In this post, I share how leaving classroom shelves intentionally empty created space for my fifth grade students to build a shared reading community.

How do you want to feel in this room? How can we create a classroom community that helps us feel this way? These are the two questions that shape our year.

In this post, I explore ways to transition into fall and the new school year.

How I plan to bring structure, routine and joy to my last 17 days with my fifth graders!

Moorish architecture and design, tapas, flamenco, mosaics… southern Spain is magical!

It’s testing season and we are tackling the complex skill of naming themes in texts.

From Medieval cities, heartbreaking histories and stunning art to ancient ruins and natural beauty; this end- of- summer adventure has left me inspired, hopeful and energized!

Week 1 of fall 2025!

The privilege of having student teachers

Clean, Reflect, Plan: How taking down a classroom bulletin board leads to reader reflection and teacher planning for next year.

Greeting standardized testing with intention

After a long week, I am thinking about finding clarity in this muddy season.

Today I am planning ways to bring light to my classroom.

Some thoughts about this week of vacation and my OLW for 2025

Our podcasting unit is off and running!

How I am approaching this season of curriculum change.

Building a community of readers with these 7 words.

On this first day of school, I am thinking about independent reading time.

My One Little Word for Fall: REST

Travel is my passion. This summer, I got to share that passion with my oldest daughter, Lucia.