I spent
today on an expedition to all five of our elementary schools! I started at
Carrollton early this morning as the students and parents came flooding through
the front doors, eager to find their rooms and get started on a new year full
of high expectations. I was able to watch students unload from the buses with
drivers, teachers, and volunteers helping to make the start of the new year a
positive one for all the children.
Hardy
Elementary, Windsor Elementary, and Westside Elementary looked welcoming and
fresh thanks to summer painting throughout the school and classrooms. Other
buildings will get a facelift in the near future.
Lunch at
Carrsville Elementary was one of the highlights of my day. My taco lunch was
hot and tasty and I learned a great deal of information from my new first grade
lunch buddies. I then enjoyed some fun time on the playground.
Teachers at
all the schools were already implementing strategies that they learned during
summer professional development. For
example, Windsor Elementary students worked on the 5 C’s—Creativity,
Collaboration, Citizenship, Critical Thinking and Communication. One teacher
had a great collaborative activity where students had to describe what each of
the 5 C’s looked like and sounded like. Students
were brainstorming and trying to come up with creative ways to define the 5
C’s.
Throughout
the day, I saw many classrooms that have evolved into inviting learning
environments. New furniture for fourth grade, including flexible seating, was a
big hit with the teachers and students. I’ve
included a picture of Ms. Reed’s unique room which allows for a comfortable spaces
and areas for students to work.
These are
just a few of the wonderful things I experienced today in my travels. We have
so many creative teachers!
