September 5, 2017
Sunday, I was more upset than I have been in a very long time. My first idea had gotten shut down because the school I really wanted to use was unavailable due to another school already having a program started there. Luckily, the principal was kind enough to put my name out to other administrators in the town and immediately I was in contact with another principal and planning a meeting with her. She loved my ideas and was eager to meet with me. Today, I had the pleasure of meeting with her and getting to share ideas and thoughts with her, and she loved them. So much so that I begin my time with the students tomorrow. I can not imagine a better scenario than this one because it allowed me to reach outside of my comfort zone and find something new. I went from disappointed and discouraged to happy as can be in just a few days time due to one person’s kindness and ability to connect me with another school and I absolutely can not wait to begin.
September 6, 2017
Today was my first day at the school. I was with the third graders today and mostly in Ms. Kelley’s class. It was an experience I could have never imagined and I am getting more out of it than I could have ever thought. I learned my way around a bit and met some of the teachers and students. I really connected with this one girl (Ann) and I think if I continue to work with her it could end up making a big difference for her. I am really looking forward to going back.
September 7, 2017
Today I was with the fourth grade class. Today was a bit more emotional because I saw one of my elementary school teachers and he remembered me. He asked me about my life now and my future plans, I even got to know how he got to where he is now. It helped me to see where I could end up in the future and what path is open for me if I decide. The teacher I worked with the most today (Mrs. Bonfiglio) was so excited to have me. She let me jump right in and read with the kids, it was seriously fun to do. After today, I am really thinking that I am going to gather a small group of children and work with them each day I am there. I think that is going to make my project better than before.
September 8, 2017
Today I was in fifth grade and I got to meet the kids which was fun. I really enjoy being with the upper grade kids because they understand what’s happening and why I am there. There was one boy (E) who was having a lot of trouble when it came to writing time and it wasn’t easy to try to help him. I am not used to helping with things like that so I felt as though I was doing an awful job at helping him, there wasn’t much I could do but give him ideas. There are so many aspects of this project I still need to think over and become familiar with, and it’s good that I have all year.
September 11, 2017
Today I went in and was supposed to work with the 1st and 2nd graders, however, when i got there, they were in special so I just got to know the teachers that were around and went to work with the kindergarteners, which was super fun. They are so cute, so young and innocent still and it was a great experience. I had a great time doing the apple project with them where they learned the parts of an apple, colored them, and labeled it. I am seriously in love with my project. Everything is going so well so far.
September 12, 2017
I met with the principal for a few minutes when I first got to the school today. We are really figuring out the best direction for my project and where I can really help out the most. We both agree that third and fourth grade is where I should be for the time being because that is when the kids in elementary are going through a lot of change and growing more so it would benefit them most. There are a few kids I am already looking about in Mrs. Boutilier and get her opinion as well as find out from my mentor who she thinks I can help the most. We agree on one, maybe even two or three students already and I can not wait to see where this goes once it is all figured out. This is beyond amazing.
September 14, 2017
Today I went in and worked with the fourth graders which was super fun. It didn’t last long because they had gym at the end of the day. After the school day was over, I went and met with my mentor. We are on the same page with the direction that my project is going and we are both becoming super excited for it. All that’s really left to do is make up permission slips for parents and send them home to get signed off on so I can work with their children.
September 18, 2017
Today was a pretty decent day in the school. I got to meet with my mentor and really discuss who we want to be in the groups and I think that we have a pretty solid set of kids. It is 4 kids from grade 3 and 4 from grade 4. I also got the parent consent forms done and they are being sent home end of this week or beginning of next week. The kids are really seeming to love me and enjoy me being there, and I am really loving all of my time there. Today I did have a little issue with one of the boys (GW) because during reading time both the teacher and I could not get him to focus. Eventually he did but it took a little while. He is one of the boys that I plan on working with throughout the year and I am interested to see where his journals take him as we get more into it all.
September 21, 2017
It was a really great day at South End, I am really moving forward with my project. Today I got my parent letters sent home by two of the three teachers that I am pulling students from. Unfortunately, one of the teachers had left early so the letters to her students will get sent home tomorrow. I am really hoping for 100% return from these, however, I know that that will be a hard goal to reach in case some things happen. As soon as some of the third graders were given the letter, they almost immediately came up to me and were so excited. They really want to be in my group and get to work with me which makes me more excited about this than I thought I could be. Ms. Kelley and I came up with some ideas for how to measure progress from the beginning to the end and some fun activities that I could do with the kids in order to see how they feel about themselves. I know that sometimes we will need to focus on school work, especially if I am pulling them in the middle of a lesson.
The teachers and principal at South End are all being so supportive of my project. As I keep moving forward, they are allowing me to come in and sit through class, help the students when they hit some speed bumps, and giving me some ideas on ways to help the students. I have been given many recommendations on students and how to approach some topics, so as I move forward I look forward to putting lots of these plans into action.
September 25, 2017
Today was an exceptional day for my project. I received 4 of the 8 parent letters back for my students. It would be 5, however one of the parents didn’t check off the most important box so we need to get in touch with them to make sure that I am allowed to work with their child. I sent home the last 2 letters today and am hoping the 8th student remembers to give the letter to his parents tonight. I purchased journals and stickers this weekend in order for the kids to decorate them and work in them throughout the year. I plan on having them journal each time we meet so that we can really see the growth throughout the year. I am looking forward to the first meeting.
September 26, 2017
I have 6 ½ permission slips as of today and I could not be more proud. My kids make me so happy each and every single day. I got to meet with my mentor after school and discuss what the first few days of meeting will look like, times, group sizes, and a place for me to work in. There is a lot going on at once, but it is all positive which makes the entire project really amazing. I can’t wait to meet with my kids and spend all this time getting to know them and help them as much as I can.
September 28, 2017
Today I went in expecting to get to work in my small groups, however that didn’t happen. I was told that I am going to be starting my groups at the beginning of next week, which is very exciting for me. I have the first week planned out well, and I will be with my groups 2 times a week, then the extra day I will be rotating through classrooms with the teachers I am mainly working with so that I can keep up with how my kids are doing academically and help wherever I can. I was also able to meet one of my students mother today and it was nice getting to meet her in person so I know who to talk to and who to keep in touch with. I loved that because I want to be able to know who parents are and keep in touch with them as to what is going on when I work with their child.
October 2, 2017
Today was just another day of floating around. It was officially decided that I am going to begin my small groups tomorrow. I absolutely can not wait, it is going to be a great day.
October 3, 2017
Today I began with my groups and it was a magical experience. I loved every moment with my kids. We were able to get through everything that I had planned and the kids did really well with all of it. I had to get them back to focus a couple of times but overall they did really well and it went smoothly. They answer my questions as best they can which means a lot that they are really trying. A couple of them have already told me that they enjoy being in my group so much. This makes my heart melt and I absolutely love being with them.
October 5, 2017
Today my kids did their first set of self portraits. They came out really well and we are going to color them in next week. The way that the kids color them is really important because it will show me a lot about how they view themselves. The color scheme will be very revealing as to how they think and how they see who they are. They are doing well with the questions I present to them each day and I love going in to see them.
October 10, 2017
Today was a bit of an easier day. I am slowly learning how to get through to them and get them to trust me. It is a very different experience from anything I have ever endured and I can’t wait to see what the end result is. This project is really my life and I am loving it more than I could have imagined. I can’t wait for the group project which will hopefully get started next week.
October 12, 2017
Today was a fairly easy day with the kids. They did their journal questions and then colored their self portraits. I had a bit of trouble keeping all the fourth graders focussed and two of the third graders, but I was able to get most of them back on track and they were able to finish their work. I was able to meet with my mentor and talk through some of the issues that I was having and she was able to give me some suggestions. I am going to assign seats on Monday and see how that works. I am also going to do my first read aloud and see if that helps them realize the expectations that I have for them and what is appropriate in our time together. I am really hoping that this will help everyone out in the long run.
October 16, 2017
Today was one of the rougher days because I had a few issues with individual students. One of my students had lied to me and said that he was going to the bathroom and then he went to the main office to ask the principal a question. Then my third graders were arguing across the table even though I had moved them to sit farther away from one another. Nothing seemed to work. I also need to find ways to keep their focus and keep them on track. Those are key to what we are going to be doing throughout the year.
October 20, 2017
Today I only had third grade because fourth was on a trip. I introduced the idea of self esteem to them and let them know that we will be working on it for a while. We will need to see how it goes from here. Not much else happened today.
October 23, 2017
Today I was just helping out in the classrooms. The students really seem to love me, every day they run up to me and hug me (and there are 3 students in particular who do so). One of my kids in my group made my whole day, he gave me a picture that he drew and I absolutely love it. It is pumpkin man and it goes so well with the theme of the month. Today was a really good day.
October 24, 2017
Introducing them slowly to the idea of self esteem is working well. My group of fourth graders is going to get smaller because one girl can’t handle it, which makes me sad but it needs to be that way. She needs to focus more on school than on my group, after going through such an important part in development as a child I understand that. Otherwise things are great.
October 26, 2017
Today only 5 of my 6 kids were there. We did a worksheet on good things that have happened in their lives and things they like. They are working really hard and I think they will get more out of this than self esteem. Joe keeps drawing me pictures and I love them, he said I will probably get 1 or 2 a week, I am going to run out of room to hang them. I love working with these kids more than anything, they mean so much.
October 31, 2017
Today was really fun at capstone because it was Halloween, the kids were all dressed up and having an amazing day. They were happy as can be, there was a bunch going on and they were ready for it all. I was only able to get my group of fourth graders because there was an event with some of the younger grades that the third graders wanted to see. When I saw my fourth graders, it was fairly laid back and nice because we answered a journal question and since it was Halloween, I let them take the rest of the time that we had together to color and we talked. They are a great group to be around and we always have fun, so it was a really amazing day. Joe said that he had made me another picture, but he lost it, which is totally okay, at some point I’m going to run out of room on my wall for them (hahah). But each time I go and work with them, I absolutely can not wait to go back. It is an experience many never get and I am beyond grateful that I have been able to get one like this.
November 2, 2017
Today was a good day with the kids, it was fairly low key and we had fun. I had them write letters to themselves that I will give back to them at the end of the year. The kids weren’t too happy about it, but they did it for me. They’re pretty great.
November 6, 2017
Today we started our flower project where the kids are going to draw petals and write positive character traits about themselves and make that into a flower. It is a really powerful self esteem project and it makes all of the time with the kids just that much more special. Although they don’t like everything that I have planned, they do it all because of how excellent of a relationship we have built.
November 9, 2017
I only took my fourth graders today and we finished the flowers. They came out so well and we hung them up on the wall. I took pictures and I can’t wait to put them up on my website as artifacts and for everyone to see. Then the third graders were doing some veterans day activities so I let them stay in the class. I played some math games with some of the students and it was really fun. I can’t imagine doing anything else for my capstone.
November 14, 2017
Today I only met with my fourth graders again. They finished their flowers and I had them fill out a worksheet I made up that asked self esteem questions. After they had finished that up, we had a 15 minute discussion about self esteem and what it is and what it means to have positive self esteem. They really seemed to understand what it was and were open to learning more about it. Then the the graders had extra recess so I didn’t take them. I was able to borrow Joe for 3 minutes so he could finish his flower. They loved the extra recess time which was great.
November 16, 2017
Today I took both of my groups and we did a read aloud. We read Spaghetti in a Hotdog Bun which deals with having confidence in yourself and being comfortable with who you are. The kids responded really well to it and they really seemed to understand what it meant and how it pertains to what we are talking about. It was such a good moment for my capstone because I know that when I get to see them, they are always learning something new, even if it isn’t educational. These kids are so eager to learn and it makes my capstone that much more meaningful to me.
November 27, 2017
Today I got to meet with my groups and it was a blast. I originally had an activity planned, but it wouldn’t print right so I ended up having to switch up the plans last minute. We did a person and the kids had to write the things that they like about themselves on the inside, and on the outside they had to write the things they want to change about themselves. It was a bit difficult to get them focussed because it was the day after a long weekend. The fourth graders did better with the activity than the third graders, but it worked out well in the end. I really missed them and I was glad to be back with them.
November 30, 2017
Today the kids did an activity called “I am a superstar” and it went very well. I am making them talk about themselves a lot and I don’t know how they feel about that, but I plan on talking to them about it soon. I think they are liking it but I want them to do an activity where they stand up and talk about themselves. I think I need to get them out of their comfort zone and make them comfortable with being open around others. These kids are progressing very well and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
December 7, 2017
Today I had to be a bit flexible because there was testing going on in my regular room. We played a game that really focused on self esteem. We had a lot of fun with it because the kids didn’t totally realize what it was all about but they played the game and they had a lot of positive things to say. I got some excellent pictures and had a chance to talk to each of the third graders one-on-one. I got an idea of what I am doing well and what I need to change.
December 11, 2017
Today Mrs. Boutilier came and observed what I was doing. I was quite nervous at first because I wasn’t sure if she was going to like it, but the kids loved her and they all got along so well. One girl even asked me afterward if she would come back. We had a bit more of a discussion today and I was able to show her a lot of the work that I do with the kids, which was really nice. I am so pleased with how today went and that my kids were so amazing with Mrs. Boutilier. At one point, we were playing a game about self esteem and Joe got the question “what makes you special?”. He had not been serious the entire time, and he was not being serious at first, but I was not letting up on him. He needed to answer the question, and he did. In the end, his answer was, “I’m special because I’m adopted.” Everyone was silent for a moment, everyone had goosebumps (at least Mrs. Boutilier and I did), and I was so proud of him for sharing that.
December 14, 2017
It was a little bit of an off day because there was a 2 hour delay. I was still able to meet with my groups, and we did a fairly simple activity. They made lists of the things that they like the most about themselves, then we put it on a poster that read “I am great because...” They all responded very well and they made great sentences. The kids all had very positive things to say about themselves, which made me really happy. After school, I got to talk with my mentor a little bit about the day. She told me that after their town meeting yesterday (schoolwide meeting), the students all had to write about an adult and one other person of their choice. She told me that Joe chose to write about me and that he said I give him confidence. In that moment I had forgotten every difficult moment we have had, and I teared up a little bit. It was the most amazing thing I could have heard and it truly made my day/week.
December 19, 2017
Today was a fairly laid back day. I had the kids journal and answer the question “how has learning about self esteem been positive for you?”. The fourth graders did extremely well with it, however, the third graders needed a little bit of an explanation. One of my fourth graders was also telling me continuously that he has no friends and was asking the other boy in the group to be his friend. This was a bit disruptive, and I plan to address it further next time. The same boy after school asked both my mentor and I to marry him, which was so sweet. We said he was too young, but agreed to be his friends. My third graders had a little bit of trouble staying on task, so I will need to address that next time as well. Overall, today was very eye-opening.
January 2, 2018
It was so great to come back today. I really missed the kids over the break. They were all very excited to see me again as well. All we really got to do was journal because I gave them a question that required them to really reflect. I asked them how they had to use self esteem over the break. It was not an easy question, and by the time they had to get back to class, some had not even finished. I am finding out more and more about each student over time. I had a meeting with my mentor after school and we came up with a plan on how to fix some of the “silly” behavior being used by some of the students. I have to think it over tonight and get back to her with the plan I believe will work best. I am extremely excited to be back.
January 9, 2017
Today I got back to South End after a long snow weekend. I had an activity planned for the kids that helped them realize what is special about them. They wrote it in a colorful tree that way it really stood out to them. With third grade, I began a new point system to see if it helps improve the issue that I have been having with their focus. I printed out a sheet for one of my kids for him to work on when there is free time because he does better with something to work on, especially math. I love being with them and having the opportunity to teach them something new each day.
January 11, 2018
Today was an okay day. We had to be flexible because the community room was being used for a baby shower so we used the cafeteria instead. This allowed for them to have more space and even more of a distraction. There was a lot more for them to see in there. Though, the fourth graders were pretty good. I asked them today who their hero is and why. It took a bit to get an answer out of them that followed the way I was asking, but they got it to me in the end. The third graders had a little bit more trouble with the freedom of the space and the consistent distractions coming in, but it was okay in the end. They were able to do their work to the best of their abilities and that was the most important part.
January 18, 2018
Today I was only able to meet with my fourth graders. With the snow day, it was harder to get them out of class. Before going in, I had an idea for a creative project. The kids are each going to design their dream house and then present to the rest of the group. This will show them that not everyone has the same ideas and that they are all special and unique. It is a great way to boost their self confidence and in the end they will learn a lot from this project.
January 25, 2018
Today the fourth graders finished up their house projects and I was able to introduce it to the third graders. We had a great time getting back together after a week and being able to have the time to be creative. When I see them again next week, I want them to present their houses the next time we meet and then I need to find one last activity for them to do for a while. Some things are going to be changing in the next couple of weeks with this project and I am not sure how I am going to go about it, but I am going to make it work and be flexible so that everyone is able to get what they need. I love my capstone and these kids and that is the most important part.
February 1, 2018
Today I spent my last day with my groups for a little while. I informed the teachers that I work with that I will be transitioning back into the classrooms to help the kids in there. The kids got to present their houses and I told them why I had them do the project. They did really well with it and they were able to hit all of the points that I wanted them to. I also told them that I will be in their classrooms working with them rather than pulling them out of class because it will be far more beneficial for them, and the one-on-one work will be better for them in the long run.
February 6, 2018
Today I began working back in the classrooms with the kids. It was a nice transition getting to hear them read and be able to help them with some of the words that they are struggling with. It is important for me that I can help them move farther along in their education and being able to see all the growth that they will go through this year. I get to read with the fourth graders and I get to the third grade classroom when they are beginning science so I get to see them do some of the fun experiments that I wish I could have done when I was their age. I think that this transition is going to be very beneficial for everyone in the end and I am interested to see how it turns out and what comes of it by the end of the year.
February 13, 2018
Today I was in Mrs. Bonfiglio’s room and Ms. Kelley’s room to work with the students in there. We had a fun time getting to work with all of them this day and see what they had to say to me. I love getting to hear the kids read and what they have to say what they enjoy in regards to school. In fourth grade I get to read with a girl named Lily and I have been following the book she has been reading and we are both really into it at this point. I also like one of the end of the day activities that Mrs. Bonfiglio does where she gets the kids to clean the classroom and then if they find the “magic piece of garbage” then they get classroom money. It helps them to learn to use money as well as be responsible. Then in Ms. Kelley’s room, the kids were working between the computers and doing science on the carpet talking about structures and components of major landmarks. Today was overall a great day at South End and I am excited to get to work with Ms. Plourde’s class Thursday.
February 15, 2018
Today I got to work with Ms. Plourde’s class and read with one of my students. He is an excellent reader, I actually believe that he is well past his grade level. We read two different books in this time and discussed the Titanic a bit because that was the topic of one of the books. Once I was done there and the class went to gym, I went to Ms. Kelley’s class. Sadly, I didn’t get to see her today because she had a sub. I helped the sub out a little so that she knew what to do, and she was happy for that. My students seem to be doing a bit better since we stopped and I’m glad for that. All I want is for them to succeed and I really love being with them and spending time with them this year.
February 22, 2018
Today I was in Ms. Plourde and Ms. Kelley’s classes today. We did some reading and writing activities in class. I read with my student Michael for about 20 minutes before he got into his group and then went to Ms. Kelley’s room to finish core block with the kids and then we worked on their writing. It took the whole time with one student to find his organizer that he needed to write his paragraph so he never got to it. This put us back a bit and now I need to go in and help him organize on Tuesday. Overall the day was good and I wish I had gotten both days with them. I can’t wait for Tuesday.
February 27, 2018
Today was a really fun day down at the school. As I was driving down, I was getting more and more excited to get there. The kids always put a huge smile on my face so that’s always great to walk in to. I got to read with someone different in 4th grade and that was a nice experience. I enjoy the ability to get to work with different students and see how they progress throughout the year. I was also able to get a picture with some of my fourth graders because I have the forms signed for them and I thought it would be a great addition to my e-portfolio. When I got to third grade, the students were building towers out of a few different materials and seeing if their towers would have the ability to hold up a book. They had to first draw a sketch of what they wanted and then reflect upon that so they could just build the tower based off what they drew. There was one group who figured it out immediately, and one of the students I work closely with was in the group so I knew that would boost up his confidence just a little. They did not end up getting to finish today, however, they will get to finish tomorrow and then when I go in on Thursday I will get to hear all about it, which I am excited for.
March 1, 2018
I got to read with Michael today and we finished the Titanic book that we have been working on for a few weeks. His reading levels have improved so much this year, I have heard, which makes me very very happy. I want to continually see all the kids succeed, especially the ones that I work with regularly. When I went to third grade, I had gotten there just in time to see them finishing the movie “Because of Winn Dixie”. Once they got back to the room, the kids were asked to fill out a venn diagram comparing the book and the movie. There were many differences and many similarities, as I heard, and many students enjoyed the movie more. It makes what happened in the book become so much more real, and so that helps the students to understand it better. Once that was complete, they were given time to work on writers workshop. They are still working on turning their organizers into paragraphs which can sometimes be a difficult task to accomplish. During activities like this, I usually hang out in the same area so that I can help whoever needs it, and because some of the students that I have worked with all year are in that vicinity. I am always glad to be there with them and it makes me very sad that this year is going by quickly. I loved today with the kids very much.
March 2, 2018
Mrs. Boutilier told me today that I need to begin to think about closing out with the kids for the end of the year. I continue to put this off because I really don’t want to. This has been my happy place for the last 6 months and I can’t think about ending. I don’t want to go away next year because I want to stay with these kids. I just can’t think about leaving them yet.
March 6, 2018
It was a fairly laid back day today at the school. In fourth grade I got to read with a girl, Kallee, and she is one of the sweetest kids I have ever met. She always says hi to me when she sees me and when I get the chance to read with her, I love to hear how she is improving and growing as a student. Once the fourth graders went to art, I got to go see my third graders. They were working on mini essays that they have been stemming from organizers. I love to hear how they interpret the stories and what they think the big ideas are. Once that was done, they were told to either go on one of the math skill building sites or go to the carpet and play the fraction game. Once each student was able to join on the carpet, they played the fractions game as a class in teams. It was an excellent way to improve their skills and have fun. Today was a great way to start off the week after missing school yesterday for my college visit.
March 8, 2018
There was no school today due to the snow, so I was unable to see my kids. This allowed me to get a lot of work done on my website and get some planning done for the next several weeks. It was helpful for me to begin to think of how to close things out, however, it is still a very emotional thought for me to have.
March 13, 2018
There was no school again today due to the snow, so unfortunately I could not go to see the kids again. It makes me sad when things like this happen because they are some of the best parts of my days and not being able to see them really makes me sad. I hope that Thursday all goes well.
March 15, 2018
I did not get to see them again today. I had a mandatory meeting after school that got in the way. I just want to be able to see them again and laugh with them. They are the highlight of my weeks and I am beyond happy that I chose this for my senior year. I am also beyond grateful for all of the opportunities that South End is offering me so that I may get to see the kids as much as I do. As it gets closer to the end of the year, I just think about having to leave the kids which is such a sad thought. I don’t want to ever leave them because of all they have taught me this year. I just need to think of a way to begin to close out but I don’t think I’ll do so until at least May. It’s far too early to think about it now. But I really do miss them.
March 20, 2018
South End had a half day for parent teacher conferences, so I was not able to see the kids again today. It makes me really sad because even when I have a lot going on in my personal life, these kids just seem to make it all better. Today was a day I could have really benefited from seeing them, but at least I get to see them Thursday.
March 22, 2018
Today I was able to get back to the school and be with the kids. It felt good to be able to read with Michael again and see how much he has improved over the last several weeks. We read in the hallway and he was reading a book about this strange firefighter, which he finds hilarious. We read for about 30 minutes before I had to go to third grade. I am very glad he still let me read with him and see where he is. I enjoy seeing how much they grow and improve over the year and what they are capable of. When I got to third grade, they were in the middle of CORE block, where they get a chance to work on extra skills and improve in certain subjects. They were playing a multiplication game with cards to improve on their skills. I was playing this with them until I had to leave for softball.
March 29, 2018
I came in today and went to Mrs. Bonfiglio’s room since I haven’t been there in quite some time. They were playing book musical chairs, where they got to go around to different desks and check out different series of books. It was such a fun activity and they really responded well to it. I had an extremely fun time getting to work with them and see what they thought. The kids I have been working closely with loved seeing me in the room and getting to tell me about what they were reading. When I got to Ms. Kelley’s room, they were wrapping up CORE and beginning to work on Easter bunnies. They were drawing designs in the lines that covered the bunny’s faces. It was so cute to watch what they were doing. They also had a town meeting that I had to miss due to softball, but I was glad to at least see the beginning. The fifth graders did such a great job with it and the paparazzi at the door was so cute! I hope that one day later this year I am able to go and see what happens at their meetings.
April 5, 2018
Today I had a half day at school, so I went to capstone a bit early. I went to the school at 12:30 and stayed until 2:30 so that I could be with the kids for longer. I got to be in the classroom with them, go to gym, and watch the first game of the staff vs. students volleyball game. It was an amazing day and I wish it lasted longer. Every time I get to be with them after time away, it makes me realize how much a part of my life they are and how important they have become to me this year. When I have to leave, it makes me so sad because I know that if I had just a little more time we could do so much together, but it won’t happen that way for a while, so for now I will just have to work with my schedule and see them whenever I possibly can.
September 5, 2017
Sunday, I was more upset than I have been in a very long time. My first idea had gotten shut down because the school I really wanted to use was unavailable due to another school already having a program started there. Luckily, the principal was kind enough to put my name out to other administrators in the town and immediately I was in contact with another principal and planning a meeting with her. She loved my ideas and was eager to meet with me. Today, I had the pleasure of meeting with her and getting to share ideas and thoughts with her, and she loved them. So much so that I begin my time with the students tomorrow. I can not imagine a better scenario than this one because it allowed me to reach outside of my comfort zone and find something new. I went from disappointed and discouraged to happy as can be in just a few days time due to one person’s kindness and ability to connect me with another school and I absolutely can not wait to begin.
September 6, 2017
Today was my first day at the school. I was with the third graders today and mostly in Ms. Kelley’s class. It was an experience I could have never imagined and I am getting more out of it than I could have ever thought. I learned my way around a bit and met some of the teachers and students. I really connected with this one girl (Ann) and I think if I continue to work with her it could end up making a big difference for her. I am really looking forward to going back.
September 7, 2017
Today I was with the fourth grade class. Today was a bit more emotional because I saw one of my elementary school teachers and he remembered me. He asked me about my life now and my future plans, I even got to know how he got to where he is now. It helped me to see where I could end up in the future and what path is open for me if I decide. The teacher I worked with the most today (Mrs. Bonfiglio) was so excited to have me. She let me jump right in and read with the kids, it was seriously fun to do. After today, I am really thinking that I am going to gather a small group of children and work with them each day I am there. I think that is going to make my project better than before.
September 8, 2017
Today I was in fifth grade and I got to meet the kids which was fun. I really enjoy being with the upper grade kids because they understand what’s happening and why I am there. There was one boy (E) who was having a lot of trouble when it came to writing time and it wasn’t easy to try to help him. I am not used to helping with things like that so I felt as though I was doing an awful job at helping him, there wasn’t much I could do but give him ideas. There are so many aspects of this project I still need to think over and become familiar with, and it’s good that I have all year.
September 11, 2017
Today I went in and was supposed to work with the 1st and 2nd graders, however, when i got there, they were in special so I just got to know the teachers that were around and went to work with the kindergarteners, which was super fun. They are so cute, so young and innocent still and it was a great experience. I had a great time doing the apple project with them where they learned the parts of an apple, colored them, and labeled it. I am seriously in love with my project. Everything is going so well so far.
September 12, 2017
I met with the principal for a few minutes when I first got to the school today. We are really figuring out the best direction for my project and where I can really help out the most. We both agree that third and fourth grade is where I should be for the time being because that is when the kids in elementary are going through a lot of change and growing more so it would benefit them most. There are a few kids I am already looking about in Mrs. Boutilier and get her opinion as well as find out from my mentor who she thinks I can help the most. We agree on one, maybe even two or three students already and I can not wait to see where this goes once it is all figured out. This is beyond amazing.
September 14, 2017
Today I went in and worked with the fourth graders which was super fun. It didn’t last long because they had gym at the end of the day. After the school day was over, I went and met with my mentor. We are on the same page with the direction that my project is going and we are both becoming super excited for it. All that’s really left to do is make up permission slips for parents and send them home to get signed off on so I can work with their children.
September 18, 2017
Today was a pretty decent day in the school. I got to meet with my mentor and really discuss who we want to be in the groups and I think that we have a pretty solid set of kids. It is 4 kids from grade 3 and 4 from grade 4. I also got the parent consent forms done and they are being sent home end of this week or beginning of next week. The kids are really seeming to love me and enjoy me being there, and I am really loving all of my time there. Today I did have a little issue with one of the boys (GW) because during reading time both the teacher and I could not get him to focus. Eventually he did but it took a little while. He is one of the boys that I plan on working with throughout the year and I am interested to see where his journals take him as we get more into it all.
September 21, 2017
It was a really great day at South End, I am really moving forward with my project. Today I got my parent letters sent home by two of the three teachers that I am pulling students from. Unfortunately, one of the teachers had left early so the letters to her students will get sent home tomorrow. I am really hoping for 100% return from these, however, I know that that will be a hard goal to reach in case some things happen. As soon as some of the third graders were given the letter, they almost immediately came up to me and were so excited. They really want to be in my group and get to work with me which makes me more excited about this than I thought I could be. Ms. Kelley and I came up with some ideas for how to measure progress from the beginning to the end and some fun activities that I could do with the kids in order to see how they feel about themselves. I know that sometimes we will need to focus on school work, especially if I am pulling them in the middle of a lesson.
The teachers and principal at South End are all being so supportive of my project. As I keep moving forward, they are allowing me to come in and sit through class, help the students when they hit some speed bumps, and giving me some ideas on ways to help the students. I have been given many recommendations on students and how to approach some topics, so as I move forward I look forward to putting lots of these plans into action.
September 25, 2017
Today was an exceptional day for my project. I received 4 of the 8 parent letters back for my students. It would be 5, however one of the parents didn’t check off the most important box so we need to get in touch with them to make sure that I am allowed to work with their child. I sent home the last 2 letters today and am hoping the 8th student remembers to give the letter to his parents tonight. I purchased journals and stickers this weekend in order for the kids to decorate them and work in them throughout the year. I plan on having them journal each time we meet so that we can really see the growth throughout the year. I am looking forward to the first meeting.
September 26, 2017
I have 6 ½ permission slips as of today and I could not be more proud. My kids make me so happy each and every single day. I got to meet with my mentor after school and discuss what the first few days of meeting will look like, times, group sizes, and a place for me to work in. There is a lot going on at once, but it is all positive which makes the entire project really amazing. I can’t wait to meet with my kids and spend all this time getting to know them and help them as much as I can.
September 28, 2017
Today I went in expecting to get to work in my small groups, however that didn’t happen. I was told that I am going to be starting my groups at the beginning of next week, which is very exciting for me. I have the first week planned out well, and I will be with my groups 2 times a week, then the extra day I will be rotating through classrooms with the teachers I am mainly working with so that I can keep up with how my kids are doing academically and help wherever I can. I was also able to meet one of my students mother today and it was nice getting to meet her in person so I know who to talk to and who to keep in touch with. I loved that because I want to be able to know who parents are and keep in touch with them as to what is going on when I work with their child.
October 2, 2017
Today was just another day of floating around. It was officially decided that I am going to begin my small groups tomorrow. I absolutely can not wait, it is going to be a great day.
October 3, 2017
Today I began with my groups and it was a magical experience. I loved every moment with my kids. We were able to get through everything that I had planned and the kids did really well with all of it. I had to get them back to focus a couple of times but overall they did really well and it went smoothly. They answer my questions as best they can which means a lot that they are really trying. A couple of them have already told me that they enjoy being in my group so much. This makes my heart melt and I absolutely love being with them.
October 5, 2017
Today my kids did their first set of self portraits. They came out really well and we are going to color them in next week. The way that the kids color them is really important because it will show me a lot about how they view themselves. The color scheme will be very revealing as to how they think and how they see who they are. They are doing well with the questions I present to them each day and I love going in to see them.
October 10, 2017
Today was a bit of an easier day. I am slowly learning how to get through to them and get them to trust me. It is a very different experience from anything I have ever endured and I can’t wait to see what the end result is. This project is really my life and I am loving it more than I could have imagined. I can’t wait for the group project which will hopefully get started next week.
October 12, 2017
Today was a fairly easy day with the kids. They did their journal questions and then colored their self portraits. I had a bit of trouble keeping all the fourth graders focussed and two of the third graders, but I was able to get most of them back on track and they were able to finish their work. I was able to meet with my mentor and talk through some of the issues that I was having and she was able to give me some suggestions. I am going to assign seats on Monday and see how that works. I am also going to do my first read aloud and see if that helps them realize the expectations that I have for them and what is appropriate in our time together. I am really hoping that this will help everyone out in the long run.
October 16, 2017
Today was one of the rougher days because I had a few issues with individual students. One of my students had lied to me and said that he was going to the bathroom and then he went to the main office to ask the principal a question. Then my third graders were arguing across the table even though I had moved them to sit farther away from one another. Nothing seemed to work. I also need to find ways to keep their focus and keep them on track. Those are key to what we are going to be doing throughout the year.
October 20, 2017
Today I only had third grade because fourth was on a trip. I introduced the idea of self esteem to them and let them know that we will be working on it for a while. We will need to see how it goes from here. Not much else happened today.
October 23, 2017
Today I was just helping out in the classrooms. The students really seem to love me, every day they run up to me and hug me (and there are 3 students in particular who do so). One of my kids in my group made my whole day, he gave me a picture that he drew and I absolutely love it. It is pumpkin man and it goes so well with the theme of the month. Today was a really good day.
October 24, 2017
Introducing them slowly to the idea of self esteem is working well. My group of fourth graders is going to get smaller because one girl can’t handle it, which makes me sad but it needs to be that way. She needs to focus more on school than on my group, after going through such an important part in development as a child I understand that. Otherwise things are great.
October 26, 2017
Today only 5 of my 6 kids were there. We did a worksheet on good things that have happened in their lives and things they like. They are working really hard and I think they will get more out of this than self esteem. Joe keeps drawing me pictures and I love them, he said I will probably get 1 or 2 a week, I am going to run out of room to hang them. I love working with these kids more than anything, they mean so much.
October 31, 2017
Today was really fun at capstone because it was Halloween, the kids were all dressed up and having an amazing day. They were happy as can be, there was a bunch going on and they were ready for it all. I was only able to get my group of fourth graders because there was an event with some of the younger grades that the third graders wanted to see. When I saw my fourth graders, it was fairly laid back and nice because we answered a journal question and since it was Halloween, I let them take the rest of the time that we had together to color and we talked. They are a great group to be around and we always have fun, so it was a really amazing day. Joe said that he had made me another picture, but he lost it, which is totally okay, at some point I’m going to run out of room on my wall for them (hahah). But each time I go and work with them, I absolutely can not wait to go back. It is an experience many never get and I am beyond grateful that I have been able to get one like this.
November 2, 2017
Today was a good day with the kids, it was fairly low key and we had fun. I had them write letters to themselves that I will give back to them at the end of the year. The kids weren’t too happy about it, but they did it for me. They’re pretty great.
November 6, 2017
Today we started our flower project where the kids are going to draw petals and write positive character traits about themselves and make that into a flower. It is a really powerful self esteem project and it makes all of the time with the kids just that much more special. Although they don’t like everything that I have planned, they do it all because of how excellent of a relationship we have built.
November 9, 2017
I only took my fourth graders today and we finished the flowers. They came out so well and we hung them up on the wall. I took pictures and I can’t wait to put them up on my website as artifacts and for everyone to see. Then the third graders were doing some veterans day activities so I let them stay in the class. I played some math games with some of the students and it was really fun. I can’t imagine doing anything else for my capstone.
November 14, 2017
Today I only met with my fourth graders again. They finished their flowers and I had them fill out a worksheet I made up that asked self esteem questions. After they had finished that up, we had a 15 minute discussion about self esteem and what it is and what it means to have positive self esteem. They really seemed to understand what it was and were open to learning more about it. Then the the graders had extra recess so I didn’t take them. I was able to borrow Joe for 3 minutes so he could finish his flower. They loved the extra recess time which was great.
November 16, 2017
Today I took both of my groups and we did a read aloud. We read Spaghetti in a Hotdog Bun which deals with having confidence in yourself and being comfortable with who you are. The kids responded really well to it and they really seemed to understand what it meant and how it pertains to what we are talking about. It was such a good moment for my capstone because I know that when I get to see them, they are always learning something new, even if it isn’t educational. These kids are so eager to learn and it makes my capstone that much more meaningful to me.
November 27, 2017
Today I got to meet with my groups and it was a blast. I originally had an activity planned, but it wouldn’t print right so I ended up having to switch up the plans last minute. We did a person and the kids had to write the things that they like about themselves on the inside, and on the outside they had to write the things they want to change about themselves. It was a bit difficult to get them focussed because it was the day after a long weekend. The fourth graders did better with the activity than the third graders, but it worked out well in the end. I really missed them and I was glad to be back with them.
November 30, 2017
Today the kids did an activity called “I am a superstar” and it went very well. I am making them talk about themselves a lot and I don’t know how they feel about that, but I plan on talking to them about it soon. I think they are liking it but I want them to do an activity where they stand up and talk about themselves. I think I need to get them out of their comfort zone and make them comfortable with being open around others. These kids are progressing very well and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
December 7, 2017
Today I had to be a bit flexible because there was testing going on in my regular room. We played a game that really focused on self esteem. We had a lot of fun with it because the kids didn’t totally realize what it was all about but they played the game and they had a lot of positive things to say. I got some excellent pictures and had a chance to talk to each of the third graders one-on-one. I got an idea of what I am doing well and what I need to change.
December 11, 2017
Today Mrs. Boutilier came and observed what I was doing. I was quite nervous at first because I wasn’t sure if she was going to like it, but the kids loved her and they all got along so well. One girl even asked me afterward if she would come back. We had a bit more of a discussion today and I was able to show her a lot of the work that I do with the kids, which was really nice. I am so pleased with how today went and that my kids were so amazing with Mrs. Boutilier. At one point, we were playing a game about self esteem and Joe got the question “what makes you special?”. He had not been serious the entire time, and he was not being serious at first, but I was not letting up on him. He needed to answer the question, and he did. In the end, his answer was, “I’m special because I’m adopted.” Everyone was silent for a moment, everyone had goosebumps (at least Mrs. Boutilier and I did), and I was so proud of him for sharing that.
December 14, 2017
It was a little bit of an off day because there was a 2 hour delay. I was still able to meet with my groups, and we did a fairly simple activity. They made lists of the things that they like the most about themselves, then we put it on a poster that read “I am great because...” They all responded very well and they made great sentences. The kids all had very positive things to say about themselves, which made me really happy. After school, I got to talk with my mentor a little bit about the day. She told me that after their town meeting yesterday (schoolwide meeting), the students all had to write about an adult and one other person of their choice. She told me that Joe chose to write about me and that he said I give him confidence. In that moment I had forgotten every difficult moment we have had, and I teared up a little bit. It was the most amazing thing I could have heard and it truly made my day/week.
December 19, 2017
Today was a fairly laid back day. I had the kids journal and answer the question “how has learning about self esteem been positive for you?”. The fourth graders did extremely well with it, however, the third graders needed a little bit of an explanation. One of my fourth graders was also telling me continuously that he has no friends and was asking the other boy in the group to be his friend. This was a bit disruptive, and I plan to address it further next time. The same boy after school asked both my mentor and I to marry him, which was so sweet. We said he was too young, but agreed to be his friends. My third graders had a little bit of trouble staying on task, so I will need to address that next time as well. Overall, today was very eye-opening.
January 2, 2018
It was so great to come back today. I really missed the kids over the break. They were all very excited to see me again as well. All we really got to do was journal because I gave them a question that required them to really reflect. I asked them how they had to use self esteem over the break. It was not an easy question, and by the time they had to get back to class, some had not even finished. I am finding out more and more about each student over time. I had a meeting with my mentor after school and we came up with a plan on how to fix some of the “silly” behavior being used by some of the students. I have to think it over tonight and get back to her with the plan I believe will work best. I am extremely excited to be back.
January 9, 2017
Today I got back to South End after a long snow weekend. I had an activity planned for the kids that helped them realize what is special about them. They wrote it in a colorful tree that way it really stood out to them. With third grade, I began a new point system to see if it helps improve the issue that I have been having with their focus. I printed out a sheet for one of my kids for him to work on when there is free time because he does better with something to work on, especially math. I love being with them and having the opportunity to teach them something new each day.
January 11, 2018
Today was an okay day. We had to be flexible because the community room was being used for a baby shower so we used the cafeteria instead. This allowed for them to have more space and even more of a distraction. There was a lot more for them to see in there. Though, the fourth graders were pretty good. I asked them today who their hero is and why. It took a bit to get an answer out of them that followed the way I was asking, but they got it to me in the end. The third graders had a little bit more trouble with the freedom of the space and the consistent distractions coming in, but it was okay in the end. They were able to do their work to the best of their abilities and that was the most important part.
January 18, 2018
Today I was only able to meet with my fourth graders. With the snow day, it was harder to get them out of class. Before going in, I had an idea for a creative project. The kids are each going to design their dream house and then present to the rest of the group. This will show them that not everyone has the same ideas and that they are all special and unique. It is a great way to boost their self confidence and in the end they will learn a lot from this project.
January 25, 2018
Today the fourth graders finished up their house projects and I was able to introduce it to the third graders. We had a great time getting back together after a week and being able to have the time to be creative. When I see them again next week, I want them to present their houses the next time we meet and then I need to find one last activity for them to do for a while. Some things are going to be changing in the next couple of weeks with this project and I am not sure how I am going to go about it, but I am going to make it work and be flexible so that everyone is able to get what they need. I love my capstone and these kids and that is the most important part.
February 1, 2018
Today I spent my last day with my groups for a little while. I informed the teachers that I work with that I will be transitioning back into the classrooms to help the kids in there. The kids got to present their houses and I told them why I had them do the project. They did really well with it and they were able to hit all of the points that I wanted them to. I also told them that I will be in their classrooms working with them rather than pulling them out of class because it will be far more beneficial for them, and the one-on-one work will be better for them in the long run.
February 6, 2018
Today I began working back in the classrooms with the kids. It was a nice transition getting to hear them read and be able to help them with some of the words that they are struggling with. It is important for me that I can help them move farther along in their education and being able to see all the growth that they will go through this year. I get to read with the fourth graders and I get to the third grade classroom when they are beginning science so I get to see them do some of the fun experiments that I wish I could have done when I was their age. I think that this transition is going to be very beneficial for everyone in the end and I am interested to see how it turns out and what comes of it by the end of the year.
February 13, 2018
Today I was in Mrs. Bonfiglio’s room and Ms. Kelley’s room to work with the students in there. We had a fun time getting to work with all of them this day and see what they had to say to me. I love getting to hear the kids read and what they have to say what they enjoy in regards to school. In fourth grade I get to read with a girl named Lily and I have been following the book she has been reading and we are both really into it at this point. I also like one of the end of the day activities that Mrs. Bonfiglio does where she gets the kids to clean the classroom and then if they find the “magic piece of garbage” then they get classroom money. It helps them to learn to use money as well as be responsible. Then in Ms. Kelley’s room, the kids were working between the computers and doing science on the carpet talking about structures and components of major landmarks. Today was overall a great day at South End and I am excited to get to work with Ms. Plourde’s class Thursday.
February 15, 2018
Today I got to work with Ms. Plourde’s class and read with one of my students. He is an excellent reader, I actually believe that he is well past his grade level. We read two different books in this time and discussed the Titanic a bit because that was the topic of one of the books. Once I was done there and the class went to gym, I went to Ms. Kelley’s class. Sadly, I didn’t get to see her today because she had a sub. I helped the sub out a little so that she knew what to do, and she was happy for that. My students seem to be doing a bit better since we stopped and I’m glad for that. All I want is for them to succeed and I really love being with them and spending time with them this year.
February 22, 2018
Today I was in Ms. Plourde and Ms. Kelley’s classes today. We did some reading and writing activities in class. I read with my student Michael for about 20 minutes before he got into his group and then went to Ms. Kelley’s room to finish core block with the kids and then we worked on their writing. It took the whole time with one student to find his organizer that he needed to write his paragraph so he never got to it. This put us back a bit and now I need to go in and help him organize on Tuesday. Overall the day was good and I wish I had gotten both days with them. I can’t wait for Tuesday.
February 27, 2018
Today was a really fun day down at the school. As I was driving down, I was getting more and more excited to get there. The kids always put a huge smile on my face so that’s always great to walk in to. I got to read with someone different in 4th grade and that was a nice experience. I enjoy the ability to get to work with different students and see how they progress throughout the year. I was also able to get a picture with some of my fourth graders because I have the forms signed for them and I thought it would be a great addition to my e-portfolio. When I got to third grade, the students were building towers out of a few different materials and seeing if their towers would have the ability to hold up a book. They had to first draw a sketch of what they wanted and then reflect upon that so they could just build the tower based off what they drew. There was one group who figured it out immediately, and one of the students I work closely with was in the group so I knew that would boost up his confidence just a little. They did not end up getting to finish today, however, they will get to finish tomorrow and then when I go in on Thursday I will get to hear all about it, which I am excited for.
March 1, 2018
I got to read with Michael today and we finished the Titanic book that we have been working on for a few weeks. His reading levels have improved so much this year, I have heard, which makes me very very happy. I want to continually see all the kids succeed, especially the ones that I work with regularly. When I went to third grade, I had gotten there just in time to see them finishing the movie “Because of Winn Dixie”. Once they got back to the room, the kids were asked to fill out a venn diagram comparing the book and the movie. There were many differences and many similarities, as I heard, and many students enjoyed the movie more. It makes what happened in the book become so much more real, and so that helps the students to understand it better. Once that was complete, they were given time to work on writers workshop. They are still working on turning their organizers into paragraphs which can sometimes be a difficult task to accomplish. During activities like this, I usually hang out in the same area so that I can help whoever needs it, and because some of the students that I have worked with all year are in that vicinity. I am always glad to be there with them and it makes me very sad that this year is going by quickly. I loved today with the kids very much.
March 2, 2018
Mrs. Boutilier told me today that I need to begin to think about closing out with the kids for the end of the year. I continue to put this off because I really don’t want to. This has been my happy place for the last 6 months and I can’t think about ending. I don’t want to go away next year because I want to stay with these kids. I just can’t think about leaving them yet.
March 6, 2018
It was a fairly laid back day today at the school. In fourth grade I got to read with a girl, Kallee, and she is one of the sweetest kids I have ever met. She always says hi to me when she sees me and when I get the chance to read with her, I love to hear how she is improving and growing as a student. Once the fourth graders went to art, I got to go see my third graders. They were working on mini essays that they have been stemming from organizers. I love to hear how they interpret the stories and what they think the big ideas are. Once that was done, they were told to either go on one of the math skill building sites or go to the carpet and play the fraction game. Once each student was able to join on the carpet, they played the fractions game as a class in teams. It was an excellent way to improve their skills and have fun. Today was a great way to start off the week after missing school yesterday for my college visit.
March 8, 2018
There was no school today due to the snow, so I was unable to see my kids. This allowed me to get a lot of work done on my website and get some planning done for the next several weeks. It was helpful for me to begin to think of how to close things out, however, it is still a very emotional thought for me to have.
March 13, 2018
There was no school again today due to the snow, so unfortunately I could not go to see the kids again. It makes me sad when things like this happen because they are some of the best parts of my days and not being able to see them really makes me sad. I hope that Thursday all goes well.
March 15, 2018
I did not get to see them again today. I had a mandatory meeting after school that got in the way. I just want to be able to see them again and laugh with them. They are the highlight of my weeks and I am beyond happy that I chose this for my senior year. I am also beyond grateful for all of the opportunities that South End is offering me so that I may get to see the kids as much as I do. As it gets closer to the end of the year, I just think about having to leave the kids which is such a sad thought. I don’t want to ever leave them because of all they have taught me this year. I just need to think of a way to begin to close out but I don’t think I’ll do so until at least May. It’s far too early to think about it now. But I really do miss them.
March 20, 2018
South End had a half day for parent teacher conferences, so I was not able to see the kids again today. It makes me really sad because even when I have a lot going on in my personal life, these kids just seem to make it all better. Today was a day I could have really benefited from seeing them, but at least I get to see them Thursday.
March 22, 2018
Today I was able to get back to the school and be with the kids. It felt good to be able to read with Michael again and see how much he has improved over the last several weeks. We read in the hallway and he was reading a book about this strange firefighter, which he finds hilarious. We read for about 30 minutes before I had to go to third grade. I am very glad he still let me read with him and see where he is. I enjoy seeing how much they grow and improve over the year and what they are capable of. When I got to third grade, they were in the middle of CORE block, where they get a chance to work on extra skills and improve in certain subjects. They were playing a multiplication game with cards to improve on their skills. I was playing this with them until I had to leave for softball.
March 29, 2018
I came in today and went to Mrs. Bonfiglio’s room since I haven’t been there in quite some time. They were playing book musical chairs, where they got to go around to different desks and check out different series of books. It was such a fun activity and they really responded well to it. I had an extremely fun time getting to work with them and see what they thought. The kids I have been working closely with loved seeing me in the room and getting to tell me about what they were reading. When I got to Ms. Kelley’s room, they were wrapping up CORE and beginning to work on Easter bunnies. They were drawing designs in the lines that covered the bunny’s faces. It was so cute to watch what they were doing. They also had a town meeting that I had to miss due to softball, but I was glad to at least see the beginning. The fifth graders did such a great job with it and the paparazzi at the door was so cute! I hope that one day later this year I am able to go and see what happens at their meetings.
April 5, 2018
Today I had a half day at school, so I went to capstone a bit early. I went to the school at 12:30 and stayed until 2:30 so that I could be with the kids for longer. I got to be in the classroom with them, go to gym, and watch the first game of the staff vs. students volleyball game. It was an amazing day and I wish it lasted longer. Every time I get to be with them after time away, it makes me realize how much a part of my life they are and how important they have become to me this year. When I have to leave, it makes me so sad because I know that if I had just a little more time we could do so much together, but it won’t happen that way for a while, so for now I will just have to work with my schedule and see them whenever I possibly can.
May 15, 2018
Today was the day that I ended my capstone. It was very emotional and I was not sure how I would do with the kids. I went in and handed out the gifts to the teachers that I worked with as well as getting to hand the folders back to the kids. I was able to pull my third graders out and conduct my final activity with them. It was extremely difficult to say goodbye at the end. I was able to give all of the students the cards that I had written out to them which was a great way to say goodbye. I cried quite a bit, both at the school and driving home that day. I was talking with my mentor at the end and I cried to her a little bit, which was really weird to me but I felt comfortable enough around her after so long. She has invited me to come back to their field day so I can see the kids again in a different setting, so I plan to surprise them that day. After day one, this became more than a project. These kids brought me happiness and I can never thank anyone enough for all they did for me.
Sunday, I was more upset than I have been in a very long time. My first idea had gotten shut down because the school I really wanted to use was unavailable due to another school already having a program started there. Luckily, the principal was kind enough to put my name out to other administrators in the town and immediately I was in contact with another principal and planning a meeting with her. She loved my ideas and was eager to meet with me. Today, I had the pleasure of meeting with her and getting to share ideas and thoughts with her, and she loved them. So much so that I begin my time with the students tomorrow. I can not imagine a better scenario than this one because it allowed me to reach outside of my comfort zone and find something new. I went from disappointed and discouraged to happy as can be in just a few days time due to one person’s kindness and ability to connect me with another school and I absolutely can not wait to begin.
September 6, 2017
Today was my first day at the school. I was with the third graders today and mostly in Ms. Kelley’s class. It was an experience I could have never imagined and I am getting more out of it than I could have ever thought. I learned my way around a bit and met some of the teachers and students. I really connected with this one girl (Ann) and I think if I continue to work with her it could end up making a big difference for her. I am really looking forward to going back.
September 7, 2017
Today I was with the fourth grade class. Today was a bit more emotional because I saw one of my elementary school teachers and he remembered me. He asked me about my life now and my future plans, I even got to know how he got to where he is now. It helped me to see where I could end up in the future and what path is open for me if I decide. The teacher I worked with the most today (Mrs. Bonfiglio) was so excited to have me. She let me jump right in and read with the kids, it was seriously fun to do. After today, I am really thinking that I am going to gather a small group of children and work with them each day I am there. I think that is going to make my project better than before.
September 8, 2017
Today I was in fifth grade and I got to meet the kids which was fun. I really enjoy being with the upper grade kids because they understand what’s happening and why I am there. There was one boy (E) who was having a lot of trouble when it came to writing time and it wasn’t easy to try to help him. I am not used to helping with things like that so I felt as though I was doing an awful job at helping him, there wasn’t much I could do but give him ideas. There are so many aspects of this project I still need to think over and become familiar with, and it’s good that I have all year.
September 11, 2017
Today I went in and was supposed to work with the 1st and 2nd graders, however, when i got there, they were in special so I just got to know the teachers that were around and went to work with the kindergarteners, which was super fun. They are so cute, so young and innocent still and it was a great experience. I had a great time doing the apple project with them where they learned the parts of an apple, colored them, and labeled it. I am seriously in love with my project. Everything is going so well so far.
September 12, 2017
I met with the principal for a few minutes when I first got to the school today. We are really figuring out the best direction for my project and where I can really help out the most. We both agree that third and fourth grade is where I should be for the time being because that is when the kids in elementary are going through a lot of change and growing more so it would benefit them most. There are a few kids I am already looking about in Mrs. Boutilier and get her opinion as well as find out from my mentor who she thinks I can help the most. We agree on one, maybe even two or three students already and I can not wait to see where this goes once it is all figured out. This is beyond amazing.
September 14, 2017
Today I went in and worked with the fourth graders which was super fun. It didn’t last long because they had gym at the end of the day. After the school day was over, I went and met with my mentor. We are on the same page with the direction that my project is going and we are both becoming super excited for it. All that’s really left to do is make up permission slips for parents and send them home to get signed off on so I can work with their children.
September 18, 2017
Today was a pretty decent day in the school. I got to meet with my mentor and really discuss who we want to be in the groups and I think that we have a pretty solid set of kids. It is 4 kids from grade 3 and 4 from grade 4. I also got the parent consent forms done and they are being sent home end of this week or beginning of next week. The kids are really seeming to love me and enjoy me being there, and I am really loving all of my time there. Today I did have a little issue with one of the boys (GW) because during reading time both the teacher and I could not get him to focus. Eventually he did but it took a little while. He is one of the boys that I plan on working with throughout the year and I am interested to see where his journals take him as we get more into it all.
September 21, 2017
It was a really great day at South End, I am really moving forward with my project. Today I got my parent letters sent home by two of the three teachers that I am pulling students from. Unfortunately, one of the teachers had left early so the letters to her students will get sent home tomorrow. I am really hoping for 100% return from these, however, I know that that will be a hard goal to reach in case some things happen. As soon as some of the third graders were given the letter, they almost immediately came up to me and were so excited. They really want to be in my group and get to work with me which makes me more excited about this than I thought I could be. Ms. Kelley and I came up with some ideas for how to measure progress from the beginning to the end and some fun activities that I could do with the kids in order to see how they feel about themselves. I know that sometimes we will need to focus on school work, especially if I am pulling them in the middle of a lesson.
The teachers and principal at South End are all being so supportive of my project. As I keep moving forward, they are allowing me to come in and sit through class, help the students when they hit some speed bumps, and giving me some ideas on ways to help the students. I have been given many recommendations on students and how to approach some topics, so as I move forward I look forward to putting lots of these plans into action.
September 25, 2017
Today was an exceptional day for my project. I received 4 of the 8 parent letters back for my students. It would be 5, however one of the parents didn’t check off the most important box so we need to get in touch with them to make sure that I am allowed to work with their child. I sent home the last 2 letters today and am hoping the 8th student remembers to give the letter to his parents tonight. I purchased journals and stickers this weekend in order for the kids to decorate them and work in them throughout the year. I plan on having them journal each time we meet so that we can really see the growth throughout the year. I am looking forward to the first meeting.
September 26, 2017
I have 6 ½ permission slips as of today and I could not be more proud. My kids make me so happy each and every single day. I got to meet with my mentor after school and discuss what the first few days of meeting will look like, times, group sizes, and a place for me to work in. There is a lot going on at once, but it is all positive which makes the entire project really amazing. I can’t wait to meet with my kids and spend all this time getting to know them and help them as much as I can.
September 28, 2017
Today I went in expecting to get to work in my small groups, however that didn’t happen. I was told that I am going to be starting my groups at the beginning of next week, which is very exciting for me. I have the first week planned out well, and I will be with my groups 2 times a week, then the extra day I will be rotating through classrooms with the teachers I am mainly working with so that I can keep up with how my kids are doing academically and help wherever I can. I was also able to meet one of my students mother today and it was nice getting to meet her in person so I know who to talk to and who to keep in touch with. I loved that because I want to be able to know who parents are and keep in touch with them as to what is going on when I work with their child.
October 2, 2017
Today was just another day of floating around. It was officially decided that I am going to begin my small groups tomorrow. I absolutely can not wait, it is going to be a great day.
October 3, 2017
Today I began with my groups and it was a magical experience. I loved every moment with my kids. We were able to get through everything that I had planned and the kids did really well with all of it. I had to get them back to focus a couple of times but overall they did really well and it went smoothly. They answer my questions as best they can which means a lot that they are really trying. A couple of them have already told me that they enjoy being in my group so much. This makes my heart melt and I absolutely love being with them.
October 5, 2017
Today my kids did their first set of self portraits. They came out really well and we are going to color them in next week. The way that the kids color them is really important because it will show me a lot about how they view themselves. The color scheme will be very revealing as to how they think and how they see who they are. They are doing well with the questions I present to them each day and I love going in to see them.
October 10, 2017
Today was a bit of an easier day. I am slowly learning how to get through to them and get them to trust me. It is a very different experience from anything I have ever endured and I can’t wait to see what the end result is. This project is really my life and I am loving it more than I could have imagined. I can’t wait for the group project which will hopefully get started next week.
October 12, 2017
Today was a fairly easy day with the kids. They did their journal questions and then colored their self portraits. I had a bit of trouble keeping all the fourth graders focussed and two of the third graders, but I was able to get most of them back on track and they were able to finish their work. I was able to meet with my mentor and talk through some of the issues that I was having and she was able to give me some suggestions. I am going to assign seats on Monday and see how that works. I am also going to do my first read aloud and see if that helps them realize the expectations that I have for them and what is appropriate in our time together. I am really hoping that this will help everyone out in the long run.
October 16, 2017
Today was one of the rougher days because I had a few issues with individual students. One of my students had lied to me and said that he was going to the bathroom and then he went to the main office to ask the principal a question. Then my third graders were arguing across the table even though I had moved them to sit farther away from one another. Nothing seemed to work. I also need to find ways to keep their focus and keep them on track. Those are key to what we are going to be doing throughout the year.
October 20, 2017
Today I only had third grade because fourth was on a trip. I introduced the idea of self esteem to them and let them know that we will be working on it for a while. We will need to see how it goes from here. Not much else happened today.
October 23, 2017
Today I was just helping out in the classrooms. The students really seem to love me, every day they run up to me and hug me (and there are 3 students in particular who do so). One of my kids in my group made my whole day, he gave me a picture that he drew and I absolutely love it. It is pumpkin man and it goes so well with the theme of the month. Today was a really good day.
October 24, 2017
Introducing them slowly to the idea of self esteem is working well. My group of fourth graders is going to get smaller because one girl can’t handle it, which makes me sad but it needs to be that way. She needs to focus more on school than on my group, after going through such an important part in development as a child I understand that. Otherwise things are great.
October 26, 2017
Today only 5 of my 6 kids were there. We did a worksheet on good things that have happened in their lives and things they like. They are working really hard and I think they will get more out of this than self esteem. Joe keeps drawing me pictures and I love them, he said I will probably get 1 or 2 a week, I am going to run out of room to hang them. I love working with these kids more than anything, they mean so much.
October 31, 2017
Today was really fun at capstone because it was Halloween, the kids were all dressed up and having an amazing day. They were happy as can be, there was a bunch going on and they were ready for it all. I was only able to get my group of fourth graders because there was an event with some of the younger grades that the third graders wanted to see. When I saw my fourth graders, it was fairly laid back and nice because we answered a journal question and since it was Halloween, I let them take the rest of the time that we had together to color and we talked. They are a great group to be around and we always have fun, so it was a really amazing day. Joe said that he had made me another picture, but he lost it, which is totally okay, at some point I’m going to run out of room on my wall for them (hahah). But each time I go and work with them, I absolutely can not wait to go back. It is an experience many never get and I am beyond grateful that I have been able to get one like this.
November 2, 2017
Today was a good day with the kids, it was fairly low key and we had fun. I had them write letters to themselves that I will give back to them at the end of the year. The kids weren’t too happy about it, but they did it for me. They’re pretty great.
November 6, 2017
Today we started our flower project where the kids are going to draw petals and write positive character traits about themselves and make that into a flower. It is a really powerful self esteem project and it makes all of the time with the kids just that much more special. Although they don’t like everything that I have planned, they do it all because of how excellent of a relationship we have built.
November 9, 2017
I only took my fourth graders today and we finished the flowers. They came out so well and we hung them up on the wall. I took pictures and I can’t wait to put them up on my website as artifacts and for everyone to see. Then the third graders were doing some veterans day activities so I let them stay in the class. I played some math games with some of the students and it was really fun. I can’t imagine doing anything else for my capstone.
November 14, 2017
Today I only met with my fourth graders again. They finished their flowers and I had them fill out a worksheet I made up that asked self esteem questions. After they had finished that up, we had a 15 minute discussion about self esteem and what it is and what it means to have positive self esteem. They really seemed to understand what it was and were open to learning more about it. Then the the graders had extra recess so I didn’t take them. I was able to borrow Joe for 3 minutes so he could finish his flower. They loved the extra recess time which was great.
November 16, 2017
Today I took both of my groups and we did a read aloud. We read Spaghetti in a Hotdog Bun which deals with having confidence in yourself and being comfortable with who you are. The kids responded really well to it and they really seemed to understand what it meant and how it pertains to what we are talking about. It was such a good moment for my capstone because I know that when I get to see them, they are always learning something new, even if it isn’t educational. These kids are so eager to learn and it makes my capstone that much more meaningful to me.
November 27, 2017
Today I got to meet with my groups and it was a blast. I originally had an activity planned, but it wouldn’t print right so I ended up having to switch up the plans last minute. We did a person and the kids had to write the things that they like about themselves on the inside, and on the outside they had to write the things they want to change about themselves. It was a bit difficult to get them focussed because it was the day after a long weekend. The fourth graders did better with the activity than the third graders, but it worked out well in the end. I really missed them and I was glad to be back with them.
November 30, 2017
Today the kids did an activity called “I am a superstar” and it went very well. I am making them talk about themselves a lot and I don’t know how they feel about that, but I plan on talking to them about it soon. I think they are liking it but I want them to do an activity where they stand up and talk about themselves. I think I need to get them out of their comfort zone and make them comfortable with being open around others. These kids are progressing very well and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
December 7, 2017
Today I had to be a bit flexible because there was testing going on in my regular room. We played a game that really focused on self esteem. We had a lot of fun with it because the kids didn’t totally realize what it was all about but they played the game and they had a lot of positive things to say. I got some excellent pictures and had a chance to talk to each of the third graders one-on-one. I got an idea of what I am doing well and what I need to change.
December 11, 2017
Today Mrs. Boutilier came and observed what I was doing. I was quite nervous at first because I wasn’t sure if she was going to like it, but the kids loved her and they all got along so well. One girl even asked me afterward if she would come back. We had a bit more of a discussion today and I was able to show her a lot of the work that I do with the kids, which was really nice. I am so pleased with how today went and that my kids were so amazing with Mrs. Boutilier. At one point, we were playing a game about self esteem and Joe got the question “what makes you special?”. He had not been serious the entire time, and he was not being serious at first, but I was not letting up on him. He needed to answer the question, and he did. In the end, his answer was, “I’m special because I’m adopted.” Everyone was silent for a moment, everyone had goosebumps (at least Mrs. Boutilier and I did), and I was so proud of him for sharing that.
December 14, 2017
It was a little bit of an off day because there was a 2 hour delay. I was still able to meet with my groups, and we did a fairly simple activity. They made lists of the things that they like the most about themselves, then we put it on a poster that read “I am great because...” They all responded very well and they made great sentences. The kids all had very positive things to say about themselves, which made me really happy. After school, I got to talk with my mentor a little bit about the day. She told me that after their town meeting yesterday (schoolwide meeting), the students all had to write about an adult and one other person of their choice. She told me that Joe chose to write about me and that he said I give him confidence. In that moment I had forgotten every difficult moment we have had, and I teared up a little bit. It was the most amazing thing I could have heard and it truly made my day/week.
December 19, 2017
Today was a fairly laid back day. I had the kids journal and answer the question “how has learning about self esteem been positive for you?”. The fourth graders did extremely well with it, however, the third graders needed a little bit of an explanation. One of my fourth graders was also telling me continuously that he has no friends and was asking the other boy in the group to be his friend. This was a bit disruptive, and I plan to address it further next time. The same boy after school asked both my mentor and I to marry him, which was so sweet. We said he was too young, but agreed to be his friends. My third graders had a little bit of trouble staying on task, so I will need to address that next time as well. Overall, today was very eye-opening.
January 2, 2018
It was so great to come back today. I really missed the kids over the break. They were all very excited to see me again as well. All we really got to do was journal because I gave them a question that required them to really reflect. I asked them how they had to use self esteem over the break. It was not an easy question, and by the time they had to get back to class, some had not even finished. I am finding out more and more about each student over time. I had a meeting with my mentor after school and we came up with a plan on how to fix some of the “silly” behavior being used by some of the students. I have to think it over tonight and get back to her with the plan I believe will work best. I am extremely excited to be back.
January 9, 2017
Today I got back to South End after a long snow weekend. I had an activity planned for the kids that helped them realize what is special about them. They wrote it in a colorful tree that way it really stood out to them. With third grade, I began a new point system to see if it helps improve the issue that I have been having with their focus. I printed out a sheet for one of my kids for him to work on when there is free time because he does better with something to work on, especially math. I love being with them and having the opportunity to teach them something new each day.
January 11, 2018
Today was an okay day. We had to be flexible because the community room was being used for a baby shower so we used the cafeteria instead. This allowed for them to have more space and even more of a distraction. There was a lot more for them to see in there. Though, the fourth graders were pretty good. I asked them today who their hero is and why. It took a bit to get an answer out of them that followed the way I was asking, but they got it to me in the end. The third graders had a little bit more trouble with the freedom of the space and the consistent distractions coming in, but it was okay in the end. They were able to do their work to the best of their abilities and that was the most important part.
January 18, 2018
Today I was only able to meet with my fourth graders. With the snow day, it was harder to get them out of class. Before going in, I had an idea for a creative project. The kids are each going to design their dream house and then present to the rest of the group. This will show them that not everyone has the same ideas and that they are all special and unique. It is a great way to boost their self confidence and in the end they will learn a lot from this project.
January 25, 2018
Today the fourth graders finished up their house projects and I was able to introduce it to the third graders. We had a great time getting back together after a week and being able to have the time to be creative. When I see them again next week, I want them to present their houses the next time we meet and then I need to find one last activity for them to do for a while. Some things are going to be changing in the next couple of weeks with this project and I am not sure how I am going to go about it, but I am going to make it work and be flexible so that everyone is able to get what they need. I love my capstone and these kids and that is the most important part.
February 1, 2018
Today I spent my last day with my groups for a little while. I informed the teachers that I work with that I will be transitioning back into the classrooms to help the kids in there. The kids got to present their houses and I told them why I had them do the project. They did really well with it and they were able to hit all of the points that I wanted them to. I also told them that I will be in their classrooms working with them rather than pulling them out of class because it will be far more beneficial for them, and the one-on-one work will be better for them in the long run.
February 6, 2018
Today I began working back in the classrooms with the kids. It was a nice transition getting to hear them read and be able to help them with some of the words that they are struggling with. It is important for me that I can help them move farther along in their education and being able to see all the growth that they will go through this year. I get to read with the fourth graders and I get to the third grade classroom when they are beginning science so I get to see them do some of the fun experiments that I wish I could have done when I was their age. I think that this transition is going to be very beneficial for everyone in the end and I am interested to see how it turns out and what comes of it by the end of the year.
February 13, 2018
Today I was in Mrs. Bonfiglio’s room and Ms. Kelley’s room to work with the students in there. We had a fun time getting to work with all of them this day and see what they had to say to me. I love getting to hear the kids read and what they have to say what they enjoy in regards to school. In fourth grade I get to read with a girl named Lily and I have been following the book she has been reading and we are both really into it at this point. I also like one of the end of the day activities that Mrs. Bonfiglio does where she gets the kids to clean the classroom and then if they find the “magic piece of garbage” then they get classroom money. It helps them to learn to use money as well as be responsible. Then in Ms. Kelley’s room, the kids were working between the computers and doing science on the carpet talking about structures and components of major landmarks. Today was overall a great day at South End and I am excited to get to work with Ms. Plourde’s class Thursday.
February 15, 2018
Today I got to work with Ms. Plourde’s class and read with one of my students. He is an excellent reader, I actually believe that he is well past his grade level. We read two different books in this time and discussed the Titanic a bit because that was the topic of one of the books. Once I was done there and the class went to gym, I went to Ms. Kelley’s class. Sadly, I didn’t get to see her today because she had a sub. I helped the sub out a little so that she knew what to do, and she was happy for that. My students seem to be doing a bit better since we stopped and I’m glad for that. All I want is for them to succeed and I really love being with them and spending time with them this year.
February 22, 2018
Today I was in Ms. Plourde and Ms. Kelley’s classes today. We did some reading and writing activities in class. I read with my student Michael for about 20 minutes before he got into his group and then went to Ms. Kelley’s room to finish core block with the kids and then we worked on their writing. It took the whole time with one student to find his organizer that he needed to write his paragraph so he never got to it. This put us back a bit and now I need to go in and help him organize on Tuesday. Overall the day was good and I wish I had gotten both days with them. I can’t wait for Tuesday.
February 27, 2018
Today was a really fun day down at the school. As I was driving down, I was getting more and more excited to get there. The kids always put a huge smile on my face so that’s always great to walk in to. I got to read with someone different in 4th grade and that was a nice experience. I enjoy the ability to get to work with different students and see how they progress throughout the year. I was also able to get a picture with some of my fourth graders because I have the forms signed for them and I thought it would be a great addition to my e-portfolio. When I got to third grade, the students were building towers out of a few different materials and seeing if their towers would have the ability to hold up a book. They had to first draw a sketch of what they wanted and then reflect upon that so they could just build the tower based off what they drew. There was one group who figured it out immediately, and one of the students I work closely with was in the group so I knew that would boost up his confidence just a little. They did not end up getting to finish today, however, they will get to finish tomorrow and then when I go in on Thursday I will get to hear all about it, which I am excited for.
March 1, 2018
I got to read with Michael today and we finished the Titanic book that we have been working on for a few weeks. His reading levels have improved so much this year, I have heard, which makes me very very happy. I want to continually see all the kids succeed, especially the ones that I work with regularly. When I went to third grade, I had gotten there just in time to see them finishing the movie “Because of Winn Dixie”. Once they got back to the room, the kids were asked to fill out a venn diagram comparing the book and the movie. There were many differences and many similarities, as I heard, and many students enjoyed the movie more. It makes what happened in the book become so much more real, and so that helps the students to understand it better. Once that was complete, they were given time to work on writers workshop. They are still working on turning their organizers into paragraphs which can sometimes be a difficult task to accomplish. During activities like this, I usually hang out in the same area so that I can help whoever needs it, and because some of the students that I have worked with all year are in that vicinity. I am always glad to be there with them and it makes me very sad that this year is going by quickly. I loved today with the kids very much.
March 2, 2018
Mrs. Boutilier told me today that I need to begin to think about closing out with the kids for the end of the year. I continue to put this off because I really don’t want to. This has been my happy place for the last 6 months and I can’t think about ending. I don’t want to go away next year because I want to stay with these kids. I just can’t think about leaving them yet.
March 6, 2018
It was a fairly laid back day today at the school. In fourth grade I got to read with a girl, Kallee, and she is one of the sweetest kids I have ever met. She always says hi to me when she sees me and when I get the chance to read with her, I love to hear how she is improving and growing as a student. Once the fourth graders went to art, I got to go see my third graders. They were working on mini essays that they have been stemming from organizers. I love to hear how they interpret the stories and what they think the big ideas are. Once that was done, they were told to either go on one of the math skill building sites or go to the carpet and play the fraction game. Once each student was able to join on the carpet, they played the fractions game as a class in teams. It was an excellent way to improve their skills and have fun. Today was a great way to start off the week after missing school yesterday for my college visit.
March 8, 2018
There was no school today due to the snow, so I was unable to see my kids. This allowed me to get a lot of work done on my website and get some planning done for the next several weeks. It was helpful for me to begin to think of how to close things out, however, it is still a very emotional thought for me to have.
March 13, 2018
There was no school again today due to the snow, so unfortunately I could not go to see the kids again. It makes me sad when things like this happen because they are some of the best parts of my days and not being able to see them really makes me sad. I hope that Thursday all goes well.
March 15, 2018
I did not get to see them again today. I had a mandatory meeting after school that got in the way. I just want to be able to see them again and laugh with them. They are the highlight of my weeks and I am beyond happy that I chose this for my senior year. I am also beyond grateful for all of the opportunities that South End is offering me so that I may get to see the kids as much as I do. As it gets closer to the end of the year, I just think about having to leave the kids which is such a sad thought. I don’t want to ever leave them because of all they have taught me this year. I just need to think of a way to begin to close out but I don’t think I’ll do so until at least May. It’s far too early to think about it now. But I really do miss them.
March 20, 2018
South End had a half day for parent teacher conferences, so I was not able to see the kids again today. It makes me really sad because even when I have a lot going on in my personal life, these kids just seem to make it all better. Today was a day I could have really benefited from seeing them, but at least I get to see them Thursday.
March 22, 2018
Today I was able to get back to the school and be with the kids. It felt good to be able to read with Michael again and see how much he has improved over the last several weeks. We read in the hallway and he was reading a book about this strange firefighter, which he finds hilarious. We read for about 30 minutes before I had to go to third grade. I am very glad he still let me read with him and see where he is. I enjoy seeing how much they grow and improve over the year and what they are capable of. When I got to third grade, they were in the middle of CORE block, where they get a chance to work on extra skills and improve in certain subjects. They were playing a multiplication game with cards to improve on their skills. I was playing this with them until I had to leave for softball.
March 29, 2018
I came in today and went to Mrs. Bonfiglio’s room since I haven’t been there in quite some time. They were playing book musical chairs, where they got to go around to different desks and check out different series of books. It was such a fun activity and they really responded well to it. I had an extremely fun time getting to work with them and see what they thought. The kids I have been working closely with loved seeing me in the room and getting to tell me about what they were reading. When I got to Ms. Kelley’s room, they were wrapping up CORE and beginning to work on Easter bunnies. They were drawing designs in the lines that covered the bunny’s faces. It was so cute to watch what they were doing. They also had a town meeting that I had to miss due to softball, but I was glad to at least see the beginning. The fifth graders did such a great job with it and the paparazzi at the door was so cute! I hope that one day later this year I am able to go and see what happens at their meetings.
April 5, 2018
Today I had a half day at school, so I went to capstone a bit early. I went to the school at 12:30 and stayed until 2:30 so that I could be with the kids for longer. I got to be in the classroom with them, go to gym, and watch the first game of the staff vs. students volleyball game. It was an amazing day and I wish it lasted longer. Every time I get to be with them after time away, it makes me realize how much a part of my life they are and how important they have become to me this year. When I have to leave, it makes me so sad because I know that if I had just a little more time we could do so much together, but it won’t happen that way for a while, so for now I will just have to work with my schedule and see them whenever I possibly can.
September 5, 2017
Sunday, I was more upset than I have been in a very long time. My first idea had gotten shut down because the school I really wanted to use was unavailable due to another school already having a program started there. Luckily, the principal was kind enough to put my name out to other administrators in the town and immediately I was in contact with another principal and planning a meeting with her. She loved my ideas and was eager to meet with me. Today, I had the pleasure of meeting with her and getting to share ideas and thoughts with her, and she loved them. So much so that I begin my time with the students tomorrow. I can not imagine a better scenario than this one because it allowed me to reach outside of my comfort zone and find something new. I went from disappointed and discouraged to happy as can be in just a few days time due to one person’s kindness and ability to connect me with another school and I absolutely can not wait to begin.
September 6, 2017
Today was my first day at the school. I was with the third graders today and mostly in Ms. Kelley’s class. It was an experience I could have never imagined and I am getting more out of it than I could have ever thought. I learned my way around a bit and met some of the teachers and students. I really connected with this one girl (Ann) and I think if I continue to work with her it could end up making a big difference for her. I am really looking forward to going back.
September 7, 2017
Today I was with the fourth grade class. Today was a bit more emotional because I saw one of my elementary school teachers and he remembered me. He asked me about my life now and my future plans, I even got to know how he got to where he is now. It helped me to see where I could end up in the future and what path is open for me if I decide. The teacher I worked with the most today (Mrs. Bonfiglio) was so excited to have me. She let me jump right in and read with the kids, it was seriously fun to do. After today, I am really thinking that I am going to gather a small group of children and work with them each day I am there. I think that is going to make my project better than before.
September 8, 2017
Today I was in fifth grade and I got to meet the kids which was fun. I really enjoy being with the upper grade kids because they understand what’s happening and why I am there. There was one boy (E) who was having a lot of trouble when it came to writing time and it wasn’t easy to try to help him. I am not used to helping with things like that so I felt as though I was doing an awful job at helping him, there wasn’t much I could do but give him ideas. There are so many aspects of this project I still need to think over and become familiar with, and it’s good that I have all year.
September 11, 2017
Today I went in and was supposed to work with the 1st and 2nd graders, however, when i got there, they were in special so I just got to know the teachers that were around and went to work with the kindergarteners, which was super fun. They are so cute, so young and innocent still and it was a great experience. I had a great time doing the apple project with them where they learned the parts of an apple, colored them, and labeled it. I am seriously in love with my project. Everything is going so well so far.
September 12, 2017
I met with the principal for a few minutes when I first got to the school today. We are really figuring out the best direction for my project and where I can really help out the most. We both agree that third and fourth grade is where I should be for the time being because that is when the kids in elementary are going through a lot of change and growing more so it would benefit them most. There are a few kids I am already looking about in Mrs. Boutilier and get her opinion as well as find out from my mentor who she thinks I can help the most. We agree on one, maybe even two or three students already and I can not wait to see where this goes once it is all figured out. This is beyond amazing.
September 14, 2017
Today I went in and worked with the fourth graders which was super fun. It didn’t last long because they had gym at the end of the day. After the school day was over, I went and met with my mentor. We are on the same page with the direction that my project is going and we are both becoming super excited for it. All that’s really left to do is make up permission slips for parents and send them home to get signed off on so I can work with their children.
September 18, 2017
Today was a pretty decent day in the school. I got to meet with my mentor and really discuss who we want to be in the groups and I think that we have a pretty solid set of kids. It is 4 kids from grade 3 and 4 from grade 4. I also got the parent consent forms done and they are being sent home end of this week or beginning of next week. The kids are really seeming to love me and enjoy me being there, and I am really loving all of my time there. Today I did have a little issue with one of the boys (GW) because during reading time both the teacher and I could not get him to focus. Eventually he did but it took a little while. He is one of the boys that I plan on working with throughout the year and I am interested to see where his journals take him as we get more into it all.
September 21, 2017
It was a really great day at South End, I am really moving forward with my project. Today I got my parent letters sent home by two of the three teachers that I am pulling students from. Unfortunately, one of the teachers had left early so the letters to her students will get sent home tomorrow. I am really hoping for 100% return from these, however, I know that that will be a hard goal to reach in case some things happen. As soon as some of the third graders were given the letter, they almost immediately came up to me and were so excited. They really want to be in my group and get to work with me which makes me more excited about this than I thought I could be. Ms. Kelley and I came up with some ideas for how to measure progress from the beginning to the end and some fun activities that I could do with the kids in order to see how they feel about themselves. I know that sometimes we will need to focus on school work, especially if I am pulling them in the middle of a lesson.
The teachers and principal at South End are all being so supportive of my project. As I keep moving forward, they are allowing me to come in and sit through class, help the students when they hit some speed bumps, and giving me some ideas on ways to help the students. I have been given many recommendations on students and how to approach some topics, so as I move forward I look forward to putting lots of these plans into action.
September 25, 2017
Today was an exceptional day for my project. I received 4 of the 8 parent letters back for my students. It would be 5, however one of the parents didn’t check off the most important box so we need to get in touch with them to make sure that I am allowed to work with their child. I sent home the last 2 letters today and am hoping the 8th student remembers to give the letter to his parents tonight. I purchased journals and stickers this weekend in order for the kids to decorate them and work in them throughout the year. I plan on having them journal each time we meet so that we can really see the growth throughout the year. I am looking forward to the first meeting.
September 26, 2017
I have 6 ½ permission slips as of today and I could not be more proud. My kids make me so happy each and every single day. I got to meet with my mentor after school and discuss what the first few days of meeting will look like, times, group sizes, and a place for me to work in. There is a lot going on at once, but it is all positive which makes the entire project really amazing. I can’t wait to meet with my kids and spend all this time getting to know them and help them as much as I can.
September 28, 2017
Today I went in expecting to get to work in my small groups, however that didn’t happen. I was told that I am going to be starting my groups at the beginning of next week, which is very exciting for me. I have the first week planned out well, and I will be with my groups 2 times a week, then the extra day I will be rotating through classrooms with the teachers I am mainly working with so that I can keep up with how my kids are doing academically and help wherever I can. I was also able to meet one of my students mother today and it was nice getting to meet her in person so I know who to talk to and who to keep in touch with. I loved that because I want to be able to know who parents are and keep in touch with them as to what is going on when I work with their child.
October 2, 2017
Today was just another day of floating around. It was officially decided that I am going to begin my small groups tomorrow. I absolutely can not wait, it is going to be a great day.
October 3, 2017
Today I began with my groups and it was a magical experience. I loved every moment with my kids. We were able to get through everything that I had planned and the kids did really well with all of it. I had to get them back to focus a couple of times but overall they did really well and it went smoothly. They answer my questions as best they can which means a lot that they are really trying. A couple of them have already told me that they enjoy being in my group so much. This makes my heart melt and I absolutely love being with them.
October 5, 2017
Today my kids did their first set of self portraits. They came out really well and we are going to color them in next week. The way that the kids color them is really important because it will show me a lot about how they view themselves. The color scheme will be very revealing as to how they think and how they see who they are. They are doing well with the questions I present to them each day and I love going in to see them.
October 10, 2017
Today was a bit of an easier day. I am slowly learning how to get through to them and get them to trust me. It is a very different experience from anything I have ever endured and I can’t wait to see what the end result is. This project is really my life and I am loving it more than I could have imagined. I can’t wait for the group project which will hopefully get started next week.
October 12, 2017
Today was a fairly easy day with the kids. They did their journal questions and then colored their self portraits. I had a bit of trouble keeping all the fourth graders focussed and two of the third graders, but I was able to get most of them back on track and they were able to finish their work. I was able to meet with my mentor and talk through some of the issues that I was having and she was able to give me some suggestions. I am going to assign seats on Monday and see how that works. I am also going to do my first read aloud and see if that helps them realize the expectations that I have for them and what is appropriate in our time together. I am really hoping that this will help everyone out in the long run.
October 16, 2017
Today was one of the rougher days because I had a few issues with individual students. One of my students had lied to me and said that he was going to the bathroom and then he went to the main office to ask the principal a question. Then my third graders were arguing across the table even though I had moved them to sit farther away from one another. Nothing seemed to work. I also need to find ways to keep their focus and keep them on track. Those are key to what we are going to be doing throughout the year.
October 20, 2017
Today I only had third grade because fourth was on a trip. I introduced the idea of self esteem to them and let them know that we will be working on it for a while. We will need to see how it goes from here. Not much else happened today.
October 23, 2017
Today I was just helping out in the classrooms. The students really seem to love me, every day they run up to me and hug me (and there are 3 students in particular who do so). One of my kids in my group made my whole day, he gave me a picture that he drew and I absolutely love it. It is pumpkin man and it goes so well with the theme of the month. Today was a really good day.
October 24, 2017
Introducing them slowly to the idea of self esteem is working well. My group of fourth graders is going to get smaller because one girl can’t handle it, which makes me sad but it needs to be that way. She needs to focus more on school than on my group, after going through such an important part in development as a child I understand that. Otherwise things are great.
October 26, 2017
Today only 5 of my 6 kids were there. We did a worksheet on good things that have happened in their lives and things they like. They are working really hard and I think they will get more out of this than self esteem. Joe keeps drawing me pictures and I love them, he said I will probably get 1 or 2 a week, I am going to run out of room to hang them. I love working with these kids more than anything, they mean so much.
October 31, 2017
Today was really fun at capstone because it was Halloween, the kids were all dressed up and having an amazing day. They were happy as can be, there was a bunch going on and they were ready for it all. I was only able to get my group of fourth graders because there was an event with some of the younger grades that the third graders wanted to see. When I saw my fourth graders, it was fairly laid back and nice because we answered a journal question and since it was Halloween, I let them take the rest of the time that we had together to color and we talked. They are a great group to be around and we always have fun, so it was a really amazing day. Joe said that he had made me another picture, but he lost it, which is totally okay, at some point I’m going to run out of room on my wall for them (hahah). But each time I go and work with them, I absolutely can not wait to go back. It is an experience many never get and I am beyond grateful that I have been able to get one like this.
November 2, 2017
Today was a good day with the kids, it was fairly low key and we had fun. I had them write letters to themselves that I will give back to them at the end of the year. The kids weren’t too happy about it, but they did it for me. They’re pretty great.
November 6, 2017
Today we started our flower project where the kids are going to draw petals and write positive character traits about themselves and make that into a flower. It is a really powerful self esteem project and it makes all of the time with the kids just that much more special. Although they don’t like everything that I have planned, they do it all because of how excellent of a relationship we have built.
November 9, 2017
I only took my fourth graders today and we finished the flowers. They came out so well and we hung them up on the wall. I took pictures and I can’t wait to put them up on my website as artifacts and for everyone to see. Then the third graders were doing some veterans day activities so I let them stay in the class. I played some math games with some of the students and it was really fun. I can’t imagine doing anything else for my capstone.
November 14, 2017
Today I only met with my fourth graders again. They finished their flowers and I had them fill out a worksheet I made up that asked self esteem questions. After they had finished that up, we had a 15 minute discussion about self esteem and what it is and what it means to have positive self esteem. They really seemed to understand what it was and were open to learning more about it. Then the the graders had extra recess so I didn’t take them. I was able to borrow Joe for 3 minutes so he could finish his flower. They loved the extra recess time which was great.
November 16, 2017
Today I took both of my groups and we did a read aloud. We read Spaghetti in a Hotdog Bun which deals with having confidence in yourself and being comfortable with who you are. The kids responded really well to it and they really seemed to understand what it meant and how it pertains to what we are talking about. It was such a good moment for my capstone because I know that when I get to see them, they are always learning something new, even if it isn’t educational. These kids are so eager to learn and it makes my capstone that much more meaningful to me.
November 27, 2017
Today I got to meet with my groups and it was a blast. I originally had an activity planned, but it wouldn’t print right so I ended up having to switch up the plans last minute. We did a person and the kids had to write the things that they like about themselves on the inside, and on the outside they had to write the things they want to change about themselves. It was a bit difficult to get them focussed because it was the day after a long weekend. The fourth graders did better with the activity than the third graders, but it worked out well in the end. I really missed them and I was glad to be back with them.
November 30, 2017
Today the kids did an activity called “I am a superstar” and it went very well. I am making them talk about themselves a lot and I don’t know how they feel about that, but I plan on talking to them about it soon. I think they are liking it but I want them to do an activity where they stand up and talk about themselves. I think I need to get them out of their comfort zone and make them comfortable with being open around others. These kids are progressing very well and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
December 7, 2017
Today I had to be a bit flexible because there was testing going on in my regular room. We played a game that really focused on self esteem. We had a lot of fun with it because the kids didn’t totally realize what it was all about but they played the game and they had a lot of positive things to say. I got some excellent pictures and had a chance to talk to each of the third graders one-on-one. I got an idea of what I am doing well and what I need to change.
December 11, 2017
Today Mrs. Boutilier came and observed what I was doing. I was quite nervous at first because I wasn’t sure if she was going to like it, but the kids loved her and they all got along so well. One girl even asked me afterward if she would come back. We had a bit more of a discussion today and I was able to show her a lot of the work that I do with the kids, which was really nice. I am so pleased with how today went and that my kids were so amazing with Mrs. Boutilier. At one point, we were playing a game about self esteem and Joe got the question “what makes you special?”. He had not been serious the entire time, and he was not being serious at first, but I was not letting up on him. He needed to answer the question, and he did. In the end, his answer was, “I’m special because I’m adopted.” Everyone was silent for a moment, everyone had goosebumps (at least Mrs. Boutilier and I did), and I was so proud of him for sharing that.
December 14, 2017
It was a little bit of an off day because there was a 2 hour delay. I was still able to meet with my groups, and we did a fairly simple activity. They made lists of the things that they like the most about themselves, then we put it on a poster that read “I am great because...” They all responded very well and they made great sentences. The kids all had very positive things to say about themselves, which made me really happy. After school, I got to talk with my mentor a little bit about the day. She told me that after their town meeting yesterday (schoolwide meeting), the students all had to write about an adult and one other person of their choice. She told me that Joe chose to write about me and that he said I give him confidence. In that moment I had forgotten every difficult moment we have had, and I teared up a little bit. It was the most amazing thing I could have heard and it truly made my day/week.
December 19, 2017
Today was a fairly laid back day. I had the kids journal and answer the question “how has learning about self esteem been positive for you?”. The fourth graders did extremely well with it, however, the third graders needed a little bit of an explanation. One of my fourth graders was also telling me continuously that he has no friends and was asking the other boy in the group to be his friend. This was a bit disruptive, and I plan to address it further next time. The same boy after school asked both my mentor and I to marry him, which was so sweet. We said he was too young, but agreed to be his friends. My third graders had a little bit of trouble staying on task, so I will need to address that next time as well. Overall, today was very eye-opening.
January 2, 2018
It was so great to come back today. I really missed the kids over the break. They were all very excited to see me again as well. All we really got to do was journal because I gave them a question that required them to really reflect. I asked them how they had to use self esteem over the break. It was not an easy question, and by the time they had to get back to class, some had not even finished. I am finding out more and more about each student over time. I had a meeting with my mentor after school and we came up with a plan on how to fix some of the “silly” behavior being used by some of the students. I have to think it over tonight and get back to her with the plan I believe will work best. I am extremely excited to be back.
January 9, 2017
Today I got back to South End after a long snow weekend. I had an activity planned for the kids that helped them realize what is special about them. They wrote it in a colorful tree that way it really stood out to them. With third grade, I began a new point system to see if it helps improve the issue that I have been having with their focus. I printed out a sheet for one of my kids for him to work on when there is free time because he does better with something to work on, especially math. I love being with them and having the opportunity to teach them something new each day.
January 11, 2018
Today was an okay day. We had to be flexible because the community room was being used for a baby shower so we used the cafeteria instead. This allowed for them to have more space and even more of a distraction. There was a lot more for them to see in there. Though, the fourth graders were pretty good. I asked them today who their hero is and why. It took a bit to get an answer out of them that followed the way I was asking, but they got it to me in the end. The third graders had a little bit more trouble with the freedom of the space and the consistent distractions coming in, but it was okay in the end. They were able to do their work to the best of their abilities and that was the most important part.
January 18, 2018
Today I was only able to meet with my fourth graders. With the snow day, it was harder to get them out of class. Before going in, I had an idea for a creative project. The kids are each going to design their dream house and then present to the rest of the group. This will show them that not everyone has the same ideas and that they are all special and unique. It is a great way to boost their self confidence and in the end they will learn a lot from this project.
January 25, 2018
Today the fourth graders finished up their house projects and I was able to introduce it to the third graders. We had a great time getting back together after a week and being able to have the time to be creative. When I see them again next week, I want them to present their houses the next time we meet and then I need to find one last activity for them to do for a while. Some things are going to be changing in the next couple of weeks with this project and I am not sure how I am going to go about it, but I am going to make it work and be flexible so that everyone is able to get what they need. I love my capstone and these kids and that is the most important part.
February 1, 2018
Today I spent my last day with my groups for a little while. I informed the teachers that I work with that I will be transitioning back into the classrooms to help the kids in there. The kids got to present their houses and I told them why I had them do the project. They did really well with it and they were able to hit all of the points that I wanted them to. I also told them that I will be in their classrooms working with them rather than pulling them out of class because it will be far more beneficial for them, and the one-on-one work will be better for them in the long run.
February 6, 2018
Today I began working back in the classrooms with the kids. It was a nice transition getting to hear them read and be able to help them with some of the words that they are struggling with. It is important for me that I can help them move farther along in their education and being able to see all the growth that they will go through this year. I get to read with the fourth graders and I get to the third grade classroom when they are beginning science so I get to see them do some of the fun experiments that I wish I could have done when I was their age. I think that this transition is going to be very beneficial for everyone in the end and I am interested to see how it turns out and what comes of it by the end of the year.
February 13, 2018
Today I was in Mrs. Bonfiglio’s room and Ms. Kelley’s room to work with the students in there. We had a fun time getting to work with all of them this day and see what they had to say to me. I love getting to hear the kids read and what they have to say what they enjoy in regards to school. In fourth grade I get to read with a girl named Lily and I have been following the book she has been reading and we are both really into it at this point. I also like one of the end of the day activities that Mrs. Bonfiglio does where she gets the kids to clean the classroom and then if they find the “magic piece of garbage” then they get classroom money. It helps them to learn to use money as well as be responsible. Then in Ms. Kelley’s room, the kids were working between the computers and doing science on the carpet talking about structures and components of major landmarks. Today was overall a great day at South End and I am excited to get to work with Ms. Plourde’s class Thursday.
February 15, 2018
Today I got to work with Ms. Plourde’s class and read with one of my students. He is an excellent reader, I actually believe that he is well past his grade level. We read two different books in this time and discussed the Titanic a bit because that was the topic of one of the books. Once I was done there and the class went to gym, I went to Ms. Kelley’s class. Sadly, I didn’t get to see her today because she had a sub. I helped the sub out a little so that she knew what to do, and she was happy for that. My students seem to be doing a bit better since we stopped and I’m glad for that. All I want is for them to succeed and I really love being with them and spending time with them this year.
February 22, 2018
Today I was in Ms. Plourde and Ms. Kelley’s classes today. We did some reading and writing activities in class. I read with my student Michael for about 20 minutes before he got into his group and then went to Ms. Kelley’s room to finish core block with the kids and then we worked on their writing. It took the whole time with one student to find his organizer that he needed to write his paragraph so he never got to it. This put us back a bit and now I need to go in and help him organize on Tuesday. Overall the day was good and I wish I had gotten both days with them. I can’t wait for Tuesday.
February 27, 2018
Today was a really fun day down at the school. As I was driving down, I was getting more and more excited to get there. The kids always put a huge smile on my face so that’s always great to walk in to. I got to read with someone different in 4th grade and that was a nice experience. I enjoy the ability to get to work with different students and see how they progress throughout the year. I was also able to get a picture with some of my fourth graders because I have the forms signed for them and I thought it would be a great addition to my e-portfolio. When I got to third grade, the students were building towers out of a few different materials and seeing if their towers would have the ability to hold up a book. They had to first draw a sketch of what they wanted and then reflect upon that so they could just build the tower based off what they drew. There was one group who figured it out immediately, and one of the students I work closely with was in the group so I knew that would boost up his confidence just a little. They did not end up getting to finish today, however, they will get to finish tomorrow and then when I go in on Thursday I will get to hear all about it, which I am excited for.
March 1, 2018
I got to read with Michael today and we finished the Titanic book that we have been working on for a few weeks. His reading levels have improved so much this year, I have heard, which makes me very very happy. I want to continually see all the kids succeed, especially the ones that I work with regularly. When I went to third grade, I had gotten there just in time to see them finishing the movie “Because of Winn Dixie”. Once they got back to the room, the kids were asked to fill out a venn diagram comparing the book and the movie. There were many differences and many similarities, as I heard, and many students enjoyed the movie more. It makes what happened in the book become so much more real, and so that helps the students to understand it better. Once that was complete, they were given time to work on writers workshop. They are still working on turning their organizers into paragraphs which can sometimes be a difficult task to accomplish. During activities like this, I usually hang out in the same area so that I can help whoever needs it, and because some of the students that I have worked with all year are in that vicinity. I am always glad to be there with them and it makes me very sad that this year is going by quickly. I loved today with the kids very much.
March 2, 2018
Mrs. Boutilier told me today that I need to begin to think about closing out with the kids for the end of the year. I continue to put this off because I really don’t want to. This has been my happy place for the last 6 months and I can’t think about ending. I don’t want to go away next year because I want to stay with these kids. I just can’t think about leaving them yet.
March 6, 2018
It was a fairly laid back day today at the school. In fourth grade I got to read with a girl, Kallee, and she is one of the sweetest kids I have ever met. She always says hi to me when she sees me and when I get the chance to read with her, I love to hear how she is improving and growing as a student. Once the fourth graders went to art, I got to go see my third graders. They were working on mini essays that they have been stemming from organizers. I love to hear how they interpret the stories and what they think the big ideas are. Once that was done, they were told to either go on one of the math skill building sites or go to the carpet and play the fraction game. Once each student was able to join on the carpet, they played the fractions game as a class in teams. It was an excellent way to improve their skills and have fun. Today was a great way to start off the week after missing school yesterday for my college visit.
March 8, 2018
There was no school today due to the snow, so I was unable to see my kids. This allowed me to get a lot of work done on my website and get some planning done for the next several weeks. It was helpful for me to begin to think of how to close things out, however, it is still a very emotional thought for me to have.
March 13, 2018
There was no school again today due to the snow, so unfortunately I could not go to see the kids again. It makes me sad when things like this happen because they are some of the best parts of my days and not being able to see them really makes me sad. I hope that Thursday all goes well.
March 15, 2018
I did not get to see them again today. I had a mandatory meeting after school that got in the way. I just want to be able to see them again and laugh with them. They are the highlight of my weeks and I am beyond happy that I chose this for my senior year. I am also beyond grateful for all of the opportunities that South End is offering me so that I may get to see the kids as much as I do. As it gets closer to the end of the year, I just think about having to leave the kids which is such a sad thought. I don’t want to ever leave them because of all they have taught me this year. I just need to think of a way to begin to close out but I don’t think I’ll do so until at least May. It’s far too early to think about it now. But I really do miss them.
March 20, 2018
South End had a half day for parent teacher conferences, so I was not able to see the kids again today. It makes me really sad because even when I have a lot going on in my personal life, these kids just seem to make it all better. Today was a day I could have really benefited from seeing them, but at least I get to see them Thursday.
March 22, 2018
Today I was able to get back to the school and be with the kids. It felt good to be able to read with Michael again and see how much he has improved over the last several weeks. We read in the hallway and he was reading a book about this strange firefighter, which he finds hilarious. We read for about 30 minutes before I had to go to third grade. I am very glad he still let me read with him and see where he is. I enjoy seeing how much they grow and improve over the year and what they are capable of. When I got to third grade, they were in the middle of CORE block, where they get a chance to work on extra skills and improve in certain subjects. They were playing a multiplication game with cards to improve on their skills. I was playing this with them until I had to leave for softball.
March 29, 2018
I came in today and went to Mrs. Bonfiglio’s room since I haven’t been there in quite some time. They were playing book musical chairs, where they got to go around to different desks and check out different series of books. It was such a fun activity and they really responded well to it. I had an extremely fun time getting to work with them and see what they thought. The kids I have been working closely with loved seeing me in the room and getting to tell me about what they were reading. When I got to Ms. Kelley’s room, they were wrapping up CORE and beginning to work on Easter bunnies. They were drawing designs in the lines that covered the bunny’s faces. It was so cute to watch what they were doing. They also had a town meeting that I had to miss due to softball, but I was glad to at least see the beginning. The fifth graders did such a great job with it and the paparazzi at the door was so cute! I hope that one day later this year I am able to go and see what happens at their meetings.
April 5, 2018
Today I had a half day at school, so I went to capstone a bit early. I went to the school at 12:30 and stayed until 2:30 so that I could be with the kids for longer. I got to be in the classroom with them, go to gym, and watch the first game of the staff vs. students volleyball game. It was an amazing day and I wish it lasted longer. Every time I get to be with them after time away, it makes me realize how much a part of my life they are and how important they have become to me this year. When I have to leave, it makes me so sad because I know that if I had just a little more time we could do so much together, but it won’t happen that way for a while, so for now I will just have to work with my schedule and see them whenever I possibly can.
May 15, 2018
Today was the day that I ended my capstone. It was very emotional and I was not sure how I would do with the kids. I went in and handed out the gifts to the teachers that I worked with as well as getting to hand the folders back to the kids. I was able to pull my third graders out and conduct my final activity with them. It was extremely difficult to say goodbye at the end. I was able to give all of the students the cards that I had written out to them which was a great way to say goodbye. I cried quite a bit, both at the school and driving home that day. I was talking with my mentor at the end and I cried to her a little bit, which was really weird to me but I felt comfortable enough around her after so long. She has invited me to come back to their field day so I can see the kids again in a different setting, so I plan to surprise them that day. After day one, this became more than a project. These kids brought me happiness and I can never thank anyone enough for all they did for me.