For the ceramic crayons and just anything breakable that you want to use as decor I recommend using museum putty to hold them down. They won't be knocked off or slide around anywhere and you'll be able to peel it off at the end of the year so it won't ruin your room or furniture!
*QUESTION:* I have worked in three different districts. I noticed in each that when I went above and beyond my duties and showed a lot of enthusiasm, some of the other teachers would get jealous. I would hear comments like "Oh, that is because you are young. Just wait until you are jaded." It really hurt my feelings and made me not want to "shine" as brightly. I received a lot of pressure from the teachers in the union not to stay past contracted hours, not to take on extra duties or volunteer for teams. Have you received any of this type of backlash from coworkers? If so, how did you handle it? At this point, I am not giving in to these bitter people and doing what I want and what I feel is the best for students. However, I know it is not making me any friends at work. ☹️
luvslagos oh I feel like I typed this. I do the same thing. I coach all the teams, volunteer for all extra duties, and the teachers have lots to say. I always remember that I am here for the kids and this is what my heart wanted me to do. keep your head up and love your job! smile and say thank you for the suggestions but you have stuff to do!
luvslagos Don't worry about making friends-I know that sucks to hear, but this is your career. Think about what will excel you forward. And I have to say, if you think you are doing right by the students, you are doing the right thing. This RUclipsr (I've never heard her name in these videos) has actually talked about this in one of her videos. It is also about finding the right school. I work at a school that if you are not going above and beyond, you could get fired. The principal stresses excellence, not just "good enough".
Pricilla - Thanks for the feedback. I am looking for that type of school. I think I would thrive in that type of environment! I am glad you found a great place to work. 💕
I teach 8th grade and this summer I also got a part time job at Office Depot...across the street from Target. I've been "good" so far though, only getting what I "need." Once composition books are on sale, I may have an issue....and I'm going to the teacher store today.
Me and my daughter love to watch your videos because you always smile!!! My daughter can hear me watching your videos and will ask "Is that Smiley? I knew it was Smiley!" So you have a cute new nickname in our house! Keep Smiling!!!
A teacher in my building uses laminated name tags. She writes the names on with a Sharpie (comes off easily with hand sanitizer or by coloring over with a dry erase marker and wiping off). She then attaches the name tags with velcro dots. Eliminates the picking issue... I use contact paper and the students don't really pick at it too much. I'm going to buy some of those felt pieces as well as the felt storybooks they had at Target to use in my library as dramatic play/story telling centers. I've just recently found your channel and I have to say, I'm loving how enthusiastic you are as well as how real you are about life as a teacher.
Hi Michelle! Thank you for another great video. My question, although this could also be a whole video, is: What do you do the first days of the school year? I will be teaching 8th grade Spanish for the first time next fall and I would love to get some inspiration on how to set up the classroom procedures, rules, etc. Thank you for your hard work ❤️
I've always known that I wanted to be a teacher. I'm starting college in the fall to be a teacher. and I started stocking up on "teacher things" when I was 14, i already have "teacher stickers" and so much more. I feel like a hoarder since I've barley started college haha
I love how passionate you are about your career! Your hard working and caring personality truly shows that you are the type of person that really loves their job! You are so authentic in your videos and I wish only the best for you! Thank you for being so inspiring!! Keep up the good work!! :) 💞💞💞
I do this in my library, except I have chair numbers 1-4 at each table. I use contact paper to put them on and they lasted the entire school year with a few exceptions that started to peel up a little bit.
You can also use the menu when displaying a choice board. You can create it like a menu. Give kids a certain amount to spend, and have them choose an activity from appetizer, main dish, and dessert.
If you can get some hooks for the metal board organizer, you could label them with class numbers and hang up your students headphones/earbuds. You may need 2 but this way it doesn't clutter up any counters or a cabinet. Love your channel Michelle!!
You are such an inspiration to me! I now really want to be a teacher when I grow up! I was actually at Target just the other day and saw the black and white catty and thought of you!
I saw the black + white striped caddy at Target yesterday and thought of you IMMEDIATELY 😂 I watched your Teacher Portfolio video this morning, too...SO helpful! I'm in graduate school to become an SLP and want to start building a portfolio now! Thank you for all that you do!
One question I have is, Do you think teaching is easy after what you have been through over the years? Also I just wanted to say how much I appreciate you vlogging your classroom and drama that's going on in your RUclips videos! These videos are showing just how much stress there is when you are teaching. Also it shows that don't try to cause drama/chaos in your classroom, because most kids think it's "cool" but it's just more stressful for your teachers. Thank you Ms. Ferre (sorry if I spelled it wrong!) I hope your class next year would be better!
I didn't see the giant pencil, but I got one of the large apples, a green ceramic apple, some of the ceramic small crayons, several small wooden signs that say things like "create", etc. I made a huge READ sign myself several years ago, so I had that. I also have a huge THINK sign. I made all of it. I also took a rocking chair, painted red and black and white. I painted the Cat in the Hat's hat on the seat. You would be shocked at the number of people who have offered to buy it. You can make so much for your classroom that will save so much money. I bought a blacklight message board off of amazon for a fairly low price and will use it in my room. For what? No clue but I will use it! Keep up the good work.
You could use menu as maybe when you are doing an activity or project and your students can choose from a list of things they can do. Or if your students have a list of things they need to do, but not in any particular order, just that they have to finish the list by certain day. Here kids have activities they have to do for spelling and they have spelling menus in which they have to pick 4 or five things to complete before the end of the week. Like rainbow write, write 5, draw 5, etc.
You can write the students names with a kind of marker on their desks and they won't come off unless you use a wipe! I know the struggle of nametags but I hope this will help :)
You should do ootd again for the next school year!!! like in front of a tall mirror in your house before you get into your car to vlog! lol great haul ! 😍👍
Happy to hear you will be doing a Q&A!! 1. What are some essential items that student teachers should have? 2. How much money should a first year teacher expect to invest in their classroom? 3. What filming equipment do you use/recommend for someone first starting a RUclips channel?
I bought the same pencil mason jar thing. I actually made a coin slot in the top of it to save change. Or if you use a vending machine at work you could collect quarters for that!
I'm so happy I found your channel!! I'm only twelve, but I had no idea what I want to be. I was going from a surgeon, to hair dresser, to baker/chef. Once I saw one of your videos, I know exactly what I want to be. Being a teacher hasn't really occurred to me since the third grade, but now I'm super excited to become a teacher. I know I have a long way to go, but I still can't wait! I even want to teach second grade like you!
Hi Michelle. Obsessed with your videos. As a new to profession teacher they have helped me prepare so well from interviews to getting ready for my first year, so thank you! :) I am a first year 4th grade teacher starting in just 3 weeks! What are some of your favorite first day/first week activities that could be adapted/used in a 4th grade classroom? I'm especially trying to highlight community building and growth mindset to set the tone for the year! I'm also looking for read alouds that segue well into discussions about classroom rules and expectations.
Hi, Michelle! 😊 First of all, I just wanted to let you know that you are such an incredible inspiration to me! I will be a first year Kindergarten teacher this year, so my question for you is, what are some MUST DO things you do at the beginning of the school year to start off on a positive note! Again, thank you for all that you share with us-it helps infinitely more than you know!! Stay strong, stay positive, stay YOU! 😊💗 Love from Texas!
Question: How did you decide where to teach when you graduated? Like deciding between local/ another state/ international/ with a company such as Teach For America? ALSO PLEASE PLEASE make a video about how you use PowerPoint!! It seems like all of your slides are so unique! :)
I teach high school Spanish I and II, but because the language level is so basic, I often do elementary-ish activities - I thought of you, Michelle, when I hit on this idea in Staples on Tuesday. In a special display of materials for kids to decorate their lockers, they have these magnetic-backed mini-whiteboards in the shape of speech bubbles. I am envisioning using them as follows: Put the students in groups and designate an area of the board for each group. Each group will come up with a conversation, which they will write on the magnetic speech bubbles. Then they'll illustrate the people on the board and stick up the speech bubbles to make a "comic strip." Then we can do a gallery walk -type activity and the groups maybe can act out each other's conversations. Maybe I'll have each group take a photo of their finished product and share it with me in Drive for grading. Staples has 3 shapes of these dry erase bubbles, but the rectangles definitely have the most space to write on. Was thinking for elementary this could be useful for practicing manners or conflict resolution convos. I cleaned out the rectangular supply at the Dover store and can't find them on-line (must be a temporary BTS product) so I plan to make my way around the Shore from Staples to Staples snatching them up. (P.S. At my next appt am going to give your mom a hard time about staying off-camera during the moving video.)
I would love for you to do a video about what you typically do the first day back to school. Specifically, what activities do you do throughout the day? I'm always looking for new ideas.
Michelle- In my classroom, I have the metal thing. I put clips on it. I picked students who did excellent on class work, and it would stay there for a few days or so!!
I'm a SAHM not a teacher, but I love watching your videos. I hope teachers don't mind, but I love pulling ideas from your vlogs. I have always been a hands on mom and try to bring new and fun ways of teaching to my 6 yr old daughter and 4 yr old son. I'm also in love with Target and the $1 spot. I would tell you to maybe put your school pointers in your black & white caddy or for home add your eye liner pencils. I so want to run to target now! Thanks for all the ideas.
Do you ever worry about not being able to find a job next year? You can buy the replacement letters at Michaels! If the boards are magnetic (as they are metal) it looks cute to stick it on the wall with those circular spice containers.
Loved this video Michelle! I'm going into my Junior year of college as an elementary education major and these hauls make me so excited to start buying stuff for my own classroom in a couple years :) If you have time and feel comfortable, I would love to see a video about your makeup routine! A 'daily makeup routine' or a 'makeup routine for teachers' video would be really interesting, since your makeup always looks so put together. I hope you have a great rest of your day and the new condo is treating you well!
Also, so you know, Elf has a sale on their website 2-3 times per year where everything is 50% off. Keep an eye on their website (or sign up for their updates) and you can get some amazing deals! I add things to my wishlist as I am thinking about getting them, then when it goes on sale, I buy it all!
For those colourful pencils I think since guided reading groups usually ruin from 4-8 you could let them use them and you will know that they are yours
Question- any tips for tricky parents? I'm going into my second year of teacher training and I'm worried some parents won't like my style of teaching! I love your channel! X
Great haul! You found a LOT of wonderful things. Target is a dangerous place! Mine is ever so slowwwwwwly putting their stuff out at Bulleye's Playground. I was able to get the "READ", "LEARN", "THINK" signs. They didn't have a lot of the things you found yet. So......I have to go back, right???? I LOVE your letter board. I actually ordered a Heidi Swapp light box and got a few printable lightbox packs from TpT. I am just going to change it on Fridays before I leave for the next week. Thanks for sharing! Love and hugs from Missouri!
Love your videos! I'm a Kindergarten para and absolutely love your classroom organization! You've given me some great ideas. I'm going to go to Target to see if they have the pencil mason jars. My daughter starts 7th grade this year and that filled with chocolate would be a great back to school gift for her teachers. Congratulations on your channels success!
Just wanted to say thank you for all of your portfolio and interview prep materials. I used them to prepare for my interviews. Today I was offered a position to teach 3, 4, and 5 grades Science and Social Studies...and I accepted! ;)
Question: as a teacher I find work-life balance really tough and feel like I often neglect myself and my personal life because school takes up so much of my time. How do you manage work-life balance? Making time for you, fitness, cooking, family, boyfriend and all the important things outside of school? I'd also really love a day in the life of you video, seeing how you manage to fit all those things in. Thanks :-)
Hello!!! 💕 The book tasting is such a great idea!!! For your Q&A video, would you mind telling how you organized that? Maybe what are some things you'd do different in the future if/when you hold one again? Thank you for all you do!!!!
For Q&A: Hi there! I recently found your channel and I'm obsessed! Your channel is wonderful! I love watching your vlogs and teacher lifestyle and because I am a senior in HS it makes me even more excited to go into teaching primary school! I was wondering: 1. What specific path did you take in school courses and outside entry level jobs, in order to begin teaching so early (how do you suggest I go about college in order to be teaching as early as possible? 2. Since you will be teaching in a new district this year, do you feel more nervous or excited? Do your feelings compare at all to how you felt your first year of teaching? Thanks so much!
i think you could use the hanging board for putting the vip students names on the board for who gets the vip table and like use little hooks and maybe find hangable little chalk or whiteboards and write their names
Question: When did you start buying supplies (storage containers, and decor included) for your first teaching? Question: How long do you plan to teach?
I went to four different Targets in five days to try and find the dry erase sleeve pockets from the dollar spot! I love watching these haul videos (along with all your other ones). :)
What is one thing you were not expecting when you first went into teaching? Was the college experience what you were expecting whatsoever? Love your positivity and your channel!!💗
Michelle, I can't pass up anything apple either! I got that same apple tote along with one that has a school bus on it. They are perfect for the teacher bag overflow! So fun!!!🍎🍎🍎🍎
First of all, your channel gives me life!! I am in my 30's and I've always wanted to teach. I was a preschool teacher for 7 years before needing a break and I decided to become a vet tech. However, I never lost my passion for teaching and went back to school a couple years ago to get my teaching degree. I am so close to the end (I can see the light!), but my question is this: when you were in school (junior/senior) did you ever question your life choices? Like, "what in the world am I doing with my life" questions? I know I love to teach, I know I have the passion and the drive, but college is truly getting me down! Just wondering if you had any of the same issues and if so, what did you do to cure it? Thanks so much!!!
i really want that cute little pencil jar :) i got some really cute bright colored word blocks from dollar spot. They say create, learn, read, and inspire :)
Michelle, you are an amazing person! Such a great role model and a positive person:) You are one of my 2 role models because I would totally like to be you when I grow up! Keep up the good work❤️
Hi Michelle!! Question: I am going into my student teaching in the fall and I am starting to collect items for my classroom. What are some tips for building your classroom library? I have been watching your channel for a while and I never miss a video! Thank you for all you do!!!
don't worry it's your money and you should splurge on whatever you want you worked hard in the year and every time you do the videos I'm like more more more cuz it's so entertaining to see your personality and the Way You Are love the video my question is that what as the teacher bothers you not just a second graders but you teach fifth grade for a little while to and other grades like first and seen what is the most bothering thing that happens cuz as a student I want to know what typically the teachers wouldn't want us to do I try to make longer sentences but I don't make sense sorry for the bad grammar
Just wanted to share an idea I got from my BTSA mentor last year with students picking at their name tags, stick the name tag on the back of their chair. It works and the kids love it!
Still have three years of college before I become a teacher, but this stuff is so cute that I might start purchasing for my classroom now! Have you seen the Target dollar spot farmhouse collection? I'm dying to get some of the items!
How do you survive financially during the summer? Do you save all school year for it or do you get paychecks during summer? It's a question I've always had about teachers
Hey Michelle! I've been following you for a couple months now but have recently in the past few weeks got super involved in your tpt, RUclips, and insta! I've found myself up until 4 am watching old vlogs of yours! You are seriously teacher goals. I'm currently about to start my fourth and final year of education! I'm starting my full time internship in August and I'm so excited! I'm considering making a teacher Instagram because I love this community, and I would love to get my tpt store going to make some extra money while I'm finishing up my university career! Any tips, suggestions, and ideas in order to make a successful social media presence/tpt store? Hopefully that makes sense! Thanks so much! ❤️
How did you decide which grades to teach? I used to think I strictly wanted to be a high school English teacher but now I'm conflicted and don't know what to do. Would you teach older grades?
Question: I REALLY want to become a teacher but I want to narrow down what grades to teach. What grades have you taught and what grades do you recommend to teach?
I love your videos! I had a really tough year last year & I wish I would have stumbled upon your videos on those super rough days! You've helped boost my motivation level for this upcoming year! :)
Question: Teaching related How have you overcome obstacles in the workplace, specifically issues with other colleagues? Its so hard not to pay attention to gossip, rumors, and favoritism. What tips do you have for a new teacher coming in and trying to stay away from it all? Thanks! :)
Question: At my high school, there is an elective called Early Childhood Education. It's a three year course, and next year I'll be entering the fourth year where I'll be interning at the elementary school. When the year is over, I have a chance at being offered a full time teaching job because one of the first grade teachers is not going to work there anymore. My parents aren't really on board because they really think I should go to college. I'm thinking I could do online school, and get my teaching degree. What do you think? Should I attend college, if so, where?
What will you suggest be the first thing/area to set up in you classroom... as a first year teacher I would love to know where to start once I get into my classroom!
QUESTION Filming in the classroom or taking pictures can be tricky. Did you talk to your admin about YT and wanting to film? Do any of your students or parents watch or have contacted you about filming? Love your videos! Thank you for making them. I discovered your channel while prepping for interviews and I just landed my first teaching job. You're videos have been very inspiring. Have a great summer.
Question: did your university have a education program you had to get into, and did you have to interview for it? For example, before I can start my block classes and student teaching we are required to get into the education program, which we need 4 letters of recommendation and interview for it. If so what kind of questions did you get asked!? Any tips?
Question: I am currently in my first year of college and I originally considered a single subject in History, but as of lately I have been reconsidering a multiple subject cred. Do you enjoy teaching common core math in an elementary environment and has it been difficult for you?
Love how you mentioned you used legos as a writing activity. Hoping you can make a video on your centers. I'm always looking for engaging activities to motivate my students!
I was recently introduced to your channel but I love hearing your stories. I've learned lots of fun tips and tricks so far, keep it up girl! I also love word work but need to revamp this year. * I know you have worksheets for your 5 main activities but do you hold students accountable for magnetic letters, sign language, etc? *Also, what does the process of collecting word work papers, grading, giving back to students look like? *How did you go about introducing word work and how did you let the kids practice when you shared only a few at first?
Michelle I have a feeling that you could live 300 miles from a Target and still go there several times a month! Then share the amazing items to make me jealous enough to go looking through all of my Target's near me to find them!
I agree with you on the name tag situation. I teach K and they always pick them off no matter how many times I talk to them about it! I actually stopped doing name tags because it annoyed me, lol
Hi Michelle, I love all of your videos - they give me great ideas and support when I'm having rough days. I'm not sure if this was asked already, but for the first day of school chalkboard could you please make a video showing how to add the text once the pictures are taken? I would love to try this idea with my kinders on the first day of school in September. Thank you so much!
Question: How do you manage to buy classroom supplies on a teacher salary? Now that you work in a classroom, Is the pay as low as you thought compared to just looking up school salaries? I have always been concerned about the pay. I grew up paying for everything on my own, but I really enjoy this career and it has always been my calling. I am just so worried once I get a job and have to pay back student debts, living situations, etc. that I won't have a ton of left over money to provide classroom supplies, decorations, etc (Especially in a Title 1 school when some children need supplies). I am studying to become an elementary education teacher at a community college but I am preparing to transfer to Salisbury. It is so crazy I randomly came across your videos yesterday, and I can really relate and gain insight based off of what you are saying. Thank you so much for that. I really appreciate all your hard work and advice!!
For the ceramic crayons and just anything breakable that you want to use as decor I recommend using museum putty to hold them down. They won't be knocked off or slide around anywhere and you'll be able to peel it off at the end of the year so it won't ruin your room or furniture!
*QUESTION:* I have worked in three different districts. I noticed in each that when I went above and beyond my duties and showed a lot of enthusiasm, some of the other teachers would get jealous. I would hear comments like "Oh, that is because you are young. Just wait until you are jaded." It really hurt my feelings and made me not want to "shine" as brightly. I received a lot of pressure from the teachers in the union not to stay past contracted hours, not to take on extra duties or volunteer for teams.
Have you received any of this type of backlash from coworkers? If so, how did you handle it? At this point, I am not giving in to these bitter people and doing what I want and what I feel is the best for students. However, I know it is not making me any friends at work. ☹️
luvslagos oh I feel like I typed this. I do the same thing. I coach all the teams, volunteer for all extra duties, and the teachers have lots to say. I always remember that I am here for the kids and this is what my heart wanted me to do. keep your head up and love your job! smile and say thank you for the suggestions but you have stuff to do!
I get this a lot too! Unfortunately, not all of our co workers are supportive. Keep up the good work luvslagos, your heart is in the right place
Even Tho I'm Not a Teacher I get It B/C my Teachers Are Jelly all the Time!🙄👩🏻🏫👨🏻🏫
luvslagos Don't worry about making friends-I know that sucks to hear, but this is your career. Think about what will excel you forward. And I have to say, if you think you are doing right by the students, you are doing the right thing. This RUclipsr (I've never heard her name in these videos) has actually talked about this in one of her videos.
It is also about finding the right school. I work at a school that if you are not going above and beyond, you could get fired. The principal stresses excellence, not just "good enough".
Pricilla - Thanks for the feedback. I am looking for that type of school. I think I would thrive in that type of environment! I am glad you found a great place to work. 💕
I teach 8th grade and this summer I also got a part time job at Office Depot...across the street from Target. I've been "good" so far though, only getting what I "need." Once composition books are on sale, I may have an issue....and I'm going to the teacher store today.
"I think its for students to give as presents for their teacher BUT I got it for myself"
*The most relatable thing I've heard today* 😂
what's your strangest or grossest experience in the classroom?
I wish I had a teacher like her when I was younger
Me and my daughter love to watch your videos because you always smile!!! My daughter can hear me watching your videos and will ask "Is that Smiley? I knew it was Smiley!" So you have a cute new nickname in our house! Keep Smiling!!!
I work at Target, and I can tell you, I love putting the stuff out (the school stuff)! It is my favorite place to stock!
A teacher in my building uses laminated name tags. She writes the names on with a Sharpie (comes off easily with hand sanitizer or by coloring over with a dry erase marker and wiping off). She then attaches the name tags with velcro dots. Eliminates the picking issue... I use contact paper and the students don't really pick at it too much. I'm going to buy some of those felt pieces as well as the felt storybooks they had at Target to use in my library as dramatic play/story telling centers. I've just recently found your channel and I have to say, I'm loving how enthusiastic you are as well as how real you are about life as a teacher.
I truly cherish your videos! I have just completed my first year teaching middle school. I appreciate how real you are. You are awesome!
Hi Michelle! Thank you for another great video. My question, although this could also be a whole video, is: What do you do the first days of the school year? I will be teaching 8th grade Spanish for the first time next fall and I would love to get some inspiration on how to set up the classroom procedures, rules, etc. Thank you for your hard work ❤️
I've always known that I wanted to be a teacher. I'm starting college in the fall to be a teacher. and I started stocking up on "teacher things" when I was 14, i already have "teacher stickers" and so much more. I feel like a hoarder since I've barley started college haha
I love how passionate you are about your career! Your hard working and caring personality truly shows that you are the type of person that really loves their job! You are so authentic in your videos and I wish only the best for you! Thank you for being so inspiring!! Keep up the good work!! :) 💞💞💞
One idea for name tags is put them on the back of their chairs so they are not able to pick at them on their desk :)
I do this in my library, except I have chair numbers 1-4 at each table. I use contact paper to put them on and they lasted the entire school year with a few exceptions that started to peel up a little bit.
First-year teacher here..totally stealing this idea for next year!
You can also use the menu when displaying a choice board. You can create it like a menu. Give kids a certain amount to spend, and have them choose an activity from appetizer, main dish, and dessert.
Are you going to show your house before it's fully done?
If you can get some hooks for the metal board organizer, you could label them with class numbers and hang up your students headphones/earbuds. You may need 2 but this way it doesn't clutter up any counters or a cabinet. Love your channel Michelle!!
You are such an inspiration to me! I now really want to be a teacher when I grow up! I was actually at Target just the other day and saw the black and white catty and thought of you!
I saw the black + white striped caddy at Target yesterday and thought of you IMMEDIATELY 😂 I watched your Teacher Portfolio video this morning, too...SO helpful! I'm in graduate school to become an SLP and want to start building a portfolio now! Thank you for all that you do!
One question I have is, Do you think teaching is easy after what you have been through over the years?
Also I just wanted to say how much I appreciate you vlogging your classroom and drama that's going on in your RUclips videos! These videos are showing just how much stress there is when you are teaching. Also it shows that don't try to cause drama/chaos in your classroom, because most kids think it's "cool" but it's just more stressful for your teachers. Thank you Ms. Ferre (sorry if I spelled it wrong!) I hope your class next year would be better!
I didn't see the giant pencil, but I got one of the large apples, a green ceramic apple, some of the ceramic small crayons, several small wooden signs that say things like "create", etc. I made a huge READ sign myself several years ago, so I had that. I also have a huge THINK sign. I made all of it. I also took a rocking chair, painted red and black and white. I painted the Cat in the Hat's hat on the seat. You would be shocked at the number of people who have offered to buy it. You can make so much for your classroom that will save so much money. I bought a blacklight message board off of amazon for a fairly low price and will use it in my room. For what? No clue but I will use it! Keep up the good work.
You could use menu as maybe when you are doing an activity or project and your students can choose from a list of things they can do. Or if your students have a list of things they need to do, but not in any particular order, just that they have to finish the list by certain day. Here kids have activities they have to do for spelling and they have spelling menus in which they have to pick 4 or five things to complete before the end of the week. Like rainbow write, write 5, draw 5, etc.
You can write the students names with a kind of marker on their desks and they won't come off unless you use a wipe! I know the struggle of nametags but I hope this will help :)
Its called a desk marker
I am so inspired by you! You're so real and obviously the best teacher you can be! I love your videos!
You should do ootd again for the next school year!!! like in front of a tall mirror in your house before you get into your car to vlog! lol great haul ! 😍👍
Happy to hear you will be doing a Q&A!!
1. What are some essential items that student teachers should have?
2. How much money should a first year teacher expect to invest in their classroom?
3. What filming equipment do you use/recommend for someone first starting a RUclips channel?
I bought the same pencil mason jar thing. I actually made a coin slot in the top of it to save change. Or if you use a vending machine at work you could collect quarters for that!
What is you're favourite lesson to teach
How did you come up with the name Pocket Full of Primary for your channel?
Jamilexcis Diaz that's such a good question! Now I am really curious!!!
I'm so happy I found your channel!! I'm only twelve, but I had no idea what I want to be. I was going from a surgeon, to hair dresser, to baker/chef. Once I saw one of your videos, I know exactly what I want to be. Being a teacher hasn't really occurred to me since the third grade, but now I'm super excited to become a teacher. I know I have a long way to go, but I still can't wait! I even want to teach second grade like you!
Q&A: Where do you see yourself, personally and professionally, 5 years from now? 10 years? Etc?
Hi Michelle. Obsessed with your videos. As a new to profession teacher they have helped me prepare so well from interviews to getting ready for my first year, so thank you! :) I am a first year 4th grade teacher starting in just 3 weeks! What are some of your favorite first day/first week activities that could be adapted/used in a 4th grade classroom? I'm especially trying to highlight community building and growth mindset to set the tone for the year! I'm also looking for read alouds that segue well into discussions about classroom rules and expectations.
Hi, Michelle! 😊
First of all, I just wanted to let you know that you are such an incredible inspiration to me! I will be a first year Kindergarten teacher this year, so my question for you is, what are some MUST DO things you do at the beginning of the school year to start off on a positive note!
Again, thank you for all that you share with us-it helps infinitely more than you know!! Stay strong, stay positive, stay YOU! 😊💗
Love from Texas!
Question: How did you decide where to teach when you graduated? Like deciding between local/ another state/ international/ with a company such as Teach For America? ALSO PLEASE PLEASE make a video about how you use PowerPoint!! It seems like all of your slides are so unique! :)
I teach high school Spanish I and II, but because the language level is so basic, I often do elementary-ish activities - I thought of you, Michelle, when I hit on this idea in Staples on Tuesday. In a special display of materials for kids to decorate their lockers, they have these magnetic-backed mini-whiteboards in the shape of speech bubbles. I am envisioning using them as follows: Put the students in groups and designate an area of the board for each group. Each group will come up with a conversation, which they will write on the magnetic speech bubbles. Then they'll illustrate the people on the board and stick up the speech bubbles to make a "comic strip." Then we can do a gallery walk -type activity and the groups maybe can act out each other's conversations. Maybe I'll have each group take a photo of their finished product and share it with me in Drive for grading. Staples has 3 shapes of these dry erase bubbles, but the rectangles definitely have the most space to write on. Was thinking for elementary this could be useful for practicing manners or conflict resolution convos. I cleaned out the rectangular supply at the Dover store and can't find them on-line (must be a temporary BTS product) so I plan to make my way around the Shore from Staples to Staples snatching them up. (P.S. At my next appt am going to give your mom a hard time about staying off-camera during the moving video.)
I would love for you to do a video about what you typically do the first day back to school. Specifically, what activities do you do throughout the day? I'm always looking for new ideas.
what do you have to prep before school starts besides your classroom
You can never have too many Target hauls!!!
Michelle- In my classroom, I have the metal thing. I put clips on it. I picked students who did excellent on class work, and it would stay there for a few days or so!!
I'm a SAHM not a teacher, but I love watching your videos. I hope teachers don't mind, but I love pulling ideas from your vlogs. I have always been a hands on mom and try to bring new and fun ways of teaching to my 6 yr old daughter and 4 yr old son. I'm also in love with Target and the $1 spot. I would tell you to maybe put your school pointers in your black & white caddy or for home add your eye liner pencils. I so want to run to target now! Thanks for all the ideas.
Do you ever worry about not being able to find a job next year? You can buy the replacement letters at Michaels! If the boards are magnetic (as they are metal) it looks cute to stick it on the wall with those circular spice containers.
Loved this video Michelle! I'm going into my Junior year of college as an elementary education major and these hauls make me so excited to start buying stuff for my own classroom in a couple years :) If you have time and feel comfortable, I would love to see a video about your makeup routine! A 'daily makeup routine' or a 'makeup routine for teachers' video would be really interesting, since your makeup always looks so put together. I hope you have a great rest of your day and the new condo is treating you well!
You can use the metal board to hang binder rings for flash cards of hole punched papers
Also, so you know, Elf has a sale on their website 2-3 times per year where everything is 50% off. Keep an eye on their website (or sign up for their updates) and you can get some amazing deals! I add things to my wishlist as I am thinking about getting them, then when it goes on sale, I buy it all!
For those colourful pencils I think since guided reading groups usually ruin from 4-8 you could let them use them and you will know that they are yours
Question- any tips for tricky parents? I'm going into my second year of teacher training and I'm worried some parents won't like my style of teaching! I love your channel! X
Great haul! You found a LOT of wonderful things. Target is a dangerous place! Mine is ever so slowwwwwwly putting their stuff out at Bulleye's Playground. I was able to get the "READ", "LEARN", "THINK" signs. They didn't have a lot of the things you found yet. So......I have to go back, right???? I LOVE your letter board. I actually ordered a Heidi Swapp light box and got a few printable lightbox packs from TpT. I am just going to change it on Fridays before I leave for the next week. Thanks for sharing! Love and hugs from Missouri!
Love how genuine you are in your vlogs! And amen 🙌🏼 on not replacing name tags when kiddos pick at them! So annoying!!! 😠😂
LOVED THIS!!! I am currently in college as an elementary education major and these videos are soooo awesome to watch and learn from!
Love your videos! I'm a Kindergarten para and absolutely love your classroom organization! You've given me some great ideas. I'm going to go to Target to see if they have the pencil mason jars. My daughter starts 7th grade this year and that filled with chocolate would be a great back to school gift for her teachers. Congratulations on your channels success!
Just wanted to say thank you for all of your portfolio and interview prep materials. I used them to prepare for my interviews. Today I was offered a position to teach 3, 4, and 5 grades Science and Social Studies...and I accepted! ;)
Question: as a teacher I find work-life balance really tough and feel like I often neglect myself and my personal life because school takes up so much of my time. How do you manage work-life balance? Making time for you, fitness, cooking, family, boyfriend and all the important things outside of school?
I'd also really love a day in the life of you video, seeing how you manage to fit all those things in.
Thanks :-)
I *love* your videos, Michelle! My question is would you teach high-school if you ever had the opportunity?
Hello!!! 💕 The book tasting is such a great idea!!! For your Q&A video, would you mind telling how you organized that? Maybe what are some things you'd do different in the future if/when you hold one again? Thank you for all you do!!!!
For Q&A: Hi there! I recently found your channel and I'm obsessed! Your channel is wonderful! I love watching your vlogs and teacher lifestyle and because I am a senior in HS it makes me even more excited to go into teaching primary school!
I was wondering:
1. What specific path did you take in school courses and outside entry level jobs, in order to begin teaching so early (how do you suggest I go about college in order to be teaching as early as possible?
2. Since you will be teaching in a new district this year, do you feel more nervous or excited? Do your feelings compare at all to how you felt your first year of teaching?
Thanks so much!
i think you could use the hanging board for putting the vip students names on the board for who gets the vip table and like use little hooks and maybe find hangable little chalk or whiteboards and write their names
You can also use the pencil clip thing behind your desk and put class pictures on it.
I'm not a teacher or anything but your videos are addictive and I can't stop watching them!
Question: When did you start buying supplies (storage containers, and decor included) for your first teaching?
Question: How long do you plan to teach?
I went to four different Targets in five days to try and find the dry erase sleeve pockets from the dollar spot! I love watching these haul videos (along with all your other ones). :)
Question how long do you plan to teach
michelle, when i found your channel four month ago or so you were close to 20000. but now, almost 50!! you definitely rock girl🙌😻🙏💪
Would really like to see a video on how to set up your first classroom, how to get started, must haves, etc. ! :)
What is one thing you were not expecting when you first went into teaching? Was the college experience what you were expecting whatsoever? Love your positivity and your channel!!💗
The items you find at target I rarely find where I live! I love watching these because of that. Maybe I'll have to look online.
Question: when your kids don't listen what are some ways that you try that work to get them to listen?
For the metal thing put a peice of corkboard behind the metal peice and hang notes up with push pins
Michelle, I can't pass up anything apple either! I got that same apple tote along with one that has a school bus on it. They are perfect for the teacher bag overflow! So fun!!!🍎🍎🍎🍎
First of all, your channel gives me life!! I am in my 30's and I've always wanted to teach. I was a preschool teacher for 7 years before needing a break and I decided to become a vet tech. However, I never lost my passion for teaching and went back to school a couple years ago to get my teaching degree. I am so close to the end (I can see the light!), but my question is this: when you were in school (junior/senior) did you ever question your life choices? Like, "what in the world am I doing with my life" questions? I know I love to teach, I know I have the passion and the drive, but college is truly getting me down! Just wondering if you had any of the same issues and if so, what did you do to cure it? Thanks so much!!!
i really want that cute little pencil jar :) i got some really cute bright colored word blocks from dollar spot. They say create, learn, read, and inspire :)
Michelle, you are an amazing person! Such a great role model and a positive person:) You are one of my 2 role models because I would totally like to be you when I grow up! Keep up the good work❤️
I want to be like her when I grow up too and I am 47!!!!
Hi Michelle!!
Question: I am going into my student teaching in the fall and I am starting to collect items for my classroom. What are some tips for building your classroom library?
I have been watching your channel for a while and I never miss a video!
Thank you for all you do!!!
don't worry it's your money and you should splurge on whatever you want you worked hard in the year and every time you do the videos I'm like more more more cuz it's so entertaining to see your personality and the Way You Are love the video my question is that what as the teacher bothers you not just a second graders but you teach fifth grade for a little while to and other grades like first and seen what is the most bothering thing that happens cuz as a student I want to know what typically the teachers wouldn't want us to do
I try to make longer sentences but I don't make sense sorry for the bad grammar
I've been loving the summer episodes! can't wait to see your new adventures in the fall!
Just wanted to share an idea I got from my BTSA mentor last year with students picking at their name tags, stick the name tag on the back of their chair. It works and the kids love it!
Still have three years of college before I become a teacher, but this stuff is so cute that I might start purchasing for my classroom now! Have you seen the Target dollar spot farmhouse collection? I'm dying to get some of the items!
Question: How do you tackle parent/teacher conferences? What are your biggest tips when it comes to preparing for them?
How do you survive financially during the summer? Do you save all school year for it or do you get paychecks during summer? It's a question I've always had about teachers
Hey Michelle! I've been following you for a couple months now but have recently in the past few weeks got super involved in your tpt, RUclips, and insta! I've found myself up until 4 am watching old vlogs of yours! You are seriously teacher goals.
I'm currently about to start my fourth and final year of education! I'm starting my full time internship in August and I'm so excited! I'm considering making a teacher Instagram because I love this community, and I would love to get my tpt store going to make some extra money while I'm finishing up my university career! Any tips, suggestions, and ideas in order to make a successful social media presence/tpt store? Hopefully that makes sense! Thanks so much! ❤️
How did you decide which grades to teach? I used to think I strictly wanted to be a high school English teacher but now I'm conflicted and don't know what to do. Would you teach older grades?
Question: I REALLY want to become a teacher but I want to narrow down what grades to teach. What grades have you taught and what grades do you recommend to teach?
I love your videos! I had a really tough year last year & I wish I would have stumbled upon your videos on those super rough days! You've helped boost my motivation level for this upcoming year! :)
Question: Teaching related
How have you overcome obstacles in the workplace, specifically issues with other colleagues? Its so hard not to pay attention to gossip, rumors, and favoritism. What tips do you have for a new teacher coming in and trying to stay away from it all?
Thanks! :)
Question: At my high school, there is an elective called Early Childhood Education. It's a three year course, and next year I'll be entering the fourth year where I'll be interning at the elementary school. When the year is over, I have a chance at being offered a full time teaching job because one of the first grade teachers is not going to work there anymore. My parents aren't really on board because they really think I should go to college. I'm thinking I could do online school, and get my teaching degree. What do you think? Should I attend college, if so, where?
They have those makeup organizers at the dollar store. I usually call to check if they have them in stock first.
Definitely subscribing!!!
I totally went to Target and bought two of those message boards for my classroom after seeing this video! Thanks for the inspiration!
Could you please talk a little about your experience with applying to graduate school and how you balance/balanced grad school and work?
question when do you get nervous when it comes to teaching
You could use the light box to display what is for school lunch everyday
What will you suggest be the first thing/area to set up in you classroom... as a first year teacher I would love to know where to start once I get into my classroom!
QUESTION Filming in the classroom or taking pictures can be tricky. Did you talk to your admin about YT and wanting to film? Do any of your students or parents watch or have contacted you about filming?
Love your videos! Thank you for making them. I discovered your channel while prepping for interviews and I just landed my first teaching job. You're videos have been very inspiring. Have a great summer.
What is the funniest/weirdest thing a kid has told you about
Bryn Hanson great question now I'm really curious😂😂
Question: did your university have a education program you had to get into, and did you have to interview for it? For example, before I can start my block classes and student teaching we are required to get into the education program, which we need 4 letters of recommendation and interview for it. If so what kind of questions did you get asked!? Any tips?
Question: I am currently in my first year of college and I originally considered a single subject in History, but as of lately I have been reconsidering a multiple subject cred. Do you enjoy teaching common core math in an elementary environment and has it been difficult for you?
Love how you mentioned you used legos as a writing activity. Hoping you can make a video on your centers. I'm always looking for engaging activities to motivate my students!
I was recently introduced to your channel but I love hearing your stories. I've learned lots of fun tips and tricks so far, keep it up girl!
I also love word work but need to revamp this year.
* I know you have worksheets for your 5 main activities but do you hold students accountable for magnetic letters, sign language, etc?
*Also, what does the process of collecting word work papers, grading, giving back to students look like?
*How did you go about introducing word work and how did you let the kids practice when you shared only a few at first?
Michelle I have a feeling that you could live 300 miles from a Target and still go there several times a month! Then share the amazing items to make me jealous enough to go looking through all of my Target's near me to find them!
I agree with you on the name tag situation. I teach K and they always pick them off no matter how many times I talk to them about it! I actually stopped doing name tags because it annoyed me, lol
Hi Michelle, I love all of your videos - they give me great ideas and support when I'm having rough days. I'm not sure if this was asked already, but for the first day of school chalkboard could you please make a video showing how to add the text once the pictures are taken? I would love to try this idea with my kinders on the first day of school in September. Thank you so much!
Question: How do you manage to buy classroom supplies on a teacher salary? Now that you work in a classroom, Is the pay as low as you thought compared to just looking up school salaries? I have always been concerned about the pay. I grew up paying for everything on my own, but I really enjoy this career and it has always been my calling. I am just so worried once I get a job and have to pay back student debts, living situations, etc. that I won't have a ton of left over money to provide classroom supplies, decorations, etc (Especially in a Title 1 school when some children need supplies).
I am studying to become an elementary education teacher at a community college but I am preparing to transfer to Salisbury. It is so crazy I randomly came across your videos yesterday, and I can really relate and gain insight based off of what you are saying. Thank you so much for that. I really appreciate all your hard work and advice!!