Tag Archives: Daily rant

Cougar Camp Success

We had another successful Cougar Camp today at Clark Middle School.  Here are a couple of the decorations I had ready for my students. Some of my students will see me for both integrated language arts (ILA) and social studies (World Cultures & Geography). It will be fun.

Prepared for future announcements and accomplishments for students on team 6A (the hallway where my classroom is located).

I am a “house divided” in that both ILA and social studies will be taught in my classroom this year.

Parents, I will update my information pages for tutorial times and days and duty weeks when I have it. So, what do I want for my classes since it’s nearly tax-free weekend? I’m glad you asked!

 

ILA – three-ring notebook (closer to two inch size!), pencils, notebook paper (more than one pack because I am not the only class in which it will be utilized), composition notebook, reading book (chapter style, not graphic novels, please).

Social Studies – three ring notebook (closer to two inch size!), pencils, colored pencils and markers (as needed)

General Supplies – facial tissues aka Kleenex because every year I have students with allergies, and they come in handy during the fall and winter! Thanks in advance.

Mrs. Johnson <><

Culture Quilt Coming Soon

We are beginning a neat little project to wrap up our study of Afghanistan’s culture under the Taliban. We just finished reading Deborah Ellis’ book The Breadwinner which told the tale of Parvana a young girl of eleven and what she must do to help her family survive. It is the first book in the triology.

Mrs. Johnson <><

Enjoy Your Holiday!

Dear Students,

I am enjoying a different schedule than we normally share. I drink my coffee later in the morning. I take my walks when the sun is out of bed. I cook a full pan of bacon for my college-aged son who is home for the next few weeks. I have returned to full-time homemaker mode and love it. Today, I have to dash to the store for more flour to bake more sugar cookies. They are his favorites. I hope this little missive finds you well. Drop a comment to let me know how your holidays are progressing.

Warmly,

Mrs. Johnson <><

Stay the Course!

We are nearing the end of the fourth marking period.  Some students may be tempted to throw in the towel and say, “What does it matter?” It does matter. I have no rewards to offer but the satisfaction of a job well-done. I won’t be handing out a bunch of stickers, gift cards, etc. I do not put on a dog-and-pony show to entertain my students. I do expect my students to stay engaged. I expect them to bring their supplies to class, pay attention, write down their homework assignments in their agendas, tell me the truth even if it’s bad news, and continue the process of independence. This independence means more than deciding what outfit to wear, how to style one’s hair, or what to eat for breakfast. I expect them to stay the course–remain on the path of success by putting one foot in front of the other. Keep moving forward in the learning process.

Stay on Target

The bottom line is that I am interested in your success in life, not just in my classroom.

Mrs. Johnson <><

Reminder – Holes

Your questions and vocabulary for chapters 34-45 of Holes is due on Monday, April 14.  We will go over them in class at that time. Don’t forget to bring in your canned goods.  We still have time to donate to Frisco Family Services.  Thank you to those families who have already generously donated to the canned food drive.   Your efforts are greatly appreciated!

The Fabulous Mrs. Johnson <><

P. S.  Come in on Monday morning during tutorials to finish up if you need to do so!

Canned Food Drive 2014

Be sure to participate in the annual canned food drive at Clark Middle School!  Here are the items needed:

Laundry detergent  (64 load size or smaller please)

Dish washer soap or tablets                                                  

Snacks (granola bars, cereal bars, pop tarts, popcorn, chips etc.)

Flour (small to medium sized)

Boxed saltine crackers

Snack crackers (Cheese-its, Ritz etc.)

Fruit juices (in plastic bottles or boxed pouches)

Cooking oils (corn oil, canola oil, etc.) no bottles larger than 48 oz. please. 

Salad dressings                                             

Tomato sauce

Tomato paste

Canned mushrooms                                     

Boxed cereals (ones that kids like)

Syrup /Honey 

Pancake mix

Salt and pepper

We need them brought to my classroom from Monday, April 7 through Friday, April 18.  Let’s do a great thing for the Frisco Family Services!

The Fabulous Mrs. Johnson <><

A Couple of Tidbits

I logged into an online version of the full Dallas Morning News during class today as the students were working on a myth about Persephone.  Here is how to get to the newspaper.

Visit: http://nieonline.com/dallas2/

Type in my last name, Johnson.  Then type in the school’s zip code: 75035.  Presto! You are in like Flynn.

Here is the presentation I shared in class today.  Enjoy!

Greek Gods and Goddesses

Mrs. Johnson <><

It’s Time to Move It, Move It!

Join me in a fitness challenge I’ve just found.  Today is the first day of the month, and all you have to do it complete ten minutes of fitness each day.  It could be running, jogging, walking, jumping rope, etc.  For my social media savvy kiddoes, it is #2fit2quit.  Staying active physically keeps the mental energy going in a positive direction.  You can do it!  Post your minutes in the comments section.  Use your first name and last initial only, please.  Take care, and I’ll see you on Monday, February 3!

Mrs. Johnson <><

By the way, please read this article about the four chaplains.  It explains why Monday is a special day in their honor.  See you soon!  Mrs. J

The Four Chaplains