My Happy Grading Stamp

Hi, my name is Olivia, and I am a red-pen-aholic.  Give me an error-ridden essay and a red pen, and I will make that paper bleed.  My desk looks like the Boston Massacre, and so does every event program, church bulletin, or other piece of print that dares to come my way.  Unfortunately, my inky addiction can hurt those closest to me, including my innocent, well-meaning students.  I know that students need affirmation and positive feedback, but when time is limited, it’s easy to get caught in the pen’s crimson grasp and forget to leave words of encouragement.  This year I ordered a happy yellow stamp to pump up the positive in my feedback.  It says, “You Just Made My Day! –Mrs. Gold,” and while I know this is only a start, I know that I will look for any excuse to stamp my message because it is so bright and cheery!  

 Here’s to hoping my hyper-sensitivity to good work will help me write more meaningful feedback, as well.  What are some fun ways you have found to leave positive feedback?   

The Smaller Desk

Some days I miss the smaller desk 

Where I sat and I listened and learned.

I answered when called upon -- that was enough--

And my teachers' approval I'd earned.

Some days I miss the smaller desk

Where I read when they told me to read.

I wrote when they told me to write.  That was all

That I needed for me to succeed.

Some days I miss the smaller desk

Where I kept just a notebook and pen.

I'd write a few lines that I thought sounded smart,

But if not, I could just try again.

Some days I miss the smaller desk

Where I counted down days 'til I'd leave.

The end was in sight, and my thoughts flew beyond

To the dreams that I knew I'd achieve.

Some days I miss the smaller desk,

For now twenty such desks point at me.

But the bigger desk gives me the chance to become

Who the smaller desk taught me to be.

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How to Make Classy DIY Dry-erase Boards

I know I should be using my time to plan and grade, but I simply canNOT pass up the opportunity for useful DIY projects in my classroom.  This past school year, I decided to experiment with individual dry-erase board ideas for my students, and I came up with an inexpensive solution: 67-cent picture frames from Wal-Mart.  I inserted decorative scrap-booking paper and dabbed a few layers of magnetic paint on the pack, and I was able to store the attractive frames with markers magnetized to the backs.  I loved the unique aesthetic value, as well as the financial bargain!  Take a look through the pictures below, and let me know about any other DIY classroom hacks that have worked for you!