Blogging changes lives…really!

Blogging has changed my life.  Literally.  And in a BIG way!  I’m excited to share some news with you.  I am making a change…well, lots of changes really.

*I’m changing districts.
*I’m changing grade.
*I’m changing program model.

Here’s the info…since I started to blog, I almost immediately started following the blog of a 2nd grade dual language teacher.  I bet you follow her blog too!  Krista @ The Second Grade Super Kids.  Well it was exciting when I realized she was practically a neighbor of mine, and is also from the Chicago area.
We were able to meet during the summer and…

#1 – she’s amazing!
#2 – she’s inspiring! 

After talking with Krista I found myself wishing more than anything that I was part of a dual language program.  For those of you in the bilingual education know – I was teaching in a transitional program.  But dual language was calling my name!

So, I decided to see if the perfect position would present itself.  I wouldn’t change for anything but the perfect position!  I had such a wonderful teammate, and support system at my school.  These were the people who helped me figure out how to teach!  It’s hard to leave them behind and venture into the unknown!

BUT, the perfect position did present itself as a 5th grade dual language position.  Even better, I’m going to be working at a school with a staff that believes in dual language and has an established methodology and vision.  (EXCITING!)  To top it all off, I’ll be working at the same school as Krista.  She’s no longer just a bloggy friend, she’s a colleague and a friend. 

So from bilingual 2nd grade to 5th grade dual language I go!

See!  Blogging changes lives!  There is no doubt if I hadn’t started blogging I wouldn’t have been on the path that led me to this opportunity. 

Here are some pics of my new classroom as I found it:

All these pics mean I’m linking up to Miss Nelson’s linky – Before & After!   Isn't that a good idea.  I've always loved before & after pics...and as a teacher nothing beats classroom before & afters!

Today I had to empty out my old classroom.  I think today might have been the second day in the ENTIRE summer that it actually rained, and all day!  BUT after a few trips I was able to move all of my things to my garage.  You’ll remember I spent a lot of time this summer organizing my classroom library – well all those books and fancy labels are in my garage until further notice. 

Remember my back to school packets?  I thought I was being smart, creating a product and getting myself set for the beginning of the school year.  Well, feedback has been great, I’m really proud of them and was looking forward to using one in my classroom…but all that’s out the window too now!  Fifth grade teachers how do you start the school year?!

It’s worth it though!  I’m excited to read real literature with my 5th graders.  I’ve already picked up these book from the library and have 12 more on hold!  Can you tell I’m excited about reading some “real” books!!?!  I’m so looking forward to the conversations my students and I will share in Spanish and English! (HUGE GRIN!)

What this all really means though, is that my blog is going to have to change its look again!  I have to think of a clever name…any suggestions? 

Any tips for 5th grade?  I will take all tips and advice!  Behavior management suggestions?  Does the clip chart work?  Incentives for 5th graders.  I’m not sure bling will be as tempting as it was for my little guys. 

Last thing in this l-o-n-g post.  This Saturday is my husband's and my 5th anniversary!  CRAZY!  We’ll be going on vacation to northern Minnesota (exciting, I know!) for a week – just in time for me to be freaking out about not being in my classroom…but I’m going to try and keep it together and remember that no matter how much preparing I do, I’ll feel unprepared on the first day of school this year…at least I’ll keep telling myself that.

Cheers!
Mrs. Castro