I constantly think about what I can do to help my students, especially those who seem to struggle with early literacy. More than anything, I believe that parents reading and creating an environment that prizes books and stories is the best gift and child can receive. Over the years I've witnessed first hand the magic that sharing stories and beautiful illustrations with children entails. These authentic experiences with literature inspire and capture students minds. It is an amazing experience and I am so thankful that my job allows me to enjoy these small pleasures on a daily basis.
Many people have inspired me to be where I am today. I have the best mentor, Anne Broom. She is someone who was my cooperating teacher during student teaching and then took me under her wing as we were grade level partners. I was so lucky to learn from someone like her, who is 250% dedicated to the profession of education. Another colleague who I always admired and strove to learn from was Jane, the progressive kindergarten teacher who brought out the best in children. The emails she shared with the staff were always realistic while thought provoking. Leal will always hold a special place in my heart.
Now as I teach for CPS and attend grad school in a very urban environment, I take these wonderful experiences with me as I move forward.
My professor, Dr. Tatum, has opened me up to many new ideas about literacy instruction. The most prominent is the idea that, "to teach writing you must be a writer yourself." This is a really powerful thought, one that I have taken on myself. I hope that as this blog continues, my writing will improve.
My greatest hope is to keep this blog as a keepsake of all the great ideas, inspirational educators as well as a place where I can express my gratitude for my profession.
