Goals

Our school is really big on setting goals with our students. We have students review their data from each DEA test and set a reading and math goal that will push them forward academically. I am not sure about the academic impact related specifically to their chosen goals, but I have been very pleased with the level of additional investment I have seen with my students who latch on to their goals.

Right now we are 3 weeks away from state testing and as much as it pains me to admit we are in full TCAP review mode. All day. Every day. We have 30 skills to review (15 reading, 15 math) in the 15 days leading up to TCAP. It is pure madness, but my kids are really stepping up their game. All of us are exhausted, but they are pushing through!

Here is an example of our tracker for test review. Students earn a sticker for showing mastery of each skill. The can decorate outside of their tower for showing their best effort (doing optional practice packets, attending tutoring, etc.)

It is really easy to get caught up in the little things---especially this time of year. Fortunately I had a moment that helped to ground me a little bit.

Yesterday one of my hardest working students randomly stopped me in the hallway before lunch and looked at me and asked, "Miss Prinzo, Do you think I care about my goals?"

I am not doing this moment justice, but these are the moments that make my job worth it.

Overheard in the Hallway

This past year I switched from teaching 1st grade to teaching 3rd grade. About 90% of the time I love the switch, but every once in a while I miss the really little ones. Fortunately I am still in the building with them and I get treated to little moments like this...

Two kindergartners were walking back to their classroom from the library. The little girl was quite a few feet ahead of the boy. She stops, looks at him, and says, "Come on, we need to go."

The boy looks at her and says, "Hold on. I just need a little bit of time. I just need a little bit of time with my dragon. I just need to be with my dragon."

You have to respect a man who knows what he needs!