We have our second progress monitoring next week. There are some strategies that I use to help the students prepare for the test. For example:

1. Arrange the seating beforehand so the students are not asking, "Why are the desks moved"
2. Give out 2 pencils everyday and collect them.
3. Have timed assignments. This helps pacing and focus.
4. Since we take the test on line, I email the students the link to the practice test so they can get used to navigating the program.
5. Lengthen a reading block so the students can build academic endurance of sustained reading.
6. Conference with the students to show them their first score and show a reasonable goal for the next test.
7. Use the dividers for the students during the weeks prior to the test.
8. Give test taking strategies for the students on how to "flag" and questions and go back to answer.
9. Email the parents with suggestions of foods, study habits and other tidbits to help them prepare their student.
10. Since my favorite animal is an elephant, I give the students a little elephant figuring to keep at their desk because they are part of my herd and they are special.

How do you welcome students back after a long vacation/break?

This year my class is having a "family luncheon". The parents have volunteered to bring the food and we will share in a time of thanksgiving. During the time, I have the students and parents write on a little note care what they are thankful for. I take those notes and type them into a document and send it to the parents. This is a great way to get parents support and build community. What are some other ideas that you have used to build community?

What are some things you do at the start of the school year to build relationships with students?

One of the toughest things (but also most rewarding when the mindset shift occurs) is students believing that they can do whatever it is you are asking them to do. As a math interventionist, I work with students who, based on test scores, are struggling in math. While I know that one test score (or even a few) don't define a student, unfortunately, the score(s) travel with them. Once I start meeting with students, I can usually see pretty quickly that some of their 'struggle' has nothing to do with math, it has to do with mindset. We have very honest and real conversations about their experiences in math and what they like vs. what they don't like (or haven't liked in the past). It happens over time, and I recognize that my job is far different than others, but it begins the same: building relationships with students is the foundation to success. Once a student becomes mine, I begin building their confidence slowly and surely by being their biggest cheerleader. I ask that teachers share with me successes in the classroom too so that I can be excited for them. What are some ways you help students build their confidence?

How do you celebrate student birthdays or other celebrations?

What are your strategies for building trust with students who seem withdrawn or reluctant to engage?

Each student is different. Here are some ideas that I have used.
1. Go back to your beginning of the year student surveys. Find an interest of this student and build it into a lesson. Mention their name as you talk about this interest.
2. Warn this student quietly that you are going to ask them to answer the next question so they are prepared.
3. Give the student a note with a positive message or email the parent with a positive message.
4. Ask the student to help you do something to prepare for a lesson. Draw the picture. Set up the equipment. Engage the student in a conversation while you do this.

What other strategies have you tried?