July 19, 2025

Why UFLI Placement Inventories Are Your Back-to-School BFF

Hey everyone! Can you believe it's almost that time again? My classroom is still looking a little too pristine, but my teacher brain is already buzzing with all things back-to-school. And if you're like me and diving into UFLI Foundations this year (or continuing your UFLI journey!), there's one tool you absolutely have to make friends with right at the start: UFLI Placement Inventories.

Seriously, these aren't just another thing to add to your overflowing to-do list; they're your secret weapon for a smoother, more effective start to the school year. Think of them as your personal GPS for reading instruction!

Although UFLI itself is not meant to include inventories, I set out to make one for my incoming second graders. I do plan to continue the lesson-by-lesson approach whole group a little bit each day - as per the curriculum scope and sequence. However, I am always looking for ways to embed this program throughout my ELA block and utilize every minute.

So, let's take a peek at what I came up with!

Why You'll Be Besties with UFLI Placement Inventories:

Pinpointing Starting Points (No More Guesswork!): Remember those first few weeks trying to figure out where everyone is at with their foundational reading skills? It can feel a bit like throwing darts in the dark, right? The UFLI placement inventories take all that guesswork out. They give you a clear, objective snapshot of what your students already know and, more importantly, what they need to learn. Are they solid on their letter sounds? Do they understand CVC words? The inventories will tell you!
Supercharging Your Small Group Instruction: This is where the magic really happens! Once you have that data from the inventories, your small group instruction basically designs itself. Instead of generic skill work, you can form targeted groups based on specific needs.
- Got a group that's rocking CVC words but needs a boost with digraphs? Boom, that's your group's focus!
- Another group might need to solidify their short vowel sounds. Perfect, you know exactly what to do.
This means every minute of your small group time is meaningful and tailored, preventing frustration for both you and your students.
Seamless Alignment with Whole Group UFLI: Here's the brilliant part: the placement inventories are specifically designed to align with the UFLI Foundations scope and sequence. So, while you're working with your small groups on their specific needs, you're not just doing random activities. You're building the foundational skills that will directly support and accelerate their success in your whole-group UFLI lessons. It's like building the perfect bridge between individual needs and class-wide learning.

Imagine this: you're teaching a whole group lesson on silent 'e' words. But in your small groups, you've already pre-taught or reinforced the necessary short vowel sounds for some students, while challenging others with more complex vowel patterns. Everyone benefits, and the whole-group lesson clicks into place more easily for all your learners.

Part 1: Decoding

The inventory is broken into a beginning, middle, and end of the year assessment and into two parts:

PART 1: Decoding PART 2: Encoding

Part 1 allows students to read from a list of words that align with the UFLI spelling patterns for 2nd grade. Part 2 is all about how students spell words using these patterns. Both parts allow for teachers to have a wide view on where students are successful and where they need help.

Forming a Focus for Small Groups

My Pro-Tip: Don't Stress, Just Assess!

I know, I know, another assessment. But trust me, the time you invest upfront in these inventories will pay dividends throughout the year. It saves you so much time and energy in the long run because you'll be teaching smarter, not just harder.

So, as you're gearing up for the new school year, make sure those UFLI placement inventories are high on your priority list. They're the key to unlocking focused instruction, boosting student confidence, and setting everyone up for a truly successful year of reading growth.

What are your favorite back-to-school assessment strategies? Share your wisdom in the comments below!

Happy teaching!

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June 19, 2025

My Secret Weapon for Bathroom Management

As teachers, we're constantly searching for those small, effective tweaks that can make a big difference in our classroom. We're looking for strategies that minimize disruption, maximize learning time, and give us a little more peace of mind. And let me tell you, I've found one such gem in the most unexpected of places: a simple bathroom tap light.

You might be picturing a glowing disco ball in the hallway, but trust me, this is far more practical (and less likely to induce a dance party). I'm talking about those small, battery-operated, push-button lights – the kind you might put in a closet or under a cabinet. Placed strategically on the wall next to my classroom door, this unassuming little light has become my go-to signal for bathroom availability, and it has genuinely revolutionized how I manage bathroom breaks with my students (even with my kindergartners).

Here's why this humble tap light has earned a permanent place in my classroom management toolkit and you should consider one, too:

1. Instant Visual Cue: No More Interruptions!

How many times have you been in the middle of an engaging lesson, only to be interrupted by a student whispering, "Can I go to the bathroom?" or shaking the "r" in sign language at your face during small groups? With the tap light, those interruptions are drastically reduced.

Before a student even asks, they can glance at the light. If the light is on, the bathroom is occupied. If the light is off, it's available. It's a clear, immediate visual cue that empowers students to self-monitor and prevents them from asking an unnecessary question that breaks the flow of instruction. This alone saves precious instructional minutes throughout the day.

2. Effortless Monitoring (Without Being a "Bathroom Cop")

One of the biggest benefits for me is the ability to discreetly monitor bathroom use. When a student leaves for the bathroom, they simply tap the light on. When they return, they tap it off. This simple action provides me with:

Awareness of Occupancy: I can quickly see if someone is in the bathroom without having to open the door or ask. This is particularly helpful when I have a student who might take a little longer or if I'm expecting someone back.
A Gentle Reminder for Students: The act of turning the light on and off subtly reinforces accountability. They know I'm aware they've gone, and it helps prevent excessive or prolonged bathroom breaks. It's not about being a "bathroom cop," but rather establishing a simple, respectful system.

3. A Non-Distracting, Independent System

Unlike a verbal check-in or a hand signal, the tap light is remarkably non-distracting. It doesn't require me to stop teaching, and it doesn't draw attention to the student going to the bathroom. This fosters a more independent and responsible approach to bathroom breaks for students. They learn to manage their own needs within the established system.

4. Overall Usefulness in Classroom Management

Beyond just bathroom use, the tap light embodies several key principles of effective classroom management:

Clarity: The rules are crystal clear – light on means occupied, light off means available.
Consistency: It's the same system every single time, making it easy for students to learn and follow.
Efficiency: It streamlines a common classroom routine, saving time and reducing friction.
Empowerment: Students take ownership of their bathroom breaks, fostering a sense of responsibility.

In my classroom, the tap light has become an invaluable tool. It's a small investment with a huge return in terms of reduced interruptions, improved student independence, and a smoother flow to our school day. If you're looking for a simple yet powerful way to enhance your classroom management, I highly recommend giving the humble bathroom tap light a try. You might be surprised at the difference it makes!

Tap Light Variations:

Bathroom in Use | Bano en Uso | Nurse | Boys/Girls
Do Not Disturb / Ask 3 Before Me | Calm Corner in Use

Common Questions:

I have cinder blocks in my classroom. How do these secure to the wall?

I used a heavy-duty velcro on the back of my light to secure to my wall. I asked my front office/custodial staff to help and it worked! Just make sure to place the velcro so you can still access the batteries when they're in need of replacing.

What is the lettering made of?

The lettering is made of high-quality permanent vinyl.

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June 5, 2025

Our Amazing Brains: A Back to School Unit

Upon the first few weeks of school teachers always set out to spend that time establishing classroom norms. You know, the routines and procedures students must learn in order for the classroom to function normally. This school year ahead, I've found myself reflecting on the needs of my class last year and thinking of ways I can better support them. That's when I realized I wanted to spend more time in those first few weeks of the new school year discussing the brain.

I knew I wanted my lessons to build upon each other and relate to how our brains help us learn and grow. In my research for this resource I found myself becoming more and more fascinated with the brain and just how awesome it is!

Lesson 1: Our Amazing Brains

In this first lesson, students are introduced to the brain and its function. It is explained as our "super computer" and they will learn that the brain can be divided into different sections:

Frontal Lobe (incl. prefrontal cortex): think, plan, solve-problems, our personalities
Parietal Lobe: movement, speed, the senses, and writing
Occipital Lobe: memory, sight, smell
Temporal Lobe: speech, language, and hearing
Cerebellum: balance, coordination, and fine motor skills
Brain Stem: connects the brain to the spinal cord

The read-aloud I've chosen for this day is Your Fantastic Elastic Brain: Stretch It, Shape It! by JoAnn Deak, PhD - a popular read on the subject! It's all about how our brains can stretch and grow! After reading and discussing the important concepts, I've included a variety of activities to choose from that will help students put into practice what they've learned.

Hands-On Activities: Labeling the Brain, Interactive Journals, or a more advanced activity, Brain Hats

Labeling the Brain: a straightforward worksheet where students label the lobes/parts and color code it based on the function of each part.
Interactive Journals: flap-book style notes where students cut and glue flaps into their journals and practice note-taking. They'll identify the part of the brain and lift the flap to write its function.
Brain Hats: This activity is more advanced and for those students who can handle the number of directions. But, the finished product is pretty cool and a great engaging activity. I've also included a simpler version using construction paper and step-by-step directions.

Here's a fun video to supplement your lesson:

Lesson 2: Growth Mindset

In this lesson, students will build on their knowledge of the brain and connect to how it stretches and grows when faced with new learning or challenges. They'll become familiar with the prefrontal cortex and how this part of the frontal lobe of our brains - they'll come to know it as their "boss brain."

The "boss brain" helps them: make a plan, solve puzzles, learn from mistakes, and controls feelings. This knowledge will connect them to developing a growth mindset over a fixed mindset.

The read-aloud for this lesson is the teacher favorite, The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi. It's a great story about how we respond to the things we can't do...yet. Adding this simple word to our thought process can help build our sense of overcoming the obstacles in front of us.

Activity: Growth Mindset 4-Corners

I love activities and games that get my students up and moving. This game is inspired by 4-Corners, a popular game we play during our morning meetings.

The teacher will read out different Scenario Cards and students must decide which corner best represents how their brain will think about that problem. The corners are:

"I'll try again"
"I'll ask for help or try a new way"
"My brain is getting stronger"
"Mistakes help my brain learn"

More helpful videos for supplementing your lesson:

Lesson 3: Problem-Solving Brains

In this third lesson, students will learn that our brains help us focus and solve-problems. This lesson is all about building up their understanding around how our brains approach and respond to the things that challenge us - from disagreements with a friend to a frustratingly hard math problem. By dealing with these problems head on, students build their resiliency and grow their brains.

Featured in this lesson, students will learn about neurons! New neurons grow and connect with each other during learning. The more students work and practice a skill, the stronger the neuron connections become!

The read-aloud for this lesson is What Do You Do with a Problem? by Kobi Yamada. In this story, a boy is faced with a problem and we learn how he chooses to deal with it (or even try to ignore it). This directly connects with students understanding that our brains help us solve our real-life problems!

Activities: Problem-Solving Brains worksheet, Problem-Solving Challenge, Pipe-cleaner Neurons

You can choose between a response worksheet where students think about a problem and how their brain tells them to respond. The other choice is a more engaging activity (my favorite) and challenge.

Inside a paper bag or ziploc, the teacher will place a set of problems (there are 4 sets to choose from). I recommend using a variety of sets so students don't all have the same set of problems to think about. When you're ready to begin, students will take 1 slip of paper out and read it to themselves. Similar to 4-Corners, there will be four "Brain Power Challenge Stations" for them to choose to go to that best represents how their brains would respond to each problem.

Station 1: Thinking & Planning Zone (thinking of 2 ways to solve the problem)
Station 2: Remembering & Learning Zone (thinking of 1 way you've learned from a mistake)
Station 3: Creative & Idea Zone (draw a quick picture of how you might solve the problem)
Station 4: Brave Action Zone (strike a pose that shows you're going to take a brave step)

Once they've worked through each of the problems in their bags, they'll earn a "neuron." This slip of paper will represent how they're forming connections every time they're solving problems.

A final activity that's hands-on are pipe-cleaner neurons. I've included step-by-step directions to help guide you and your students to creating a neuron and understanding its parts.

Lesson 4: Feelings & Our Brains

This lesson is all about identifying our emotions and sets up the foundation for what will become the introduction to your calm corner or calming space in your classroom.

The read-aloud for this lesson is called The Color Monster by Anna Llenas.

Activity: Our Emotional Brains worksheet

Students will identify the color association for each emotion discussed from the story. They'll then connect that feeling with how their brain is responding. As writers, this is another great opportunity for students to learn to take notes or make bullet point ideas.

Lesson 5: Regulating Our Emotions

This is the final lesson in this unit. At this point, students have spent the week learning and building their understanding around the brain and how we'll use our brains for all kinds of learning this school year. In this lesson, students will learn that their brains help control the emotions they feel and the strategies they can utilize to help calm them down.

The read-aloud for this lesson is called The Boy with the Big, Big Feelings by Britney Winn Lee. It's a great story that gets students thinking about environmental stimuli and how their brains help them manage their emotions. This story also sets up the concept that there are different strategies we can use to help calm these feelings. Discussing how people are different and have different needs is a great springboard for conversation during this lesson!

My Calm Corner at the beginning of the school year. (2024)

The Calm Corner

The activity of this lesson is introducing students to the Calm Corner in the classroom and the regulation tools that are inside of it. It's a great opportunity to have students explore these tools and learn how to appropriate use them (establishing those rules and expectations).

Activity: Calming Strategy Stations

Students will be grouped into four groups. They'll rotate through each station and practice the calming strategy highlighted by that station. Make sure each group has the opportunity to spend 3-4 minutes in each and actively practicing the strategy. At the end, regroup with the class and have them reflect on the strategies they explored and which ones they found calmness from the most.

Breathe & Relax (breathing tools/cards, finger tracing, pinwheels)
Hands-On Focus (fidget tools, stress balls (different textures), sensory bottle)
Peaceful Picture (whiteboard or notepad for quick pictures, Think Sheets are another great option)
Quiet Story (picture books (about emotions))

After this discussion, I recommend placing just a few items at first and build on your calming station throughout the year. Reinforce the rules of the space as needed and keep tabs on how students are interacting with it. I have a whole blog post about how to set yours up and the use of Think Sheets if you're interested in learning more.

Note: When introducing the calming space in your classroom, always establish the routines/procedures for how students are to use it during the day. A timer should be used and it should be established as a special place for authentic use, not where students can avoid their problems (or accountability) or classwork.

I hope you'll find this resourceful helpful as you begin your new year with your students!

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February 17, 2025

Beyond "Class Clown": Celebrating Character in Our Students

The end of the school year is a time for celebration! We reflect on all the learning, growth, and fun that's been shared. Student awards are a wonderful way to acknowledge and celebrate these achievements, but sometimes the traditional categories fall short. Instead of labeling students, let's shift our focus to celebrating the incredible character they've demonstrated throughout the year. After all, who they are as a person is just as important, if not more so, than what they achieve academically.

Fostering Character

Why is character so crucial? Think about it: Knowledge is important, but character is what guides how we use that knowledge. Character traits like resilience, empathy, and integrity are the building blocks of successful individuals and a thriving society. By nurturing and celebrating these qualities in our students, we're equipping them with the tools they need to navigate the world, build strong relationships, and make a positive impact.

So, how can we move beyond labels and celebrate character? Great question! With this in mind, I've created a new set of EOY awards that focus on positive character traits. Let's take a peek!

Doodle Themed Awards

When setting out to design these awards I've been completely inspired by the "doodle." I've added quite a few new resources with this theme, but these awards are most exciting. Each award is based on a character trait vs the more traditional awards we're used to seeing/passing out.

Each award comes in both a color and black and white version. They are also completely editable right in the PDF. This makes adding names a breeze...and what's better...is I've formatted it to auto-populate in both the color and B&W versions!

Student Nominations

Another aspect to this resource I'm really excited for is brining students into the mix! So often it's the teachers who decide which award goes to which child and for what reason. This year, I'm excited to have my students nominate their peers during awards season ;)

This resource includes 2 versions of the nomination form: a full and half page versions.

When presenting these awards, take a moment to share specific examples of how each student has demonstrated these admirable qualities. This personalized approach makes the recognition more meaningful and reinforces the importance of character development.

Let's make this end-of-year celebration a true testament to the incredible people our students are becoming. By focusing on character, we can inspire them to continue growing, learning, and making the world a better place.

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February 14, 2025

From Time-Outs to Think Sheets: How Social-Emotional Learning is Transforming Our Classrooms

Remember the days when classroom management mostly revolved around raised voices, time-outs, and a general emphasis on compliance? Thankfully, within the last decade or so (or since I began in this profession), education has evolved. We've come to understand that student behavior isn't just about following rules; it's deeply intertwined with their social and emotional well-being. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) has taken center stage, and it's changing the way we approach student behavior in profound and positive ways.

It wasn't that long ago that "bad behavior" was often seen as a character flaw. Students who acted out were labeled as troublemakers, and the focus was on punishment rather than understanding the root cause of their actions. Now, we recognize that challenging behaviors are often a signal - often of things that lie beneath the surface. They might indicate a student is struggling with anxiety, frustration, or difficulty regulating their emotions. My son, who is autistic, faces challenges with emotional regulation. This, too, can be true for the many neurodivergent students we receive in our classrooms. This shift in perspective is crucial because it allows us to move away from punitive measures and towards support and intervention.

Reshaping Our Classrooms

Calm Corner at the beginning of the year.

So, how has SEL reshaped our classrooms? It's not just a curriculum or a set of lessons; it's a fundamental change in our approach. We're now prioritizing creating a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel seen, heard, and understood. We're teaching them explicitly about emotions, self-awareness, responsible decision-making, and relationship skills. We're fostering empathy and encouraging them to develop a growth mindset. And most importantly, we're building strong relationships with our students, creating a foundation of trust that allows for open communication and effective support.

So, how does this look in my classroom?

My 2nd graders have benefited tremendously from our "Calm Corner." It's a designated space where they can take a break, regulate their emotions, and then rejoin the class ready to learn. I've been so pleased to see how readily and effectively most of my students have used it. At the beginning of the year it starts pretty minimally - just a few physical and visual tools. Throughout the year, we collaboratively build and refine the space, adding additional tools and visuals as specific needs arise. Each addition is introduced and discussed beforehand, ensuring the students understand not only how to use the individual tools but understand the overall purpose of this special space.

In this space there is one tool, in particular, that is so helpful for students to not only express their feelings, but be able to communicate effectively about them.

The Think Sheet: Reimagined

One of the most powerful tools that has emerged in this SEL-focused landscape is the "Think Sheet." While the concept might seem simple, its impact can be transformative. Think Sheets provide a structured way for students to reflect on their behavior, identify their feelings, and understand the connection between the two. Instead of simply reacting to a situation, students are guided through a process of self-discovery.

The Think Sheets I've created include prompts that encourage students to:

Describe what happened: This helps them objectively recount the situation without assigning blame.
Identify how they were feeling: This is crucial for building emotional awareness. Often, students act out without fully understanding what's driving their behavior.
Consider what they could have done differently: This encourages problem-solving and the development of alternative strategies.
Think about how their actions affected others: This fosters empathy and perspective-taking.

By working through a Think Sheet, students begin to understand that their feelings influence their choices. They learn that they have the power to manage their emotions and make different decisions in the future. This is a powerful realization that empowers them to take ownership of their behavior and develop valuable self-regulation skills.

Think Sheets aren't a magic wand and won't solve every single circumstance, but they are a valuable tool in our classroom. They provide a framework for meaningful conversations with students and offer a tangible way for them to develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence. When used consistently and with empathy, these Think Sheets can be a catalyst for positive change, helping students learn and grow both academically and emotionally.

As educators, we are constantly learning and evolving, and the integration of SEL and tools like Think Sheets represent a significant step forward in creating classrooms where all students can thrive and belong.

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July 19, 2025

Why UFLI Placement Inventories Are Your Back-to-School BFF