End of the Year 2
It's that special time of the year. You're probably in full preparation mode now. Reviewing everything you taught this year, make review fun and gamify lessons as much as you can. Blooket, Kahoot, GimKit are great digital game sites that make learning fun for students. These sites keep students engaged, and you can keep playing these games for more and more practice. Get your finals done early, so you have time to grade. If you plan on giving your final in the middle of June, maybe look at what grading method you plan to employ. In years past, I would give a 100 question multiple-choice test. This year, I chose a project-based assignment. My students this year are writing an argumentative essay and creating a Google Slides presentation. It's more work for me, but the essay and presentation are due before June 1st. This will give me time to focus on grading their assignments. Be particular about your grading method. You really need to make your life easier because we juggle so much. June is a great time to reflect, organize your lessons for the next school year, take part in PD classes, enjoy your students, and take a breath of fresh air.
The best part of June is graduation, seeing former students with their families, and closing the book on another year. Years ago, I had a student in my class who lived in the suspension room. Her grades were not great. I remember her family considered moving her out of the district. Senior students from my district take part in walk-throughs to their former middle and elementary schools. At the back of the line, all discombobulated, I saw my former student from middle school. She made it! A few other students came up and hugged me. Not going to lie, I haven't seen some of them in 4 years; I forgot some of their names! It was a great experience and feelings to see former students succeed and make it to the top. In our daily grind, we don't get that appreciation that inspires us to push through those challenging moments and times. There are those special moments that make us realized why we signed up for this job.
The best way to end June is through movies, games, social events, reflective assignments, having students teach the class, class parties, celebrations, and award days. These are your last few weeks with your students. Enjoy these moments, especially when the 1 or 2 kids start pressing your buttons and acting out. Leave them with a smile on their face, if you can. You're almost there!
Good luck,
Mr. Greg