Time is definitely going by faster this second semester and spring is fast approaching! After some restful breaks (both expected and unexpected) I had some time to regroup, relax and spend some much needed down time. I have to say the first day back, the kids were definitely on a snow day high from their time off and were very off the wall their first day returning. However, today was much better. 

So far in my classroom I feel on a daily basis I have a MILLION things to get done! Not only do we have so many things to cover between now and the end of the semester but I'm still trying to squeeze in much of my action research project. Although the project is moving at a snails pace, my students have made some progress to working towards a better classroom environment. They have created their promises for their class constitution board (positive promises they've made to themselves and each other on how they will act and speak to each other in class), and we have also created a citizenship board in the class that praises those moments of positive behavior. I realize that I have to move things along though and we must get in our small groups this week and begin the first stage of our planning. After reading the U.N. Rights of Child, I realize how powerful literature can be to drive the action research process. After reading the Poverty, Power, and Action Study I became really motivated to incorporate literature to motivating my students. 

As far as behavior goes, we definitely still have our up and down days. However, I've been really proud of myself for staying consistent with consequences and rewards and remaining steadfast. I realize that even with push back, my students need consistency in their lives at school. I'm also continuing to learn my students more and more each day. I'm starting to love spending time with them and enjoying our conversations together which has developed our relationships and trust. 

I'm continuing to push forward and can't wait until SPRING arrives :)