Deep Breaths!

The fatal day is rapidly approaching, and my six years of Education and experience alleviate almost none of my nerves for my first year of teaching. All the experts like Rick Smith have plenty to offer by way of advice for the BNT's, but when push comes to shove we just gotta get in there and do it! The tools we've been given during these two days of orientation will be very helpful, particularly with learning environment, classroom management, and procedures, and I hope amidst all the madness that I will be successful in implementing some of it.

I have to say that my primary goal for my first year is to tackle classroom management. I know this comes with experience, and Rick Smith's idea of "inner authority" is definitely something I need to work on... Confidence in my own abilities. I'd like to create an incredibly strong sense of safety and respect in my room (like Mrs. Toliver!) so that my students are eager to share their ideas and writing. I'd also like to firmly establish my routines, which are yet to be determined! Finally, I hope to keep my head above water throughout all of this... I am a bit of an over-achiever and have a tendency to expect too much of myself. Most of all, I want to enjoy this experience, create incredible relationships with my students and colleagues, and come away a stronger more competent individual for it.

Welcome To My First Blog!

Thank you all for taking the time to check out my first ever blogging experience! My name is Kristen Morgan and I teach 7th and 8th grade Writing and Social Studies in Colorado. The purpose of this blog (besides gaining some much needed technical experience!) will be to share thoughts and information with my community. Hopefully, this may also be an extra resource for my students and their families.

I was born and raised in Boulder, Colorado. I attended the University of Richmond where I received a bachelor's degree in English and Secondary Education. Upon graduating in 2007, I moved to the Valley where I have been working with the district as a substitute, reading specialist, and moderate needs assistant. Aside from teaching, I love taking advantage of all the mountains have to offer... particularly telemark skiing, climbing, hiking, golf, tennis, and rafting. I am also an avid traveler who thrives on every opportunity to experience new language and culture. Last year I spent six months traveling solo, volunteering in India and Nepal. I feel so lucky to be a new member of the teaching staff with such an enormous network of support. I am extremely excited about beginning my first year of full time teaching, and can't wait to share my passion for learning with my students.