Over the years I have had the pleasure of working with and around amazing educators, administrators, groundskeepers, bus drivers and many other individuals who all have one thing in common, they work in the education system with Arizona’s children. I
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My Fond Farewell
The day teachers and students have been waiting for is finally here – the last day of school. Normally I cannot get out of my classroom fast enough, eager as can be to begin a much-needed summer break. I will
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Teacher, a Modern Day Abolitionist
This has been a significant year for me. I am now a NBCT, the majority of my students have met academic growths and measures, and my youngest child got her Learner’s Permit. I have been blessed with the opportunity to
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Teacher Healthcare Matters
So, I am sick. I am really sick. Last year I came down with Valley Fever. Let’s just say if I was on the Oregon trail; I probably wouldn’t have made it past Kansas. My illness knocked me
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The Last Walk to the Parking Lot
In August 1987, I drove into the parking lot at Naylor Middle School for my first day ever as a professional teacher. Chances are that I’ve had the time of my life with you blasted from my radio, because it was
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A Tribute to The Brave Who Came Before #TsChangeLives
There’s a special smell this time of year: a mix of sweaty kids and exhausted teachers. Walking around the hallways is treacherous as parents teeter past with arm-loads of teacher appreciation gifts and students race around like walking went out
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In Appreciation of Teachers
In my 14 years of classroom teaching, I feel like I took Teacher Appreciation Week for granted. I didn’t really feel the need to be appreciated. I loved what I did and I felt the love from 150 high school
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Loving Intentions and Liking Our Students
There is a sign on the door of my classroom that says “I <3 My Students” (with an actual heart). It is cut out in the shape of a heart and made on sunset colored poster board. I made it
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Keep the Student in Student Teacher
Dear Student Teacher, Congratulations! In a few months, you will begin the part of your college experience that you have likely been waiting for forever – student teaching. I hope that your student teaching experience gives you all the tools
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