Loving middle school students

Since today is the first day of school, I just can't help but write about how much I love middle school students. Everyday, I am in shock and awe by them. After a very lonely summer, my students returned today to start a new school year. Most of them had brand new clothes on and big smiles. I received a lot of hugs and high fives, and I had the opportunity to "bother" some of my 8th graders today at lunch. (I couldn't bother 6th grade today--they were too nervous, but I think I will bother 7th tomorrow!) Some of them were complaining about having to sit by Zones, but once I sat and talked with them, we were laughing and having a great time. They are just so much fun and so entertaining! (By the way, they get to sit where they want next week--just in case some of them read my blog!)
Middle school students are stuck between wanting to act cool for their peers but still be silly like a child. They want to make important decisions to make them feel like an adult, but they also want structure that makes them feel safe like a kid. I truly enjoy watching them grow and develop between the ages of 11 and 14---they turn from scared and shy 6th graders into outgoing and (somewhat) cocky 8th graders. I have learned that the best way to get along with this age group is to go with the flow and enjoy them. They really are funny, and I can't wait to see what will happen next---everyday is a new adventure! So, Happy New (school) Year everyone---may all your learning this year be meaningful and bright! :o)

The kids are coming!!!!

I am so excited for Tuesday--the first day of school. Shakespeare once wrote, "Love goes toward love as schoolboys from their books, but love from love, toward school with heavy looks." Well, I hate to argue with Master Shakespeare, but I have found that most kids really enjoy the start of a new school year. School opens new doors for them whether it be an opportunity to star in the school play, play a sport, read a new book, make a new friend or see old ones again--it is the promise of something different, something new. My niece is starting Kindergarten this year, and she is so excited, and she just beams with joy when she speaks of making new friends and learning new things. I hope that my middle school students are experiencing the same excitement and joy at the start of this new school year. I wish them all a healthy and happy school year. I hope they will all take advantage of all the opportunities that middle school offers, and they will make positive and productive choices. As for my teachers, I know you will understand my excitement when I yell, "The kids are coming!!!!!!!"

DMS is "Tech Savvy"

Today, my teachers participated in the Amazing Race in to learn about all the technology applications available to students and teachers. Since today's students are considered the digital generation, my staff is working hard to find ways to engage them in their native language! We learned so many new cool and interesting things, and I can't wait to see how my staff will implement these applications into their lessons. DMS is going to be one tech savvy school! :o)