Smithsonian Monday

Our morning started with a breakfast at the Smithsonian castle, the site of the original Smithsonian Institute.  

Imagine my surprise when Ashley Naranjo from Smithsonian lab shared a slide of our class using Smithsonian resources last winter. Here is a link for more info https://learninglab.si.edu/news/celebrating-10-years-with-the-teachers-of-the-year

We then split into groups for "behind the scenes" workshops. I went to the Freer/ Sackler museum to explore an exhibit by Saudi artist Ahmed Mater. Deeper questioning strategies, artful thinking models and reflection were the topic of my session.

In the afternoon we met again in the castle

 To discuss education policy issues. I am so proud to be part of the Teacher of the Year group which is unafraid to tackle assessment issues with honesty and integrity.

Here are more photos from the day :

Visiting the Vice President's Home

Our group was bused to the US Naval Ibservatory in Sunday afternoon. We were able to visit with Vice President Biden and Dr. Jill Biden. They actually came outside to join our group for a photo together.

Going through security.

My friend, Beth Nickerson, ELL director for Alexandria Public schools.

A lovely home!

A quiet corner.

The Vice President, Joe Biden! Hard to believe it was that close.

Dr. Jill Biden is a teacher too! 

Wow! 

Washington Week!

I am very exited to join each state's "Teacher of the Year" for Washington Week. We have a packed agenda  with exciting activities each day and evening.

Rest assured that the first graders also have an exciting week planned with guest teacher Kathy Fechter.

I look forward to the time when we are together again to share our experiences.

Wondering

As we continue to learn more about Vermont birds, questions have been popping up. 

We will continue to do research, and will look for answers to some of these deep questions. 

Please check with your child to find out what they are wondering!

Bee-Bots

Our Bee-Bots have arrived. These robots provide opportunities for students to develop early skills in coding. Ask your child about the Bee-Bots, and how they operate. We will continue to explore with them for the next few months.

Sharing The Joy Of Reading

Sarah came in to share a Dr. Seuss classic, "Yertle  the Turtle". She brought a version that was from a Seuss collection. Everyone was excited to see such a big book! Thanks for sharing Sarah, and bonus points for tying in leadership andLincoln's  birthday too!

Community Visit- Hunger Mountain Coop

We braved very icey conditions to walk to the coop for a community visit. Upon arrival we were met with guides and a scavenger hunt.

We learned that the coop is member owned and features many products grown and made locally!!Many thanks to chaperones Mary Jo( Jo-Jo ) and Mrs. Brigham for helping us to stay safe!

Ukulele Wednesdays

Each Wednesday morning meeting we will play ukuleles together. We have some Ike's to share, and would appreciate it if your child could bring theirs to school on Wednesdays. Ms. Funk will join us when able. 

We have been practicing a variety of rhythms. We have also been exploring simple chords such as F , c7and C. 

Ask your child to share some songs at home!

100 Days of First Grade