multitasker: unpack and prepare

Today was the first day back on contract. This morning we looked at our new math curriculum guide (known as "the map") and did some planning for the first week of school. Yay! Got that checked off my list. This afternoon we looked at our literacy map. I'm quite pleased with both. But having both of those documents in my hands reminded me that my classroom is no longer going to get my attention. Now I've got to sit down and plan for Reading, Writing, English, Spelling, Science, and Social Studies for next week. Luckily our district points us in the right directions. And luckily we did our planning for math this morning. Being a teacher involves a strenuous "before" process where we must plan what we're teaching then prepare the materials before we actually teach. It's all quite enjoyable though. I wouldn't be a teacher if it weren't. ;o)

I did get my classroom unpacked and partially set up. Three cheers for me! Pictures to come soon. I am patiently waiting for my new third grade materials to come in so I can finish my organizing and unpacking. I hope they're sitting in my room tomorrow when I walk in!

I did do a wee little craft for myself-- to get in the school spirit--

It's proudly hanging on my door next to a "Back to School" garden flag I got online earlier this summer. I'm really glad I caught Wal-Mart's back to school sale because I needed 6 boxes of crayons! To the outside world, I'm really embracing the return to school. But behind that door is a lady that's sad to go back! Who wouldn't be? I don't have kids so I get to sleep in everyday and then do whatever the heck I want! Which usually involves making stuff for my classroom and getting this house cleaned and organized. Like I said, whatever the heck I want. I managed to squeeze in a few good books this summer, too. Oh yeah, and a FABULOUS trip to Vegas and California. Let's not forget that. I dare say this might have been my favorite teacher summer yet! I'm sad to see it go!

But honestly I'll be glad to get back into a routine. And getting some exercise. Teaching means I stay on my feet all day and am constantly moving so at least I burn some calories. ;o) (I'm excluding the part of my day where I sit at my desk and grade 336 papers a week--I try to forget that part--)

This must be all for now. I've got a handful of things to get together to work on tomorrow!

Choy blog!