Bullying.

Today we had by far the best staff development training ever. We are beginning a program called Olweus Bullying Prevention Program in our school district. I am not sure how it will work at the K-6 level, but at our school (grades 7&8) I think the impact will be great!

My concern before starting this was that a bullying program would create more drama. When a student was called a name one time it would be reported, etc. and it would create more than help like the purpose should be. Within the first ten minutes of the training I knew my assumption was wrong. 

The opening of our meeting was a YouTube Video. I sat there amazed. I couldn't believe it. Surely that wouldn't happen in our school. However, it does..and often. I just want to share this video. My eyes were opened. I knew about bullying, but never being the "victim" of bullying it's a hard concept to grasp.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdkNn3Ei-Lg

I am so thankful for our school committee that worked SO hard on this to put this together for our faculty and staff today. I am very excited to get this implemented and watch the impact that it will have! 

Back to School!

Today was the first day back for Staff Development! I had a great summer but I must admit I am ready to be back in a routine. If I have said it a once, I have said it a million times. I LOVE my team! I teach with wonderful people! Super blessed! Over the past three weeks I have periodically gone to my room to work. Mom came one day and help me hang all of my posters and today was mostly spent organizing and getting rid of clutter! I felt like I had a shelf beside me everytime I turned around. So today I was determined to get rid of some and move some things around! Our school has great custodians! Today, I had a new trash can, a broken desk removed and a bookshelf out in a matter of five minutes! I am so thankful for them. 

This is what my room looked like when I first went back in July. 

My room looks so different now. My posters are up, desk are organized and my desk is clean! I love an organized work area! When everything is ready, I will show pictures! 

I pray this school year I am a the light in these children. Some only get love and attention at school~ I may be the only smile these kids see. I feel that my job is not only to teach English, but to be that LIGHT! I am already praying for my students and will continue throughout the year~ even when I am gone on maternity leave.

Have a happy Thursday!