Mrs. Martinez/Beckwith-Educator

This year was a whirlwind as my first year as a singleton Assistant Principal on a campus with over 700 students. I constantly was trying to reflect and figure out ways that I could do better and be more present, while still getting everything done that was required of me.

In March, I started blocking time for lunch groups with one grade level per day. It was one of the most amazing things that I came up with. I got to bond and build stronger relationships with students on a daily basis, and I also ensured I ate my lunch every day. Win, win! Highly recommend!

I got to see two of my Kindergarten “babies” today. They were helpers for our campus Endurance Race. I love getting to see my students continue to grow and thrive, even long after they’ve left my classroom. 🫶

And another one 🫶

As a teacher, we have all of these high goals for students, even in Kindergarten! I enjoy days like Valentine’s Day, when I get to spend the extra time to make a real connection with my students. Last year, I started French braiding all of the girl’s hair into hearts for valentine’s day. I made sure to do the same this year, while still asking questions during a read aloud, and teaching writing. It’s called multitasking and teachers get really good at it 😉

Heart hair memories, coming at you!

Give me all of the girls, so I can braid hearts in their hair! My favorite Valentine’s Day tradition ❤️❤️

Sometimes I braided while still teaching complete lessons, sometimes I braided during inside recess. It’s called multitasking and teachers get really good at it. 😂

Teaching is busy. We spend so much time putting information into their heads and teaching them how to use that information. But then on days like today, I spend that TIME to remind them of the other things we’ve learned this year- how to love, how to care, how to be good people.
This is my tradition for my classroom. To find time of Valentine’s Day to show that I love them by braiding their hair into hearts. 14 girls with hearts in their hair, 28 students total, and my heart is SO full ❤️

LPE Community Lost Pines Elementary PTA Bastrop ISD

Such a special honor to be chosen by a 2nd grader as the person she wanted to read to! 💛 I taught her big brother years and years ago when he was in kindergarten, which made the moment even more meaningful.

🌲 Merry Christmas from my hometown in Maine! ❄️