Memorials

Memorial Day week here in the United States! No school on Monday. Memorial Day is a United States Federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (in 2008 on May 26). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. men and women who perished while in military service to their country. A great website for more facts on Memorial Day visit: http://www1.va.gov/opa/speceven/memday/index.asp

So much to learn

Two groups of 3rd graders here in Oshkosh explored the unique ocean environment around New Zealand. The kids had so many questions, which tells me their interest level is high! The photographs from a national geographic article was their favorite part. Everyday I'm asked about New Zealand, and now the kids want books from the Media Center about it. Note to self head to the bookstore!

Time flies!

One day closer to leaving, and one day less to get everything done at my 2 schools. I'm most excited about some projects I have in the works here in Wisconsin to interact with the students in New Zealand. Time is short for everyone here and I appreciate the help my staff is giving! 3rd grade is studying oceans so I'm giving a lesson on the unique ocean environment surrounding New Zealand. New Zealand took a simple idea of setting aside entire ecosystems off their coasts for protection, and watched an ocean revival. (see National Geographic April 2007)In the fall I'll share new knowledge I've gained along with first hand accounts and of course pictures!

One day closer

One day closer to leaving for New Zealand, and I have in the works some lessons with 4th grade and 3rd grade students. Contact with the New Zealand students is a bit tricky because of the time difference, and we only have 17 days of school left here in Oshkosh.

Another Monday

Another Monday with 19 days of school here in Oshkosh left! Since I have 2 schools my plate is very full. Inventory, new staffing considerations for the media department, and of course teaching. I'm thrilled to have gotten an e-mail from my hostess in New Zealand, Jakki in Whangarei. So much to think about. Jakki mentioned that the school is only 20 steps to the Pacific Ocean! Our 3rd grade classrooms are studying oceans and we have a tentative plan to write up some questions to ask the students in Whangarei!

Trying to make a presence for my host school.

I just received my placement school and host information. I've been slowly creating this blog as a vehicle to communicate to people here in Wisconsin, and my host school. Technical issues relating to our school set up have gotten in the way of some postings, mainly the photos, but I think I've worked those bugs out. A new photo slide show of some "points of interest in Oshkosh" are posted below. Enjoy!