Hello everyone!! By this time last year I think I'd been able to formulate two blog posts by now. As I enter my second year at Round Top Elementary School, I find myself busier than ever! I love to read and write. Blogging is sort of my way of journaling or "Sharpening the Saw". I give students little notebooks and encourage them to journal their thoughts and feelings, especially when they are struggling with their emotions or relationships. While I'm thinking about it....think about the word "journal" and my use of it as a verb. One of our school-wide WIGS (widely important goals) is vocabulary development. When you are having conversations with your student, try to identify different ways you might use a vocabulary word. The same word, for example, can be a noun and a verb. Encouraging students to explore different uses of words strengthens both the use and understanding of vocabulary. Speaking of conversations with your students....do you ever ask your student what they did at school today only to receive a grunt in return. Below are some really excellent questions to utilize when pursuing any kind of informative conversation with your student. I tried some of them on my own 5th grader and they really are helpful!! I challenge you to try at least one each day!
I have been in all classrooms at least twice this school year so far. Classroom guidance is how the school counseling core curriculum is delivered and ensures that ALL students receive counseling services. The first topic was basically an introduction, particularly for new students, and an overview of what I do as a school counselor and how I might help them as students. The second lesson was on the topic of bullying. It is important for the students to know what it is and isn't. Our district definition includes the following characteristics:
*repeated and continues even when the bully is asked to stop
*one-sided
*involves an imbalance of power (one student is older, bigger, is more popular, etc)
*intentional
Our students are repeatedly reminded that our number one priority is their safety. As part of the bullying lesson, we explore "good touch" versus "bad touch". The students become detectives in order to help me find clues in various scenarios that something is either bullying or inappropriate touch. I think it is important that if we, as adults, are continuously encouraging students to control their bodies (e.g. fidgeting, keeping hands to self, staying in seat), it is equally important to empower children with the knowledge needed to protect their bodies! Classroom guidance will continue throughout the year on a four-week rotation. My next lesson school-wide will be on using effective conflict resolution skills then we will be preparing for Random Acts of Kindness week by exploring the importance of accepting our differences and understanding that "your deeds are your monuments". This quote is on an Egyptian tomb and is one of Mr. Brown's precepts in the book "Wonder" by RJ Palacio. This book is one of my favorites and I encourage you to read it. Our fourth grade students are now reading the book as part of an ELA unit. I am so excited to attend a viewing of the screen adaptation with them on Friday, November the 17th. The book is a powerful testament to the importance of treating others with kindness regardless of differences, particularly those with disabilities in all forms. Soon I will also be speaking with 5th graders about Richland Two's wonderful magnet choices! I'm including a table that was provided by Dawn Whitley (Director of School Magnet Programs). Clicking on the image will take you to the actual Google document.
We celebrated 26 of our fine student leaders in the first Leadership Spotlight breakfast on November 3rd. We had a great turnout and I always love recognizing the kindness and great deeds witnessed of our students.
Finally, I wish all of you a wonderful Thanksgiving. Remember "in all things give thanks" and to enjoy your family, friends and loved ones!!
Kind regards,
Sandy Tanner
School Counselor for the Awesome Aviators!
