Liebster Award!

To say that I was humbled and very touched that Laura from A Grace-Filled Classroom nominated me for this award is not saying enough.  I am so thrilled to have been given this opportunity to share a bit about myself, and also introduce some other terrific teaching bloggers.

http://agracefilledclassroom.blogspot.com
For all the lower elementary school teachers, be sure to check out Laura's blog now...she is running a 'Pick your Prize Giveaway' for her blog grand opening month!  Also, all her products will be on sale from March 29-31 for the TpT Spring Cleaning Sale.

Although it took a bit of courage, I am so happy I joined the blogging community.  In such a short period of time, blogging has been a wonderfully fulfilling experience.  I feel like I am part of one long professional development day where I can learn excellent tricks of the trade from some of the very best.  =]

So, without further adieu...here are the rules...and my little piece of this award...


1. Link back to the blog that nominated me
2. Nominate 5-11 blogs with fewer than 200 followers
3. Answer the questions posted for me by my nominator
4. Share 11 random facts about myself
5. Contact my nominees and let them know that I nominated them


My answers to Laura's 11 questions:
1. How long have you been teaching?
While I finished my graduate degree, I taught preschool for just shy of 2 1/2 years, then I completed my student teaching placements...and now I am in my own classroom teaching 5th and 6th graders.  So, in short, technically 3 years...but I consider this my first "real" teaching job. =]

2. What is your all time favorite grade to teach?
I love teaching upper elementary (4th-6th).  I love that these guys are old enough to understand my wacky humor, but young enough to still be kids!

3. Why did you choose to become a teacher?
Being a teacher is something I have truly always wanted to do.   When I was younger, school was very difficult for me, and I always wanted to work with children who also struggle.  I can remember the select few teachers who had so much dedication and patience toward my learning, and who helped me through my difficulties.  I strive to be this type of teacher.  This career is one of the most rewarding and satisfying choices I have ever made in my life.

4. What is your favorite subject to teach?
Ironically, Math...which down deep, is a terrifying topic for me.  I have always dreaded learning Math because it just never made sense to me.  Now, it is my favorite subject to teach because I am loving that I am learning with my students!

5. What grade from your elementary years was the most memorable?
Second grade was my most memorable year.  Ms. Natelli was the most warm, dedicated, and kind-hearted teacher I encountered over the years.  She had such a positive impact on my education, and she truly was the driving force behind my desire to become a teacher.  She always had a happy demeanor within the classroom, and created a comfortable, safe, and positive learning environment for her students.  =]

6. If you could teach anywhere in the world for a year, where would you go?
What a fun question...I love it!! I suppose somewhere with a view. The beach...the mountains...both would be lovely!

7. What are your summer plans?
R-E-L-A-X-I-N-G! My husband and I might take a trip to Niagara...and I have a few weddings....but other than those events, I am absolutely looking forward to some reading, beaching, TpTing, blogging, and enjoying my first summer off...EVER.

8. What is one thing you must have everyday?
A cuddle and walk with my dog. =]

9. If you have a store, what is your favorite TpT item? 
I enjoy my Author's Purpose Pack for reading and writing.  It has a Common Core focus and features 6 posters for teachers to display in the classroom, as well as reading passages and writing prompts to get students thinking about and exploring why authors write.

10. What is your dream vacation destination?
Italy...an Italian girl's dream. =]

11. What is your favorite teacher/office supply that you use in your classroom?
My Binders. I absolutely cannot live without my binders. =]  They are organized by topics...and they keep me sane.











My 11 random facts:

1. I started my undergrad degree in teaching...but switched to Communications during my Sophomore year. 

2. I worked in Public Relations prior to becoming a teacher.  During that time, I helped run Social Media campaigns for my clients...and that is when I became fascinated with the world of blogging.  I have been an avid follower of all things bloggy since. =]

3. I am in a relationship with my Pinterest account.  It interferes with all aspects of my personal life...and is my guiltiest pleasure.

4. Naps are my favorite.

5. I hate chipped nail polish...and mine chip....all . the . time.  (argh..)

6. I am addicted to Spin class and have to go at least 3 times a week to feel truly satisfied with myself. =]

7. I haven't had a French fry in over two years (gasp!)

8. I have a goal of visiting every winery within the Mid-Hudson Valley.

9. Interior decorating and DIY projects are among my favorite hobbies.  HGTV will soon burn a hole through my TV.

10. I am an avid Romance reader...the cheesier the better.

11. I love dogs...period. <3


My 11 Questions for my nominees:
1. Why did you start blogging?
2. What is the most important lesson you have learned while being a teacher?
3. What was your most embarrassing teacher moment?
4. What is your favorite part of your classroom?
5. How do you de-stress from an exhausting day at the "office"?
6. What is the best piece of advice you would offer to newbie teachers?
7. How do you organize your classroom library?
8. If you could meet anyone for a day, who would it be?
9. Where is your favorite place you have visited?
10. What is your favorite book to teach?
11. Do you change the layout/organization of your classroom each year?

And my nominees are:

Kelly Anne from AppleSlices
Wee! Kelly Anne is currently an upper elementary grade teacher and traveling around Spain.  Not only does she offer some cool teaching tips... but her GORGEOUS pictures she shares from across the pond are really something to be jealous drool over.



Carmen is a third grade teacher.  Her blog is centered around children's books and promoting literacy in the classroom.  I am one of her newest followers and looking forward to reading her corner of the Internet. 



Mrs. Smith from Performing in Fifth
Mrs. Smith has been teaching fifth grade since 2008.  She recently wrote an excellent post about fair grading within the classroom.  She even has a freebie to go along with the post called, Easy and Simple Grading: Upper Grade Ideas for New Teachers.


Samantha from Teaching on Cedar Street
Although we don't teach the same grade levels...she earns some extra awesome-ness for living on a pig and grain farm...how unique is that??? Be sure to check her out. =]

The Rolly Chair
Ash is married to a man in the military and moves every 2-3 years.  YES you heard correctly...that is just craziness! She is truly an organized inspiration.  I cannot get enough great organization tips...and I am just obsessed with her post here on how she manages to store all of her plans and materials.


Thank so much again for the nomination, Laura!

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2 comments

  1. Thank you for the nomination! My post about it is going up tonight!

    ReplyDelete
  2. You are awesome! I loved reading all about you. I look forward to reading many more of your blog posts.

    Congrats to all the new nominees.

    ReplyDelete

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