Changes are here!

Well I have been wanting to say something earlier but literally haven't had the time. I have accepted a new position in another county. Anyone who knows me knows this decision was very difficult. I'm terrible with change...seriously. I can't even stand to move a piece of furniture to a different location after I have placed it in one spot. I am a creature of habit and routine for sure.

BUT, this opportunity is something you can't pass up. I'll be teaching 4th grade at a gifted school. Its the only full time gifted school in the state of Florida. At 25 I feel so lucky to be given this opportunity and I'm thrilled to be embarking on this new adventure.

New curriculum.....

New grade....

New school...

New district....

But I feel so peaceful, so I know I made the right decision. Now this peace vanishes instantly when I think about the condition of my room right now....it's a train wreck. Usually at this point in the summer my room is done and I'm ready to roll so this is new to me, but that's ok. It's coming together and by the weekend it will be done. Pictures to come! Off to go work on the 3,000 things I have to do before school starts!

Take care.

Favorite Back to School Activity Linky

I am linking up with Jodi from Fun in First for a great linky! Check her website out. She's awesome! 


The first week of school is always insane and full of fun! I always like to do the following activity with my students on the first day of school...its a great ice breaker activity for the kids to get to know each other and for me to learn about my kiddos. 


I like to call this "Getting to Know You Puzzles." Here's how it works...First, you need this template...

Please excuse my cropping abilities..or lack there of...there is a bottom to the template, I just chopped it off. :)

I print the template on card stock and give each child a copy with the template facing down. Each student decorates the plain side with pictures and facts about his/her self. Once they are done, they turn the sheet over and cut the puzzle pieces out. Then I give each child a Ziploc bag to put their pieces in. Once everyone is done, the students take turns buddying up and putting together each other's puzzles to learn more about one another. Great ice breaker activity! I love watching the kids interact and help each other out! Here are some pictures:

Great news. This activity is in my TN Shop for only $1.00! Click on the last photo to check it out! Enjoy!