FAMILY BBQ

My colleagues & I cooked and served our school community families hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and ice cream. We had a great turn out.

Family BBQ
My husband, Richard, got ice cream duty!

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A TIC

Today was my first opportunity to fill in for the principal when she was away. We call this job - TIC - teacher in charge. It was only for the morning, but it was a crazy day, where I felt like I was pulled in many directions. First of all, it was picture day, so I was ensuring the photographers were settled, then it was raining outside, so at recess I had a decision to make. Is is an inside day or outside day? Parents would not be happy if their child's photos hadn't been done yet, and they went in the rain. Students need the fresh air and exercise, and teachers simply need the break! So, I compromised. Classes that were done photos and students that wanted to go outside could. The rest could stay in. Everyone was happy!
Then it was the family BBQ. We sliced, diced, cooked, and served. It is a terrific opportunity to see students and parents in a casual setting. The rain stopped, the clouds cleared, and the turnout was very good.
I was beat! Which is why I can't understand, why am I up so early this morning???

Relationships
I finally had a moment today to do some blogging. I took a glance at Mr. Poling's blog and like what he had to say about relationships. He said they are called many things: collaboration, connection, bridge, etc. I agree. It can be called many things (including a blogship!:), but it quite simply is a relationship.
The strength of relationships has been tested in our school community. A fellow-colleague & teacher at my school lost her son in a tragic single vehicle car accident this summer. What resulted amazed me. Our community pulled together and offered strength and support. People donated food, an extra refrigerator to put that food into! and a work crew went to the family's home to finish the sundeck that was partially done. It brings tears to my eyes and hope in my soul when I hear of the loving relationships that can and do exist within our communities.
Our school is having a Family BBQ on Sept. 21 which is organized and put on by the teachers. Before I was a staff member there, I loved the opportunity it provided for me and my family to visit and meet the staff in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. It is a fantastic way to establish, expand and broaden the relationships so necessary in a school community.
It saddens me when I hear of schools where relationships are strained. Relationships are such an important component of effective schools and effective instructional leaders.

AND WE'RE OFF!!

The 2006-2007 school year has begun. I feel so disjointed from my blogging!! Life has been hectic as I take on a full-time classroom, continue my Masters and we also bought a house on the lake, so we will be moving as soon as our house sells. The months ahead will be busy, to say the least!
I have been practising instructional leadership at school. My new 'neighbour' at school is teaching full-time for the first time and I am offering my assistance to her. I also see collaboration in practise in the intermediate grades. I am going to enjoy seeing that type of teaching in action this year!!