We sang a lot of songs this year. Why? It helps with increasing reading and vocabulary in a fun way. We also use the songs with the lyrics so that the kids can sing along (and dance!). These are a few of our favorites:
Each day the kids came in and got ready by singing a song. They ask for them at the beginning and end of class. I have seen the messages of these songs bring a smile to faces of kids who struggle. Which is why today was SO important!
Today we celebrated their academic success... success that is so hard for these kids to achieve as each of them has a disability that makes learning difficult. But the strength each of these students show is incredible!
So we had a pizza party and watched Space Jam! A little fun to relax before the awards. I think they enjoyed it!
Then... the awards! Each one grew so much this year. They earned this. They are amazing!
They made a lot of friends during the year.
Then the 5th graders helped clean up the room and get it ready for summer. Only 6 days left of school but only one more day left of ESS (SPED).
The 5th graders are graduating and will be in middle school next year. One final group picture together. Some of these kids have been together since Kindergarten and now will go to separate schools for the next three years before meeting again in High School.
My mentor teacher was amazing. She made all of these awards and laminated them. Created a special graduation gift for the fifth graders. Made fruit kabobs and star shaped rice crispy treats on a stick. She is amazing and the kids truly love her!
I now understand why some teachers cry at the end of the year. It is hard to let go of MY students. I love their smiles and stories and antics. I love how their personalities have come out of their shell and shine through.I will miss them all.
Today made me want to say yes to having my own classroom next year.
Don't forget!
Hi Misty:
ReplyDeleteI am really hoping you get that class of your own next year. You have so much to offer!
Thanks for the chance to read such a joyful post!
Kim
Finding JOY in 6th Grade
I really enjoyed your post. It sounds like you and your mentor teacher are both amazing teachers.
ReplyDeleteThe REAL Teachers of Orange County
Thank you!
DeleteAww - so glad you could go back to support them!
ReplyDeleteCorrina
Diary of a Sixth Grade Teacher
That is so great that you were able to go back to celebrate with them! I'm sure they loved it!
ReplyDeleteP.S. I love the font you use...what is it called?
ThirdGradeIsAHoot
It is a google web font that Erika (Honey Bunch Blog Design) embedded into my design. I asked... she can't remember what it is called. Maybe Henny Penny?
DeleteLove using songs! I have every student tell me their favorite song and we make a class playlist. Then each day, we play the song of the student of the day. I started this a few years ago, and every time I hear the song I am reminded of that student.
ReplyDeleteLaurie
Chickadee Jubilee
OH! I love this idea! Thank you so much for sharing. I will have to do that. =)
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