I was SUPER impressed with Sydney's Kindergarten teacher. (I was a little worried after her phone call home when academics were discussed.)I loved her approach to many, many things. One of my favorite ideas was when working on "math problems" they were encouraged to stand with their hands behind their backs when everyone was done and to observe everyone else's work and they all could make comments on technique and offer encouragement and nice comments.

She discussed the stages of reading and I was also impressed (I've been reading up!) that her focus right now is more phonemic instead of all Phonics. (My sister told me about this and I had to look it up. LOL) She gave some examples of how she's teaching that approach. She also said they were using the Columbia University reading methods, so I still have to look that up.

Another favorite was the "choices note" that goes home if they need to be talked to a few times. I just loved the way she spoke when giving examples of how she would talk to the kids.

Ok, one more favorite. They are learning sight words and she puts on a really large pad a sentence. She started with "I am here." and below was yes or now and then each child had their name on a laundry clip and they put it under yes or no. Well, she mixed things up a bit and did "I am a boy" or "I am a girl." I guess the boys and girls who answered wrong that day wanted to get up quickly to move their pin. So, she has a good sense of humor.

She made a point to say that she teaches to the differencial and that all kids come in to Kindergarten at different ages and different reading levels. She said not to worry. I loved that she had a Mr. Rogers quote up. I wish I had it. I was something like: the most successful people I've seen are the ones that love what they do and everyone around them can see it. Something to that nature. I was very, very pleased!!

*sigh of relief*

By Debbie on Sunday, September 24, 2006 - 09:48 pm:

Yea, I am glad things went well. It sounds like she is a great teacher.

By Dawnk777 on Sunday, September 24, 2006 - 10:14 pm:

It sounds like you have a different perspective now! She does sound like a good teacher.

By Trina~moderator on Monday, September 25, 2006 - 09:00 am:

Great news! Our school district uses the Columbia University Reading and Writing Project. Check your school's web site. They probably have more info there. Our school does. I'll send you a link.