Abbett All-Star Article
4-22-16
We Love Learning from Each Other!
During these last few weeks of school, students (and staff!!) are tired, anxious, and may not be very happy with each other! We can all learn so much from each other. This doesn't need much introduction because the words are so powerful. Take a look at the way Brittnee Edmonds helped students solve conflict yesterday.
Reflecting on my day.
When you're working with a room full of growing kids, there's bound to be some arguments and "drama" before the year is over. When you're working with a group of kids that have been together for two years, they become like brothers and sisters and it happens even more. But the great thing is, they LOVE each other. It's been fun to watch them bond and see how unique their relationships are compared to their peers.
Well, today I picked my kids up after recess and I was given fair warning that it had been a rough time. So-and-so was mad at so-and-so, which made so-and-so cry, etc. We got back to the classroom and I couldn't believe how many red, teary eyes I saw. The kids came in, sat quietly and began working. I told them to stop and clear their desks. They looked at me with this expression like, "but before recess you gave us a lecture about using our time wisely. What do you want, woman??"
I gave every student a piece of paper and they drew a classmate's number from a jar. All I said was, "I want you to write a nice, encouraging letter to the person you drew. I want you to honestly and sincerely compliment them and let them know they are appreciated. Not because of what's on the outside - that doesn't matter. But because what they're like on the inside."
As I looked over their shoulders while they wrote, I was brought to tears. Some students wrote apology notes. One wrote, "I should have told you this a long time ago, but I like how you don't care what people think. You're just you, and that's awesome." Another wrote, "I really hope we can be friends forever. I know I'm not always the best friend to you but I will try harder."
The students passed their notes out and there were some tears again, but a HUGE smile on every child's face. I heard them continue to talk about the notes they received the remainder of the day. One student even said, "I've never had a note THAT nice before. I really liked it."
I want to keep my babies forever, but I know I can't. I hope they never forget their love for each other and my love for them!
Exciting Things Happening Around Abbett!
Our office staff handles all situations with an amazing sense of ease!
So excited for our teachers who received grants from the Education Foundation!
Documenting student progress is crucial!
Let's Show Our Cafeteria Staff How Much We Care!
Reminder!!! Tomorrow, Saturday, April 23 School Carnival from 5-8 p.m. Bring your families for the festivities! I will give 2 Leave Early Passes and the team with the highest percentage of attendance will get an hour for lunch off campus! You will need to be present at least 45 minutes to be eligible for the prizes!
ONE MORE EXCITING PRIZE: Not only does the team with the highest percentage of members present get an off campus lunch, but Ralph and I will throw in a gift card to help with the cost of lunch!
Time Flies When We Are Having Fun!
Monday, April 25
Betsy out--TTESS Training
Tuesday, April 26
Betsy out--TTESS Training
The LAST Campus Improvement Team Meeting at 3:30
Wednesday, April 27
Betsy out--TTESS Training
Food Day!
Friday, April 29
Talent Show Auditions
Monday, May 2
Betsy out-Jury Duty
Tuesday, May 3
Summative Conferences if you were appraised this year and did not waive the conference (schedule will be on email for those that this affects)
Staff Meeting 3:30--We will be sharing Campus Needs Assessment information, so I would like paraprofessionals and support staff there if possible.
Wednesday, May 4
Off Campus PTA Luncheon
Friday, May 6
Cinco de Mayo Celebration-Tour of Schools 2:15