I don't know about you, but I am tired!

Wow... who knew that starting the school year in a new grade level would wipe you out?!! It really hasn't helped that I've been sick too. Starting the new school year and being sick at the same time is NO FUN! On a very positive note, I absolutely love my class (hence the reason I looped with them)!! I have 14 students that I had last year, and 2 new (to me) students. My newbies have been welcomed so nicely by the others, and they've become quickly acclimated to their new friends and teacher. It's such a wonderful learning environment for everyone! We're all so blessed!
The best part of having the same kids again, is definitely not having to go through the the "getting to know you" part of the year. I love not having to stress over figuring out what makes them "tick", what their exact reading level is, and how to motivate them. It's fantastic to know exactly who is talking to me even when my back is turned. It's wonderful that they know ME! They know my "teacher looks". They know that when the tone in my voice changes, I mean business. They know my routines and procedures (even though I taught them again). Most importantly, they know each other, and they treat each other like family. Not the brother/sister who fight constantly kind of family, but the family that truly cares for each other's well being. They take care of each other, they love each other, and I love them for that!
It's so early in the year, but I predict that it's going to be my best school year yet!
Happy Blogging!!
-Jackie-