Student of the Week Suzie, 4th Grade Teacher

“In my class, we have a student of the week each and every week. This person gets to do “special” jobs and be the teacher’s helper. I got this idea from one of my good friends that is also a teacher. You take a small corkboard and put a black background. Then you take any color fabric you like and cut it so it will look like curtains when you hang them on the cork board. Next, take letters that match the color of the fabric and spell out the “Student of the Week.” Next, you cut out yellow stars and have every student in the class write something nice about the student of the week on the star and hang it on the corkboard. At the end of the week, the student can take home their stars. Hope this works for your class too!”

Reach Out to Businesses Cathy, 5th Grade Teacher: Atlantic City, New Jersey

“Encourage students to adopt pen pals who are business leaders (with your supervision at all times). The letters often provide the impetus for getting busy executives involved in school. It also motivates interest and commitment to assist schools that have difficulty finding the necessary funding for offering students opportunities that otherwise would not be available. Business leaders can get to meet their pen pals at a breakfast, or tea sponsored by the class.”

Community Recognition Day Mary, Middle School Teacher: Washington, VT

“Hold a School-Community Awards Day. Let students, staff, and volunteers nominate recipients from the school and community for various services and excellence. Certificates of appreciation designed by the students can be given to the nominees and the details can be released to the local news agencies.”

The Power of Partnering Ray, Inclusion Teacher: Rochester, NY

“Organize a partner system for new students. Students who will make newcomers feel comfortable are good ambassadors; they also build self-esteem if they participate. Call the family and describe your effort to make the new student feel welcome. Plan activities of follow through for about two o three weeks. New families can also be assigned a partner family. Welcome them with packets of information on the school and community. Work closely with the local news agency to take photos of newcomers and feature them in editions.”

After School Programs Paul, Senior High School Teacher: Saddle Brook, NJ

“Initiate enrichment courses or evening talks on communication, discipline, peer pressure, study habits, careers, or drug and alcohol abuse for junior and high school students and their families. Arrange to have guest speakers to address topics that can assist families in understanding their children better. You can also tap into the local colleges for assistance.”

Community Awareness Matt, Intermediate Grade Teacher: Denver, Colorado

“Work with the Chamber of Commerce, realtors, or other community groups to send a packet of information about the school to new residents in the community and invite them to visit (even if they do not have school-age children). In the same packet, citizens of your community know that they are needed as volunteers to help with reading to children, tutoring, and offering any enrichment opportunities to the students enrolled in your school.”

How to Brush for Dental Awareness Month Janien Balgemann: Lincoln School / Student teacher

“We had a hygienist come to talk to our first-grade classes about how to take good care of their teeth. First, she gave each an Oreo cookie and then let them show each other how all the cookies got stuck in their teeth. Then she gave each an apple and repeated the process. It was amazing, but the teeth looked clean. Next, she took 4 volunteers and made them incisors. She continued creating a row of teeth with children that included canines, premolars, and molars. She took a huge toothbrush and brushed them first improperly and then properly. At last, she brought out a white, long cloth and proceeded to floss the children. They had a great time and were really paying attention. Always remember, children remember 90 % of what they do. and only 10 % of what they hear. Good Luck.”

Meet The Experts Sue Maiers: Technology Coordinator

“Someone recently requested some ideas on discussing web commerce with an HS tech. class. I found our local telephone co./ISP has an affiliated website designer group. They were more than willing to send someone out to speak to the class to discuss the many facets of any related topic. The kids were more interested in hearing it from an ‘authentic’ source, too!”