Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Vaya con Dios, Jaime!

Today educators across the country mourn the death of a great teacher, Jaime Escalante.

As a teacher educator and former public school teacher, I felt that today's entry should focus on the classroom and the "informal teaching, learning, and decorating" that takes place everyday.

Throughout my years as an educator, I have painted and decorated more classrooms that I care to count.  I have also had the pleasure to visit many and to see the great work going on.

Although classroom the physical room space is different in every classroom, it is up to the teacher to create an environment where all are welcome.  I like to think that every public school classroom is like the Hard Rock Cafe...you know... LOVE ALL, SERVE ALL!

In every inviting classroom, there are several key elements of design--color, books, interesting displays, and realia (objects of the real world that help to motivate, enhance, and intice)!  ... and again...books, books, books..

Here are pictures of one (of two) of my favorite classrooms:

Book display featuring Max!


Organized reading materials.

Focal point of the room--teacher and "author's" chair

On of the best things about teaching is that you get to have the biggest desk!

Interesting reading material and window treatment!

Making the most use of space with organization in mind!

Space dedicated to student work encourages ownership and adds color and authenticity to the room.



You may be wondering why this is one of two of my favorite classrooms...it's because my daughter is the teacher!  I don't have pictures of my other favorite classroom, but...it's my son's A.P. History classroom.

Remembering Jaime Escalante today brought to mind memories of teaching the Introduction to Education class for future teachers.  Many of them are in the classroom now with their own students...hopefully remembering when we talked about Jaime and ganas in FOED 1110 / 111!


...to Jaime and all those who follow in his footsteps...Vaya con Dios!







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