Pepper C

Fifth Grade Teacher Gilberts Elementary

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: We care about our students, and it shows in everything we do, from tying shoelaces, to talking to tough parents. We don't avoid the tough stuff; we lean on one another to get through it.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: I think meeting with our DLC and math and literacy coaches is a great way to get in touch with your innovative side. They always have new and fun ideas to try. And the best thing, you get to co-teach with some smart cookies who will help you every step of the way!

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: Voice is a big one with me. Students should learn from others. So what if my classroom is loud and a bit crazy. If you actually listen to what they are saying.... it is not nonsense, but learning. They are helping and teaching each other!

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: Most of the information I receive is from my colleagues in our school, but I also served on district committees and union committees, which help me stay informed. I also LOVE to take classes (even though I am Masters+45 and don't need them)because I don't want to get stale.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: Choice rears its head again. Let them choose how to show their learning. Want to do it digitally? Want to use good old fashioned paper? Let them choose and they will put more of themselves into it.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: Get to know what makes them tick and make it a point to make sure that shows up in the classroom. Even if it is only using their interest in a math word problem, it still shows that you are listening and you acknowledge them.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: Our strength is our talents. We have SOOOOO many talented staff members. There is always someone willing to listen or help you out.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: We are major task masters. Give us a well defined, structured activity, and we will get 'er done!

[Katrina Kalamatas @katrinakalamat1]

Q#1 What is your team good at collectively? How do you work interdependently? #GilbertsES

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@TeachReaders1 @katrinakalamat1 I couldn't agree more. When kids are safe, they are willing to take risks, and all learning is about taking risks and moving out of the comfort zone.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@TeachReaders1 @katrinakalamat1 Let me know how this goes! Do you think 5th graders would benefit?

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

Check out the yellow S. :)

[Danielle Collins @dcgoebb91]

I love the community I work in!! ❤️

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

My students rock! Just got a compliment about their ability to work together. #best class ever!

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: I feel that this is my specialty. I take the time in the beginning to get to know them and know what makes them tick and what is important to them. It is worth taking the extra time to do this. I find that serving on school and district committees and attending events helps!

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: I noticed that last year when we switched for math that I got to at least know the names of most of the fifth graders, which I LOVED! I just want to know what they are into so I can ask them about it.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: The "what if" about the passion not career. I feel like teaching is my passion, and I do work with passionate people. My coworkers are not just here for the paycheck... they love kids and love teaching. My passion has flamed up& down over the years, but it is still burning.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: I think I give my students voice and choice. One size fits all doesn't fit us. I would like to try more reflection and self-assessment. They are fifth graders and can be "critical but kind" to one another during peer editing; but can they do the same for themselves?

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 A: Give students choices. More freedom. Make it okay to let the pigeon drive the bus and get off topic.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@katrinakalamat1 I reflect with my teammates- they can be honest and give me perspective and encouragement. I have wanted to try having the kids make videos, but haven't found safe and allowed medium.

[Pepper C @PepperC10]

@spanks1021 @katrinakalamat1 @gcouros Thanks for a great start ladies!