Above you can see the tree that grew over the summer in my classroom. In addition, I added a carpet and two bean bags for the students to use while reading. I am trying to inspire independent reading. I hope it works. The only catch to using this area is that the students have to have their work done and a library book.
My husband and I are back from our latest adventures in Mexico, and I am total rejuvenated. I am tanned and well rested, so I can keep up with the new group of kiddos coming up to the 7th grade. To be quite honest, I am excited for another school year to start. I've had my room ready since the end of May. I am trying to go with a calmer palette this year. I am also going with a new seating arrangement. Instead of rows, I am trying a horseshoe shape. I hope I don't regret this, but it give us a little more room to move around. I have also created a reading zone, but students must have a library book to use this area. I'll keep you posted how things go.