former students · poetry

Follow-Up: Leap Year Poem

On Feb. 29th, 2008, I gave my fourth graders a copy of the "Leap Year Poem."  I asked them to hold on to the little slip of paper I printed it on and instructed them to e-mail me four years later.  I'm happy to report that four years later, they're in eighth grade and some… Continue reading Follow-Up: Leap Year Poem

article · former students · words of wisdom

Words of Wisdom for Former Students

Right before I went to sleep last night I checked my e-mail.  It contained a couple of useless e-mails from companies trying to get me to by their wares as well as an e-mail from one of my former students.  I quickly deleted the marketing pitches and went right to this student's email.  It's been… Continue reading Words of Wisdom for Former Students

former students · slice of life · Slice of Life Story Challenge

SOLSC: Transported back in time

The Band Originally uploaded by teachergal The 25th Festival Italiano took place in Westport over the weekend. There were carnival games and lots of greasy foods. There was also live music. Emil Stucchio and the New Brooklyn Reunion performed. They sang some oldies, but goodies, which caused me to sing along to quite a few… Continue reading SOLSC: Transported back in time

former students · topics · Write: It's good for you! · writing · writing workshop

The Truth is what matters when we write. (The “T” is capitalized for a reason.)

Ruth and I have were recently talking about the truth in our writing. We both recognized that honesty matters when we write. Writing is empty and vacant without the expression of honest emotions, isn't it? Yesterday, when I met up with my former student, Elaine, and her family we talked about having writing territories and… Continue reading The Truth is what matters when we write. (The “T” is capitalized for a reason.)

family · former students · friends · wn entry

Daily Something – Auf Ruf

This past Saturday we had our Aliyat Hatan veKallah at our synagogue, which was essentially a pre-wedding blessing followed by a celebration. We were surrounded by family and friends, which made the day exceedingly special. Also, ten of my former students were in attendance, which touched me since they sat through a three hour service… Continue reading Daily Something – Auf Ruf