Betsy's Letter

Today I had the honor of recommending our Teacher of the Year, Betsy McCall, for DCPS TOY. Her recommendation letter was a breeze, kinda like Betsy. How could it not be easy to explain how someone has a heart big enough for every person they come in contact with. Empathy, Compassion, Acceptance.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am beyond grateful for so many things, especially for my Chets Creek family! I am so glad my life has been touched by such incredible children, parents, teachers and staff. This week I got a wonderful letter from one of my incredible third graders - I'm also glad they choose me for you!

The Creek Cares

Tomorrow one of my precious teachers undergoes surgery for thyroid cancer. She's going to be fine but times like this are very trying and during the trying times is when the folks at the Creek show support in force. Between the faculty, staff and PTA Board members over $1000 was collected and presented to her this morning at a surprise breakfast. There is no more caring group of people on the planet and I am touched daily by their incredible spirit. Biggest lesson in school today...nothing is more important than for us to take care of each other, especially when we need it most!

The Tradition Continues...

My 18th Kindergarten Pow Wow was today and it was just as special as the first. What an incredible learning experience for students. One of my favorite days of the year!

Amazing Math

I'm always so amazed at the way a student's mind works, especially in Math. In third grade today they were using a wide variety of strategies to solve and prove problems - from ratio tables to division clusters - wow! I was especially blown away by J's out if the box thinking when it came to dealing with remainders in his division cluster. Just brilliant.

Conservation of Cardinality...Yep!

I learn something every single time they meet. Wow! We are so lucky to have these mathematicians leading our work. Today we got a sneak peek of some new work on CPALMS around the common core. Do you know what Conservation of Cardinality is? I do!

Whew! What a Day!

Training in Close Reading this morning followed by an awesome PLC Principal's group at a friend's school this afternoon. Awesome Family Night dinner at Chets followed by K Make and Take and 5th Grade Walk and Talk to showcase their Native American studies. So many highlights - absolutely loved touring another school today! It also didn't hurt that the baby teacher I had to surplus there practically jumped into my arms when I surprised her. She loves her new school but it was nice to be missed.