An Educator's Life

We're Moving- And it's going to be HUGE!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 14:37:00 +0000

HOWDY!

I can't tell you how excited I am to FINALLY be moving to my new site! So much has been planned for the future of Created of MrHughes I don't even know where to start! What I CAN tell you is that it is going to be HUGE! Here are some of the upcoming changes you can expect to see:

Focus on collaboration strategies for increased student., teacher, leader, coach, __________ (fill-in-the-blank) success
Videos to help demonstrate and solidify ideas
Pictures to help provide insight to ideas and discussions (after all, they are worth a 1000 words, right?)
Social Media Events (Blabs, Periscopes, Facebook Live Sessions, Google Air Webinars) to provide face-to-face interaction
Resources (Free and Paid) to help facilitate and promote better and stronger collaboration for you and your team (whatever formation that might be)
Sound Bytes of ALL posts so you can listen while you drive, work, or multi-task
eCourse Offerings (Paid and Free)
Many, many more!

So, with all this goodness waiting to happen, I appreciate your patience while I work to get it all up and running! It may take a while, but it is going to be amazing. Just you wait and see.

-John

P.S. Don't forget to subscribe to our mailing list! It's easy, it's free, and it will be worth it!

Click HERE to visit my new site. An Educator's Life will now return to being my personal blog about my educational adventures, my family, and such. I appreciate the many wonderful friends that have supported me over the years- and I look forward to growing together in this new adventure!

A Leap of Faith - Asking for Candid Faculty and Staff Feedback

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Fri, 01 Jan 2016 01:26:00 +0000

As 2015 draws to an end and I reflect over the past year, I must admit that is has been ONE crazy ride. From being hired as the full-time administrator of my school to all the big and little family events (such as starring in a community theater production of the Wizard of Oz), to becoming a healthier me (lost 62 lbs. over the past year), I have really pushed myself in lots of ways and areas of my life. And I HAVE LOVED IT!

I was reading some articles and such and found one about being a better administrator, and I ran across one in particular that was titled: "Principals: Are You Brave Enough to Ask Your Staff For Feedback?" written by Jennifer Gonzalez for her blog Cult of Pedagogy.

I began to ponder on this idea. I really wondered if this was something that I could personally do, without taking it, well...personally.

I am a perfectionist by nature and I tend to take things personally...so sue me. I asked a trusted advisor at school and was told "ARE YOU NUTS?" and "Do you really think you can handle hearing what everyone has to say?". That wasn't encouraging and made me feel like this adviser knew stuff being sad about me that I maybe didn't WANT to know!

But after lots of thoughtful reflection I knew I needed to hear what my faculty and staff had to say. I mean, how can I be better if I don't know what my staff feels is holding me/us back.

SO.....

I went ahead and made a Google form using the questions from the blog post I read, and sent out the email to my faculty and staff- inviting them to share their unfiltered thoughts, but to please be respectful and professional.

The number of respondents, assuming everyone responded, would be about 25. Twelve responded, which was awesome- and more than I thought would do it. I assured them that I wasn't as interested in knowing WHO said what, as WHAT they had to say.

What I got was a GOLD MINE of information. I have chosen to share of the 15 catergories below, just don't judge me...

Was it hard to see the results? HECK YES! I started to obsess about who I was ignoring or making feel uncomfortable about talking with me. My wife had to talk me off the proverbial ledge by reminding me that I asked for feedback and that now I had a direction to go and good goals to focus on. Thanks babe- it was just what I needed to hear.

After all those who wanted to respond set forth their judgement (I had a 10 day window to respond), I created a summary in a spreadsheet and hung it on my office door. I then sent out another email (and announced at faculty and at staff meeting) that the results were on my door, that I appreciated their candid feedback- insights- ideas- and support, and I was ready to move forward with new goals for myself.

Here is what I had on my door:

As you can see, most areas were in the Green. I set up the spread sheet to color code based on average total. 4-5 was green, 3 was yellow, and 1-2 was red. The areas that came up yellow were a bit surprising to me, and as a result, I have altered the way I do a few things, such as:

1) I ask for teacher input for frequently on as much as I possibly can. Sometimes there isn't an option of what to do, OR, I need things done a certain way, so input isn't an option, but as much as possible, I ask.

2) I make a greater effort (and I was already working hard) to be in EVERY room, EVERY day. I try to spend 10-15 in each room every day. I only have 9 classrooms, but that is still a huge challenge.

3) I go out of my way to praise and share the positives I see in classrooms when I am there.

Along with numerical ratings, teachers were given the option to answer questions. I was pleased with the time and thought that went in to these written responses- not that all the responses were complimentary by any means.
I am proud to have a faculty and staff that is upfront and honest. Here are several of the responses. You can click on the picture to have it enlarge big enough to read the comments.

As the administrator, I too, am supposed to be evaluated by the faculty and staff at the district level. I don't know if I was last year or not, as the interim principal, but I have not seen any results if I was. So, this was truly my first glimpse at seeing how my building employees felt I was doing. And, I hope to do this every year!

So, the moral of this post is simply this:
I challenge you administrators out there to put yourself out there and ask for feedback. The information you get- the good, the bad, and the downright ugly- will only help you to improve.

Helpful Hint:
When you get ready to do ask- have your trusted advisor standing by to talk you down if you get crazy and realize you are getting what you asked for- how to do better and what a rock star you are.

Cheers and Happy New Year! 2016 is going to ROCK!
-John

On the 11th Day of Christmas...A GIVEAWAY! WAHOO!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Fri, 11 Dec 2015 12:00:00 +0000

It is the most wonderful time of the year! And I am beyond excited to be apart of the Twelve Days of Christmas Giveaways again this year. I LOVE so much the opportunity to give back to those amazing people who have been so supportive! :)

Take a minute to enter the contest- it is easy-peasy and you can win lots of great prizes!
I would love to hear from you in the comments as well- what has been your greatest accomplishment this year?

Mine? The launch my career as an administrator and advocate for my teachers as well as my students and parents. I LOVE BEING A PRINCIPAL! It is a challenge and an adventure everyday.

So, about this contest! Here is the fine print:

PRIZES: $30 Starbucks Gift Card & $20 TpT Store Credit to each of these stores:
I also have a special surprise for the winner!
1. Created by MrHughes - $5 TpT Store Credit: http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Created-By-Mrhughes

This giveaway is also sponsored by these fine peeps!
2. Fun in 5th Grade - $5 TpT Store Credit: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Fun-In-5th-Grade
3. Nicole Roberts Shelby - $5 TpT Store Credit: http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Nicole-Shelby
4. ZipADeeDooDah Designs - $5 TpT Store Credit:http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Zip-a-dee-doo-dah-Designs

DETAILS: The contest will run for 24 Hours via Rafflecopter. This contest is eligible worldwide since gift cards will be sent by email.
a Rafflecopter giveaw

Merry Christmas to one and all-
Cheers!
ay

Voice Booster Review and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Thu, 10 Dec 2015 05:59:00 +0000

So, as an administrator, I am always on the lookout for resources and products that I feel will help my teachers. I search supply catalogs, make notes when I am in their rooms, and will from time to time offer to purchase something for their room that I know will benefit the teacher and students. It is one of the many reasons I LOVE being a principal- I get to help in ways I never could as a classroom teacher (though I still miss teaching in a classroom something terrible!).

So, when I was approached by a representative from Voice Booster to try out their audio system, I was VERY happy as I was looking for sound solutions for several teachers. Not only for my teachers, as our school sound system died and they offer a larger system that is portable- TOTAL SCORE!

I eagerly awaited the arrival of the two systems! I didn't have to wait long! WAHOO!

I was sent the personal size:

AND, this awesome larger size- that I call the CANNON...ha ha!

I have been SUPER impressed with both units. I have a teacher who snatched the personal unit right up and has been using it for nearly a week now. He LOVES that his students can hear him at all times. He said it took a bit of getting used to- as the unit will give feedback and squeal if the headset and the speaker unit get too close. However, he said that he likes that because if the class gets too noisy, he purposely makes it squeal to get their attention...ha ha! Not what I would recommend for it's use, but it works for him.

I love that it stays charged for so long. My teacher can teach confidently all day long and not stress about the battery dying. He is also letting the students wear it as they present to the class. He keeps the unit on his belt (it also comes with a strap that can be worn around the neck- which is awesome they provide that too!), and the student holds the headset and talks to the class. It really is making a difference for his class. They used to be much more rowdy, and he would have to raise his voice. It would sound as if he was frustrated or angry because of the volume at which he would sometimes have to speak. He said that with this system, he doesn't have to strain or raise his voice and the kids can tell the difference. He said it seems less stressful in his room now.

That was interesting insight from the teacher. I have other teachers that are excited to test drive the unit as well- IF, I can pry it out of his hands...ha ha!

As for the "cannon"- I just love that nickname, I have been SUPER impressed with it. Our school was asked to do a small program at a local bank. They said they didn't have any sound equipment we could use. I was a little stressed out and worried that I wouldn't get the sound I needed from this unit- after all- it was a HUGE area with a LOT of students (over 50) singing.

I was totally shocked when I pushed play and had to TURN IT DOWN because the sound was TOO loud! WOW! Best part for me was that all I needed was the stereo cord and may phone to use it. Plugged my phone in from the headphones jack and POOF there was the music I needed.

I havent' tried the SD Card slot or the USB port, but the fact they are on there is AWESOME!
Our school will get some SERIOUS mileage out of this baby for years to come. So, at the end of the day, I just have to say that I LOVE this company and their products. Am I getting paid to say that- NO! By now, I hope you realize that I am not going to say something on my blog I don't believe.

When looking at the cost of these units compared to others, and the features you get- these units are worth EVERY penny you will pay (and compared to others- it's a LOT less!)

Check out there STORE by clicking >>>HERE<<<!

AND- this is the BEST PART! I get to give one PERSONAL UNIT away for FREE! WAHOOOO!
Click on this >>>LINK<<< or the picture above to visit the giveaway page!

Thanks for stopping by- and I hope you will click on over and check out their product line.
Good luck with the contest and come back again soon!
WAHOO!

-John, Created by MrHughes

Turkey Trot with the Elementary Chalkboard- Created by MrHughes

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 01:00:00 +0000

Welcome to “The Chalkies” Turkey Trot! We hope you enjoy a jog through our blogs gobbling up freebies, ideas, and recipes for some holiday joy!

We have a new blog name! We switched out the word "Primary" for "Elementary". We want to meet the needs of any teacher K-6. Our blog has been thoughtfully designed to help you find what YOU need for YOUR classroom level! Don't miss those grade level tabs at the top of the page that will help you grab what you need.

We hope you enjoy this little meal from appetizer to dessert!

Creative Writing Ahead! This engaging writing activity will have your students grinning and laughing as they create silly and often time outrageous Thanksgiving stories and YOU get to sit back and enjoy the creativity as it flows freely around your room!

Check here Turkey Pick-A-Story to download your FREE tasty appetizer WAHOO!

The holidays are a challenge for ANY grade and teacher (and principal too!). My holiday BRIGHT IDEA is to embrace the season and find activities and resources that allow students to have fun and learn at the same time.

Now, I get that we can't just stop teaching our curriculum from October to January, but, we CAN allow students to have some fun when they finish an assignment, as time fillers, and/or as a break from the norm!

This could be as easy as a simple coloring page or practice page with some fall clip art. The kids will enjoy the change of pace, and YOU will love the fact that your kiddos are engaged right up until the final bell for the holiday break!

OH. MY. YUMMY!

These are probably the best brownie I have EVER tasted! They are rich, flavorful, and so good you won't want to share! Check HERE to get the recipe. Or copy and paste it from below!

Mint Brownies
Recipe by Our Best Bites

Brownies:
4 squares unsweetened baking chocolate (4oz)
1 C butter (2 sticks)
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/4 C flour
1/2 tsp baking powder

Frosting:
2 C powdered sugar
4 T butter, softened
1 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
1-2 Tbs milk
green food coloring

Chocolate Glaze:
6 oz (about 1 cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips ,you could also use dark
6 Tbs real butter

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9×13 inch pan with foil making sure the foil extends over the edges by at least one inch. Lightly spray with non-stick spray and set aside.

Chop both unsweetened chocolate and two sticks of butter into chunks and place together in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until just melted and smooth. Set aside to cool, stirring occasionally.

With an electric mixer or stand mixer beat eggs, sugar, and vanilla for 2 minutes. While egg mixture is beating, measure out flour and combine with baking powder. While mixer is running, slowly add melted chocolate and beat to combine. Turn beater speed to low and add in flour by spoonfuls. Mix just until combined. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 20-30 minutes or until a knife poked in center comes out clean.

Cool completely on a metal rack. When brownies have cooled to room temperature, prepare frosting. Combine all frosting ingredients, starting with 1 1/2 tablespoon of milk, and beat until light and fluffy. Add more milk by teaspoonful as needed. Spread frosting evenly over brownies and then place brownies in fridge to chill.

While brownies are chilling prepare chocolate glaze. Place chocolate chips and 6 tablespoons butter in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until just melted and smooth. Set aside to cool for about 15 minutes and then carefully spread on top of the frosting layer. Return pan to fridge to cool. When chocolate has hardened, use edges of foil to remove entire brownie from pan. Cut into squares and serve.

Looking for seconds? AWESOME! Click on over to my shop and check out over 300 resources that will make your holidays more manageable and engaging! I have mystery pictures, writing projects, Order Up! sets, dodecahedron projects, and more!

Click on over- you will be glad you did!

AND- Shhh! Don't tell anyone, but for two days only (November 15th-16th), you can save 10% on nearly ALL my resources! WAHOO!

Don't forget to Trot on over to Digital Divide and Conqueror's blog where you can continue your Turkey Trot journey and gobble up more goodies!

YAY! Click on the logo above to CHECK IT OUT!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Chalkola! Markers You Can't Live Without!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 07 Nov 2015 18:47:00 +0000

Okay Peeps!

I have to tell you that when I got an email asking if I would like to try out chalk markers and give an honest review of them, I didn't really know what to think. I ALWAYS give an honest review- so THAT wasn't an issue. I just wasn't sure what I would do with these markers. When they explained that they would write on practically ANY surface and were washable I was intrigued as I could have a lot of fun with my teachers and students at school. They sounded pretty cool, and so I agreed. I waited the short shipping time to receive them, and came they did!

HOLY CRAPOLA! THEY ARE AMAZING!

That is all have to say.

Blog post over.

Just kidding. These babies are super cool though. I was sent two sizes to play with. My WIFE (the amazing Mrs. Hughes) saw them and snatched them right up for posters she was making for the school Halloween Carnival. I was worried she would use all the ink in them (after all, most markers like this don't last all that long). However after making 5 HUGE signs with the FAT and FINE TIP markers, they still have plenty of chalk ink for me to play with. WAHOO!

My wife started with the white FAT TIP to write the main word on each poster.

Her friend then used the FINE TIP set to write the smaller words on the posters. I could NOT believe how the words popped off the page! They didn't streak, they didn't run, they didn't smear (though they will if you are not careful about where your hand is!).

You DO have to remember to shake them really good before you begin to get the ink mixed up, and my 4-year old thought THAT was the coolest thing ever. She got to dance around and shake the markers for us. This is how the finished poster turned out for the carnival! There was one on each side of the table!

My wife is part of the PTA for our school, and they made several other posters as well for the carnival area. Below is one the made using just the FAT TIP markers! The picture doesn't show the clarity very well, but it was almost 3D.

I didn't get a picture of it, but the PTA also used the FAT TIP markers to write on the windows of the front doors to remind parents to enter by a different door for the carnival. The marker was surprisingly legible, didn't run down the glass, and was very bright colored! Clean up the next day was a total snap as well- a wet cloth and it came right off! LOVED IT!

I am excited to still have a ton of the ink left because I plan to leave notes for different classes (I am the principal of an elementary school) on their door windows and such.

I will also be doing this at home with my own kids on their bathroom mirrors and windows- not to mention my son's car windows...bwahahahaha! Yes, I have a lot of plans for these little gems!

Here you can see the two sizes that I was able to test drive. They work on ANY non-porous surface and can be used on paper as well. Yes, these will become a staple in our house- and with SIX kids still at home, they will be enjoyed very much! I may even let the kids use them...someday....or not. I don't share well with others...ha ha!

So, the real question here is how can YOU get an awesome set for CHEAP (well, cheaper than anyone else...ha ha). Please know that this is NOT an affiliate link and I do NOT get any money if you use them. Just sharing a great deal- one educator to another. DON'T FORGET THE CODE to save and additional 20% off the already low price!

15mm Markers

20% Off on Amazon - Use Code -> CHK20OFF

6mm Pens

20% Off on Amazon - Use Code -> CHALK20A

You can learn more about these awesome markers by clicking HERE!

The bottom line for me is that these are indeed worth every penny you will spend on them.

Happy writing and drawing.

Fostering a Positive School Culture

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 27 Sep 2015 22:30:00 +0000

It can be felt by EVERY SINGLE PERSON that enters your building. The minute anyone opens your school doors and walks inside, an immediate impression is felt. Often it is one of happiness, structure, and confidence. Sometimes a building may have a sense of chaos, frustration, and discontent. Regardless of whether it is good or bad- the point is that it is there.

Now, you might be wondering why this matters. One might say, "Who cares what I feel when I enter the school. As long as kids are learning and teachers are teaching, and administrators are dealing with discipline, then everything is right." Sadly, they couldn't be MORE wrong.

In that instance someone comes into the building, an important connection is being made in their minds- this school is a good school, or, this school is not. It sounds so cliche and corny, but I truly believe that it happens.

So, that being said, how does a school foster a positive culture? One where students enjoy coming each day to school, teachers are empowered to be their best, administrators devote their time to leading, and parents are confident and feel supported in the education process.

It isn't an easy undertaking, and one that may take months or even years to correct.

MY STORY

Let me share my experience with my school. I lucked out this past year, when I came to a new school as the 6th grade teacher. The school was in the midst of a massive turnover due to retirement, and the then acting administrator wanted to make several changes to the format and structure of the school. School-wide rules were created as a staff. Discipline procedures were put in place, and teachers teamed and worked together to come up with ideas about how to make classrooms work and run more smoothly.

I can't give evidence of my school before I came, but I have been told it was a bit chaotic.

Due to a series of circumstances, I was made 1/2 day interim administrator and 1/2 day 6th grade teacher of the school the end of September 2014. I continued the process of change we began and I started upping the ante. I made changes and started positive awards for classes to earn. I think the biggest change was that I simply made an effort to expression my appreciation to my faculty and staff, AND to let students and parents know that I appreciated them, respected them, and wanted what was best for them.

The year seemed to end with agreement from all parties that we had a successful and positive year. Parents commented on the fact that the school "felt "different- several even commented that even driving by felt different (in a good way). I took that as a sign that our school- working together- was on the right path to having a flourishing positive culture in your building.

Over the summer, I pondered on what I could do (having been hired as the full-time administrator) to help maintain and building our positive culture. Then it hit me!

I decided to do a theme for my faculty and staff. After all, I didn't have a class or classroom anymore (a post on that coming soon), and I needed to have a focus. I decided on a SUPER HERO theme. Working with my amazing secretary and also with my wife, the three of us came up with some fun ways to surprise the teachers and get the year off to a great start. My wife did the bulletin boards pictured above that is in our front entry of the school.

We decided that for the first week of school, we would have a small gift or treat of some kind for each day for each person who worked at the school. We had backscratchers, hand-decorated clipboards, new lunch totes with the school logo, and more! We also had an amazing spread of treats each day for the first week during morning recess! Everything had a note or memo expressing appreciation and excitement for the coming year!

I am pretty sure the faculty and staff LOVED it, and I feel this set the tone for the year as one of appreciation and dedication.

Friday of the first week was my favorite day, and one that we will build on for the rest of the year. My wife and I wanted to give each teacher a cape to wear to help students remember that their teacher was a super hero! After much discussion we came up with a plan and made a trip to Wal-Mart.

Buying all the biggest shirts we could from the clearance rack (over 30), we headed home. Next came the logo design for the cape. We settled on SC for "Super Colts" with the horse from our logo. My wife made a stencil and then spent the next several days cutting shirts and spraying on the logo!

My wife and I also found these awesome Captain America shirts on clearance and you will notice my wife was able to add "Co-" to my secretary's shirt! AWESOME!

On Friday of the first week, we went to EVERY classroom and presented each teacher (and aide) with his/her cape. I told the students that I had to share a secret about their teacher that they didn't want them to know. They sat right up and were totally interested. When I showed them the cape, the cheered for their teacher. My wife also had a sucker for each student with a mini paper cape and sticker that reminded them that they too, were super heroes.

We also gave a cape to every paraprofessional, custodian, lunch lady", speech therapist, computer lab managers...if they worked in the building, they got a cape! My head custodian LOVED his cape and wore it all over the school grounds and also to the hardware store and any other errand he had to run. As you can see below, he even posed on the school roof while fixing an air conditioner for a picture!

At the end of the day, we had a fire drill, and it was SO AWESOME to see the faculty and staff walking around outside in their capes and enjoying it. What an amazing group of people!

WHAT CAN I DO?
You might be thinking, "Well bully for you Mr. Hughes. So glad you could do all these things for your staff and faculty. Not all of us can do that." Or, "I am just a teacher. I can't do all this for my school. It isn't my place to do so."
If that is your impression- then I have failed in this post. It isn't just about only the school leader making the effort, though I concede when the school leader is leading the charge for a positive culture, it tends to work easier, faster, and is more widely accepted. Even if you start in your own little corner of the school by creating a place your students LOVE to come, and then reaching out to your teammates- leaving notes or appreciation, small treats, kind words. You will be amazed at how fast this will move through your school- and soon, your school, regardless of what it was- will become even better! And, it is all because of YOU!

WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO?
Our school is moving along this year and I am LOVING the culture of our building. Expectations are set high, and students work to achieve them. Teachers and staff are working well to help and support each other, and parents are coming to the school with praise and concerns for me/us to address. What more could we really ask for?

Here are some of my year-long goals and plans to keep this positive culture rolling forward:
=I try to make it to every teacher weekly to observe and leave a note about all the good things I see them doing.
=We highlight 4 students each week for the local newspaper- Students of the Week.
=We use Positive Office Referrals (check out the format HERE).
=We have the "Colt's Club". Student earn tickets for a weekly drawing by going "above and beyond". And adult in the building can award them- all have tickets they use.
=We have and maintain a school Facebook page. I am amazed at the positive effect it is having.

These are just a few of the strategies we are currently employing to foster and maintain a positive school culture. As a school, we will add and remove strategies as needed- but we will ALWAYS be looking for ways to make our culture more positive!

I am one lucky administrator, that is for sure. I can't wait to see where our school goes next!

-John, Created by MrHughes

The Literary League Back to School Give‐Away

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 15:00:00 +0000

By the time I grab my books and I give myself a look I'm at the corner just in time to see the bus fly by. It's alright’ cause I'm saved by The Literary League! That’s right, we are at it again! It’s one of the biggest back-to-school give-aways courtesy of some of your favorite ELA sellers.

We’re teachers too, so we know that feeling of going back to school. Cure those back to school blues by entering this HUGE give-away. Not only multiple prize packs, but also multiple winners!

The give-away will run Monday 8/31 to Monday 9/14. You’ll see some familiar and maybe even some new faces, so follow our stores and our social media accounts, and stay updated with what’s new! Winners will be announced Tuesday 9/15.

Prize # 1: Gift Card of Choice
Win a $50 gift card to Teachers Pay Teachers, Amazon, Staples or Target.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prize #2: Middle School Resources
Win all of the resources listed below for your middle school ELA classroom.

12 Genre Book Reports
Holy Task Cards! 4- Fiction and Non-Fiction Task Cards Bundle
Tools for Positive Behavior Management
Write Like the PROS! Essay Anchor System + Flipbook
Test and Study Tips Don't Flip! Flip Book Bundle
Expository Writing Prompts Grade 6-8
Biography Writing Unit
Figurative Language Bundle
Writing Pack
Literary Element Analysis Mini-Book
Point of View {Hands-On Interactive Notebook}
Book of the Month Independent Reading Program
Theme in a Snap!
New Interactive Reading Literature Notebook 2

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prize #3: High School Resources
Win all of the resources listed below for your high school ELA classroom.
Close Reading: Guide Your Students Through the Process
Interactive Notebook Bundle
Rhetoric: The Art of Persuasion
Common Core Literature Bell Ringers for Secondary English
Found Poetry Packet
Introduction to Close Reading for Middle and High School - Model and Practice
Critical Thinking: What is Textual Analysis #2
Fiction and Nonfiction Test Passages
Short Story Starters Task Cards

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prize # 4: Middle School TpT Store Shopping Spree
Win a $10 shopping spree to one of the TpT Stores listed below.
2 Peas and a Dog
The Creative Classroom
Literary Sherri
Mrs. Spangler in the Middle
Darlene Anne
Fisher Reyna Education
Brain Waves Instruction
Stacey Lloyd
James Whitaker's Sophist Thoughts
Created by MrHughes
ELA Everyday

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prize #5: High School TpT Store Shopping Spree
Win a $10 shopping spree to one of the TpT Stores listed below.
Room 213
The Daring English Teacher
Nouvelle
Making Meaning with Melissa
Linda Jennifer
Brynn Allison
Juggling ELA

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Literary League: We're BAAA-AAACCKKKK!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 12:00:00 +0000

HOLY MOLEY!
School starts (of has started) and as teachers and principals, we are all left wondering what just happened. Where did my summer go and will it ever come back? Sadly the answer is that it evaporated while we were at the beach, camping, traveling, sleeping in, taking care of family members, dealing with life issues, or working out. OR, just simply being at home with the family. Regardless, it is OVER, GONE, GOODBYE, SEE YA LATER ALLIGATOR!

Now, the real question is ARE YOU PREPARED for the students? I hope so. I have spent the summer as a new principal working, stressing, and prepping for the amazing school year to come! I have also spent time working with and getting to better know the people below in this list! Let me tell you- THEY ARE EXPERTS AT WHAT THEY DO!

With the sale going on, it would be worth your time to check out EACH professional educator's shop below and see what they have to make your back to school easy and stress free! WAHOO!

For example, my Language Arts Daily Dose and my Daily Morning Math Sets are perfect for ensuring spiral review and consistent practice of required concepts!

I wish you all a most wonderful back to school experience! ROCK ON!

Created by MrHughes

Danielle Knight (Study All Knight)

Darlene Anne- ELA Buffet

Mrs. Spangler in the Middle

The Classroom Sparrow

The Daring English Teacher

Making Meaning with Melissa

2 Peas and a Dog

Secondary Solutions-Simply Novel

Addie Williams

Linda Jennifer

Fisher Reyna Education

The Creative Classroom

Perfetto Writing Room

Secondary Sara

Tracee Orman

James Whitaker

The Superhero Teacher

Created for Learning

Brain Waves Instruction

Primary Chalkboard: Back to School Sale and More!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 02 Aug 2015 13:00:00 +0000

The Primary Chalkboard is SO EXCITED to share the Teachers Pay Teachers Back to School Sale! Can you believe it? Back to School already? Who'd of thought it possible?

I keep thinking, "WHERE DID MY SUMMER GO?"
Then I remember it went into two family reunions, a church trek with hand carts across the relentless plains of Wyoming to celebrate and appreciate my pioneer heritage... it went into the TpT Conference in Las Vegas, and spending time with my great friends, my 6 amazing kids, and my talented wife! However, it mostly went in to preparing my school for the coming year (which is TOTALLY going to rock, by the way!) GO COLTS! WAHOO!

And, speaking of the coming school year- I wanted to share some of my most popular resources in a fun and visual way! Check out the pictures below! Clicking on any of the pictures will take you to that category in my shop, which will save you time hunting it down amid 100's of resources! Enjoy exploring and, when you find something you love, don't forget to use the PROMO code at check out to save an ADDITIONAL 10% off my already discounted price for a total of 20% OFF everything! (Even my bundles- making them almost 40% off regular price- HOLY COW BATMAN!)

Cheers and HAPPY BACK TO SCHOOL! We've got this- because, well... We are amazing professionals who do what we do for kids!

Check out my Chalkie Pals' pages for more suggestions.
Back to School is EASY-PEASY when you have the Primary Chalkboard on your side!

An InLinkz Link-up

Created by MrHughes Goes Back to School

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 13:00:00 +0000

Greetings Blog Hoppers!
John Hughes here from Created by MrHughes. I am so pleased to have you stop by as part of the LITERARY LEAGUE BLOG HOP and learn a little bit more about me!

Let start by giving you a little background about me and my teaching career to this point! I started teaching in 2001. My first job was the computer specialist for 1200 elementary students. I had a new class every 30 minutes and never the same class twice in a week. It was an adventure!
From there I moved to 5th grade for three years, and then spent 9 years in sixth, after switching schools and districts. I love teaching science and math, but I have a REAL love for writing and reading! Best subjects EVER!
This past year, I was 1/2 day 6th grade teacher and 1/2 day administrator for our school. It was a crazy adventure and I loved it.
This year will start a whole new adventure- I will be the full-time administrator of my school. WAHOO! I am so excited to work with ALL the teachers and students in my school AND to be in the classrooms helping my teachers. I CAN'T WAIT TO GET THIS YEAR STARTED!

While you are here, I want to share my favorite read aloud novel with you. I have read many, many books over the years and have loved many them. But, my all-time favorite book is...

I enjoy reading books to my students that have children as the main character. Not only children, but children who they can relate to, they can aspire to be like, that they can learn to appreciate. Esperanza Rising is possibly the best one I have! Not only do they get to see life from the point of view of wealth and poverty, they learn that everyone has the ability to change into something better, even at a high price. Pam Munoz Ryan weaves an incredible tail that has roots in her own family history!

As you head back to the classroom, I invite you to think about what stories you plan to read and the reasons you read them.

Thanks for stopping by my blog and getting to know me a bit better! I wish for you a most amazing back to school event and hope you have a fantastic school year! As teachers we give so much and hope and pray it is enough for our students. I hope you will stop by my shop by clicking HERE and check out all the FREE resources I have to offer to get your year started off right! I have getting to know you activities, writing activities, and more- ALL FREE for the taking!

Enjoy and Happy Back to School!

P.S. Don't forget to HOP to the next member of this amazing Literary Group and learn more about them, their favorite read, and gather even MORE Back-to-School ideas for your kiddos!

An InLinkz Link-up

Welcome to An Educator's Life 2.0

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 18 Jul 2015 04:31:00 +0000

HELLO My Friends!

I am so pleased to be blogging again. It has been such a crazy and wild summer with family reunions, church activities, and attending conferences- oh, and amusement parks and such! WOW!

I wanted to stop by and let you know that my NEW goal is to blog at least weekly, and that the content of my blog with change slightly as well. I hope you will enjoy this new direction and continue with me in my journey!

As many of you know, I was hired to be the principal of my school this past year. Due to circumstances with the principal who hired me, he was put on administrative leave the very first day of school. A lead teacher was asked to do the basics to keep the building running until things settled and the district knew what needed to be done. They approached me the last week of September and asked if I would teach ½ day and be the administrator the other ½. THAT was an interesting meeting. I had mixed feelings about the situation as I LOVE TO TEACH!

In the end, and after many long talks with my wife, we agreed that this is what was best for our family, but we would NOT allow money to influence us (which is good, because those of you who think principals make a lot of money- think again! At least not in our district!). I finished the year out doing both and then applied to be the full-time admin this spring. AND… now here I am.

My blog, An Educator’s Life, was started many, many years ago during a technology class. I had NO CLUE what I was doing, and if you were to read my first post, you would probably die laughing!

From there my blog became my ranting wall, my special place to share with friends and family, and when I really started to become an active entrepreneur, a place to share my resources once in a while. Lately it has been a disaster of sale promos and product updates.

Well… all that to say…

WELCOME TO THE ALL-NEW Educator’s Life Blog! I thought about changing the name, and may in the future, but I think it is still fitting for what I do- Educate. Now it is my teachers AND all the students in the school. This is a HUGE responsibility, and one I won’t take lightly.

So, what can you expect here now?

GREAT QUESTION!

1) Content that is school focused- suggestions, tips, advice for management, etc.

2) The thoughts and insights of an administrator in regards to management, testing, state standards, etc.

3) Q&A Posts where I will ask for YOUR questions or concerns and then answer them from an administrative point of view.

4) Links to websites, resources, and apps that may change the way you teach!

5) Anything else that is awesome and ninja like that I feel with be a benefit and worth your time to read!

ALSO, you may want to subscribe to my NEWSLETTER! Use the newsletter form above! I will be sending out my first issue by the end of August. AND, if you haven’t joined the journey on my other social media outlets, you may want to take a gander at those as well.

Pinterest Facebook Blog Twitter Instagram

TeachersPayTeachers Teachers Notebook

So welcome, welcome, welcome my friends! I am excited for this new journey and I am thrilled you will be joining, or continuing, with me!

2 For Tuesday!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 16:55:00 +0000

Greetings!
Summer is underway here in Utah, and life is going great! I hope those that are still in school are winding down your year! YOU CAN DO IT!

I am excited today to be linking up with Cyndie from Chalk One Up For the Teacher for her 2 for Tuesday!

So, what is Two for Tuesday all about? Simple- It is a chance to check out resources that are sale for the remainder of the week- two per participating seller! WAHOO!
I am excited to offer two top-selling resources for a discount this week (end Saturday, June 20):
My Class Votes Awards Kit and my Rules of Divisibility Mystery Mazes!

SCORE!

Remember to swing by Chalk One Up For the Teacher to check out the OTHER amazing deals you can find for the week!

Later...

TEACHERS ROCK! Don't miss THIS HUGE SALE!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Wed, 06 May 2015 12:35:00 +0000

Super Secondary Appreciates Teachers!

Super Secondary collaborators are eager to "thank you...thank you very much..." for ALL that you do to make the world a better place! So shake, rattle, and roll on over to these TpT stores on May 5th and 6th to get up to 28% off on fantastic resources!

Don’t forget to use the promo code: ThankYou.

The Classroom Sparrow
Room 213
Darlene Anne’s ELA Buffet
Danielle Knight (Study All Knight)
Michele Luck's Social Studies
Teaching FSL
Juggling ELA
The SuperHERO Teacher
James Whitaker's SophistThoughts
Created by MrHughes
Lessons With Coffee
Leah Cleary
Addie Williams
Linda Jennifer
MissMathDork
Kristin Lee
Lindsay Perro
All Things Algebra
Mrs. Brosseau's Binder
Tracee Orman
4mulafun
Teaching High School Math
Pamela Kranz
FisherReyna Education
Getting Nerdy with Mel and Gerdy
Lovin Lit
ELA Everyday
Teaching Math by Hart
The Creative Classroom
For the Love of Teaching Math
Kesler Science
Live Love Math
To the Square Inch- Kate Bing Coners
A Space to Create
Science and Math with Mrs Lau
Brain Waves Instruction
Literary Sherri
Created for Learning
2 Peas and a Dog
Making Meaning with Melissa

Thanks for all you do teachers- YOU ROCK! You really do. Have a great week!

Product Review: Happi-Nappi Chair Bags for School Desk Chair

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 04:39:00 +0000

Hello My Friends-
It has been a LONG time since my last post. My life has been crazy-busy. I interviewed for and was hired to be the full-time administrator for my school a couple of weeks ago, and so I am finishing out this year as the 1/2 day 6th grade teacher and the full-time admin.

So, in this post, I want to review a product that I received back in October. This is NOT a paid post, and I always do my best to give my honest opinion of a product. If it is not something I would use, or don't feel is helpful, I will make it very clear in my review!

The picture below is of the Happi-Nappi Chair Bag. Cynthia Talley (the owner of Happi-Nappi) and I had several conversations about her product and she agreed to send me a chair cover to try out. My thoughts after getting the chair bag... THEY ARE AWESOME!

I have been using a different brand of chair pockets with my students for several years and I have LOVED them. To me, these chair pockets are a requirement in my classroom. Students use these to keep papers organized and out of their desks as well as their

Then, THIS happened. This amazing and wonderful bag! Ladies and Gentlemen- This bag is da bomb! Let me tell you why:

1) It is extremely well built! That is huge for students, esp. in upper grades where they tend to be hard on everything (you should see my playground equipment).

2) Pockets are deep. My daughter (who is in my class and was MORE than willing to test-drive this for me- which was actually a fight for the students on who wanted to use it!) said that she disliked the deep pockets, but we talked about it and she agreed that the deeper pockets were nice in that everything stayed put. She told me that getting her file folders out was harder and that her folders were getting ripped. Given the choice, I would still take the deep pockets because papers aren't hanging out and falling out.

3) There are many more pockets that you would find on a typical chair bag. LOVE THAT!

Here are several more shots of this awesome product:

You can see how deep the big pocket it! A teachers dream of not having to see all the papers!

It does hang lower than other chair bags I have used, but that doesn't bother me, in fact I think it helps to keep the chair better balanced and keeps it from becoming top heavy and tipping over.

I also like that it is shorter in the front so that it gets less wear and tear from students feet, etc. as they sit in their chairs, on their feet on their chairs, etc.

This is just simply one amazing product. Here is a short video about the company and how they make the bags:

You can learn more about these useful and well-constructed bags (including current pricing and even more suggestions for use) by clicking HERE!

So, do I recommend this product? ABSOLUTELY! I LOVE MINE!
Are there drawbacks? Only the possibility of the deep pockets being harder to manage for some students- but I do NOT think this is a huge issue and I would buy these for my class in a heart beart. The price is the same as or less than the ones I currently use, and the quality is higher, in my opinion!

Thanks for stopping by- YOU ARE ALL ROCK STARS!

Picture Your Selfie in Vegas Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 13:00:00 +0000

VIVA LAS VEGAS!!

Can you picture it now? YOU in LAS VEGAS?

How about YOU in LAS VEGAS attending a one day session of the SDE conference?

Primary Chalkboard is giving away YOUR CHOICE of a 1 day session at SDE!

So, will it be Singapore Math, Differentiated Instruction, I Teach K, I Teach 1st, or the newly added I Teach 2nd?

How fun is that?

BUT, that's not all, we're also including a $25 gift card to the SDE bookstore, CRYSTAL SPRINGS.

So, NOW can you picture YOURSELF in VEGAS?

Oh, you say you need money for airfare, hotel accommodations, or just some spending money while you are here? Well, we've got that covered, too. How about

THREE HUNDRED DOLLARS IN CASH

to help you out with that?!?!?

NOW, can you picture YOURSELF in VEGAS?

Here's how to enter for a chance to win.

Hop through our Facebook pages and collect a tip for your (possible) visit to Vegas.

Be sure to "like" each page as you hop through so that you can collect the tip.

Each tip will have a number on a playing card.

Add the numbers together and enter the sum on the Rafflecopter on the Primary Chalkboard blog for a chance to win.

Be sure to add a comment and include #primarychalkboardsendmetovegas.

For an extra chance to win this, take a selfie, post it on IG with #primarychalkboardsendmetovegas
Don't forget to tag us in your picture! @primarychalkboard

The winner will be picked on the evening of April 5th.

A HUGE thank you to SDE (Staff Development for Educators) for their kind and generous donation!

Good luck! WAHOO!

Teachers Are Heroes!

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 06:39:00 +0000

Howdy Friends!
Teachers Pay Teachers is celebrating TEACHER HEROES!
I think that really qualifies all teachers and even all those that are support staff in schools. I have learned, more than ever before, over the past 5 months as principal that schools have to have EVERYONE on board to function successfully!

So I am so pleased to honor teachers everywhere. The best part, is that a sale is being held in YOUR honor. You can save 20% off of all my resources (Just remember to use the code: HEROES)

In the comments below, feel free to leave a tribute to an teacher that has made a difference in YOUR life! :)
Click HERE to see ALL the awesome Secondary Teachers that are contributing!

Check out my Store HERE!

Happy Shopping and Honoring! :) WAHOO!

Product Review: Moby Max {and Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 13:00:00 +0000

Howdy Friends!
I have been AWOL for a while now, and it feels great to be back!

And...

What better way to appear than with a PRODUCT REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY! WAHOO!!!!!

Today's' Topic: MobyMax

Overview-
Mobymax is an online platform that give teachers access to varying topics for students to practice and master. It also offers prizes, reporting, one-to-one communication, among other motivational features.

My Experience-
I have been using Moby Max for nearly two years. I just recently moved schools, so my use this year is less than I would like to admit. The reason? I only go to computers once a week, versus everyday like in the past. Set up on Moby Max is super simple and FREE, depending on the amount of access you want to features and data reporting. I used the FREE level for several months before moving to the paid platform. Why did I upgrade? Simple- it was inexpensive and it opened up a large amount of features that made it worth the cost. The content for the students in accessible in BOTH versions, however, so you CAN go the FREE route without sacrificing content!

Is it practical?
This is a question I ask myself every time I faced with the sign-up box. I have to ask myself, "Will I REALLY use this?". I always worry about getting my students loaded in the system, if it will be intuitive for my students, will the enjoy it, what makes it different from all the other platforms out there.

After spending time with my students on the program, I found that it was a platform that delivered exactly what my students needed- and I could access amazing reports- drilling down to each student's level.

Pros-
-Super easy to add students! I can add my entire class of 19 in about 3-5 minutes. I LOVE that the enrollment is hassle free. The screen shot below is ALL the information you enter, and you don't HAVE to put in. Easy-Peasy!

-I love that my students can compete in contests for prizes
-It offers a placement test in each subject so students are placed where they need to work automatically! No more guessing if they are working on skills the really need!
-The ability to easily see what skills the class as a whole AND each student are rocking- OR- which skills need more work!
-Kid friendly, easy to use
-Not overwhelming- just a few problems in each practice set with IMMEDIATE feedback!
-Works on ANY device!
-Web-based- can access from home
-Reports include minutes spent on assignments
-Students earn minutes (you decide how many) by working through lesson that they can use in the game arcade! (I usually give the students time once a week to redeem their minutes and just play. They LOVE IT!)
-Frequent contests for teachers to win great prizes as well

Cons-
-I gotta be honest- it isn't as graphically cutesy and eye-catching as some other platforms out there. My kiddos got over it pretty quick, and I reminded them this isn't a "game", it is interactive practice!

Cost/Pricing-
-FREE! WAHOO! Get started today: www.mobymax.com and create your FREE account!
-If you want ALL the bells and whistles, for just $99 a year for an unlimited amount of students, you can't go wrong!

Okay, okay...
So NOW that you have read my review of MOBYMAX, are you ready to WIN an ENTIRE YEAR of PRO FROM FREE!?!?!?!? WAHOO! Just enter on the Rafflecopter below! :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

New Year's Resolutions 2015

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Wed, 24 Dec 2014 00:11:00 +0000

Howdy Friends!

I am thrilled to be linking up with Jessica of Second Grade Nest in this awesome 2015 New Year's Resolution and Goals Linky!

One professional goal that I have is to seek to better understand my role as an administrator. It is a crazy balancing act being both a 1/2 day teacher and a 1/2 day administrator this year, and I fear that I am failing at both jobs. I plan to spend a few minutes each school day in my office reading professional books, guides, and websites on how to better support my teachers and students in this new crazy world of "test'em to death" movements.

My second professional goal is to make myself be patient with my own abilities as a teacher. I tend to want to "make" kids and parents be perfect in everything that I do. I know that this is not realistic! I am working on encouraging every student to be her/her best and be content that they are doing their best!

My most important personal goal of 2015 is to get MORE SLEEP! This constant 1am-2am bed time and then up at 6am is not working for me. I am completely exhausted. With six kids, and wanting to not be a hermit around them, I find that after they are in bed in "my" time. Trying to create resources and run a school building are extremely time consuming, and I haven't quite found the balance. I hope I won't send out a 1am faculty email again in the new year!

My wife is amazing and I am hoping that I can show her that in the new year. I am hoping to take her on at least bi-monthly date nights- just us, not the 6 kids! This is one goal I am SUPER excited about!

I do have another personal goal, and that is to journal about my life. My sister passed this past November, and one thing that I have truly enjoyed is reading through her many journals. She was an amazing person with lots of struggles that none of us knew about. It makes me love and miss her even more. I want my kiddos (and grandkiddos) to be able to read back over my life as well and get to know me better!

I hope that someday before I die I might be able to visit Ireland. It looks to be a beautiful and charming location. Guess I better start saving my pennies!

I don't know that I have anything that I would like to try. I am not really a picky eater, so I have tried quite the collection of food, even rattlesnake (and yes, it really DOES taste like chicken!). So, off the top of my head, I can't think of one!

I would love to learn how to play the cello. My mother plays the violin and I did try that once. My fingers are so big that I couldn't make it work for me. But, the cello would be awesome!

I really, really want to give up my negative attitude. I worry so much about what other's think of me or what I do, that I start to be negative about everything and use my "I don't care" mantra! NOT GOOD! So, I hope to start looking for three positive things about each day and then work up to more! Maybe I can even write about these in my journal (see personal goal above!)

Laugh! I want to enjoy my children and laugh more.

I also want to call my parents more often. I don't call enough.

I want to finish my Daily Dose series by Spring Break! That will take some serious hard work and discipline! But, I think I can do it!

Don't forget to share YOUR New Year's Resolutions.

Click on over over to Jessica's Second Grade Nest to get started!

AND, don't forget to read all the other participants posts as well! :)

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Cheers-

Giving Back 100%: Huntsman Cancer Institute

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 22:54:00 +0000

A day of Giving Back was thought up by one amazing friend, Erica Colon (Nitty Gritty Science). Many sellers on TeachersPayTeachers.com are joining together is a day of giving back to those in need.

Each seller has chosen a charity that they hope to provide support to which means that LOTS and LOTS of organizations are going to get a little holiday boost in their accounts to help even MORE people in need. WAHOO!

Get Your Shop On: DECEMBER 14, 2014

It will be easy to identify those that are participating because their store logo will look like the one above for the entire day, December 14th. You can also use the linky below to find other sellers.

I want to tell you about the organization that I have chosen to donate 100% OF MY SUNDAY SALES to!

Huntsman Cancer Institute was started in 1995 by the Huntsman family. Jon M. Huntsman, a cancer survivor TWICE, felt that he wanted a more personal and caring atmosphere than what he experienced as he battled this horrible disease. In the past nearly 20 years the Huntsman Cancer Institute has grown into the world leader in cancer research and patient care. People come from all over the US to receive care, consultation, and support. This amazing facility even provides a research library for families to read about and learn what is being done to treat their condition and/or disease.

I know that my sister always felt taken care of and at ease when she was being cared for by the wonderful staff at Huntsman. Even in her last moments, the nurses and doctors were telling her what they were doing for her, talking quietly and kindly with her, and working to make her as comfortable as possible. They cried with us, and helped our family through that rough day.

If you would rather donate directly to (or want to donate extra) to the Huntsman Cancer Research Institute, you can click HERE. Please donate in my sister's name: Paula Lee Hughes Madsen (unless you have someone else in mind). Thank you SO much. The hope of a cure for cancer is the prayer of so many families that are dealing with this horrible problem!

If I can get $350 in sales to make a one-time donation, a brick will be placed in my sister's honor on the walk of hope path between the research center and the hospital! So that is my GOAL! $350 in sales. But, I need YOUR help to make it happen. Even better, there is an anonymous donor that will match ALL donations made until his/her $20,000 is met. That means that my $350 will be donated as $700! WAHOO!
We can do it!

An InLinkz Link-up

12-13-14

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 08:45:00 +0000

Howdy Friends!
My students have been counting down this date for several days now. They think that the fact that the date reads 12-13-14 is the bomb-diggity and that the world should remember it! Hence, I am blogging about this historic date, since it won't be in my life time that is happens again!

So, how will YOU spend this once in a lifetime event?

Have 12-13-14 to YOU!

12 Days of Christmas Giveaway- DAY 10

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 05:58:00 +0000

Happy Holiday Friends,
This holiday season just keeps getting better!

Day 10 of the Twelve Days of Christmas Giveaway is here, and I am PROUD to be part of this wonderful day of gifts and fun. WAHOO!

If you haven't been following this amazing giveaway, never fear! You still have three days to enter! And Enter you MUST! :)

Check out these teacher-authors who have contributed to today's gifts:

1. Classroom Compulsion - Featured Item:http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/…/S…/Classroom-Compulsion

2. Created By Mr. Hughes - $5 Store Credithttp://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Created-By-Mrhughes

3. Ms. Fultz Corner - $5 Store Credithttp://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Msfultzscorner

4. Flapjack Educational Resources - $5 Store Credithttp://www.teacherspayteachers.com/…/Flapjack-Educational-R…

5- Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah Designs- Who Organized this entire event! WAHOO!-

DAY #10 GIVEAWAY GOODIES INCLUDE:

-$30 Starbucks Gift Card (They have awesome treats and hot chocolate, so this is awesome even if you don't drink coffee, like me!)
-$20 TpT Store Credit or Featured Item (See above)

The contest will run for 24 Hours via Rafflecopter.

To Enter, Visit: https://www.facebook.com/ZipADeeDooDahDesign or click the picture at the top of this post!

Don't forget to tag your friends and share on your page! This is HUGE! AND, don't forget to enter Day 11 tomorrow and Day 12 on Friday!

GOOD LUCK, and REMEMBER TO SHARE THIS CHANCE TO WIN with your friends! WAHOO!

The Advent Adventure Continues- Day 7 (Two Gifts Just For YOU!)

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 07 Dec 2014 04:30:00 +0000

Howdy Friends!
Don't forget to click on over to the Primary Chalkboard Blog so you can read all about my Specials Deals just for you!

With TWO Gifts (a freebie and a 50% off deal) you won't want to miss it!

Click HERE (or the picture above) to check it out!

iHeart Math Holiday Hop

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sat, 06 Dec 2014 04:00:00 +0000

Please Note: Click on past dates to catch up, but, like advent calendar, the links for future dates won't work until the correct day! Enjoy our holiday gift to you! :)

Holiday Greetings My Friends-

I have the pleasure of linking up with several wonderful math bloggers for a month long holiday hop.
We are excited about this collaboration because each day you can access a different blogger with
great holiday tips and a special gift. Be sure to tune in everyday to read each blog post.

Holiday Tip #1: It is so important for teachers to take care of themselves during this stressful time of the year. With activities, events, and celebrations going on around you, remember to step back and take time for yourself. Make your night easier once in a while and cut back homework- OR- plan to go over it together in class so you can have an much needed relaxing evening at home.

Holiday Tip #2: When it comes to math and the holidays, use it to your advantage. Bring in holiday ads and some lessons about money, statistics (survey of favorite toys), graph the data, etc. Make it fun and engaging. Don't have time to stop and do these kinds or activities? No problem, exchange some of the story problems in your basal out with holiday problems, OR, challenge students to turn a set number of problems in their daily work into holiday based questions.

Today, on the 6th day of our advent calender, I would like to gift to you a FREE FULL WEEK of my Daily Morning Math series! This program is based around Common Core Standards, but will fit into ANY math program. With just a few minutes a day, your students will get to practice and master basic skills that will prepare them for the next grade AND help them be successful on assessments! (Even if you don't teach 6th grade, go ahead and give it a whirl! I think you will LOVE it!)

Click the picture OR HERE to download it!

Thank you for linking up with me today. Be sure to tune in everyday during the month of December
to read each blog post. By clicking on the header at the top of this post, you will return to the starting point of our blog hop.

Don't Miss Tomorrow!

Join us tomorrow as The Teacher Studio will be providing you with wonderful holiday tips and a special
gift.

Happy Holidays-

Happy Holidays From Created by MrHughes (with A HUGE SALE, Linkies, Advents, and Hops!)

noreply@blogger.com (Mr. Hughes) — Sun, 30 Nov 2014 20:15:00 +0000

Howdy Friends!

The holidays are here, and they are bringing many wonderful surprises and events just for you! :) Keep you eyes open for several different events which I joined to show my appreciation for YOU! WAHOO!

Take a gander at the amazing line up of surprises and goodies just for you!

Let's see, first there is...

I Heart Math blog hop

Oh yes, and the Primary Chalk Board Advent Calendar Event with a new freebie and/or 50% off for the day item!

"Happy Holidays! The Primary Chalkboard is celebrating this month with our own Advent Calendar. Each day we will have a little treat for our readers from one of our authors/bloggers. You can only get the treat on that day, so make sure you check back often."

Hmmm...oh yeah, and the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway with AMAZING prizes and chances to win gift cards EACH DAY!

AND.... Starting at 12 midnight Eastern time, you can get your shop on and save upto 20% using the TpT Discount Code at check out! WAHOO!

Thanks to Gina Wilson for Designing the Image Above.

Each event will be hosted on MY blog, so check back soon!

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Thanks for you kindness and support over the past several years! You are amazing and I truly enjoy interacting with you. Happy Holidays and please stop by again soon! WAHOO!

An Educator's Life

We're Moving- And it's going to be HUGE!

A Leap of Faith - Asking for Candid Faculty and Staff Feedback

On the 11th Day of Christmas...A GIVEAWAY! WAHOO!

Voice Booster Review and Giveaway

Turkey Trot with the Elementary Chalkboard- Created by MrHughes

Chalkola! Markers You Can't Live Without!

Fostering a Positive School Culture

The Literary League Back to School Give­‐Away

Literary League: We're BAAA-AAACCKKKK!

Primary Chalkboard: Back to School Sale and More!

Created by MrHughes Goes Back to School

Welcome to An Educator's Life 2.0

2 For Tuesday!

TEACHERS ROCK! Don't miss THIS HUGE SALE!

Product Review: Happi-Nappi Chair Bags for School Desk Chair

Picture Your Selfie in Vegas Giveaway!

Teachers Are Heroes!

Product Review: Moby Max {and Giveaway}

New Year's Resolutions 2015

Giving Back 100%: Huntsman Cancer Institute

12-13-14

12 Days of Christmas Giveaway- DAY 10

The Advent Adventure Continues- Day 7 (Two Gifts Just For YOU!)

iHeart Math Holiday Hop

Happy Holidays From Created by MrHughes (with A HUGE SALE, Linkies, Advents, and Hops!)

The Literary League Back to School Give‐Away