I think there are times that really good teachers become a little complacent in knowing that they are good teachers and it takes a better teacher to knock us on our ass a little. Erin Mills is my ass knocker. I am a good teacher. Screw modesty, I am a great teacher. Sometimes stellar. This … Continue reading Ms. Mill – Superstar
school
The Stupid Week
We had this week from hell at school. I really have no idea HOW the snowball of awful happened, but I do know how it affected me. It started with this project that my students were forced into. It was a pilot project set forth by the school administration to try and implement school-wide project-based … Continue reading The Stupid Week
Mocking Cancer
Last weekend was my meltdown. Last weekend I was done with it all, ready to quit, ready to throw up the white flag and surrender. So, while I was crying my eyes out, Mom said, "Let's focus on something else. What do you have to look forward to next week?" Well, that next week was … Continue reading Mocking Cancer
The Days After Chemo Number 8
Chemo was postponed. Which means that recovery was postponed. A Poem Saturday I was tired. Sunday I was ok. Monday I was stubborn. Tuesday I worked all day. Saturday was spent on the couch watching hours of The Good Wife. At least I had recovered from the day of actual chemo. I was able to … Continue reading The Days After Chemo Number 8
Back to School
It is the start of a new semester and the second half of the year. I was desperate to get back to school. I was desperate for routine and constant community. I was desperate for hallway hugs and gossip. For the smell of coffee and copy paper. I was desperate for the self-centered world of … Continue reading Back to School
Ninth Grade Humor
I told my ninth graders that their exam bonus was to draw me a picture that made me laugh. Ladies and Gentlemen...I give you Luke...😂 This pretty much epitomizes this kid in my class all year. He can drive me loco, but I can't help but love him!
A Letter to STUCO and Mr. Davidson
Dear STUCO, I want you to know that I am so proud of you all. You have worked tirelessly for the past few months putting together a coffee house to remember. The decorations looked amazing! Unraveling those banners on the wall gave me goosebumps. And I know some of you put in way more hours … Continue reading A Letter to STUCO and Mr. Davidson
A UAS Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. What's not to love - lots of yummy food, family and friends gathered around a table for hours, the celebration of the joys of one's life. Over the years I have encountered Friendsgiving, Thirsty Thanksgiving, Freezing Thanksgiving, Misfits Thanksgiving, Argentina Asian Thanksgiving and Thanksgiving in July. No matter where I … Continue reading A UAS Thanksgiving
Are you going to work through chemo?
I cannot tell you how many people have asked the question if I am going to continue to work throughout chemo. And each time I look right at the person and say, "Of course!" But what about germs? Kids are gross! But what about the stress? Teachers have to make so many decisions and have … Continue reading Are you going to work through chemo?
Second Day / Second Year
I still cannot believe I am in my second year as an international teacher. Even more wild is this is my eighth year in a classroom! The second year means familiarity and comfort. The newness and nerves are no longer present. I know the routine and most of the kids. I have an established place … Continue reading Second Day / Second Year
Teach Abroad Coyle 