After a long holiday break, how do you get your students motivated to learn?
After a long break, I get my students motivated to learn by having them engage in various learning stations. Each station features a hands-on activity that they will complete with at least 2 other students. Students rotate every 15 minutes. At each station, students will be asked to complete the extension form which helps me determine how much they learned at each station and if I need to modify the station. They love working together, moving around, and using their hands.
I get students motivated by getting them moving! As the music teacher I am in a great position to incorporate movement into my lessons. My students do everything from traditional folk dances to improvisational "snowman melting". Getting their bodies moving meets all of Gardner's multiple intelligences and reminds them that school can be fun!
I motivate students by playing games with the content. This helps them learn the material and have fun at the same time.
I plan all sorts of fun winter activities that correlate with the math, science, and language arts skills that I am teaching. For example, we play "melt the ice cube" by rolling a dice and doing the action that corresponds to the number. For example, if they roll a one, they blow on the ice cube for 10 seconds. The object is to be the first to melt their ice cube. Another game is having the students write their spelling words on pieces of white paper (one word per paper). Then they crunch their paper into a ball and we have a snow ball fight and practice reading the word then throwing it again!
After a long break, I give my students a chance to orally share what has been going on in their lives. And, oh the stories I've heard! I believe this makes us fill like we are connected and that I care about them. by Sharon H.
I am looking forward to starting a new semester with my students. I like to start it off with a social mixing event relevant to the coursework. They get to meet each other and feel a little more at ease in the setting.
I play lots of games with my students and read lots of books. I usually start the year off with an author's study with characters that the students are interested in!
I enjoy a new semester. Everyone is eager to relay what new experiences they have had during the break. We begin the 1st day back with "I can top that". It starts out as a social activity and then I turn it to science news.
Before we left for break my 8th grade self-contained students had their IEP meetings and picked their classes for freshman year. You may think that at thia point they would think that school was done. But, I have a small blackboard in my room and every day we count down how many days are left until they are finished with 8th grade and become high schoolers. This is a great way for them to realize that the time they have left with me is all the time they have to prepare for high school.
Motivating my students after a long break involves lots of "hands on" activities. As a music teacher, I plan many new learning activities and units focused around instruments. From replicating music of Indonesia on coffee cans, cymbals and xylophones in 5th grade to learning and practicing basic improvisation skills in 1st grade on melody bells my students gets excited about learning AND DOING new and different sounding things in our music classroom.
The students will have a chance to share their holiday experiences through class discussions and writing. We will begin a study on winter and do activities dealing with snow, snowmen, etc. The students will also engage themselves in new and more challenging centers. They also enjoy it when I introduce something different. It will be good to see the first morning and receive a big hug from each student!
Ashley P.
Anderson, SC
After the winter break, the students are going to have many exciting things to share with the rest of the class about what they did. I am going to get them motivated through journal writing and sharing in the author's chair. We will also be doing lots of movement, dancing, and other engaging activities to get them ready to complete the second half of the school year!
After a long winter break, it's important to get the students motivated to learn! So I take a physical approach by actually changing the environment to liven things up. Just by moving around the furniture in the classroom gives everyone a fresh start. I also provide time to share any exciting news during the first 15 minutes of class. We call this time "class chats." The students know they have the time to share so they are more focused during the lesson for the day and more apt to pay attention. As a high school reading teacher, it's important to keep things fresh so the students are energized to learn!
by Rachelle Sosa
Kissimmee, FL
After the Christmas break, we always have some new students, and we take the time to introduce them and acclimate them to their new school. Students love being a part of this.
We love homeschooling and have been at it for 7 years. I love being a teacher to my kids as well as other homeschooling families' kids! It is such a thrill to be part of such a great community and really giving our kids the education they deserve!
I get my students interested by reminding them why they are in my class in the first place. I ask them why English class is important, what they hope to learn this semester, and what strategies they plan on using to achieve their educational goals. Of course, I suggest some techniques too and explain how our upcoming assignments will make them better writers and better thinkers.
My students come back from a 2 week break and then have 2 weeks (or just over) before semester exams. I start off by letting them tell me a little bit about their breaks, and then I give them an idea of what will happen in the next couple weeks. Usually, the fact that they have only 1.5-2 weeks to complete a unit before we start exam review gets them going. This year, I'm also trying a new research project on a social activist or social activist organization with a couple classes, as well.
I get my students motivated by having some really neat Donorschoose activity proposal packages all ready to go! I love to have my students guess what is inside, then we slowly open each one and get ready to write our thank you messages. The suspense is torture for them, but they love doing it this way! We also set new goals for ourselves and really work toward being big second-graders next year.
I always begin the day with a warm up chant. After chanting I give them an opportunity to share events from the break. We then move from station to station with Science games and various Reading games. The stations are 15 minutes giving all a chance to enjoy.
Kandee L.
After a break I get my students motivated by reconnecting with them! We share what has been going on and discuss our goals for the upcoming semester...then it is right to work! I believe that when teachers take the time to personally connect with each student it builds a positive learning environment and shows students that I truly care.
After the holidays - I motivated students with a song about the gifts they either received or gave. In groups they created their own section to the song combining all ideas describing their favorite gifts-each group had the opportunity to perform their verse for the class.
After a long break such as the Christmas break I get my students excited about learning by allowing them the 1st day to reconnect with their friends and peers and share their time away with them and the class. Creating a close knit group of students who know and then in exchange care about each other starts our days off on the right foot!
After break I always display a table of the best new books to inspire them to read while they have renewed energy and enthusiasm!
After a long Christmas break I get my students excited and motivated about learning by allowing them the 1st day to do show and tell. I let them share what they did for their Christmas breakand tell about their favorite gift. Then as a class we write a list of our goals for 2009 and post them in our classroom.
by Deidre G.
I encourage students to share their experiences from winter break. This allows them to get it out of their systems and to then get down to business. I also like to explore the New Year's resolutions they have made for themselves.
I allow my students to share about their experiences during the break, so they can learn how to be good listeners.
Fran C
I lovethe loft!
I have students make new year resolutions. I ask them to write two things that they are going to try and improve on during the second half of the year. We write them on big bells and they hang in our room the entire month of January!
By Julie E.
I teach 7th and 8th grade English to inner city students. I need some advice on how to motivate them to do homework and care about their future. They are currently filled with apathy and laziness.
Help,
Natalia
Always tell my students I enjoy the break, but that I missed them. Each is allowed to tell one thing special about the vacation. All kids like to talk about themselves. Then it's on to our work.
Always tell them I missed them and allow each to share one thing special about their vacation. They all like to talk about themselves. Then it's onto school work.
I give the students time to tell me about their break and also to socialize with their friends. This leads to a much more productive day because they aren't wondering when they can tell their friends about their break.
I give students a chance to tell about their break and gifts they have received.
I always tell my students that I missed them. Then I allow students 5 minutes to share what their favorite thing about break was. They really love that!
Its always nice to start the New Year off with what went on at the end of the last year.
I think it's always nice to start the New Year off by telling about the end of this past year.
Verna D.
After a long holiday break, I get my students motivated to learn by letting them write and share about what all they did, ate, and got over the holiday break. I then also plan may fun, learning activities for the first week back so as to warm them up to learning. This year though I have a really good group who does not need much of a push. They are pretty motivated most of the time.
After a long break, I get my students motivated to learn by making learning fun! This is what I try to do all year long. I will have a theme of the week (goes along with the time of year). This theme may be snow, Christmas, etc. There will be many of different learning centers for the students to engage in. The main goal is hands on learning. This gives them an opportunity for self learning and a better understanding of the subject. Students learn so much in centers with out even realizing they are learning!
Great ideas!
My students give oral presentations about an independent Novel they read over the long break. It's great to keep them reading!
it's great to give the students an opportunity to write about, and then share their stories from vacation.
KathleenC.
We talk about New Years Resolutions; it helps the kids get motivated for the rest of the year!
I'm excited to join!
Be excited about what I teach!
by B.B.
Thanks for thinking of teachers Jimmie Gay
I love what I teach (nursing) and I love what I do!
by Emily N.
i feel very appreciated by the loft.
by Shannon Williams-Sims
Glad to be appreciated by a store that carries stylish clothes in size 2 petite
Very nice!
gotta love the Loft!
energy and enthusiasm gets 'em every time...
Thank you for your offer to teachers. :)
I love for the students to share about their experiences. They love to tell every detail!
Thanks so much for the teacher offer. In January, I kick into high gear for mid-terms but offer a party day of current events trivia after our goals have been achieved.
by Mandy C.
After the Christmas Holdiay I leave special projects posted in the classroom so my preschoolers can slowly move away from the holiday rush and this helps them transition well, We talk about the displayed items as we remove them (one or two items a week) from the classroom. We begin to move more toward winter happenings and cool activities. This workds well and avoids a lot of the holiday let down mood.
Lana S
I would like to have my students focus on something new in and out of the classroom and to encourage them to see things with a new perspective.
I want my students to find their passions.
by J.S.
thank you, j.s.
Thank You!
Review, review, review! I revisit the material we were covering before and do it interactively.
We always start the year talking about how we are halfway to the next grade to get them focused on and excited about going to the next grade. We usually start with some harder topics and experiments that they tackle with tons of enthusiasm since they cant wait to be bigger!
I just shop all every weekend and spend every cent and more.
shop shop shop
We'll all be wearing the same clothing
kristina I.
Need some comfortable, stylish clothing
I welcome them with an enthusiastic attitude
Remind them that we're half way there. Re-evaluate what we've done so far and set goals to shoot for. 8th grade a a major field trip to work towards.
I like clothes!
Make learning hands on and fun. Praise students for their accomplishments.
We use movement exercises to get their brains and bodies working.
Movement exercises to get their brains and bodies moving!
When the students returned from winter break, they returned to a new school building. After 1.5 years of construction and 3 weeks of long days of moving and class prep, our students are now in their new classroms! What an awesome day it was! So many new things to experience and enjoy!We have been totally blessed!
By KarenT. San Diego
music!!!
WINTER!!
Part time activiities in the fall and it makes my day-- we sing and sign...they are wonderful
Thank you Ann Taylor for the discounts. I really appreciate it! Jesus Bless You.
When planning lessons, I try to involve as many of the students' senses as possible. Like many teachers, I try to remind myself to talk less and let the students talk more :)
I try to be sensitive to the reality that many of my students did not have a wonderful holiday full of family and gifts, State testing is coming up soon, so before we get chained to the computer doing multple choice tests, I try to plan one active project that gets us out of the classroom and using creative skills.
Thank you so much for your offer to teachers. I love shopping at the Loft
Thank you for helping me look good while I work!
Setting short term goals whether it be during the college application process; upcoming state assessment exam; etc. with weekly progress check-ins.
I love dressing in Anntaylorloft when I go to work.
Peggy L.
I get so many compliments on my Loft clothing! It makes me feel good and be a better teacher to my students!
by Lynda G.
best fitting professional clothes!
My students get to share what they did during the holidays and I share what I did too.
The first couple of days back after break, I made sure to incorporate lots of personal compliments to each child. (How tall they'd grown, what beautiful new hair bows, nice new sneakers, great smile, etc.) I also keep them busy and remind them they are "half-way to 3rd grade" and "let's see which 2nd grader knows how a 3rd grader will answer this,"( etc). We are using review games in Math and English too.
Thanks for this!
Thank you for recognizing teachers in a positive way!
Audra P
I get students motivated to learn by allowing them to make snowflakes for every assignment that they complete with a B average or better. The student with the most snowflakes within two weeks gets to host a "winter party" (I provide the food). The host gets to set the agenda for the party with choices of activities as well as meet with me to make"favors" for the party.
How nice!
-Kim M.
I get my students motivated to learn by giving them a chance to talk about their holiday and share stories. We take the time to listen to each other.
We all wrote a class story about our holiday break.
i get them motivated by asking them to share what they have done during their break.. i share my own experience as well, Then I get them moving by introducing a new topic in a fun and interactive way.
To get my classroom motivated, I come in that Monday morning with a bright smile and let them tell me about their long break. Then I usually start to tell them the fun things we are going to be learning now that they are all refreshed!
I show them that school can be fun by SMILING when they come in! They get to tell me about their breaks and I tell them about mine! They enjoying hearing all the things TEACHERS do when they're not in school!
We start the New Year off right by having a New Year's party and making a resolution to do our best for the rest of the school year.
by Beth H.
Love to shop here!
This is my favorite clothing store!
I teach Pre-K and they are all excited to be back. We do start our first day back with singing our favorite Christmas songs, telling what happened over our break, and drawing a picture of their one favorite gift.
Kathleen
Before the break I have my students brainstorm topics that they would be interested in learning when we retrun to school after the break. The class votes on the topics and I announce the top 3 choices. Students are told that one of the 3 topics will be what we will start the new year learning. When students come back they are excited to find out what we will be researching and are eager to start school.
We do something similar before Spring Break except that when the 3 topics are announced, I change it up by stating that these will be the 3 topics that we will be learning, however, you won't find out what group you will be in until you come back. Each group will become an expert on the topic and present their findings to their classmates and parents at an evening meeting.
This is a great way to acknowledge teachers and the importance of what we do, Thanks
The New Year is a time to reflect on what we have already learned. It is also a time to expose to the children just how much more they have to grow. They are so excited and ready to absorb everything!
It is always a challenge to keep 6th graders engaged in math. We do lots of partner and group work involving mini-labs and small group projects bringing math procedures into real-life situations. The kids really enjoy making a connection with math class and something real in their lives.
I love working with little children!
We usually discuss all the fun things we did during break. I also, have students reflect on how the New Year in school can be different as a class and for individuals.
I always call Ann taylor my store because I love it
I love to show the children that teachers can be elegant. Ann Taylor Loft allows me to do this.
love shopping at ATL for school clothes!
I love wearing Ann Taylor Loft to work!! So cute and comfy!
I love Ann Taylor Loft! Best clothes for work!
Ann Taylor Loft has the best fitting petite clothes.
Angela C. I love your idea about posting new books for students to read after a long break. On Scholastic.com they have shelf talkers that can be printed so that students can encourage their fellow classmates to read a book that they have just enjoyed.
I love Ann Taylor Loft petite.
The best store ever!
By Vash
I allow my students to use their creativity in whatever way they want to show me and their fellow classmates what they did over break. They get really excited over this and it leads to a great discussion.
We are currently studying the Water Cycle in 3rd grade Science class. I totally love the "Melt the Ice Cube Activity" mentioned above.
I plan to use that activity as a fun way to explore changing a solid back to a liquid. Rae T.
I have really enjoyed your after Christmas Sales - Thank you!
yea!! thanks!
I'm giving my students a learning styles self assessments. You can find them on the web, to download or to take online. I teach HS, and my students are facing mid-term exams soon. It helps them study better if they know what their learning styles are.
In honor of the inauguration, my first grade class learned about the Presidential oath of office. Did you know that it is only 35 words? We made a classroom oath that incorporated our promise to ourselves and each other with our community code. It was also only 35 words long!
by Andrea R.
In honor of the upcoming inauguration, my first grade class learned about the presidential oath. It is only 35 words. We made a classroom oath that incorporated our community code and the promise we want to keep to ourselves and each other as learners and classmates. It, too, was 35 words.
They have great clothes for teachers <3
good clothes makes it easy to get dressed in the morning!
as a private music teacher, i playfully 'compete' with my students to see how well they can review and play their holiday songs.
moving on the the next song, they get 1 point for every note played correctly; for wrong notes, i get 1 point. if they win, we play a quick hangman game, or some other agreed treat. if i win, he/she attempts the song again! lol...and if there are lyrics, i'll belt that out too.
they focus much better next time ;-)
Awesome!
As a second grade teacher in an inner city school I provide a multicultural experience for them everyday.
Because it's a new year--and a new semester--I focus on the fresh start that we all have--both inside and out. New Year's resolutions about appearance, about weight, about work ethic make good starting points for discussions.
I love the idea of a "classroom oath" that is only 35 words long! What a great idea!
I have my students share what they received for Christmas, and I allow them to tell what their family did on Christmas day.
To motivate my class after a long vacation, I like to pick up a couple of new games for the class to play together. For example, I picked up a good game at Target called Stare! Each game card has a picture the kid examine for 1 minute and then there are questions that go with each picture. Its a good brain stimulator, and can be played as a large class or on teams.
Finally, a place where my daughter and I can shop together!
We talk about fresh beginnings and how we can make one positive change in ourselves to make us better people.
Love being an educator wouldn't trade it for the world. We are facing various challenges but teachers are ready!!
Being a high school math teacher, I just get right back into where we left off. If there weren't so many state standards and I didn't have to finish more material than I have time to finish it in, then I'd love to do it different!
After the Winter Break, students need to be "charged up"! I get the students motivated by hosting a "Winter Olympics". I set-up indoor activites i.e. snowman building-using shaving cream, ice melting-prediciting when an ice cube in a cup will melt, making snow-using sodium polyacrylite(science catalogs), & mnay more.You can make up your own. Play the Olympic song, make gold, silver & bronze medals using ribbon & gold silver bronze sticker seals. It is a blast for the students & everyone is a winner. I love teaching!!! Anything in the world can be taught to my students & they soak it up like sponges!!
by Lillian D.
Thank goodness for clothing that looks professional and stylish
I am glad to find clothes that are stylish but not old people clothes!
First I ask how was this time, my students are big boys and girls from college. Then I start the class with challenge in the new area of work. Thanks, for be a great store were I can by good cloth that feel and looks very profesional, specialy in college.
by Mitz M.
Great store for teachers to shop to look professional everyday!
Thank you so much for the teacher offer. I love your store. I know I can get great quality for a reasonable price. I look great too!
I teach Kindergarten, and I like to start the new year by thinking of a way we can make a change in our lives. We also look forward to celebrating the 100th day of school.
by DeniseK
Where is the nearest LOFT store to Plainview, Texas
This offer will be well used!!
Debbie
As a Kindergarten teacher, I love shoppin at Ann because they have great clothes and most of the time your sales are great!! Thanks Ann Keep up the great work!!! We look forward to celebrate our 100th day of school!!!!
By Erin A. - New York
I love this store :) It is my favorite stop for teaching clothes.
The 100th day of school was such a milestone! We remembered everything we've done and had such fun
I already did!
I am a big fan of this store. I like to look stylish but be comfortable!
The sweaters are just great!
I love Ann Taylor Loft. I enjoy being stylish but I like to comfortable too. The sweaters are great! by Sandy M.
I also love the idea of the classroom code! We follow a Social Contract. All of my classes follow the Capturing Kids Hearts program, created by Flip Flippen. We re-wrote Contracts for this semester and it got the kids back in the mindset and they had to remember the questions in order to build it.
Also, we love to play games, like Jeopardy, to review material. And instead of copying vocab definitions, they are using new concept word maps that keep it interesting.
What a great idea.
...
I like to start the new year by having the students think about their goals for the rest of the school year. Whatever happened last semester is over and done. We take a fresh look at the time we have left and set personal and academic goals -- and write about them.
Sheryl S.
Teachers can positively impact their student's lives by being an
appropriate role model.
!
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Hi guys, I like this club.
!!!
After winter break, it's important to get the students back on fire for learning. Since we are just beginning to learn multiplication, it's fun and easy. We have fun by working in small groups with small rubber items I've bought at the dollar store to approximate measure, we use the same items in centers as they practice multiplication (they each represent a different fact: 2's have 2 legs, 3's have 3 beads, 4's have 4 legs, 5's are people where we count the heads, 6's we count the 4 legs and 2 antenna's, 7's I use beads again (cut apart plastic neclaces), 8's spiders, etc. ) They love learning multiplication this way.
Great idea
by Sharon
After the long holiday break, I do my best to get the students motivated to learn. Since it is a new semester, there are "new" groups of students for each class. On the first day, I memorize the names of all of my students before they leave the classroom, usually this number is from 80-100 for all the classes I have.
High school students want to know that you care, and in order to promote this "by action," I memorize with a smile. The next day I refer to each by name as he or she arrives, and the smiles of positive affirmation lighten the way. This is really motivation in its essence -- "she knows my name, and I am important" -- this is the nonverbal message to send. Then, the students follow my lead. What a blessing!
I was proud to return to my classroom feeling rested and confident
wearing the new Loft blouse and sweater my daughter gave me for Christmas!
by Linda G.
I am an education student. I am a single mother to a three year old boy who is also in school (montisorri). We were both ready to get back to school and on a regular routine. Winter break is inly 2-3 weeks. I can't imagine what what summer break will do.
I motivated my students by being upbeat and letting them know some of the fun activities them will be doing between now and Spring break. I introduced a new novel and we did a hands-on science experiment.
When the whole class doesn't miss a homework for an entire week, the following Monday, I bring in snacks for them!
I love Ann Taylor Loft! Thanks for the teacher offer. My kids benefit from seeing me well dressed!
Listen to what events have taken place while they were on break let them share with the class. by Melody M
My students love to move to music. I teach Kindergarten! Movement is the key to keeping them interested and motivated.
I give them a healthy snack every Friday during the month of January. This gives everyone something to look forward to.
by Kathy D
I teach at the college level-I need to always look professional-I only wear Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft
Sharon B
Showing personal excitement toward teaching and being prepared for all types of learners helps keep the students on board. Almost like selling a product.
I am a new instructor this semester and am looking forward to it!
Elizabeth S.
I substitute teach and am always looking for classroom management tips.
As a literacy coach I am working with teachers on incorporating drama into their literacy instruction to increase student interest and engagement and improve reading comprehension at the same time.
I have popcorn parties and the end of the week
by Naomi E.
we have jello on Fridays.
by N.E.
We make resolutions and set goals for the new year.
I remind them applications for graduate programs are due in 2 months. I also bring in old students who are now in another program to tell them what to expect and motivate them to hang in through the spring!
I truly enjoy my students telling me "you look lovely as always! I like when students can say you look like my mom and you smell good. I also, like your sales!!!
By Angela Brown-Gillis
I am going back to sustitute teach after being about out for 8 years. I taught art. It is soooo important for kids to express themselves, so I am looking forward to making a difference in their lives.
I find that students coming back from a break are motivated and ready to learn. I plan accordingly.
by Pam C.
I have decided to motivate my students with a little boys vs. girls "competition." I have created two double line graphs, one for Reading/ Language Arts and one for Math. When I grade a set of papers I take the average for both teams and chart the progress. Everyday my students come in and see how their team is progressing. They love it!
As a guidance counselor, I make every effort to meet each of my seniors in January who have not yet made a decision on post secondary plans. Many of them have good ideas, but they need that extra push to follow through.
I absolutely love working with kids, teaching is a really rewarding job.
Every class begins with a 5 minute timed writing. The subjects have to do with what is going on in the students' lives, such as the breaks they have. They can write in paragraph or poetry form and have the option to read their entries out loud.
by Marianne L.
students loved to be recognized and sometimes starting back is an anxious and stressful time. I recognize each student and try to find something uniquely their own to comment upon. We share pictures from break on the bulletin board.
Working with children - there is no better gift. Also - if you can read this... thank a teacher.
I am currently going to Hunter for my Masters Degree in Education. I work at a public school in Kindergarten as an Assistant Teacher. I motivate the little ones by having a chart that tells them what we are going to do each day. They get excited about the upcoming days' routine.
I work in the Resource department at an elementary school. The kids are so thoughtful and gracious and depsite their learning disabilities, whether it's LD or ADHD, they are so willing to work hard.
Lots of sharing and a few songs from the beginning of the year usually gets them going.
making it fun and sometimes temting them with treats if they finish and finish it right.
I love my class and their families
Am at a new grade level this year and loving it.
by Chris
I work with students who have speech and language disorders, so I usually have my students talk about their holiday experiences using their best speech and language techniques.
My students thrive on the routines I set early in the year, and so do I!
I introduce a new theme for the winter and explain some of the activities that are coming up.
My motto all children have a voice,so listen they have a lot to say!
by: Termika
My new school is wonderful and has so much collaboration within each department. It is such a blessing!
I truly enjoy the students, faculty, and staff. They are wonderful to work with.
by LJGross
I am usually jovial and express how good it is to be back. "The sooner we start, the quicker we finish" is what I tell them. This usually sparks laughter which allows students to feel relaxed and back in the swing of things.
Mis estudiantes estan deseosos de aprender, despues de casi dos meses de vacaciones. Paty
I teach Homebound, and am struggling to find the proper style for hauling books around all week.
I work with special needs children
I work with special needs children by Paula H.
I am a computer teacher, so I tell them that 10 minutes before the period finishes they can play their favorite game. Lula B.
I love the school I am at. We are like a family. Community, parents, teachers, students.
Betty D.
The teachers at my school are not only great educators but wonderful friends as well. How fortunate I am!
I homeschool my son
I always continue to smile that keep them AND me going!! ;-)
I tell them how much I have missed them. I teach in an inner-city school, and for many of my students my comments may be among very few good things that happen to them. I encourage my students to do well, I try to spend a few minutes with each asking about their break and reminding them that we are still only half-way through. When I am enthusiastic about the class, so are my students.
f
Thankfully it is the start of a new semester. The students are naturally motivated after viewing grades from the second nine weeks/semester. Also, my classes are mostly in the morning. Good thing I'm a morning person, and I usually get my students hyped for the day or week.
What a joy it is to work with sixth graders. They are inspiring.
I usually like to find an activity that allows students to share something about their break. This might be a Kagan activity- hands-up, pair up, share.
I love being a school counselor!
I love being a teacher!
I work with a variety of ages as a music teacher, and I love it! I get the motivated by playing different games that will foster creativity for their own compositions.
Thanks for your generosity and for recognizing the important work of educators! Looking good is also an act of charity for others. It pleases children visually and helps them develop good taste.
Shelley D.
I teach first grade..and love it
I teach K-5 Science. It is so much fun!
l appreciate your recognition of teachers.
I work at high school
I sure like this website...and the gesture that some stores are taking to rocognize teachers.
I talk to students and see what's going on with them. Did they enjoy their vacation? See any good movies?
I teach 7th grade and love it! I have learned that wearing stylish, professional, but fun clothing gains respect from my students. Thank you Ann Taylor LOFT for helping us look good. Let's face it, kids don't respond to the teacher in faded stretch pants and the oversized t-shirt. by Nancy J.
I <3 teaching and Ann Taylor Loft recognizing us!
My high school students love my clothes-even the boys notice!
Debbie K
I am an Early Childhood Special Ed. Teacher and my kids are motivated after break by Skittles and Library books about things that interest them :) I was just at Ann Taylor Loft last night and got great clothes at 40% off the mark down. Pants for $5. Can't beat that! Thanks Ann Taylor Loft for remembering teachers.
I teach reading to high school students. Most of our work is oral so after the break, i allow them each time to share what they did. It is especially difficult for some of them to spell and therefore they dislike writing but talking is another matter and even though it takes up some of the valuable "work" time if I give them their "time" they are more willing to work.
I teach Spanish at the college level.
I am glad I joined!
By Aimee P.
Love to be a science nerd!
Thanks!
slk
I'm so fortunate to teach with and to learn from an enthusiastic community of teachers. Our students are inspired by our energy and passion.
I am on a sabbatical now after teaching for 18 years, and it is so energizing to learn some new technology that I can share with my inner city at-risk high school students. I think reinventing oneself is essential after several years of teaching the same types of skills to increasingly needier students. Thanks for the discounts, as well as the forum for sharing.
Rosalie R.
More engagement in group activities.I enjoy wearing clothing from anntaylor loft.
Group activities and fun, new projects helps to keep them engaged.
Just love the kids! Let them know you care by "talking with them" not at them. Share in their interests; earn their trust, hug them, and offer plenty of smiles!!
L love wearing ann taylor.
it is great!
I love wearing Ann Taylor Loft.
Trying to afford clothes on a teacher's salary is hard enough, not to mention how much of your own money you end up spending on your students! Thanks for the discounts.
we start the new year off by talking about ways to make the New year fabulous and we create goals to accomplish by the end of 4th grade
we also start new units when we return from break
Clothing at ATL is teacher appropriate, affordable, and well made. Everytime I need a specific piece I usually find it at ATL, many times on sale too! Thanks you guys for appreciating us.
by Jessie C.
I Love Ann Taylor Loft! A must for a professional look.
Great Comments
I love The Loft! The look, the sophistication and the prices!
The Loft is Great!
Thank you! I appreciate this esp on a teacher's salary!
LOVE YOUR SALES!!! KEEP THEM COMINGby Sydnee
Thank you
Ann Taylor Loft keeps me looking hip and young at school.
I love the Loft,great sales and fun looks.by Annie C
After a long break, I ask how they felt spending time with their love ones. After that, I tell them how much i missed all of them. I work with pre-k children, and I love it.
Sandra Spicer
Thank you for the good quality clothing that is suitable for the classroom and still looking professional.
Classes start on Monday!
Love the Loft!
Loft!
To Amy N: I empathize with the feelings you express. I recently retired from public education after 30 years of teaching inner-city adolescents (mainly grades 7 thru 10.) You have to learn to be pleased with small rewards. For many inner-city kids, homework presents a real problem--their lives may be unbelievably complicated and homework is not a priority. Make your classroom a safe and warm and welcoming place for them and continue to model for them your love and enthusiasm for learning. Remember to use humor in your classroom. Hope this helps! We never know what we say or do that may make a real difference for a child.
I'm addicted to Loft!
Greetings fellow teachers! I'm new to the Loft but excited to join. I teach third grade in a private Christian school in Texas. Always open to any ideas! God bless!
by Tonya H.
I'm feeling quite "Lofty" today! Love to know I can go into my closet and look professional. Thanks!
Love Loft!!
As an art teacher, I like to start the new year with big, messy projects that immedialtely engage the students and get their hands dirty!
New to Loft! Eager to connect and be apart of this fascinating project and opportunity from Colorado
Show them you care!
Susan A.
I am just now trying to complete the required information online to join. I am having problems so I hope this goes through.
Start an intriguing group project that gets them going!
Have a Friday talk day.
Hello Friends, thanks for letting me join.
Lisa T.
Hi Friends! I am excited to be included.
Start by introducing my students to a new composer to listen to at the start of class.
Thanks for thinking of us!
Thanks for thinking of teachers.
Didn't know about this great site. Teacher are wonderful and I'm happy to have found this site. Thank you, Loft!
What are "Kagan" actvities? Can anyone good ice- breakers for college students? Thanks.
Allie
After a long winter break, my students are excited to come back to school. Both the students and I love the routine and discipline that goes into the daily practice. To motivate them on a daily basis, I use a lot of interactive, hands-on projects. In January, I launch the study of Great African American Heroes. The students have to read a biography and create a 3D biography block. Then we write important poems and record our voices over a video slide show. It is a lot of fun and it keeps the children motivated for a solid two months!
Thank you!
After a long break I bring in an exciting novel that engages the kids.
What a great way to say thank you to educators! This is awesome!
This is outstanding,
After break we start state test prep using incentives and after school programs that engage all students 3-5.
The start of every new year brings me a new family to love and cherish. I love my job!
I love my students
My students keep me young and hip.
I love i get discount.
I love I get a discount
My students give me a great look.
I love free shipping!!!
This is great!
Carol B
I love this store. It gives me a great young look and it makes me look professional.
I teach science and it is frustrating to see the media portray scientists as slovenly, antisocial, and unfashionable (for example shows like the "Big Bang Theory," etc.). We are a role model to our students and we shouldn't feel pressured to give up our femininity just to blend in with the guys. The assortment of clothes from the Loft is perfect for the professional workplace, yet versatile enough to take us to the dance floor! Thank you for appreciating education and for encouraging us to embrace our fashion-sense!
Thanks for the discount.
What a great time to jump back into writing workshop full force!! My kindergarteners are full of stories about break, snow, presents and more, and they relish the opportunity to share their stories through writing, and that excitement spurs motivation in other areas of learning too.
It is great to be part of this kind of "forum". Thanks for giving teachers an important position in your company. by Gloria Martinez, PR
I move to a current event and tie it into the unit completed before the break...that way we get to review the concepts most recently covered, but not feel like we're "back to business as usual."
I'm sooo excited! I love LOFT, but on a teachers salary I can't shop there all the time. I'll be there tomorrow with my 15% off coupon! Thanks for thinking of teachers!
I get my students motivated by changing the ordinary. After a break students return to a new seating arrangement.
Syrena L.
Love this store, and have since I was in college (a while ago!)... Thank you for making it easier to access your clothes!
I love Anne Taylor Loft and I'm very excited about this opportunity to wear these comfy clothes as I teach!
Yay! So excited.
Hurray!
Cheap clothes just for being a teacher? I'm in!
Just let them talk about what they did over the break! Once they've gotten a chance to share, they'll be much more likely to pay attention.
Thanks, I love my job even more now...Caryn F.
You have always been my #1 store, thank you for helping us teachers out!!!
What a great idea! Thank you!
Thanks so much for appreciating us and the work we do!!
Debbie C.
Ms. Joy
After the break its important to be firm but, also be nice to the children. Show time some love. (:
this is great
I never thought I would get discounts for teaching!
Thanks so much for honoring teachers!!!
After Christmas Break we celebrate snow, I teach kindergarten. We make January theme Snow and it is so much fun, there are so many great winter books and I never get it all done!
Thank you!!
Thanks for recognizing Teachers!
I encourage my students to find the creative. I, also teach kindergarten. We make little books because my group loves to read and write.
by Janice M.
CB
I love the classic look Anne Taylor's clothes blend the classic with the trendy I just love it ! Beth G.
My students are more motivated in the winter because they are not distracted by the warm, sunny weather!
Thanks
Thank you helping teachers look their best at school!
Thank you for being dedicated to teachers!
by Sue P.
I love Ann Taylor! I became hooked when the only place I could find a nice suit to interview in that was in my size was Ann Taylor. My entire professional wardrobe now carries the Loft logo. Thanks!
thanks for dedicating your time and energy to teachers!!
pat l.
love the clothes. great for school.
pat l
love the loft
Love to shop
love shopping at the Loft
I always make sure I am excited about the things I am teaching. If I am getting bored, I know the kids are too. I love to find new ideas that I just can't wait to share with the kids.
by Michelle Lovell
The Loft is my favorite stoe
Oops, in my hurry to post, I left a letter out of a word. Should have been "store."
by Suzann E.
Wow this is great! Benefits for being a teacher! And I NEED a new wardrobe for my demanding teaching job . . .
The Loft is my favorite store. I love building my wardrobe, and I recently just spoiled myself with some Ann Taylor clothes!! Thank you for the benefits. It makes me love the store even more :)
I listen to their fun stories :)
The loft is one of my favorites. I'm glad teachers get a discount to look nice.
Live, Love, Loft!!
Christine
LIVE, LOVE, LOFT!!!
Love the Loft, especially the Petites!
I find comfortable and professional clothing at the loft!
by Pamela C.
Love Loft Petites
We start planning the Valentines Day and Easter Parties!!!
They also start to get ready fro tne next school year.
Thanks for the talls.
Thanks so much for thinking of us in education! Everyone knows that we didn't choose this career for the money, so it's great that we are appreciated!
Admin. in Texas!
Always start by briefly asking the students about their break and allowing each one to contribute in some way. Typically after they have been able to share their experiences they're able to focus on targeted activities.
I'm looking for a new wardrobe to wear my first year teaching!
My students are always excited to tell what happened to them over the break. We take the first day back just to tell our stories of the holidays.
Teaching Kindergarten almost has motivation built in... the kids are so excited to be back in school and their little minds are like sponges. Our first day back, during circle time, each one gets a chance to tell something about their holiday. Introducing some new songs with fun actions along with our standard ones makes them love to be there.
Middle school students always notice what you're wearing!
by Sue D.
Thanks so much, Loft, for appreciating teachers! *Susan D.* - You're so right! My middle school kids always notice what I'm wearing. I never paid that much attention when I was a kid.
Love seeing the kids when they return. I work in Special Education and it feels great when you see them with thier eyes all lit up waiting to step off thier bus.
I have noticed that some of my students try to emulate the fashion style of teachers that they admire. I think its a great compliment! In many cases these young girls do not have role models so they look to their teachers.
how do i get the 15
how do i get the 15% discount online?
Rearrange the classroom
Rearrange the classroom, changing almost everything and brightening up the decor.
Thank you Loft for appreciating the teachers :)
Thank you very much!
I love this! Thanks for thinking of us!
Thanks :) this is just so nice!
It is wonderful to receive a Loft discount for being a teacher - I buy so many 'teacher clothes' here that it is much appreciated!
For motivation I begin a countdown to my 8th graders Washington DC field trip which is in the Spring. The countdown isn't just numbers - it's the topics of history that we are going to learn each week.
Thanks for helping teachers Deb P
thanks, it is nice to be appreciated!
thanks!
Thanks for helping teachers Deb P.
After a long break we do a lot of hands-on activities and activities that get them moving. Putting lesson concepts to song and dance has worked well for me. In addition this gives them an opportunity to get some exercise when the weather is too cold and snowy to go outdoors.
This is a lovely opportunity...thanks for helping to make our lives less stressful and much more attractive!
BetteM
Ann Taylors clothing always makes me feel professional even when I have to be very active with my students.
Cheryl L.
Thanks for the great suggestions!
Thank you for doing this! It helps a lot of teacher everywhere.
Thanks for helping me build my wardrobe for a new teaching job!
What a great idea! We need all the help we can get.
This is exciting! My closet is full of LOFT clothes and I'm looking forward to adding more :)
I just started shopping at the Loft, and I love it!
By Renee F.
I am a student teacher and I can't wait to start teaching in the fall!!!
It's great to be appreciated and recognized by Ann Taylor.
Stephanie D.
I am a first year teacher so I really am doing a lot of shopping at the Loft!
Tania B.
I
Ann Taylors clothing line.
Thanks for helping teachers!
Thanks for helping teachers! I love your clothing line!
Meghan M
This is such a wonderful blessing! Thanks so much Ann Taylor Loft!
Sweet! Happy Valentine's to me. thanks so much
Jeni C
I love your clothes! Thanks for the discounts.
Ann Taylor you are amazing!
Yippee!
I agree that stations and novel topics are the best for young students. Ask them what they would like to study in a particular subject and engage them in the planning process.
I am enjoying your affordable and fun clothing lines. I recently retired after 35 years of teaching and am working as a guest teacher now. I love the little ones. It's important to me to dress "smartly" and in style. Thank you for your discounts!
Paulette E.
I love Loft clothes and I'm excited to learn more about this opportunity to support education and my fellow educators
I am very excited about this.
by kimberly
Thanks ~ !
by Kimberly C.
I get my students engaged by having them complete a hands on cultural food activity. Kids love to eat in the classroom!
I love Loft Clothes! I just feel so good wearing them.
Stylish but practical too.
I let them talk about their break and do an activity to incorporate it!
Thank you for thinking of us! Not only am I a teacher, but a teacher in Illinois! Thanks Gov. B for leaving our state in a state of panic!
I do a tropical theam to get them up and moving to motivate them for spring and have them join in in decorating the room.
by Kim R.
This is so nice! THanks!!
Thank you for letting me join!!
thanks
I do a lot of hands on project based learning to keep their minds and bodies active.
You have some great things at more affordable prices - thanks for the opportunity to join.
Stefanie
We do a little review of what our procedures should "look like" and "sound like" and then when everyone is back in the groove, we introduce new centers because "they are so awesome at behavior"!
Michelle S.
Love your clothes. They follow all the fashion rules and look great at reasonable prices.
Thanks for the opportunity to join. I try to relate everything I teach to the lives of my children as much as possible
With a fun back to school journal writing activity/project.
Journal writing!
When I taught preschoolers a great way to get them back into the groove I would invite their family members to come in and read or share some time with our class.
by Paula GB
by setting individual goals that are easily attainable (at first) and increasing them a little each week. I tell my 2nd grade students that they are no longer 2nd graders but "3rd graders in training". The difference is amazing!
Have them share what they have done over vacation..show and tell, writing prompt
Ease in slowly and then begin to pick up the pace rather than diving in to quickly therefore losing them to frustration or laziness.
Thanks for sharing. I like to start by having them talk about their break, the good, the bad, everything. Then I share what I did. Then we all have an understanding of where each other has been for the last two weeks. How good or bad their break was is often a forshadow of how the day/week will go.
Ginny J.
I like to have students actively involved. Students will first have the chance to share their fun times from break. Then I like to have the students tell me one thing that they are excited to learn about in the coming weeks. It helps them to be involved in their learning.
I am a science teacher and after the break I usually spend 1 week doing "silly" labs that engage their interests before I start the "hard" stuff.
JenS.
We usually talk about our break and create some type of project from it.
Allison G
Currently I am doing my student teaching in order to receive my certification in the state of Georgia. I am such a good time it doesn't even feel like work! The middle school students I interact with everyday are such great kids, I will be so sad to leave them at the end of March...but hopefully, in a great new interview suit from Anny Taylor Loft, I will be hired and have a classroom of my own next year!
SAE
This is great! I teach first grade in MA....thanks Ann Taylor Loft!
I teach first grade in Ma...thanks!
I teach 7th grade math in Dallas, Texas. Teachers Love The Loft!!! Thanks!
I teach 7th grade math in Dallas, Texas...we love the LOFT!!! Thanks!
by Jessica W.
I heard about this from another teacher. This is a fabulous idea and very helpful to us as we are all on a lower budget than other careers. But it is well worth it for the kids! They are so rewarding. Thanks Ann Taylor for this wonderful opportunity!
Johanna H.
Tucson, AZ
A associate at the store told me about this I am excited!
I always provide visual aids.
Lansing, MI
What a great gift to teachers !!!!!
Thank you Ann Taylor. What a great gift!
thanks AT
Thank you for thinking of us!
With the economic turn down and teacher layoffs its nice to know someone still cares!
Holly B.
Talking about what everyone did when they were apart can help so they can get it out in the air and not be itching to discuss it later.
Thanks for honoring teachers!
Yeah! I could finally dress decently!
Thanks dm
Cathy B.
I can't log in! Hmmm.
Thank you I love Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft they a great selection of clothes and good discounts.
What a lovely surprise.
Thanks Ann Taylor
Wow!
Great program
Good deal,Thanks
What a way to stimulate the economy!!!
At the end of a unit, we play Jeopardy, music and all! We may also play Hollywood Squares. These games shows how the students remember concepts in a fun and engaging way. We all love it!
Thanks for appreciating us.... doesn't happen enough
Jen C
Thanks for your appreciation.
JBC
Every visit to the loft is a fun shopping experience. In this economy I appreciate this program. Thank you!
by Barbara M.
I love and care for mt special ed students and they in turn love what I teach. Method plus connection is proven to be the key!!!
I am a Speech Pathologist. In addition to servicing my regular caseload, I provide RTI listening lessons to all the Kindergartens in my school. I use my guitar to motivate the students with a song related to the letter they are learning. I give the students the kinesthetic attributes of the sound and read a book that contains many words with that sound. I have the students predict what the book will be about and at the end perform a reality check to see if their predictions were correct.
This is such a wonderful way to recognize educators! Thank you!
THANK YOU FOR RECOGNIZING THAT TEACHERS ARE TRULY EVERYTHING!!!!!!!
Thanks! Colleen
I can not believe there is a clothing website that recognize teachers! I appreciate Ann taylor loft for the recognition.
Thank you for everything!
Taylor
Taylor a
Love this
Comments
After a long break, I get my students motivated to learn by having them engage in various learning stations. Each station features a hands-on activity that they will complete with at least 2 other students. Students rotate every 15 minutes. At each station, students will be asked to complete the extension form which helps me determine how much they learned at each station and if I need to modify the station. They love working together, moving around, and using their hands
thank you
With a provocative inspiring story that I may share personally or through a video with application to their actual situation or to their future career.
Journal writing about the holiday season.
I teach art and I always inspire with work from art history.
I've been in education for 23 years. Thanks! Karan
I've been in education for 23 years. Thanks! Karen
I love Ann Taylor Loft. Thanks. Debra
Dana
I just started teaching. It looks like I have a lot to learn! Thank you Ann Taylor!
Thanks! It's always nice to save some money!
thanks! I have been wearing ann taylor to work for 20 years.
Diane
by Diane C.
I started a money reward (plastic, of course) to promote good behavior. They receive coins from me whenever I see them making good choices. During math time they are allowed to trade with me to learn the different values of the money. It is working wonderfully and they are learning money without even knowing it. At the end of the month we have to add it up to see who has the most and they get a prize. Great motivator.
Sherri Shiver
Thank you for honoring teachers, you make us feel appreciated!
Thanks again,
Candace J.
My wife is a teacher and I am so PROUD of her!
Tell them we're almost there, finish strong. That is one of our class slogans, it is good for any time that rest is coming and kids want to slack off, from the end of the period to just before a vacation or on a holiday.
Great news that a company takes our work seriously in a world that is losing grasp of the importance of real education for human development
Students run out of steam heading into spring. I use a version of classroom economy. Everyone has a job and they are paid once a week. They are also paid for daily good conduct. We use green light symbols ono their desks with their name. If they have it at the end of the day they also get a bonus on pay day for each day they keep it. They can spend their money on movie day, popcorn, extra P.E. activity, prize box, and even save for a big auction at the end. This may not motivate all year, but when brought in at a down time, they are so happy. " Do we get paid tomorrow?"
I prepare that before break that we are doing something BIG when they come back to school Since I come back after the holiday break refreshed and ready to go we start the new year with a project that gets them up, out of their seats and moving. I also let them work in groups so that they can socialize a little after being apart. This plan has worked well for me over the years. And they are usually exciting waiting to see what I have planned.
Thank you. I enjoy shopping at the loft and the clothes look so professional for work.
This is wonderful that a company recognizes us and offers such great rewards on a personal note...clothes!
Every friday I have a fun day with my students, if they achieve their reward, they get a fun day- related to the curriculum, but includes games and using the school's computers.
Elisa H.
Thank you, I love saving money
Thank you for making this possible. I love your clothes. I teach 6th grade math and love it, so do my students especially game days.
Sue Layshock
I find that getting back into a routine gets everybody back on track. Most of us abandon our routine at home over the 2 weeks out.
We do a lot of team teaching, so the students get multiple view points and teaching styles.
Elaine
Thank you for outfit ideas. I teach at a community college and want to look my best everyday.
Susan
I'm anxious to try your clothes and thanks for honoring teachers!
It's hard! Lots of positive support.
Children love to come to the routine of school.
Plan events for your students to keep them engage and looking forward to the day.
It's nice to honored for doing something that I love!
Thank you so much! I love to feel and look like a professional!
Timarie L
Thank you very much! Love the professional look and feel
Offering specials for teachers is a great idea! I wish more stores would do it :) Thanks!
I encourage them to do more goal setting in the new year to get them excited about the upcoming semester
I help students with goal setting in the new year
I love teaching and the young minds I have the opportunity to influence are the most precious examples of the future! I'm excited to see my kids grow and continue to learn each day.
S.
It is a pleasure to be in such great company. Keep the great ideas flowing! thank you Mary M.
I love the ideas mentioned above. Thanks!
Jennifer M.
What a great idea...thank you!
I am so happy to join a website that appreciates teachers. I am always more motivated and upbeat with a new outfit on! If I'm happy, the kids are happy!
Nice Idea!
Enjoyed reading about what other teachers do in their classrooms! Thank you for this forum!
Michele H.
Hello
hello
Thanks for thanking teachers! Sometimes we are unappreciated!
Lots of hands-on activities
Thank you for appreciating teachers!!
Dee B.
Thanks for appreciating teachers!!
Thank you and wish more stores would honor teachers.
This is a great idea and deal!!! Thanks so much!
I'm excited to join a website that honors teachers. Thank you for appreciating teachers!
Sweet, I LOVE the LOFT!!!!!!!
I love my career...working with teenagers is an adventure every day and so worthwhile! Thanks Ann Taylor Loft...
D. Ferrara, RI
I teach pre-k and after a long break they have so much to say and can not wait to tell. The first day back from a break i give them a chance to talk and share their thoughts. This frees them up to be open to learn new things.
Thank you for appreciating us!
Kim T
Kim
Thanks a lot for appreciating us!
Thanks Ann Taylor Loft! Inspiring students with stories that speak to something they can relate to- but also challenge them to set new goals
I teach Kindergarten and when we return after winter break the children and I will draw and write what we did and who we spent time with over the break. Afterwards we come together on our carpet in a circle and share what we have created!
Thanks...I love your clothes!
C.Lopez
Thanks for appreciating us.
Linda K.
As a professor, I try new techniques- ask them what do they want to learn, and always explaining the why to everything they do in class, especially the outcomes!
I allow my students an opportunity to share about their break and the gifts they receive.
After a long break I welcome the students back and let them know that they were missed. Then we have time to share about the break. What they did etc. Its important to reinforce the caring environment.
stacy s., thanks, i looove the spelling word snowball fight!!
I love ATL keep up the good work
I always make sure that my students know they were missed even though we all needed the time to be with families! I teach High School and many of my students don't receive gifts due to various reasons, so I don't ask questions concerning such things. Ann C.
123
We always do a review so that the kids are eased back in to the swing of things by practicing things they are familiar with. This is motivating for them because they can already do it and provides confidence for the challenges ahead.
I get them geared up for Chinese New Year which is right around the corner!
Thank you for helping me feel special as a teacher.
Joanne Saratoga Springs, NY
Starting up a new unit keeps them engaged!
I love the LOFT!
I love teaching, it keeps me young. I learn so much from the students.
Thank you LOFT for supporting teachers.
I love teaching. In teaching, I have learned so much about life. Kids are wonderful, and have so much they want to give to this world.
They (my students) keep me young. Thank you LOFT for supporting us!
by Jporter
Thanks! I can't wait to tell my coworkers about this!
I love the Loft. Bring on the petites!
I love LOFT. The pants are the best and fit me perfectly!!!
Mallory D., Atlanta
Thank you, wait till I tell Maryann about this!! By Trish F
Thank you! Patricia F
Having a hard time logging in, help I need the coupon!!!
Thanks for making me look like a professional but without the high prices!
I love your clothes. My high school students do, too.
Loft is the only place I shop- I love it
After a long break I like to teach my class a new song to motivate them. :)
I love LOFT! The Julie style fits me better than any other pants!
By making them talk about what motivates and interests them the most.
First Day!
We talk about how we all spent our break.
I am responding to the urban middle school language arts teacher's concern about apathetic students. I also teach 7th and 8th grade language arts. Even though I am in a smaller community, there are many students who just don't care about learning. I will not pretend to have a magic solution. Looking for areas to make connections helps, as does creating assignments that will tie into the student's personal interests.
The letter to the editor seems like an old fashioned idea but it has been one assignment where reluctant students have gotten excited about writing. We watch the news, brainstorm current, local issues and then students select a topic they care about. They research, write, revise, revise and we send the letters.
This has worked for me - it might work for you.
Joyce B
The first thing we do when we come back from a break is talk about our experiences, what we did, places we visited, etc. I allow students to have about 10 minutes of sharing time. This activity helps us reduce our jitters. I either ask students to write in their journals what they hope to do in the next couple of weeks in school and then I lead into the introduction of new skill.
I love teaching!
Students are easily motivated when encouraged to talk and write about what they did and what they would have liked to do. It is important to include what they would have liked to do because some students don't have opportunities that others may have.
R.W.
Some fun poster projects to keep things hands on!
I like to start with a "big scary test", where I ask questions about basic management and routines.
Start with a highly motivating topic when returning from break. NR
I teach high school English and have found that integrating music into the curriculum is effective and fun.
We talk about the name of the Roman god Janus and how he is the god of portals and new beginnings....I teach Latin :)
Great idea! Thanks so much.
by Sally C.
I had my middle school students pretend they were the teacher on the day back from winter break. I answered the questions on a quiz that I wold normally give my students, but I didn't answer it all correctly. I told them this time they had to correct any mistakes they found. They loved switching roles in the classroom, and I was still able to find out where to take my lessons by doing the role reversal.
Bcipperly
I like to give my students a self-directed project that they find exciting. When they return I have several days, if not a few weeks worth of lesson plans that basically are the second-half of the project that they did during break. It keeps the students busy during break, and gets them excited to return to the classroom and learn the next step.
I love coming back from a break and starting each class off with a discussion of what each child did over break. We then review all classroom and school expectations, and then begin some kind of classroom group assignment that pulls the kids back into their learning communities and gives them the opportunity to reconnect and visit.
by Vincie
I love teaching.
These great ideas inspire me and give me great ideas! The next question should deal with how to motivate students for state testing!
I teach first grade so the kids are usually eager and excited to get back to work!
by Rosemary
I love working with children!
I teach Middle School Art. I love to hear the kids talk about what they notice or think about a painting.
i love working with children
Maunise joseph
I teach Special Ed ... hard but rewarding!
We have a lot of work to do with our children in Central Florida. Let's get the job done for the future generation.
by. Cheryl B
Working for the future of our children! If I can continue to touch at least one life, I will continue to do what I love. Teaching!
Kim S.
I teach first grade so the children are excited to get back to work and see there friends.
I teach sixth grade and love it. Kids today are awesome!!!!
I love the kids!!!!.....Peg
I am the Principal and love every minute of it. Everyday you see those smiling faces you know it is all worth the hard work...
I love sites that recognize how special and important teachers are! Ann Taylor LOFT is the best! Plus the clothes are pretty fabulous!
I am hoping to get direction from other teachers regarding a different topic.Does anyone have suggestions for someone attempting to return to teaching after many years? Even revamping a resume is challenging; due to lack of experience and time lapse.Are there online sources with tips for class management, resumes, interviews,etc.? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
If the teacher is motivated, the students will be, too.
This is great for teachers.
Thank you for your validation for those of us who are shaping America's future.
Thank you for your validation for those of us who shape America's future.
Ellen B.
Thank you, Ann Taylor LOFT. You are the only store to buy great "teacher pants!"
Thank you, Ann Taylor LOFT
Thanks!!!
Thanks!!!!
I work with all ages, so depending on the age I let them talk about favorite family traditions.
Kris R.
I always like to sit down in circle on the floor and let each child have a moment to tell the other one thing that they did over their break. It is a great way to get their brains back in motion as well as allowing them to share something special in their lives!
The way I get my students motivated after a long break is to discuss what interesting things they did. Then we break up into 3 groups and play a content oriented game called quiz show. The students really like the game because they have to buzz in their answer before the time runs out.
Thanks for the wonderful offer. I teach high school age 9-12 so at this age food motivates. If they make a 100 on a test I reward them with some type of snack. They work very hard to get that reward.
by Katrina P
I am so thankful that being a teacher is still a respectable and appreciated occupation. Thanks for what you are doing.
By Jamie M.
I love teaching, glad to get some clothing benefits
Your clothes are stylish, comfortable and flattering for the very active profession of teaching! Carol K.
I love the comfort your clothes offer and especially the washability!
Thank you for thinking of our budget Ann Taylor!!! Erin B
It's nice to be rewarded for being teacher. Thank you Loft for recognizing us!
I am looking forward to this wonderful tool of communicating with my fellow teachers! Thank you Ann Taylor for your generosity and for thinking of us little people.......teachers! Apparently you know how small our budgets are!
The clothes are great! They are very comfortable and stylish. I have referred this site to my fellow teachers and they are excited to join. Thank you Anne Taylor Loft!
I Love your clothes, so comfortable and trendy!!!!
Thank you for thanking us!
I loved made a part of peoplo who likes kids
Can't wait for discounts because your clothes are comfortable and cute
by Monica M
I was excited to hear you offer discounts to teachers. We often don't feel appreciated!
Great clothes
Thank You for thinking of us!
Thank You for Thinking of us!
Thanks for appreciating teachers and what we do for our students!
Thank you for recognizing teachers!!!
Wow, what a nice surprise to see while shopping. It's great to feel special and appreciated!
I've enjoyed teaching for over 25 years and hope to enjoy wearing and buying your clothes for at least that long. Thanks for appreciating teachers.
by Gerri C.
I always shop at your stores when I visit the mainland. Thank you for your kindness to teachers.
by E.G.
You've made it easy to fall in love with Ann Taylor Loft! I feel I can look professional and up-to-date as well as comfortable as a teacher all day long. I also feel valued as a teacher.
Thanks for thinking of the "little" guys....it's nice to know we're appreciated!
Here's to stylish teaching! Thanks!
Teri W.
Use humor in my first lesson back.
Read aloud a favorite book whether chapter book or short story after lunch.
Donna H.
I absolutely love the professionalism in your clothes. Thank you for thinking of us!
This is so nice, thank you :)
thank you.
We talked about vacations and how we enjoyed.
Margret
Awesome!!
great
I love your clothes and thanks for the break!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for recognizing teachers! I love it that I can look professional and be comfortable, all at an affordable price - which is even more affordable with the on-going discount! :) Thanks!!
I love that you carry petite clothing! It takes the headache out of shopping. The extra % off helps, too! Fabulous!
Wow! Isn't this a surprise! It is always wonderful to be acknowledged and, of course, a discount is Awesome too! Thank You!
Love your clothes
I have my students blog about their vacations on our classroom blog page. They tell what was good and sometimes what was not so good. I teach 7th and 8th graders so sometimes vacations are not that interesting without their school friends. Blogging lets them communicate practice writing and then comment about everyone's experiences. It also lets me know quickly what' s on their minds and what they would like to be doing in the classroom.
P.S. I love Loft clothes
Thank You
I like the style!
I look forward to shopping soon! Thanks, Jen B.
Hello!
Thank you Loft!
I'm looking forward to making my wardrobe more professional for my new teaching position! Thanks!
I hope you can help my project! thanks!
After a long holiday or weekend, I introduce each lesson using some kind of exciting theme related to the next holiday. Sometimes I come in wearing a costume, singing a silly song or just acting really crazy. My students are always eager to learn when my introductions are crazy and fun.
Students are most motivated by what they did over the break. By writing down what they did on the board and sharing that with the rest of the class and tying that into the lesson keeps their attention roped in!
When the world knocks you down, bite it's ankles! Kudos for our sometimes thankless profession!
Thanks ...ola chicas ;)
After a long break, plan activities and lesson that include personal experiences from their time away from school!
I absolutely love the loft clothes. They are very comfortable yet attractive in the classroom. My students often give me compliments in my wardrobe.
I Love the Loft.
by Amy
love it
Thanks so much!!!!!!!
great deal!
cool!
Melissa from Georgia
These are all great ideas! Thank you!
Thanks so much!
thank-you!
Thanks sooo much!
Thanks for the great ideas!
by Sandi
Thank you for making a teacher's day!
huge LOFT fan!
Monica W
Make them play in the snow!
I love love Loft clothes, Thanks
I love Loft clothes, Thanks Alemeni
Well, I teach Pre-School, we always have some thing excited to show the kids. thanks .
Thanks!!
D. Hyde
thanks!!
claire
children like routine, just get all the wiggles out w/ a little social time get back to it
The Loft is a hug part of my wardrobe and I am so glad to be a part of the Loft Teacher community.
Yeah! Discounts for teachers in these tough times really helps!
Teachers should look professional and The Loft can help out especially with the discount in these hard economic times.
It's wonderful to support a store that recognizes the importance of teachers and the future of our children. Thanks, Ann Taylor!
Thanks, Ann Taylor! I always feel confident and professional in my classroom.
Everything beautiful blooms from the stem of education. ^_^
by Laurie B.