tappity-tap-tap There was an ever so faint knock at the door. With a fussy baby nestled in my arms, I peeked out the window and saw a little blond kid, our neighbor Adam. “Can I bring baby Bird to my school for Show and Tell?” he asked. I literally LOLed. Of course I said … [Read more...] about It’s a Small World After All
teachers
Thanks, Teachers
Thirteen years in our wonderful public school system went out in a sputter as my oldest son closed a tab to end his last day of classes his senior year. He remarked how anticlimactic it was, a disappointing end to a difficult year. The class of 2021 demonstrated equal parts grit … [Read more...] about Thanks, Teachers
The Only Testing We Should Be Doing is Covid Testing
Children, their parents, and educators deserve applause for surviving this pandemic year. Thriving is a privilege if you ask me. Hell, nothing about me is thriving right now, and I live a charmed life. These are tough times, and the standard measuring stick to gauge progress just … [Read more...] about The Only Testing We Should Be Doing is Covid Testing
On the Eve of the First Day of School – 2020 Edition
Dear Bird and Deal, I usually write you a letter before the beginning of the school year to tell you what I hope the year ahead holds for you. My feelings are more complex and jumbled this year. Even as a writer, I struggle to put words to my emotions. I can’t quite name what … [Read more...] about On the Eve of the First Day of School – 2020 Edition
10 Things Staying Home Taught Me About Going to School
I do not homeschool for a reason. For many reasons. Let me be clear, the paradigm we are in now is not homeschooling. We are all just trying to function without going feral. We've had two weeks of ramen and screen time around here, so you can send me my blue ribbon for parenting … [Read more...] about 10 Things Staying Home Taught Me About Going to School
Testing Us All
There is so much misinformation and lack of information out there about standardized testing. Parents, teachers, and even administrators are hearing different versions of the same story in a horribly high stakes game of telephone. We are quick to react without doing our homework. … [Read more...] about Testing Us All
I SPOKE OUT for NC Teachers
Here I am doing my thing. My speech is below. Teacher Stacy Eleczko giving us a glimpse into the life of a teacher. Yevonne Brannon firing up the crowd in support of teachers. My sons’ teachers spend more time with them each day than I … [Read more...] about I SPOKE OUT for NC Teachers