Lately I’ve been experimenting with a particular writing class. One of the motivations for being so experimental is the ritual compliance of students in this class. While I understand they are seniors and excited about graduating and moving on to the next phase of life, they are also still high school students who need instruction

It’s homecoming week at my high school, and that means that every day is a school spirit day. Students and teachers are encouraged to take part in silly attire that reflect a specific day. Yesterday, for instance, was “Mathletes vs. Athletes.” The nerds were everywhere and they were adorable. Today was “Twinkie Day.” In an effort to show our school

We are halfway through the first quarter and I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for a break. With all of the changes in Common Core and state testing, not to mention local budget concerns and teacher morale, this is on record for being one of the most stressful years of teaching in my twelve year

I was asked to write a new Back to School blog, and my heart sank. It’s the middle of July; teachers are not gearing up for the new school year! In fact, we are most likely doing everything in our power to pretend we are still right smack in the middle of our summer vacation

Don’t you love that term?  Summer break?  Yes, it can be a time to relax with friends and family, but if you’re anything like me, that lasts for a good week before you’re all driving one another crazy.   If you’re not careful, your summer break can easily turn into Netflix binging and overeating lime popsicles.

I have made it through my first decade as an educator.  While I still have a lot to learn, I am very aware that the only reason I have made it this far (while staying sane and happy) is through the time I take creating thoughtful and interesting lesson plans for my students and the