What are Mrs. Draft's 5th graders up to?

Watch our Animoto on our great day! I LOVE these kids! Enjoy!
Platte River State Park

How does a canal work?

When my students were struggling to understand exactly how a canal works, I found this video most helpful. I recommend muting the unnecessary background music. ;)

Classroom Expectations

I try to keep classroom expectations simple and to the point. I think that it is important that students begin understanding what is expected of them as young adults (and adults) in the real world (not just at school). I have 2 classroom rules for students:
1. BE RESPONSIBLE 
2. BE RESPECTFUL.
These 2 rules encompass a lot and are rules that can be used to build personalities/ habits of students.
Boys Town Skills are a great reinforcer on being a respectful and responsible individual.

10 Picture Tour

Welcome to Avery Elementary School!

Avery Playground

 Original Entrance

Avery Library - Mrs. Hawkins

Avery Gym - Mrs. Conry

Mrs. Draft's 5th Grade Classroom

Mrs. Draft's Work Area

Avery Office - Dr. Thomas & Mrs. Barber

Avery Nurse - Ms. Williams

Avery Computer Lab

Week 1 Post

     My name is Erin Draft. I am a 5th grade teacher at Avery Elementary in Bellevue, NE. I received both my bachelors and masters at Peru State College. I am still taking classes through Peru for another endorsement. I absolutely love school. I guess this is why I am a teacher! I also love being outdoors, especially in the summer. I am a huge fan of running, camping and pretty much any outdoor activity. My 10 year old daughter is quite the partner in these activities. She has to be because her dad/ my husband is not so much the outdoors man. :)
     I have an endorsement in instructional technology. However, I feel as though a person can never be a step ahead of technology. I am always learning new things and I love sharing these things with the students. This summer I will be teaching technology to the intermediate students. I need all the tools I can get in this belt!
     I am looking forward to Blogging 101 and learning a bit more in this area. Thank you, Ann and Brent for offering all of the wonderful CCU classes online this 2011-2012 school year. They are appreciated and enjoyed!