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Monday, September 3, 2012

New beginnings in learning and teaching - 2012


After 28 years of teaching you might think some things would become routine or automatic, but I love the fresh start that comes with the shortening days of late August.   These last few days before a new group of students arrives I am busy working to create a warm, inviting, and exciting environment. Files and class lists of the previous year get recycled, as pencils and makers get sorted, sharpened or replaced. There is a lot of laughter along with the work as we remember the accommodations we made for last year’s unique group of learners, and know that there will be different allowances made to best meet the needs of this brand new group. 
The multi-aged groupings that make up the 1-5 grade program allow for a new community of learners to form from advancing kindergarteners, new families joining the L & P community, and veteran student-leaders returning.  By the end of our first week together our new community will have shared experiences and hopes that will already begin to frame our new year of learning together.

In this time of eager anticipation, half the fun lies in not knowing exactly what to expect. Another new year! Welcome.