh, there is no dept office at my new school.

As frustrating and challenging as some parts of my new job can be I do like my new school. The kids are great! I have a few problem kids but most of them are pretty good kids. My colleagues are incredibly helpful and supportive. The administration (so far) has been supportive and good too. The lack of technology has really messed up my time management so I'm not as productive as I used to be for getting ready for my school day. I'm hoping that I'll adjust to it.

I am trying to find a cheap LCD projector for my classroom so I can do my PowerPoints. I have an Overhead Projector so I'm going back to doing overheads for notes for the time being. It's not very productive or creative but it will do for now.

The commute hasn't been too bad so far. It only takes me 35 minutes in the morning to get to school. The ride home is a different story. It takes me anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half. I'm very grateful that gas prices out here have gone down a ton! It's only $2.41 a gallon. I'm finding I like that drive home to decompress from my day. I'm getting up early - around 5:00 am to get ready for my school day so I'm trying to get to bed earlier and not stay up too late. One day this week, I actually went to bed at 8:00 pm because I was so exhausted and tired!

I'm also getting active already. They were looking for a class advisor for the Freshman class and I signed up for it. I do get paid a small stipend. I also signed up for a History Book Club through Salem State College and other area high schools. I get paid a small stipend for that too.

I'm still working at Paws - on Thursday after school, Saturdays, and I alternate every other Sunday. I may pick up another day during the week. I'm feeling out my schedule at school to see if I can handle anymore hours. I would like to go back to tutoring because it's great money and I like the one on one learning with the student.

Anyhoo, that's my general observations and thoughts from the past week.

Happy Anniversary Janet & Jeff!

This picture was taken at their wedding shower in 2002.

Happy Anniversary Janet-poo aka Nutty!

Enjoy your special day with your honey pie!

Hugs and love!!!

Never Forget . . . . .

In my thoughts and prayers.

Never forget . . . . . .

At school, we had a moment of silence and then a student sang "God Bless America" over the PA system. I had students share where they were and what they were feeling on Sept. 11th. My freshman were in 4th grade and my sophomores were in 5th grade in 2001.

I was teaching at Timberlane at the time. I remember feeling like everything was in slow motion on that day. I also remember feeling very scared of the future. A lot of my students left the building saying "I love you Ms. M." - like they were afraid they would never see me again. I went home that night to my empty apartment in Derry, NH and thought the world may be coming to an end and here I was, all alone. I also remember missing my family and I thought that I might never see them again.

It's been five years since 9/11. Have we learned anything from this experience??????

Busy and exhausting week

I had two days of school this week. We are on block scheduling so I met three of my classes on Thursday (one block was for planning) and two of my classes on Friday (the other two blocks on Friday were a duty and a common planning block with my freshman team members). We alternate days - Red and White Days. My honors classes are going to be fine. I have no major concerns with those kids. There are a few of kids that I question whether or not they should be in an Honors class but for the most part, they are pretty good kids. My college prep classes are a bit more of a concern. Two of the college preps, I have a SPED teacher and ELL teacher in the room with me because I have thirty kids in each of those classes. I need heavy support in those classes. Spanish is the prominent language for the ELL kids. I wanted diversity so I definitely got it! Overall, the kids are really nice. I haven't smiled a lot. I need to show them that I have the control of the classroom. I can always ease up in my classroom discipline. You can't go the other way - it's good to be tough now!

I've been trying to stay late and get my classroom somewhat organized and ready for the school year. I was told to not get to comfortable because after the holidays in December, all the freshman teams are being moved out to the modular classrooms (which are a nicer set-up). My current classroom has no windows, chalkboards instead of whiteboards, and the air quality is pretty stifling. I've already mentioned in a previous post that the technology is pretty much non-existent in this school. My previous school was die hard into technology so I feel like I've gone back in time about ten years. Email isn't even encouraged at this school so everything that is given to us is in paper format. It's such a waste of time and trees. Also, I have no LCD projector for my PowerPoints. I tried pricing them out but the cheapest I can find is one for $699! Way too much money for me to spend. I've been using my laptop (which still works). I bought it when I was working at Timberlane since they had no computers for teachers. I pretty much stopped using the laptop once I got to Newburyport.

Here are a few pictures of what my room looks like at this point:

I don't like my desks in rows (unless for testing) so I tend to change the desks quite a bit. Currently, they are in a semi-circle for discussions. I had to squish thirty desks in to a small space so I could have enough desks for all my classes.

This is my area -desk, personal stuff, filing cabinet, etc.

I currently have 120 students on my classload. The numbers may change a bit the next week - either up or down. I'm hoping down! That's a lot of correcting to get done! I haven't had this high of classload since my Timberlane days. I guess I got spoiled at my last teaching job! :-)

I just wanted to check in - as mentioned before, I will not have a ton of time this first month to blog so I thought I would just give a quick post to let everyone know that I'm surviving the school year so far.

Happy Birthday Mary Beth!

Just wanted to do a quick shout out to my friend, Mary Beth!

It's her b-day today!

Wishing you much love and happiness on this extra special day kiddo - :-)

Professional Day #2

It was a long and exhausting day at school. My classroom still isn't where it needs to be at this point. I'm trying not to stress out too much about since I'm only in this room until December.

We had the freshman come in today for orientation. I had to do four thirty minute presentations on the goals for the year. The kids are good so far. I have a few that could be potential problems but most of them are rather sweet and good. So far. :-)

I wasn't able to get as much work as I needed to get done today because of the freshman thing. Being in a new school takes some serious adjusting to my life.

Also, I just want to give everyone a heads up. If I'm not blogging or emailing right away it's because I'm buried in school stuff right now. So please forgive me. Plus, I'm going to be working at Paws a few days during the week and on weekends. The beginning of the school year tends to be rather overwhelming so until I get a grip on a routine, please know that I am thinking about all my fellow bloggers and friends!

My butt is seriously dragging right now and I still have more school stuff to do before I head to bed.

Pleasant dreams all -

Professional Day #1

It's been a very long day for M-Dawg!

I got to school around 7:00 am - I didn't have electricity in my classroom so I ended up stealing a construction safety light contraption so I could at least start cleaning my desks and classroom. I don't have windows in my classroom so my room is completely dark. I'm in the middle of the building so it was pretty dark.

We had a 2 1/2 hour faculty meeting. Went over major changes and concerns from the previous year. The building I'll be working in has just started (in June) a major construction project. The construction will take at least two years so the building is a little on the rough side. The good news is that I'll only be in this classroom until December. After that, the entire freshman team moves out into the modular units (which are VERY nice by the way). We will be out there for the next year and a half.

I had lunch with one of my new colleagues in the history dept and a new math teacher. We chatted away about our impressions so far.

I had to leave for a freshman team meeting at 1:00. The team consists of a history teacher, math teacher, science teacher, English teacher, and SPED teacher. We all share the same students. I have four freshman classes so these other teachers share those same students with me. All of the teachers have a common planning block too! We discussed common goals for the school year for the freshman. We have freshman orientation tomorrow so each team teacher has to prepare a 30 minute activity for each freshman class to prepare them for their goals for the school year. I'm in charge of organization! :-) So, I'm going to do a little skit - I'm going to come in all disorganized with my backpack open with papers flying out it and all disorganized. Then, I'm going to break them up into groups and ask them to brainstorm ways to keep themselves organized on a butcher sheet of paper. After they brainstorm, we'll discuss some of the suggestions. I'll then demonstrate some techniques to help them stay organized for the school year: binder with dividers, agenda book, etc.

Afterwards, I went back to my room and guess what???? I had electricity! So, I stayed until 5:00 pm tonight to get things organized for tomorrow. I'm still not where I want to be for Thursday when school officially opens.

Looks like another late night on Wednesday -

Anecdotes from Paws

I like my part-time job. It's a fun job. We sell products for dogs and cats. People bring in their dogs and we have little treats that we can give them. It's rare that we get a cat into the store but we do have little treats for them too. If you like dogs and cats, it's a great place to work.

However, customers say the darndest things and they crack me up! I thought I would share a few funny stories:

*Phone Call - "Do you sell stuff for birds, lizards, hamsters, fish etc." - Is there a reason why we have the word PAWS in the store name? And, last I checked, these animals DO NOT have paws!
*If you have ever been in the store, you know it's very small. We have a closet in the back that we keep extra inventory and our personal stuff (coats, purses, etc.). Customers DO NOT believe me when I tell them the closet is not a bathroom. Today, a customer told me she didn't believe me that there was no bathroom in the store (according to her logic: It's a state law that every business needs to have a bathroom - this is NOT true by the way!). She proceeded to open up the closet door. I stood there with this "I told you" look. She walked out of the store. Oh, FYI, she didn't apologize to me.
*Woman walks into the store holding her female puppy out in front of her like it's wet. "Do you carry feminine products for dogs?" Her dog is "in heat" and is bleeding all over the place. I had to call the owner of the store at home because I had no idea what to do because NO we don't carry that product. The owner tells me on the phone that she could order some product for the customer's dog but it will take a few days. I'm absolutely horrified because I never realized that they even make such a product for female dogs. Learn something new everyday! FYI: the woman acted like this incident was this HUGE surprise - HELLO! You buy a female dog and don't get it fixed and what else should you expect to happen? DUH! When I asked the owner of the dog if she planned on breeding the dog (I thought that's why she was allowing the dog to be in heat so she could breed it) - her reply: "Why would I want to breed her? I didn't think that female dogs had periods." Do you feel bad for the dog yet?
*Male customer comes into the store to ask me the following question (quietly whispers): "Do you sell leather collars with spikes in them for humans to wear?" - need I say more?
*Overheard in the store. A conversation between two customers as they walk into the store. 1st woman - "I really like those flags of the dogs - they carry so many different breeds." 2nd woman: "I really don't like those flags. It tells the doggie kidnappers what your dog looks like if you have one of those flags in your yard." - Doggie kidnappers?????????

These are just a few interesting stories that have taken place at my part-time job. When I first started working there, lots of things surprised me. Not anymore!

Not much to report today

Nothing new today.

I work today at Paws 3-9.

Sounds like an exciting day, doesn't it?