All this before school even starts :)

I knew there was a lot of work involved in getting a classroom ready. I did not imagine there would be so much work, shared between two people, one of who has been in the same classroom for a while and already has most things set up. I have written each student's name 10 times at least, cut enough laminate that I can feel that slippery scissor feeling in my sleep (thanks to mom and rach for helping), and gone through 3 glue sticks. (I have also realized that my cursive is a little rusty). Although it is tedious, it is also fun. I like coming up with ideas about how to set things up, especially to give them a good impression when they first walk in the room. I hope the amount of time and effort I have put in makes them feel like their teachers care that the classroom is a welcoming and personal place. (Trudy, my CT, already had a great atmosphere in her classroom, it has been fun to try and add my touches).

I also know that the amount of time I have spent is part of just who I am and how I like things to look. My theme for the year is travel, and for the bulletin board I made suitcases. I wanted them to look like frumpy old suitcases (like the kind people used to put stickers on) so I cut each one a different shape instead of just using the paper cutter, for example. I added tiny circle buttons, and luggage tags, and straps. I could have made that easier for myself, I know. But, thats just not how I am... at least not yet.

I getting am really excited to get to know my class and actually start teaching! Monday is the last day we will spend all day working on the class. Opening day staff meetings start Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday are professional development days. Friday should be free, and Joe will be here, so even more to look forward to.

- Ms. Keller

And thanks so much to everyone for helping me with travel ideas. I have incorporated a ton already, and will be doing more as the year goes on. The songs have been great, I will post the final track lists when I have the cds all done.