WEEK IN MY LIFE | adjusting to a new class, sharing my honest feelings

[@emilyclark8772]

Something my mom always says (she’s a newly retired teacher) is that you’re only with them for a small amount of time. You get roughly 180 days with them and then they’re gone. So focus on having a positive experience and helping them to love learning and become better people! If they aren’t where they should be academically by the time they leave you that’s not your fault! Life has already hit these kids so hard, so just keep in perspective that they’re not all going to get where they should be by the end of the year, so you can let go of that control and just do the best you can and accept that it’s enough! I’ve been trying to overcome my savior complex big time, and it’s SO HARD. I am also so overwhelmed trying to meet all the needs. But I should accept that I simply won’t! I can try, but I shouldn’t beat myself up for not getting 100% of kids all up to perfection. It’s impossible! ❤️ much love! Thanks for sharing and opening up a dialogue!!

[@sierrag5421]

I understand these struggles wholeheartedly! It’s definitely because the kiddos you have now were kindergarteners when the pandemic started… they didn’t get that full year of foundations in Kindergarten and are now facing a huge learning gap. As teachers we are all facing this but we are strong, as you said you’re not alone! You’re amazing and I can feel your dedication through the screen. You will get them to where they need to be with time💛 We can only do our best!

[@CBONY11]

I feel you on this! I too teach chatty students. I think they’re just so happy to be with other kids face to face.The pandemic hit them the worst academically I believe. We are working double time, so we just have to take it day by day. Give yourself and your students grace. Some days will be good and others won’t. You got this!

[@teacherlife3350]

I’ve been teaching for 23 years and I totally understand how you feel…these last two years have been the hardest years since I began teaching. Best of luck to you! You seem like an amazing and caring teacher and your students are so lucky to have you!

[@AshleyLorraine133]

You aren’t alone! This year I have 23 kindergarten students…. 23 5 year olds who have never been in school before & need me every single second. Some days it feels like I can’t even teach because I’m busy meeting their individual needs all day. I just keep reminding myself that I am a human being & so are my kids. We can’t be perfect or expect everyday to go as planned.

[@hellome9837]

Watching your video and reading the comments from other fellow teachers, I realized how ignorant I was on just how much teachers go through. This may not mean much but, I really REALLY appreciate you all. You all are the foundation of our kids' growth and I'm grateful. In the end, y'all are heros in my book. Much love❤️

[@alyssawolfe8645]

I am a second year 1st grade teacher, but this is my first year in-person…I was completely virtual last year. I am SO HAPPY I came across this video. I am feeling the exact same way. We are not alone in this. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@haleyellis281]

Hi! I’m not a teacher, but I am a behavioral therapist. Do you think it would be helpful to use a stoplight for a visual when you are trying to control noise levels? You could say if our stoplight is on red it’s not time to be talking. Yellow could be a whisper noise level. Green could be free time to talk at a normal inside voice level.

[@courtneygregor4224]

I watch a lot of your videos & you seem to always say “I don’t know if I can do this” you need to stop doubting yourself you’re doing amazing, great and the best you can do! You got this girl !

[@alyssamclean925]

Oh girl, I related to this video on a whole different level. I’m a first year 2nd grade teacher. I was validated yesterday that I hands down have the most difficult class in the school due to major behavior issues on top of 90% of them being at a AA reading level and math being very low as well. So it’s definitely been hard, especially it being my first year. But I keep reminding myself this is why I’m in this field. To help kids grow both academically and emotionally. And also, the second graders this school year are the covid babies. When the pandemic started, they were in kinder and then a majority of them were online for first grade most of the time, if not the whole time. And though we can be thankful that online was an option, it still created a deficit in numerous ways. It takes special people to do what we do!! So thank you for sharing this video, it was nice to know that I’m not alone.

[@trishgoud17]

I'm a first year first grade teacher, and dealing with a lot of the same things, especially feeling isolated in it. Videos like yours make me feel a lot less alone, so thank you for pushing through and showing the good along with the hard days!

[@tnt3766]

The thing you need to focus on is growth. You can’t expect a kid who doesn’t have their letters and sounds down to write a full page at the end of the year. Or even be on reading level by the end. However, you can expect them to grow from where they are right now.

[@criseldalawrence5008]

Since they are chatty, use that to your advantage and place the bright ones beside the struggling ones and maybe they can help explain it to them. You will have brighter days 🥰🥰

[@123person...]

Teachers, I'm a student, and my gosh... can I just say THANK YOU! I know that you guys work so hard and everything you do is so appriciated, and I sure hope you know it. Watching this I am just so amazed and inspired by everyone of you hard-working teachers. You are all so amazing!!!!

[@loriwinslow5953]

Bagged salads work great for me! So simple to grab all the ingredients in one bag and then I can pour as much or as little as I have time to eat depending on the day! Also having fruit to eat is energizing!

[@daynacunningham4433]

I completely understand. I had a class exactly like this last year. I had grade four students reading at a kindergarten level ! The pandemic has really disrupted academics for many students. The best you can do is acknowledge that there will be learning gaps (due to schools being closed etc) and you will basically have to meet students where they are at and move them forward from there.

[@iiiiaaaammmm986]

I feel lucky. last year it was worse. they didn't meet what is expected from them. But this year is amazing. they are so advanced. maybe because they used to online teaching.

[@ms.lmarenda3418]

What you are feeling is very normal. I’ve been teaching for 22 years and I don’t think it matters if you are new or old at this job, it has its ups and downs throughout the year. Covid has really impacted the growth (academic, social, and emotional) of many of our students. I teach 10th grade History and I’m having the same issues as you. Hang in there! Continue to reach out for support and advice. Be patient and kind to yourself. Hugs!

[@marisolmartin1329]

One thing that we did Pre-COVID was enrichment Tuesday’s where as a team we would switch students (high, middle and low) and we would engage the students with activities in hopes that the bottom two tiers could eventually move up. I bring in salads for the week but I also keep the Jif peanut butter to go cups and Belvita crackers in a cabinet just in case hunger strikes. Have a great weekend

[@miriammancillas1]

Praying for you teachers! As a homeschool mom I understand the necessity for even parents involvement in their kids education and not just leave it all to the teachers for the very reasons you mentioned. Seriously praying and believing there will be a turn around in parents doing their part to help their kids get educated at home with the time they have so when they do go to school they are able to be taught as a class. Responsibility goes to the parents first for sure. With God everything is possible! Supporting y’all! 🎉

[@kristengreene4099]

For the beginning-middle-end activity, the students could draw the picture or you could do it as a group. Or to address the grade 2 standard, talk about the beginning, middle, end and maybe you record it... so they're exposed to the concepts, but don't have the expectation to write.

[@rachaelsmith6519]

Started fourth grade this week. Crazy how far behind some of these kiddos are. Some still need help with writing letters and numbers!

[@keyaranichole2964]

I feel you girl! I’m teaching 3rd and they literally don’t want to do anything but talk. It’s so exhausting… I feel like I’ve tried EVERYthing I know to do for classroom management and nothing has fully worked yet. These last 2 years have been so hard 😪

[@Ispecc]

It’s okay to not feel okay all the time.🤍 Hope this week is much better for you. I can only imagine how many teachers are struggling with the students that were learning throughout covid. You are so flexible with your students but make sure you return that favor to yourself!

[@TheAlexa1983]

The fact that you are willing to be vulnerable and reflect on what you are doing instead of blaming the kids is amazing. You don’t act like a “novice” teacher at all.

[@rosarainey72]

Thank you for being honest in your videos. I feel like you give a true picture of what being a teacher is really like. I am still a student teacher, but I really do enjoy your vlogs.

[@madisonleighmaryan]

Thank you for watching! 💖

[@katelynmunslow8670]

I was very excited about you doing this school teaching position.

[@elenac2530]

It is more than okay for you to vent about your struggles as a teacher. I am a Junior in college and hearing these reality struggles being of being a teacher can be really be helpful so thank you!! If you are comfortable, please continue to be transparent with us because you could really help a person going into education.

[@mofeuer]

i work at a preschool and bring lots of leftovers, wraps, quesadillas with beans! frozen meals are great too if you’re in a rush!

[@lillianbelmares1811]

We need more teachers like you!😩 So dedicated, caring, and passionate. These kids will remember you forever, it doesn’t go unnoticed!

[@sakeynarahm3872]

I completely understand you. Today was one such day for me and I came across this video. I have been a teacher for the past 2 years (I'm 22). It's been a struggle throughout the journey but I can say there are honestly better days too. Seeing you relate made me feel like I'm not at all alone in this. Reading through the comments I feel like most of us go through the same thing. This job is honestly stressful, especially when kids aren't on the same page and when there is a lack of time. I am a 2nd grade teacher too and most of the days I feel like I'm ready to give up:(. Today was so stressing and I'm thankful I came across this video. Like its a sign to go on🥲🥺🥺

[@katewhadcock692]

Hi Madison, I am a 5th year teacher UK trained but living and working in Australia. I wanted to start by saying with each year comes experience, growth and confidence and it just gets easier! Listening to your struggles of feeling overwhelmed and like a load on your shoulders I can completely relate to and just remember you are only human and you are doing the best you can. Anything you do will have a huge impact on your kids so just keep reminding yourself of that and try to give yourself a break and be kind to yourself. Thinking about your class with a wide range of needs I was thinking have you tried reading and maths groups? This is where you break your class up into groups of ability, you give each group a task to get on with independently whilst working and teaching with a group tailored to their level. By the end of the session you will have worked with every group. For example for your making 10 lesson you could have 1 group working with concrete manipulatives physically making 10 and writing their sums out on whiteboards, you could have others using that sheet and another group working with you either extending them or supporting them depending on their level. This way you can teach to the ability of your whole class. You can also do this for reading groups. It takes a bit of extra planning but once in place and your students know how it works it is really effective. Regarding your noise levels - keep switching up the seating plan until you find a way that works where they are not so talkative! Hope this helps! From Kate :)

[@LottyDotty05]

I've only reached the part where you were talking about your rough day. I want to give you a big hug! I teach 4th grade and they are chatty and I blame covid. I'm a very relaxed teacher so it take a lot for me to get overwhelmed. My team always say I'm the sunshine because I always say it'll be alright. And it will. Continue your routines and setting your expectations, its still week 3-4. Do you have an early finisher bin for those who are on track or ahead? Maybe have a teacher assistant who can help their classmates as you pull a small group. Definitely talk with your team as well. Also, keep building relationships with your kids, they will feed off your energy. You can do it girl! Breath. Do what you can when you can. But when you do it do it well!

[@Gapmom2019]

With the making ten activity it sounds like they need some concrete practice. Do you have access to connecting cubes? By giving partners ten connecting cubes and having them manipulate them into parts of ten they should start to understand it better than just writing numbers. Do you use class dojo? I love using the random button to help give my kids incentive to be ready to learn when we are transitioning from working to teacher instruction and they may be talking. I will also use it during work time when kids are on task.

[@katiedaugherty694]

I was a fifth grade teacher last year, it was hard to see how behind those students were. As a second year teacher, I am also teaching second grade this year. The deficit is unreal even compared to last years fifth graders. My group is very chatty, they lack obvious social skills that they missed out on the last two years. I agree with you 100%. It is so hard and stressful. You feel like you’re failing but all we can do is meet them where they are. We are doing OG, it is AMAZING. I have seen huge results already and honestly, being in school and doing an insane amount of daily decoding, phonics, and phonological awareness makes a huge difference. Mostly we have to remember to work to make them good people. That’s what’s most important, learning how to treat one another and be a good person.

[@rachaelkutemeier1721]

Girl, I teach kinder and the struggle is real! They don’t know how to do anything! Making a lunch choice, walking in a line, controlling the constant blurting, or even remembering where they sit! I have days where I just think how will I get them where they need to be?? Sometimes you have to go slow to go fast. Keep trying what works for you and your kiddos. They are lucky to have you!!

[@scrapbea1316]

First of all, I'm Spanish and my English level is not so high, so sorry if I sound rude, it's not my intention. I completely understand you. I have had the same feeling sometimes. I only want to say that it's OK, you want the best for your students and its normal to worry. In my opinion, the best thing to do is to adjust to your students. Sometimes we try to put to much on them, because we want them to be prepared or be better, but they are only kids. Seeing you worrying for your kids like this demonstrate that you are a good and hardworking teacher ❤ I dont want to compare to my class but my class talk too much too, I have differents levels, a few students who need a lot of my attention, my classroom is small compared to yours, we don't have all the materials neither and I teach 27. So, it could be worst 🙃😉 Keep up the good work 👏 🙌

[@melissawashington5243]

I teach 2nd in Michigan and I am facing the exact same struggles. Still in the process of wrapping my brain around it. I’m a 2nd year 2nd grade teacher and my experience between the two is vast.

[@anthonycritelli9279]

I just started student teaching recently and I understand the struggles. I love your channel by the way! Best of luck this year :)

[@laurenlofton2497]

Hi! I’m in the same position! I have started doing centered based learning all day. I give various activities to each group based on their needs and then I’m getting to give small group instruction to students each day for multiple subjects. Let me know if I can help in anyway!

[@maliksutton6634]

I can't imagine how stress you and your kids are facing yet still hanging on true commitment. It's completely fine if you're feeling overwhelmed because you're human no shame in that. You're doing a wonderful job and will get them where they need to be.

[@kaitlynncarabajal9089]

You seem like such a good teacher! My first time watching any of your videos and I’m thankful for teachers like you. I’ve always wanted to be a teacher and watching your videos just brought so much joy to me :) have a blessed day

[@leighl.3488]

I can completely empathize what you are going through with your class! I have been teaching for several years and my class this year (Grade 1) sound a lot like yours. Last year I had a "unicorn" class and going from that to a super chatty and unfocused group that is behind academically has been draining and we have only been back for a week. It shows what an amazing teacher you are that you care so much and are reflective and responsive in your teaching practices. On another note, the only snack I eat is white cheddar Popcorners and they are so hard to find where I live (in Alberta, Canada). : )

[@lilyvenegas7144]

I feel exactly the same way as a first year teacher. I became depressed and continue to struggle with major anxiety. Between knowing how to manage the class, the curriculum, and meetings etc has been very hard to get through

[@kimberlydickison8890]

You are an amazing teacher and your students will grow and love learning because of you! Your students are so lucky to have you for a teacher!

[@katelynmunslow8670]

😅

[@sinanadolny8585]

as a sophomore in hs you make me feel so comforted and like im back in elementary school and i love it

[@Mrgbella22]

I feel like my second grade class and your second grade class are the same. They never stop talking!!! But they are the sweetest kids I’ve ever had. Truly the nicest little people. I love them a lot they just give me a headache lol

[@mzzzzzzday]

I would figure out what specific skills they need help with and group them. So assess and look for those specific skills. Like what specific phonics related issues are they dealing with? Then help them with the skill, and regroup then tackle more specific skills.

[@ariannakochan5569]

I just found this channel, and I love it! Keep up the good work! I'm in school, studying to be a teacher! This is a great channel to just see what goes on in the classroom!

[@Gapmom2019]

I love just packing snack type foods for lunch. I’m always excited to eat them and you can eat as much or little as you have time for and save them for the next day. They’re also usually easy to eat while planning if you need to on your lunch break. I’ve been doing a lot of veggies and dip, homemade bean salsa, pretzels, cheese and crackers, hard boiled eggs, cut up fruit, etc.

[@nicolegibson8903]

I am teaching second this year after teaching kindergarten for several years. I have six students who are mid kindergarten level and it breaks my heart. They are my students who went virtual last year and they still struggle with letters and numbers. Something that is working for me is preassessments and small groups across the board. The only subjects I’m not pulling small group is science and SS. Reading, writing, and math I am pulling groups based on student needs. It’s exhausting but they need it! Remember you are not alone and these kids love you!💗

[@alisharivera7355]

congragulations

[@mellissadowler179]

You seem like a very good teacher I love watching your videos because you are so nice and such a good teacher you should keep doing what you’re doing and never stop

[@MandyP3]

I feel you! I teach third grade and I have a child in my class this year who does not know her alphabet let alone the sound that each letter makes. It’s heartbreaking. But what I’ve had to do is just pull her back with me during pockets of time and go over pre-kindergarten and kindergarten basics. I am aiming toward at least showing progress with her, even if she does not end of the year on grade level.

[@mearlita1653]

Nope you’re definitely not alone. I also teach 2nd grade and yeeeep out of my 16 kids maybe 2 or 3 are about on level. Everyone else is kinder/1st grade level. So there’s that. Keeping it going. They need us. I will be delighted if at the end of the year they can at least read and can add and subtract. We’re doing everything we can.

[@StaciesCrossing]

I recently took over a kindergarten class as a long-term sub and have learned to just go with the noise sometimes. As long as they are working on what they need to then we are good! :)

[@teachingthe1st]

Wow thank you so much for sharing. It felt so nice to hear I’m not alone! I’m student teaching this semester. I’m at a Title 1 school in a second grade classroom. We have 17 students below first grade level out of 20. Right now we are teaching how to write letters. Most students can’t read or write their own sentences. It’s been a huge challenge that I was not expecting at this grade level. I struggle sending students to do independent work because they can’t read a question or spell words. I will have 6 students at a time raising their hand for help. It also takes a lot longer for students to complete assignments because of this. We got this! Can’t wait to see the growth at the end of the year.

[@carolineagustian4258]

Hi! I'm a teacher too and I feel youuu! Glad to know that I'm not alone :). In my class, if I don't have time to do one on one with them, usually I try to split them into 3 or 4 groups according to their abilities, and give them different tasks, for example, more work to do for faster kids.. I know that's a lot to do for us, teachers, as we have to prepare more materials, but it helps quite well... hope it helps :)

[@katlingormley]

Our whole second grade is below grade level. 90% of the students are below in both math and reading. It’s been a struggle so far this year. We went back the beginning of August and we’ve been riding the struggle bus all year so far. We’ve noticed not only do the struggling academically, they are “behind” mentally, emotionally, socially, everything. Kindergarten is so important and these poor babies missed half a year essentially. It’s hard, but we just have to meet them where they are at and do the very best we can for them. You are doing great 💕

[@feliciafiona1734]

We're all experiencing the same thing . We just have to breathe, pause and deal with the reality which is there. We will succeed even though it may be more challenging than previous years.

[@kr8270]

We usually do a review the first month to refresh the kids memories. Stay strong 💪🏻

[@heatherfarr57]

I'm not a teacher and don't have any kids but I just wanted to say that you are doing an amazing job and making a big difference for all these kids. They are very lucky to have you as a teacher.

[@carolinedepot4993]

This year is unlike anything!! I had this same day of defeat on my second week. A moment of terror when my third graders could not do independent work because of their struggles with reading! Lean on those teammates and don’t be afraid to back up to the content they need!

[@MacieHerrlin]

Girl, you are NOT alone! I feel you 😭😭😭 it’s my first year, so I thought I was alone hahaha

[@fridarodriguez4278]

This situation is a great challenge ahead, but you can do it, you know that you have the ability and the desire to bring these children forward. At the end of the day you will learn more than ever, resist Madison, you know you are an incredible teacher, you inspire us and you will continue to inspire us, remember the recilience. YOU CAN DO IT

[@olguiortiz3687]

Oh, I am super frustrated with my class as well. I teach 4th grade and they are in second grade mode! Second grade was when they stayed home in March and then third grade was so different with online teaching/learning and been in and out due to quarantine and close-contact and tracing. It is horrible because I have to teach 4th grade content to 2nd graders. You are not alone!!!!!

[@danadow6920]

Can you create a buddy system? Pair the fast-finishers with the slower workers. Or create small group time. Work with the advanced kids at a small table, and then work with behind kids at a small table. Giving the other kids busy work, while you do small group… sounds like you already do small group.

[@chelsispooner654]

Hi Madison. I'm a mom of a second grader in your school district. I randomly came across your videos last year, and I love having insight into a local classroom. :) I have been homeschooling my kiddo since COVID began, and while she's progressed academically, she's still in the mindset of a kindergartener. She says she wants to go back to kindergarten, even though by the time she goes back to public school, she'll be at least in 3rd grade. I think the thing to remember with this age is that they have not yet had a "normal' school year, and COVID is likely the largest life-altering event for most of them. We're still living through and dealing with trauma response. I don't know what the district requires of you as a teacher, but I think you're doing a great job of meeting them where they are and working from there. I wouldn't worry about getting them to where they are "supposed" to be. Just focus on creating a positive learning experience and taking them as far as they CAN go. Your kids are lucky to have you!

[@cassy1995imps]

Hey! First of all I think you are doing an awesome job! I am a college student right now wanting to become a teacher but I’m from germany. I was in school earlier this year for 5 weeks and I already saw these struggles. The teacher that I was with for that time had these struggles and although we had good ideas to fix it, the system in germany isn’t strong enough to actually do something. I don’t know how the system in the usa handles those struggles but I feel like that we can all improve if we just get the chance. Of course the pandemic is a big factor in this case but like you said you’re not alone and these struggles were there before. I think that kids are just very individually especially when it comes to learning. There are some more factors or circumstances that we have to think of when trying to find a solution or reason why kids can be so behind for example family situations or health or whatever. It’s just really hard to handle it on your own like you said. I spend a year in the uk before I started to study and they actually had 2 teachers in one classroom working together so that every child was on the same level as the rest of the class. I think that would be a very helpful thing to do, but again speaking for Germany, our system and the lack of teachers we have, we’re not able to do so! I truly believe you find your way and your kids will have an amazing 2 grade!

[@karlee_holtcamp10]

You are so inspiring to watch I love your videos so much love you Madison

[@jessicac1582]

I think this year we are going to see a lot of gaps in our students knowledge. Especially in areas where the children were mainly in virtual (ie where I live in Canada). One thing that I have done in the past when I have had students at very different levels is to have my higher students be “experts” or “teachers helpers”. When they have finished their work they can ask if anyone needs help and then they go and help anyone who is struggling. I love using this technique because it frees me up to work with my kids that might be really struggling. Just an idea! 😊

[@johnlopez3996]

You are not alone in how you feel with having to address all of the learning challenges this academic year. Try breaking up your lessons into blocks of fifteen minutes at a time. It will take time and patience for the students to develop the stamina to focus and pay attention. Praise and reward the students when you are able to get through a lesson. Have a digital timer so that the students can see how much time is remaining during your lesson. As the year progresses, make your lessons a bit longer as they develop stamina. You may also want to make a list of times when talking is encouraged and when you want them to keep their talking to a minimum. This is my 29th year of teaching, and I do feel like a first year teacher at times because of all the constant adjusting. Tell yourself that your goal this year will be for your students to show growth over time. Make a list for the class to see what they have been able to do so far and add to it daily. Take care. I am sending you a virtual hug.

[@dannaestanley]

I been subbing for elementary schools all grades and I give soooooooo much respect for teachers. And honestly teachers can’t do it ALL . I saw 2nd graders who did not know any kindergarten material and I been seeing it a lot. This is why I practice so much with my kids at home it’s so important. I been subbing due to me pursuing another degree and it has open my eyes so much to our educational system and our children. But YOU ARE DOING GREAT! Hope things get better for you❤️

[@AshleyLorraine133]

For certain activities like the BME worksheet, I would give them the option to draw the BME if they can't write. Some students could just draw, some could draw and label, others could write depending on their skill level. That way they are still practicing the literacy skills and showing their understanding of the book. :)

[@nessayuh5417]

Can you mask a video about your caldener and how you make things scheduled and planed out

[@SKuhn]

I’m a first year teacher and I thought I was alone. This helped so much. And gave me a new mindset. Share your thoughts on the book please. I might need to purchase it

[@SusieQzz]

I teach 2nd also and this year has been a HUGE struggle already. I keep trying to remember that they haven't had a normal school year yet but man, it's hard.

[@bluebirdlanecreations7455]

15 years in and I'm struggling with the immaturity and social awkwardness, I feel as though I'm back teaching 3rd grade.

[@danadow6920]

I buy the pre-packaged salads - Cesar or chef salad. Or sometimes I prep egg salad or tuna fish for the week, and I bring sandwiches.

[@Kingplasma534]

The advise I can give you as a veteran teacher is everything is going to be okay. Remember to always give every student Tier 1 instruction because they all deserve to see the material at grade level. In your small group give those students what they need. Also, do a lot of modeling, modeling and more modeling. For instance your math activity making 10’s use math manipulative so they can see and have a concrete model of them making 10’s. Since making sentences are a struggle for them right now, allow them to draw pictures and then gradually move them into making sentences. I promise everything will work out just fine. Have a great school year.

[@andrealynne5328]

I am a 2nd grade teacher and I can 💯 percent relate! My kids are so far behind. It is very stressful. You aren't alone and are doing your best. Remember that you are amazing!!!

[@Ele-6800]

Yes, the struggle is real! It doesn't matter how long you've been teaching, each year has its challenges. Grade, running records, open house, paperwork all take up time. You are lucky lucky to have a small class. You have a positive perspective when it comes to the kids talking. It's great you take the time to reflect! It is so important. It looks like your kids need hands-on and/or small group instruction. Do you have math manipulatives you can use? Counters or cubes to help form different ways to make tens so they can count each piece. Also, they can write the number sentence and draw circles/dots above the number to represent it.

[@sarahp444]

Look up Secret Stories posters! They're HUGE in K-3 right now. I just bought them last week after my 1st grade team purchased them this summer. You can use it along with any phonics curriculum, but it's more about "unlocking" phonics/spelling concepts through telling the story the moment students need them in their writing...not just when we get to them in our curriculum.

[@maggiefricker3976]

I literally just said these same things! I have very few kiddos who are reading and are very low. We also adopted a new curriculum which we are supposed to use with fidelity, but it's impossible. It's designed for pre-pandemic 2nd graders. I'm planning on moving from whole group to primarily small group teaching. Hang in there!!

[@coloringwithsydney7339]

I’m a 2nd teacher I have 3 students at prek level it is so hard to teach them how to do stuff

[@AR-yj5zp]

My second graders are so low And I’m only a second year teacher so I’m nervous. My school really pushes the students academically and I know they are not ready to perform the way my school expects. The only thing I can think of is to focus on tons of word work. I would love to incorporate videos and learning apps but I currently have no working tech in my room. The struggle is real this year.

[@ShireenHassanKhan-TCHRBPJC]

I completely understand. Since im a teacher and as the students have returned after such a long time they are so below the grade level.i get quite frustrated but im struggling just as u are

[@HolidayLynn]

Covid really hurt our children. My son is in 2 grade this year and his teacher told me the same thing you are saying. It’s so sad. My son is struggling with math but is doing really well on other subjects. Thank you for teaching our children you are very much appreciated ♥️

[@sierrag5421]

Are the tassels hanging up on your board (under the clock) from Amazon? I think we have the exact same ones!

[@idekbro213]

U made my weekend!!!!!!!AAAAAA!!ur my fav youtuberrrrrrrrrrr💖ilsymmm

[@jodiminsky9720]

Madison, how many teachers are on your 2nd grade team? If there are at least 3, maybe you could meet with them to divide the kids into ability groups a few times per week. One teacher could work with the kids who don’t know letters and sounds. Another could work with kids who are just beginning to read. And someone else could work with any students at or slightly below grade level. I feel your pain. Teaching is the hardest profession! I taught second grade for 28 years and then quit. It was bad for my physical and mental health. Remember to take care of yourself. You are only one person. At the end of the day, if all you can give them is unconditional love, that may be more than they get at home.

[@cbcps2098]

Girl yes the struggle is real this year! Hang in there! 😉

[@SocialStudies401]

It’s as expected this year. Think about it, I have 6th grades (middle school) who haven’t been in person since 4th grade! What a gap in a verity of skills. The concerns are warranted. Good luck!

[@charlesperez9976]

I love your giant watch!!!🥰

[@kait0531]

I teach first and they should definitely come to 1st knowing their alphabet and most letter sounds. There are occasionally a few we have to make sure they really get. They should also be fluent within 30. I’ll tell you right now, my kids can hardly count to 5.

[@cami3943]

I am not a teacher yet but I can know the struggle when I have a lot of messy classmates. What my teachers usually do when 2 or more kids don't understand the same thing you go back to the board and explain it to all the class bc that can usually be the topic half of the class is stuck on.

[@sheryl415]

Love ya your not my teacher I never met you but you are a good teacher for sure

[@ms.coleinfirst2467]

I totally resonate with everything you said!

[@MADjay1313]

Currently student teaching in a 4th grade class and almost everyone does not their multiplication tables. We are currently working on our 2s 🥲🥲

[@rachelandzach]

I needed to see this video. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@sarahhanley4095]

I’m going to school to be a teacher , but I work in the school board as a teachers aide. I understand the struggles maybe use the kids who know what they are doing to help with the kids who are struggling .

[@annabrin15]

Hi!!! ☺️ I have an idea for you! Can you group your kids with the same needs together? You could redo your floor plan and try to explain the task for the little group only one time! I don’t know if I’m clear but I’m a French math teacher in high school and I feel the same! I have 33 students in each group! Good luck!