Mr. Popper's Penguins

Each January, I read aloud Mr. Popper's Penguins as we study Penguins and other arctic animals.  It is a favorite among first graders. It is a classic, written in 1938 by Richard and Florence Atwater. The students just love the story.  When I heard about the movie I was so excited.  We learned that it was "loosely" based on the book. Even though we knew it would not be like the story, the students and I decided to take a summer "field trip."  So on Tuesday, I met all the families that were able to attend to watch the newly released film. 

Let me tell you, it was a hit! I think I was laughing more at the students laughing than the film. I believe the children would give the film five stars.  It was great! They did a great job turning the classic into a more modern tale. I definately recommend taking the entire family.

It was great to see the children. I know we have only been out for three weeks, but it seems like much longer. The children are enjoying their summer by swimming, particpating in camps, and traveling.

Have a great weekend!  Happy Fourth of July!!

Howdy Friends!

We have been celebrating Right to Read Week all week.  It is a Western theme.  Andy the Armadillo fom Texas Roadhouse came out to visit and read to the students.  Today was western day.  Students dressed in western attire.

Flying Pigs

Just wanted to send a shout out to my team members who ran the relay yesterday in the Flying Pig Marathon.  So proud of them!

Art Show 2011

This year Milford held a district Art Show.  It was so neat to see the artwork of students in Grades 1-12. Here are some pieces featured from students in our class...

 

I loved seeing my students' work and I enjoyed seeing what all the students in Milford have been creating. But what was also special, was seeing work featured from students I had years ago.  I was surprised to find two 10th grade pieces featured next to each other.  Both artists were from my first class!  As a first grade teacher, it was such a treat to see how these artists have grown.  I wish they had been there.

Literacy and Laughter Giveaway

My friend Amy is having an adorable book give away on her blog.  It features the new book by Amy Krouse Rosenthal.  This plus That: Life's Little Equations is fun book celebrating parts that create something wonderful when put together.  Wishes + Frosting = Birthdays.  I can see using this book as a model to create our own version.

Here's another fun book that takes a new look at equations.  It has become a favorite in our classroom

You can click on the books to check them out on Amazon.  Be sure to check out Amy's blog at Literacy and Laughter.

Poetry Coffeehouse

This is my FAVORITE event of the year!  I have done this event for several years and each year I love it more.  After several weeks of studying and writing poetry, students performed their original poetry for a packed house.  We set the mood by wearing all black, dimmed the lights, and had jazz music playing in the background.  We even had a "fire" going.  Here are a few students during our rehearsal.

Video was taken of the performance.  Of course, I didn't download it before break, so as soon as we return from Spring Break, I will post the video. 

After the performance, we enjoyed coffee and treats.  Thank you to Starbucks, Panera, Krogers, and Meijers for your donations!  I want to give a shout out to Mrs. C and Mrs. W for organizing the entire event. Thank you to everyone who attended.  

One last push

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has voted for my mini-grant.  I truly appreciate your support!!!  We are still in need of votes.  If you have not voted, you can click here to vote for our grant.
Voting ends tomorrow. Thanks!