It's Not Over Til the Fat Lady Sings...

And I guess she hasn't sung yet. Here is an email I received from my principal this week:

Reporter from the Garner Citizen Newspaper:
Good morning Mr. L.!

I hope all is going well with the new program and facilities at Smith! I am planning the next "Notes From the Teacher's Desk" column, and would appreciate the name of an educator at Smith that I may contact. As you may remember, we spotlighted Emily Deans last year. All I need from you is contact information and just a few words about what makes this teacher so special.

Thanks so much! I look forward to hearing from you.

He wrote:
I would like to nominate Candace Buchanan .

Ms. Buchanan is a 3rd grade teacher here at Smith Magnet Elementary. This is her first year at 3rd grade, but she spent the past two years here at Smith (1) in 07-08 as a Math Intervention teacher; and (2) in 08-09 as a 4th grade teacher.

Ms. Buchanan is a tireless worker -- a teacher dedicated to creating a dynamic classroom with effective, best practice instruction. She cares very much about all of her students finding success, and she is an advocate for her class in all areas of the school day. She is reflective and always open to feedback and growth. Her peers love to collaborate with her, and she brings organization, creativity, and positivity to the grade level in which she is a member.

This professionalism and work ethic produce results ---- as a Math Intervention teacher, she was a part of a 3-5 team that "Met Growth" with the ABC accountability program for the first time in 3 years . As a 4th grade teacher, she was a member of a grade level who "Met High Growth" with the ABC accountability program in both Reading and Math .

Most importantly, she creates an academic and exciting environment in her classroom that passes the ultimate test -- parents (and I count myself included with this) would love to have Ms. Buchanan as their child's 3rd grade teacher.

Sincerely,

Mr. L.

Looks like I still have much more work ahead of me!!!