School is back in session and already we have a lost sweater! I finally have an official teenager - 13 years old! That has to be the magic number. Just this time last year I was begging him to take showers and brush his teeth. Now he's juggling appointments between the barber and the orthodontist. Yes, love must be in the air! In just three more years he can drive, and in five he will be well on his way to adulthood. It was just August 2000.
I'm really seeing the shift in demand towards common core through the rigor in assignments that my four elementary children are bringing home. I am pleased with the preparation and awareness sessions that the first grade team took the time to have with parents last year.
Now that my twin girls are in the second grade, they are using more academic vocabulary and justifying responses with ease. Although they are twins, one reads above grade level and doesn't like homework. She is a people-pleaser who says she knows everything and only goes to school to help the teacher. Her sister is a very hard worker who spends hours on homework and has issues focusing in class. She loves to dance, draw, write songs and try on numerous outfits.
My nine year old mathematical superstar loathes reading and has always found a reason not to read. He's the quiet, observant one who reminds you of everything and empathizes with everyone. His goal is to manage the little sisters while trying to keep up with big brother.
Kindergarten Cop just loves learning to pieces. He is super ecstatic about finally being able to participate in cub scouts and sing in the choir at church. He has been looking forward to being five for a very long time. His time has come and he has had a grin on his face since the first day of school.
Then there is baby number 5, or Super Baby, as we call him. Any and everything that you can imagine a super baby doing - he's done it. More about this scholar later.
Back to the school-aged offspring. As each year progresses I find it increasingly difficult to separate my role as an educator and the role of familial advocate. I spend lots of time governing my thoughts and tailoring them not as to offend, but inform. It doesn't always work out that way but I am a work in progress also. I find a happy medium in serving as the PTA President. Presidents are supposed to know about Common Core right?
