First Visit

Today I got to go to my new school, Kinser Elementary, where I met some of the staff and see my classroom for the first time. I have to say, I was quite impressed with the school overall. The outside of the building does not look like much, but the school offers quite a lot. All the technology is up-to-date; in fact, the school has computers for every 1.3 students. They also offer music (complete with a music lab), gym (indoor and outdoor facilties), art (they even have a kiln!), and culture (Japanese, of course). My classroom is huge - much larger than I expected. The windows face the ocean, so we have an amazing view, the classroom has 4 computers all hooked up to the internet, there's enough space for lots of centers (such as writing, blocks, creative play, etc), a full kitchen, and the kids get their own bathrooms in the classroom. I was told that they provide whatever materials we need and I got to check out the supply room, which was full of paper, markers, a laminating machine, a die cut machine - the works! I can't believe all the stuff that's already provided. I'll have a lot to do in the next couple of weeks before school starts, especially since the other 2 kindergarten teachers already have their rooms set-up. Once I get it all set up, I'll post pics. For now, you'll have to settle for a photo of the outside of the school.