StudentsXpress Winter 2012

Publisher Rachel Switall Magazine Group President Rachel Switall rachel@studentsxpress.com Editor Rachel Switall Art Director Rachel Switall Advertising Director Rachel Switall Director of Marketing Rachel Switall Printer Newsweb Corporation 1645 West Fullerton Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60614 773.975.0400

Dear Readers, e love and appreciate our teachers, and in this issue you will read what students have to say about their favorite teachers and what it means to be a teacher. I would like to thank all of the teachers who have been participating in StudentsXpress by contributing their students’ work to this and past issues. Though the masthead says StudentsXpress, we all know that we need teachers to have students. This magazine (and especially this issue) is for those teachers as well.

I’d also like to send a shout out to all of the advertisers who have decided to place an ad in this and past issues of StudentsXpress. Currently, printing and production costs are covered by these advertisers, allowing StudentsXpress to go home FREE with each student in the participating schools. As we increase our circulation (this issue is reaching 13,000!), those costs grow. I would love to find a major corporate sponsor to help cover the costs, while continuing to offer reasonable advertising rates to local businesses.

This magazine is about the students, but I also strive to support the businesses in the neighborhoods where those students live and attend school. I hope you will join me in supporting the businesses that are supporting this publication through their advertising. Not only does StudentsXpress build community within each school and neighborhood that participates, but it Students— also has the potential to build community across the entire city. when submitting work, please be sure to write neatly. Spell check does not check names, Interested in placing an ad or donating to the next issue of so I apologize if I got any names wrong!

StudentsXpress? Please check out our web site and click on Also, if you’re turning in artwork, white, Donate or Media Kit for more information. unlined paper is the best. And please www.studentsxpress.com write your name on every page submitted.

Thank you!

W

Inside this Issue

2 A few words from Barbara Byrd-Bennett (CPS CEO) 3 Help support StudentsXpress just by ordering popcorn online from Gourmet Kernel 4 We Love Our Teachers Because.....

17 Gimme a T! How Do You Spell Teacher?

20 Colors 21 Wishcraft Words Word Search Just like StudentsXpress is a collaboration 25 StudentsXpress Next Issue... between many schools, so is this issue’s cover. Can you find all of the teachers from 26 Eat at Pockets and Earn $ for your school! the cover throughout the magazine?

My favorite teacher is Mrs. Tripp. She is the best teacher ever! She used to teach at Mcauliffe, but then she moved to another school. I was sad when she left. Mrs. Tripp helped me understand fractions way more.

She made math easier for me too. I wish she was still my teacher.

—Jazmine C.

Piper M.

How many of these apples can you find in the magazine?

The Schools: Alcott Manierre Ames Nettelhorst Audubon Parker Beethoven Prescott Blaine Spencer Brennemann Waters Burley Wentworth Edwards Westcott Gillespie Wildwood Hamilton Yale Jenner Contact rachel@studentsxpress.com if you would like your school to participate.

Eliyah's Teachers Teachers are the best things we ever had, so don’t even think about being bad.

If you are bad you will end up sad.

If you end up sad you will become mad.

You’ll end up in detention and that’s bad.

I hope I make it to 5th grade, If I don’t I’ll be ashamed.

—Eliya M.

While showcasing art and writing from students in Chicago Public Schools, StudentsXpress aims to promote creativity and literacy, encourage alternative expressions, create positive self esteem and open discussions.

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Barbara Byrd-Bennett CPS CEO

They are the light to guide us The critics to toughen us up The brightness that inspires us The guides to walk us through our tough times The person that’s always there when we have no one left to count on The uniqueness that makes everything more colorful They breathe life into our classes They teach us to never give up no matter how many walls fall in around you The one person that never gives up on you even if you give up on yourself They let us be who we are and accept every one of us They have all impacted my life greatly and I will always cherish what they have taught me They are my teachers —Torin K.

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A teacher who supports you A teacher who believes in you A teacher who tells you you’re special A teacher who has a passion for teaching A teacher who loves her students A teacher who knows you can do and be anything you want A teacher who says I’m bright A teacher who has fun at times with her students A teacher who knows each of her kids are Smart, bright, wise and intelligent That is what makes a great teacher.

—Diamond B.

and I both love sports. She jokes around in class about sports. She likes Michigan teams and I like Chicago teams and we battle about who is better. That is why she is a great teacher.

My teacher makes quizzes that have some questions that are hard and some that are easy. She also makes quizzes that make you push your thinking to the highest levels.

At my school there are many kids at different learning levels and my teacher doesn’t care where people are with their learning; she just treats everybody the same but she helps the kids who need the help privately. —Fuller L.

The best teacher that I’ve had is Mr. Ramirez because he has a lot of patience with us and he helps you a lot with anything that you need help on. If you don’t do your homework he will get mad, but he tells you if you want to stay at recess with him so he could help you on the homework. I just met him like 5 weeks ago but I feel like he’s a really nice teacher. And he is at Ames Middle School.

Denise B.

—Susana O.

Mr. Gregory my favorite teacher, the goofy one that is a jokester.

The one that helped me improve my grades in math because he is a great math teacher.

The one that gets cranky at times, yup that’s him. One of my most favorite teachers.

I’m really glad he is my teacher, I really hope he could be my 8th grade teacher!

—Monserrat G.

Loniya My favorite teacher is Dr. Davis because she walks around the school every day to see whose classroom is quiet. I like Dr. Davis. —Loniya

...I learn new words every day.

...she is teaching me how to read.

...she gives me a star when I do all my work.

...she helps me do all my work.

Yaret

Maritza V.

...she reads fun books.

Adrian G. Itzel

...she helps me to write.

Itzayana

...she is beautiful.

...we get to have Halloween pictures.

Perla G.

Eduardo M.

Jazmin

...she helps me.

...she let us have a Halloween party.

Kevin Z. Noemi S.

...she makes me happy.

...she teaches me how to add up numbers.

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Adriana T.

Jazmin E.

Winter 2012

Daniel

...she teaches us how to read.

Evelyn

Luis M.

...she lets us read books.

...she reads to me.

...she gives me lots of homework.

...they help me with my homework.

...we watch movies and eat popcorn.

Yuliana Bryan G.

...she helps me to draw pictures.

...she helps me learn.

Victor J.

...we get to paint. ...she reads.

...she helps me.

Miranda L. Layla

Nathalie G.

...she gave me cake.

Omar Jose

...she shows me how to learn math. ...she reads to me.

Mario L.

Adrian Winter 2012

Lizette L.

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Put Your Hand In Mine

Are you alone or single?

Do you talk to friends?

Do you like to talk to imaginary friends? It does not matter if you’re solo. It matters if you have family. Who cares if you are ugly. It does not matter. You have family and me.

—Mark G.

Lucy Lucy C. C.

What makes a good teacher

is if they teach you so that you would remember everything. They are important because if we didn’t have them we wouldn’t have an education. Mr. Raman shows us things so that we could remember them really well, such as the eight parts of speech.

My dad taught me about crossword puzzles—the easier way to do them. I learned that this person knows a lot of things that I don’t know. He taught me some things about 9/11 which I didn’t know much about.

One day, I can teach students the eight parts of speech, “divide and conquer” and more. First I would show them videos to describe a new subject; then I would give them worksheets to do and just keep going over until they get it. Mr. Raman taught me this skill.

—Mariah M.

He teaches us what he knows; He makes us giggle and laugh.

He makes us enjoy every second of school; He never loses his temper.

He always is kind and helpful; He is brainy and smart.

He is a stupendous teacher; He is Mr. King!

I appreciate is Ms. Washington. She gave me knowledge to know how to do math and reading. She also has my back when I’m wrong or feel sad. My teacher is loving and grateful. She always lets me have fun and read books. I am so smart because of Ms. Washington helping me with whatever I need.

When my grade was a C in math she helped me make multiplication cards because I’m her baby and she doesn’t want to see me in third grade again. My teacher will be mad because she knows I’m smart and lovable.

—Marcus S.

I think

My math teacher connects with me and all his students When I’m feeling lost, he reassures me and Erases all my worries He knows me and understands my thinking He respects and acknowledges my ideas and I become responsible, mature, intelligent, creative I trust him, he will never let me down My math teacher is passionate He is excited about teaching and He is determined and driven to educate With his intuition and patience he gives me All the tools I need to learn He is intelligent, he knows what he will do and How to execute it in the best way possible My math teacher inspires me I want to be curious, I want to explore, I want to learn I dream about becoming a teacher and a mentor About building a bridge for young people with knowledge and Success in life waiting on the other side Thanks to his selflessness and humility Mr. Clancy inspires me to become a leader —Natalie M.

Dedicated to my mother, the mime.

Lois C.

that Mr. Raman is my favorite teacher because he is a really good teacher, funny and nice. He motivates me to do my work and study. I can honestly say Mr. Raman has really been there for me and really supports his students. He has two daughters who are adorable.

I remember when it was the day before summer break and he pulled me out into the hall; I was ready to cry my eyes out. He had a box of tissues on the desk and he said, “Alicia” with that look on his face like always. The look that seemed like he was saying or getting ready to tell me bad news. He said, “Alicia, you……passed!!!” I was so happy I hugged him and I said, “Thank you” twice and he said, “You’re welcome!” Mr. Raman might be my teacher but he’s also my friend.

P.S. His dance moves and his singing are awesome! —Alicia C.

I appreciate my teachers because they are helpful.

I appreciate my teachers for teaching me to be careful.

I appreciate my teachers because they push me towards success.

I appreciate my teachers because they make me do my best.

I appreciate my teachers for teaching me.

I appreciate my teachers for reaching me.

I appreciate my teachers for helping me understand.

I appreciate my teachers for encouraging me to do the best I can.

I APPRECIATE MY TEACHERS! Ben P.

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— Stan H.

Winter 2012

Jahaira B.

Dear Ms. Jugenitz , You are one of the best teachers I have ever had.

Well, first of all you help me a lot in math. I remember when it was one of our practice lessons. I was having trouble with it then instead of getting frustrated you helped me with it. You are very nice to me and everyone in this school.

Second, you always take care of us and show responsibility for your actions. But you always show us how to act responsibly and neatly too. I appreciate it and I’m sure others do too.

You are a wonderful teacher, Ms. Jugenitz.

Sincerely, Emma H.

What makes a school; books, students, desks... and oh yeah, teachers! Without

teachers there would be no schools. Teachers devote their lives to educating their students, keeping their students safe, and giving them opportunities. A good teacher is like a good mom or dad. Teachers not only help their students with school related things such as reading, math, social studies, and science, but they help students to express their creativity, grow talents, and add to the advancement of society. A good teacher gives the student the power to succeed as an individual, but at the same time prosper as a community at the school, and in public.

Joshua N.

I appreciate my teacher because she is nice to me. She reads to us a lot of new vocabulary words and rewards us when we use them in conversation.

When I am done with my work she lets me go discover the spiders in the science center. Also, she lets me get on the computer and do Ji Ji and Kidbiz 3000 when I am done with my work. She lets us do a lot of fun activities. She is the best teacher in the world!!! —Joshua N.

Students value their teachers and teachers recognize the importance of their students. The collaboration, of the effort that the teacher puts into his/her work and the knowledge students take away from the teaching is what makes a quality teacher. A teacher should make their students see the significance of high academic achievement and school spirit. Teachers encourage students to stretch beyond their comfort zone, and motivate and inspire them to do well in everything they face. To have a good teacher is a privilege and teachers should be honored. —Lauren J.

I like when my teacher helps me write my name. My teacher let me play with toys. I like when we sing and do the alphabets. I like when my teacher writes the morning message.

—Hezekiah W. I like when my teacher lets me play housekeeping. I like when my teacher takes me outside and help me reach the monkey bars. I like to do my name and draw my picture.

—McKenzie S. I appreciate Ms. B. Washington because she does a lot of nice things for me. For example, my teacher lets me be the teacher’s helper. She always lets me go to the library and read whenever I’m finished with my work. Also, I appreciate her because whenever I get in trouble she gives me a chance. Then I get it together quickly. Finally, when I’m doing what I’m supposed to do, she rewards me with a beethoven buck. —Jamari J. My teacher is the best of all. She sends us on errands and we never play in the hall. She gives us things but not diamond rings. Ms. Washington is the best in these school walls. She picks us up from the playground. No one could stop her from teaching. She is the best of all. She gives us homework every day and when we’re not working she lets us play. I can’t believe she’s my teacher because she is the best. I appreciate her doing things for us. Thank you Ms. Washington. You helped me with things.

Thank you so much. —Aniya B.

My Teacher Reading to the Class

Natalya M. During my school’s Pulitzer Prize ceremony, my 1st grade teacher took me downstairs to the teacher’s lounge when I got a bloody nose. I got a cookie. We had to hurry back so I could share my book, which was nominated. I got a trophy and went to a pizza party. I can’t believe she was so nice. She turned a bad incident into a success. —Charlie L.

My Best Teacher

The teacher I appreciate the most is Ms. Washington and she is

exited to teach me and she is smart and confident that I will pass 3rd grade and helpful in every way. I really wish she’ll be my teacher again And she is very powerful when I have problems doing something she always helps me

when I really need help Ms. Washington explains and even when I fail something she always lets me turn the paper over and start over and she is so caring and intelligent and thoughtful each and every day —Jayla P.

My teacher is sweet because she is so nice to me.

Joselyn

I’ve had a lot of great teachers but there is one that I will never forget. I will never forget him because he is a great teacher named Mr. Guillen. He would give us a lot of free time.

It was fun when Mr. Guillen took us outside. Mr. Guillen did not give us homework on Fridays. Mr. Guillen has a Camaro, a cool car, and I like those kinds of cars. I really like Mr. Guillen. I hope my little brother gets him for 4th grade if he is still here. —Giovanni R.

The best teacher that I have had was Mr. Guillen. Mr. Guillen was my 2nd grade teacher. At first a lot of people said that Mr. Guillen was the best teacher. When it was the first day of 2nd grade I knew he was nice because people told me and he had a big smile. He helped me a lot and then because of that I got no C or D or F! That’s why Mr. Guillen was my best teacher. —Osman L.

Mr. Balof

Intelligent, funny, understanding, and positive. Always happy and has an awesome outlook on life. Loves to joke around. Knows and understands that people make mistakes in life. Always there if you need someone to talk to. Knows how to make someone happy and lift their spirits up. His knowledge that he passes on to his students is fantastic. With his perfect hair and his ability to bring light and happiness to others is what makes him my favorite teacher. —Rubi R.

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Mr. Leki, Ecology Teacher

Irma G. Winter 2012

My teacher is pretty.

Esmeralda

I appreciate Mrs. Lazar My teacher is nice because she isn’t mean to me.

She looks like she’s mean but she is really nice. She teaches me new things. Shekevia H.

because she gives us homework and she teaches us math like time tables and she reads a story to us and when it’s Fun Friday she gives us search for the words and prints us pictures and she teaches us place value and genres.

—Jared G.

Jared G.

I appreciate my teacher because I love how she treats me. Another way why I appreciate my teacher is by turning in my homework on time, every day. The last reason why I appreciate Mrs. Vodicka is by being on task and by wearing my uniform. I do this because if she treats me respectfully and nicely, why not give that in return. I really love my 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Vodicka.

Now you can see how I appreciate my teacher! I love helping her! Do you appreciate your teacher? How? —Briana A. What makes a great teacher?

A great teacher is someone who is responsible for her kids, loves to teach them and is nice.

Who’s your favorite teacher?

My favorite teacher is Ms. Rodriguez because she is nice, teaches me new things every day and makes the school fun.

Why are teachers important?

They are important because teachers teach kids to read and learn.

What have you learned from your teacher?

I learned how to be a reporter and how to read ingredients in food.

—Indrit M.

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I appreciate Mr. Guillen because he is hardworking. Also he loves teaching. He’s fun. Also he is always very happy. Also he is nice.

We played mosca. He likes reading books so we had to read a lot. He taught us a lot of things even division.

Also he taught us times. Also he taught us the twelves of times. Also the elevens. Also he taught us science.

That’s why I like science because he taught us. Also he taught us all about cause and effect. That was fun.

Kaleb R.

Kamila M. I like Mrs. Lazar because she is nice, does not give a lot of homework and she is funny and she is organized. She also is creative. She at least does not sit in her chair all day long. She does do her work and she does teach a lot but she at least stands up not sits too much and she made funny signals for us. She puts up our little drawings and reads nice books.

All teachers are really nice.

They’re usually as cool as ice.

They always let you know the rules.

That work best in our schools.

Without teachers you’re really dumb, So come to school and learn some.

Every year you learn a lot more, In the beginning you learn 4+4.

As we celebrate this date across the nation, Come and celebrate teacher’s appreciation.

When the teacher thinks you’re bored, They then use the digital smart board.

When we need help the teachers get it done, Then we go off and have some real fun.

When God created all the creatures, He did really well when he created teachers.

—Mia J.

My very best teacher is Mr. Perez. I appreciate

my teacher Mr. Perez because he gives fun things. He gives fun things like games. He gives games because he is happy with children. He is happy with children that do their homework. The kids that do their homework do best and have fun.

—Bryan T. Selena

I appreciate Ms. Walsh because she makes us learn about art and library.

Sometimes she even lets us go to a field trip and I think Ms. Walsh is pretty and nice. She is a hard working teacher and she also comes around and checks our work instead of sitting on the chair.

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I appreciate Ms. Lazar because she teaches me science, math and all kinds of subjects. I pick her because she comes prepared to school.

She also never sits for a second or a minute. She also never stops teaching even though some kids are slow. I also pick Ms. Lazar because she is the best teacher ever. She makes real things of science. She lets us do it as a team. She’s helpful when you need it.

She teaches us genres which is folktale, fairy-tale, fantasy and fables.

Alondra

I appreciate Ms. Lazar because she is always organized like if we are having a test she always has it organized like what time we need to do it. She was fighting for us so we can go back to school and learn our multiplications and other things. I also appreciate her because she is never lazy sitting down while teaching. She just teaches us at the board like a teacher at Edwards. She’s always nice to us because she gave us some free time at the end of the day on Friday. But when we don’t listen to her she gets kind of frustrated, but I never do something bad in class. I always listen to Ms. Lazar. I will always love Ms. Lazar—my third grade teacher.

—Paulina C.

I appreciate Ms. Lazar because she lets me have 2 chances in my test and she helps me with everything I need help with and it was in 3rd grade. She teaches us time tables and what time it is and she also teaches us some tricks for time tables and cause and effect and she taught us value and place value.

—Dallanara S.

I like Mrs. Ramirez because she told me what I needed to learn and she is a very hard worker and all the stuff that I learned I know in 3rd grade. I love Mrs. Ramirez because if I did not know something she would tell me. Mrs. Ramirez is very creative.

I wish she was my 3rd grade teacher because I would listen to her teach.

Diana V. Winter 2012

Ms. Lazar

Mrs. Lazar is the best teacher.

We do Fun Friday and we do math and genres and reading and a test and science and we learned writing and she’s the best teacher.

I appreciate Ms. Lazar because I learned algebra, math and science. I love that she never overacts and she is not lazy.

—Roberto I appreciate Mrs. Kedara because she listens to everything I say. She makes hard work lots of fun. She helps me out when I am doing a play.

She walks around to see if we are doing our work right. She teaches every day and explains the work I don’t get. She has lunch with me and does parties for the kids that are good in class. She will give you a chance all the way till Friday if we don’t finish our homework. She gave me a prize when I got straight A’s.

Ricardo I appreciate Mrs. Lazar because she always tells me when she has to talk to my grandma. She was always fun and always was funny. She always teaches us so much new things. She’s fun.

She taught us how to do place value.

Michael Z.

Myranda Drew T.

My favorite teacher is my 6th grade teacher.

Her name was Ms. Canas. She was my favorite because she understood us like what our problems were and what we go through.

She went through the same things as well and she would tell us and help us. My teacher works at William P. Nixon Elementary School.

—Joshua Z. Everyone be thankful for the teachers For without them we’d be stuck in the bleachers.

They give us the knowledge That can get us to college.

And they will give us their aid So we can get a good grade.

Evelyn C.

Special Teacher I appreciate my 3rd grade teacher Ms. Lazar. Just because she fought for the CPS teachers strike. I am also happy because my teacher is not lazy. She stands up and explains things the right way. And she is very organized; when we finish our tests we put them on the table and get a different page. And she has the books by genres very organized. I also like that science she makes it fun. I am thankful that my teacher lets us borrow her things and that I have a smart young style teacher.

I wish I can have her for fourth grade. Even though she sometimes gets mad at us and frustrated, I will always be thankful to God that I got a young smart teacher.

And that if we don’t have crayons or markers we can go into a cabinet and get whet we need. And thank you Ms. Lazar.

For you Ms. Lazar, A message from Evelyn C.

Adam

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So everyone be thankful for teachers.

—Sam M.

My special teacher is Mrs. Gallagher. She was 3rd grade and what was special about her was she took us outside every Friday.

But only if we did all our work or homework. But when it got cold we played games inside or we would watch a movie.

She also gave us awards for our best subject. I got a math award. But at the end of the year we were all sad because we had to leave. And, that is why Mrs. Gallagher was my special teacher.

—Jose G.

I appreciate my first grade teacher Alma B. Ms. Soroko because whenever she taught us anything she always made it easy and explained it to us. When school was over before I left she would always give me a hug. And when I went to second grade I always surprised her and gave her a hug. And now I am in 3rd grade and whenever she passes by I say hi or give her a hug. At the end of the day in first grade she would give us a prize. And one of the prizes was no homework and I won it. She wasn’t one of the teachers that sat on the chair all day long.

—Alma B.

Winter 2012

I think Burley is an awesome place because the teachers care about you, they make me feel so unique and special every time I pass one in the hall, have a club, or a class with them. They always put their students first. Everybody is always happy and cheerful. At Burley I always feel welcome. The teachers are always ready to teach us and we are always excited to learn. Also thank you for creating a great learning environment so our heads can be comfortably full of knowledge and problem solving tools. Our classrooms are homey and comfortable.

Burley is like a second home to me.

Also, thank you for giving us technology so we can expand our thinking even farther with laptops, iMacs, and iPads. I love how our teachers thrive and strive to get us new books and apps. Burley school made me who I am, and for that I am eternally grateful and in their debts. Thank you so much. —Emmy P. Dmonte Alia P. I appreciated Mrs. MacKenzie last year because I learned everything you’re supposed to learn in 2nd grade and everything she taught she made it fun and every day you passed her class you would see her teaching every single minute and she put her time and she still does and I still see her because I help her every day after school and she was creative and came prepared every day and is generous and responsible.

Faith

The reason that we celebrate teachers for a whole week is because they care so much about us. Teachers are like second mothers; they care, teach, and worry about you.

Teachers are like the guide dogs to a blind man; they lead you to the right path in life and tell you what is right and wrong. They know when you are upset and down, you can tell them anything and they can make it better. They can tell when we are struggling not just by our grades, but the way we are acting. They try their best to keep the lessons fun while giving us a good education. They treat us like their own, they try to understand us and pretend that they were us to help fix our problems; they know us too well to let us suffer.

We show our appreciation and do our part by bringing the teachers gifts and making them feel special on their special week. And throughout the year doing what we are told in class and doing the quality of work that is expected of us. —Sydney V. Ayanna S. Teachers teach me how to be eating silent.

Memories

Izzy M.

I had Mrs. Gunderson twice, once in first grade and once in fourth grade. My favorite time was in first grade when there was a bad storm and we were inside painting or playing with blocks.

Mrs. Gunderson was pretending to be an evil witch.

She started laughing like an evil witch. All of a sudden, lightening struck behind her.

I remember the whole class breaking out into hysterical laughter. I thought some of the students wouldn’t stop laughing. They laughed so loud. I will never forget that day. —Hunter B.

Deonna B.

Dear Ms. Parker, I love you because you taught me how to read and you taught me how to do math too.

Terrance S.

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Winter 2012

Bringing unknown facts on in They’ll teach you till the very end Informing about feet and miles Contagiously you have to smile Colors you will never forget And boxes that were once a net Taking us through twists and twirls Playing the game “Around the World.”

From pre-school while you’re learning sounds 8th grade, my bag is 14 pounds Learning sounds of fire trucks That’s on a test! Ha ha good luck!

Of course recess is very fun But there is none for anyone, Once you step on high school grounds, You’re in the building all year ’round!

—Tetta D.

Ava S.

I like my teacher because she is a smart person. I hope I can be like her. I like

my teacher because she helps us learn new and good things. If I don’t understand something she will help us. I like her because she helps us make our life better and good. She is the nicest teacher I’ve ever known in my life. She wants to fill our mind or brain with a lot of intelligent things. I hope I have her for every year of school. She is the best teacher ever. I never want to leave 5th grade, only to be with Mrs. Vodicka.

The best one ever. If I could rob someone it would be Mrs. Vodicka, so she can fill my mind. I like her too because she wants us to have a good, better future.

I like my art teacher because she teaches us fun things. Also creative things. I want to be an artist to make Mrs. Walsh so happy. I had other art teachers but none of them are as fun as Mrs. Walsh. I want to have art for the rest of my life. Mrs. Walsh is the world’s second best artist for me because others are in front of her, but she has something else that others don’t have.

It is fun doing art with Mrs. Walsh because she is so creative they can build the world’s biggest candy. Other art teachers that I had had done boring things but when I came to Edwards Elementary School, it changed only because of Mrs. Walsh.

—Priscilla R.

Elise M.

Teachers take the children to the bathroom.

Alexis V.

Why I appreciate Mrs. Gallagher is because when I needed help she would come and help me and she would say yes. Another one is she would care about us, take us outside and she would give us candy and I am proud of Mrs. Gallagher because if it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t be in fifth grade. I was proud that I had her. She’s very nice. That’s why I picked her on my favorite teacher. I love her—Mrs. Gallagher. —Brayc C.

I appreciate all of my teachers: Ms. Moses, Ms. M. White, Ms. S. White, Ms. McCune and

One of my take-out teachers is my mom’s favorite because she helped me so much in spelling and social studies. She was so nice to me and the other people in my group. And her name was Mrs. Dundas.

—Isabelle V.

Ms. Coffey. My teachers help me with my work; if I don’t understand something they slow it down so I can understand it. My teachers answer my questions whenever I need them to. When I need my teachers they’re there. They teach me new things that will help me in life.

In math class Ms. M. White always answers my questions when I need help, whether it’s fractions or probability. Ms. Moses is my reading teacher, and she makes sure everyone understands what she’s teaching before we move on to something new. In writing class Ms. Coffey explains everything clearly so everyone understands the process of writing expository essays. All of my teachers believe that I can exceed and make it to high school and go to college. My teachers help me and are caring, and that’s why I appreciate them. —Symone R.

Isabelle

Ashontis

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Amman J.

Thomas Winter 2012

Winter 2012

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Isabella

Piper M. You’re the one who heals our mistakes, Who does schoolwork even during Spring Breaks.

During class conversations we say what we think, If I forgot my homework you’d always send me the link!

Daizhana

My teacher is kind and smart. By my opinion she is the smartest teacher in the whole wide world and she should get a lot of respect from the bad kids in her classroom. She is a queen and the classroom is her castle. They should bow down to her. She is like my school mother and that is how I treat her. She should be on t.v. She should get a Smartest Person in the World award. Her and my mom. They are princesses, like black Cinderellas. They are like angels. Back to only my teacher. She can be a magician.

Some of the kids in her class are smart; they just don’t try. They are just bad; they get on her nerves sometimes. —Thomas P.

Miyanna J.

Teachers are nice and cool. Some are mostly funny. It’s nice that they help us learn. And I think all teachers

are nice. And a lot of teachers are fun to learn with. And they make us more smart as we grow up. And teachers are really helpful too. They help us with a question that we get confused on most of the time. And teachers are nice to give us recess all the time. And to give information on what work we’re doing, and test information so we can study and get better at any subject. And teachers are good to us students and also very favorable to us too. And they teach us some true facts sometimes about something that we never heard from. And teachers are also important to us because they teach us into having an education. And teachers are not just teachers, they are also our friend. —Jonah W. Teachers are...

Learning, Teaching, Reading, Writing, Art, Science, Dance, Math.

Morning and night, Wherever they are, TEACHING. —Ona

My fifth grade teacher is Mr. Sullivan. He lets us play games and teaches us all about math (my favorite subject).

He teaches me all I need to know to get ready for middle school, so my 6th grade can be easy.

My fourth grade teacher was Ms. Nally. She helped me with my vocabulary and reading comprehension because in the beginning I didn’t get it. She spends time with me teaching me the best way how to find it. I must say by the middle of the year I did it all by myself. If it wasn’t for her I think I wouldn’t know how to do it.

My third grade teacher was Ms.Rodriguez. She helped me with cursive. She was the first teacher to help me write my name in cursive.

My second grade teacher was Ms. Burke. She helped me with spelling and how to sound the letter so I can spell the word.

My first grade teacher was Ms. Gunderson. She helped me with my reading by sitting next to me and we would read together.

My kindergarten teacher was Ms. Hondropoulos. She helped me with my writing and she made me stronger for first grade.

Tewanje S.

I like Ms. Dubais because she is nice and she takes us on field trips. Tomorrow we are going to the Grove Nature Center and I am going to have fun tomorrow.

Andre P.

They taught me all the right things. I really appreciate all the time they put into teaching because without them I wouldn’t know and learn all that I know now.

—Leonard N.

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Winter 2012

My mom is a teacher and I love her and she teaches numbers and mathy stuff and letters and ready stuff.

I appreciate the teachers because they will help you when stuck. I also appreciate teachers because they make an impact in our lives. I am grateful for the teachers because without them we wouldn’t know much.

That’s how I appreciate teachers.

—Ethan S. Isaiah W.

I appreciate my teacher for helping me spell big words. She helps me learn sight words and how to read fast. Mrs. Pearson gives us jobs to do. My teacher lets us go to the listening center to learn. She lets me help students learn their sight words because I know all of them. —Brian W. A special teacher I’ve had is Mrs. Vodicka. She is a special teacher for me because she gave us 6 coupons on the first day of school. She is also special because she gave me 2 cookies for neatness and also 2 coupons. She is also special because she took us to watch a movie in the auditorium because of behavior and how many coupons we had. We could give them to her or else we could not watch the movie. Mrs. Vodicka is also special because she teaches very well and we understand her perfectly. That’s why she was a special person to me and my class.

—Olga G.

I appreciate Ms. S. White because she really believes in me, and also trusts me.

I know this because Ms. S. White really stays on me like she’s pushing me towards nothing but excellence. She wants me to exceed so that I can have an opportunity to attend a good school. I want to get into a school with a good reputation. Usually Ms. S. White is known for being strict to other people, but not to me. Ms. S. White nominated me for Student of the Month twice. I am always academically engaged. I appreciate Ms. S. White.

I appreciate my teacher because just today she trusted me by taking me on a trip. Today as we prepared for the trip she left me with her belongings. All day I walked around with her things. Even today I got into trouble by being around a huge crowd. I learned to move away from crowds because crowds cause a lot of trouble. I really appreciate Ms. S. White for everything. —Bianka R.

Rhianna K.

Teachers walk with me in the hallway.

Haiku I love my teachers At school they teach us a lot They help us grow up —Nguyen T.

I think that teachers are excellent because they know a lot of things, like math and reading. I like when Ms. Reaves told me about drawing conclusions. When you make a conclusion, you will have to have some details to support the conclusion. I like when Ms. Reaves does decimals because it teaches me different kinds of math.

I like when Ms. Reaves teaches us science because it helps us learn different methods. I like to do social studies because we learn about our history. These are ways teachers are excellent. —Deajonea W.

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Winter 2012

A teacher that I love is Mr. Patino. He was my fifth grade teacher.

Thanks to him I actually became interested in going to school and learning. My favorite subjects were social studies, math and science. He made everything really fun and had a very creative way of teaching. I wish I could go and visit him but unfortunately, I am not aware of what school he currently attends because this year he became a principal at a different school.

I really miss him because he was one of the best teachers that I ever had. I hope that he is doing okay and that I get to see him soon. I wish him the best of luck and that he has a great time being a principal. —Alma R.

S T T U C L K E C A D E N T T T S X H E R X R P A P R E R E S S A A O P E P O N R D W A A E I R D L U R A H W S I H M C N N A A C E G C T E E R N S H E E I A C E B H I I L M F G E R N T I W L E R T F V P O O R G R A K S B L D E F I E F H S Y T H O P A I L U V U R O U V E E T E A K E C H C E L R E L R S B V V R V E L D A L N E P M Z V D T A E R K U N T C C T D Y P I P M I O R G N I I V O T C E P S E R E L P P A K O R G P P T Q R U C M F G L I Z N APPLE APPRECIATE BELIEVE CARING CLEVER

CREATIVE EDUCATION ENERGY EXPLAIN HELPFUL

HOMEWORK KIND LEARN READ REMARKABLE

RESPECT SMART TEACHERS TERRIFIC THOUGHTFUL

Write down the letters that aren’t circled to uncover the secret message hidden in the top 11 lines of the puzzle.

Finished already? You sure are smart and crafty! Keep working those muscles for great grades, prep for tests or just for fun with “What’s The Big Idea?” workshops. Developed by an English Professor, certified teacher and parent of a tween and teenager, they’re both fun and useful. See the Workshops page at wishcraftworkshop.com for details. Tutoring also available.

1

Charlie N.

When Ms. Proudfoot Helped Me with my Reading and Math

I was in 1st grade, and I was the youngest person in the whole class—even grade! It was the middle of the year in 1st grade, and I was in Ms. Proudfoot’s class. When you are in the lower grades you usually do private reading tests with your teacher, where you read a short book and they ask you questions about it. Well, Ms. Proudfoot noticed that I was falling behind in reading so she gave me my own private tutor. She also noticed that I was falling behind in my math and addition and subtraction. So I had a tutor from her every Friday. It helped me a lot with my math and reading, and that made me catch up with the class in math and reading.

—Charlie N. Mrs. Christlieb was my first teacher at Nettelhorst. I thought she was a great teacher because she made me feel welcome to the school. She would help me if I did not understand something that we were doing in class. Mrs. Christlieb would reward our class if we worked hard and did not goof off. I especially enjoyed how she taught science.

We had so much hands on learning! Mrs. Christlieb was really good at making sure that we all understood what we were working on in class. That is why I think Mrs. Christlieb was such an awesome teacher. —Maggie W.

Teacher Appreciation Day is a great day to celebrate what teachers do for students and others; they teach us to be kind, respectful, try our best, work hard and most importantly never give up!! My favorite teacher was Mrs. Blizzard, my third grade teacher. She was always pushing me to do my best, she was always ready to answer questions, and she was always working and helping at her students’ pace. Teachers really do deserve this day; that’s why I try and make sure that every teacher gets the appreciation that they deserve!! Hope you enjoyed my essay on Teacher Appreciation Day!!

—Lulu

Lulu

Mrs. Blizzard

Teachers guide us through life. Most people see them as people who just

teach us about different subjects, such as math and reading. But I see them as human beings who just want to help people take the next step in life. I believe they prepare us for a harsh, cruel world by being strict and making us do things we don’t want to do. But they can also be considered friends and someone who can give students advice about things we can’t talk about with a parent. That’s why I appreciate teachers.

There was a time that I had missed a certain math class and I was going to have a test.

When the lesson started I had a difficult time with understanding. So I asked my math teacher, Ms. M. White, if I could do it over at the end of the day. Then she said no at first, but she decided to fit me into her busy schedule. I thought that was so nice of her. After that, I passed the test with flying colors.

—Lauryn N.

Why are teachers important?

Teachers are important because they help teach students to get their career.

What makes a great teacher?

Teachers are GREAT because the teachers are FUN, GREAT and AWESOME!

Who’s your favorite teacher?

My favorite teacher is Ms. Holzwarth

Why is she a great teacher?

She is a great teacher because she is fun, for learning and she is a nice teacher too!

What have you learned from your teacher?

Genzel

S.

Friendly Greets • Reading • Writing Math • Words • Tools in our classroom Being nice by using silent sparkers Give outward gifts —Olivia F. Javonn H.

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Winter 2012

Triseana W. Teachers are good at teaching because they read to us so we can learn to read.

Teachers teach much more than what you think they do.

They teach life lessons based on what they think is best for you.

They set you on the right path towards a successful life.

They might even set you up with a nice husband or wife, (probably not!).

You can come to them for anything and they will understand.

“Just be honest,” is usually their only demand.

They’ll always believe in you no matter what.

But if you make a big mistake the door of trust may forever be shut.

After a while they become like a friend or family.

And I hope most feel the same about me.

Your teacher will always be there when others aren’t.

And all of my teachers have a special place in my heart.

They care about every one of their students and work hard until the last assignment is due.

So I respect and appreciate my teachers and you should too.

—Ben M.

When Mrs. Gunderson Organized a Smorgasbord

It was on Monday and Mrs. Gunderson said we were going to make a smorgasbord on Friday.

She put us into groups. I was lucky because I got my best friends (Tamiah and Sydney) in my group.

On Tuesday the teacher told my group that we were going to be in charge of making the “summer palace sandwich” (the hardest one). It was hard because we were the only ones that had to use the oven.

On Wednesday my group and I went on the internet and looked up how we were going to make it.

On Thursday we sorted out everything and got everything ready.

On Friday me, Ella and Collin made invitations to teachers who might want to go to the smorgasbord and we made the food. I loved all the food, especially ours. That was the time Mrs. Gunderson organized a smorgasbord.

—Ayanna H.

I like Ms. Chrissy because she is nice and Ms. Chrissy gives us games in elective.

Winter 2012 JaJuan L.

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Teachers teachers they make us smart Teachers teachers all the way from math to art Teachers teachers they are so cool Teachers teachers I love my school! —Paili B.

Lauren C.

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Winter 2012

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