Final week, it's been a good run

It's hard to believe that this is my final week student teaching.  It seems unbelievable that the time has gone by so quickly!  This week I worked on getting the library ready for testing and also helping to make their college center look slightly more attractive.  Mrs. Waters, the Atherton librarian wanted to try and encourage student use of the materials the library keeps on hand for college searching.  Currently, it is comprised of several black file folders broken down by school names. 

I wanted to focus on local choices, in the state of Kentucky, which students could attend.  I found a map of Kentucky, cut it out and laminated it, and then glued the map to a piece of foam board.  Next, I located several universities and colleges on the map and placed fun, bright push pins to mark their location.  Finally, I requested materials from schools through the state and used this promotional material to highlight a wide variety of schools students might investigate.  

While it’s still too early to know how the final product will go over with students and if it will encourage them to look at the college materials, but I really liked how it turned out.   

Week Nine: Pep rallies!

It's hard to believe it's already spring break!  On the day before the time away from school Atherton holds a school wide pep rally to get spirits high and build enthusiasm for spring sports. Sports such as baseball, soccer, la crosse, swimming, track, etc. are cheered and celebrated. 

This pep rally also doubles as a fundraiser for sports and other school activities.  Tickets are sold for one dollar a piece.  Each student or faculty member holding a ticket can place a piece of duct tape over their choice of Assistant Principal (Atherton has two APs.)  The goal is to tape the AP to the wall.  Below are some highlights from the event!   

I really enjoyed the pep rally and thought it was a great way to send kids off to their spring breaks.  During the pep rally the school showcased their inclusion basketball team- something I had never heard of before.  Atherton has a high percentage of students with disabilities and this basketball team is for both disabled and non-disabled students.  I have noticed that Atherton High is very inclusive, more so than many schools I have visited.  Students who wished to be aids but are special needs are partnered with other students to help them throughout the day.  Students are extremely welcoming, and often defend other students when they are getting picked on.  I've been very impressed with the student population within the high school.    

CEBS Dispositions:

Values diversity - Willingly works with others from different ability, race, gender, or ethnic groups. Welcomes feedback and interaction with others. Listens carefully to others and respects the views of those perceived as different from self.