“Twelve more days!” Those were the words heard around the table last Friday evening. This time of year my teaching buddies rib me about my year-round job by relishing in the fact that they’re closing in on a much deserved summer break. But it didn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that for this group of educators there was still plenty to be accomplished. The conversation rapidly shifted from testing, to tutoring, to retesting, to completing paperwork, to keeping overly zealous students engaged and out of mischief. In time, talk drifted on to personal survival plans. Consuming massive amounts of chocolate and caffeinated drinks sounded right down my alley! One teacher declared that at this time of year she relies on a collection of motivational quotes. Another teacher gave props to The Mailbox® magazine ideas for keeping her students engaged. But I have to tell you I was especially intrigued by the gal who claimed that coconut-scented lotion (I’m not kidding!) was all she needed to get her across the finish line. I assumed she wears it, but I didn’t ask!

So what propels you and your students across the finish line? Do you plan special activities and projects? Do you eat special foods? Do you have a favorite quote that motivates you? Please share! I can’t wait to hear from you! And in the meantime, I’ll check out the coconut-scented lotion. …

Kudos to you!

Diane

Congratulations to Lynn of Dayton, Ohio. She is the winner of the Grades 4–5 Building Math Basics book in our weekly blog drawing.

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This is a terrible photograph of me. Why, you ask, would I post this unflattering photo on The Mailbox® magazine website where everyone and their brother can see it? There’s a simple explanation. While innocently pumping gas during a rainstorm, I was inadvertently displaying a great dose of workplace pride! That’s my Mailbox sweatshirt I’m wearing, and the gigantic golf umbrella actually has The Mailbox logo plastered on the side. How do you and your youngsters show pride in your school? Do you wear clothing emblazoned with a school mascot? And what is your school mascot? (I find this topic endlessly fascinating because I spent my high school years as a Midland High School Chemic. It’s a long story.) Are there other ways your school promotes school pride? Jot me a message and let me know.

Proud wearer of The Mailbox logo,

Kim Murphy

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