WFMJ-Books+to+Celebrate+Teachers+and+Grads

National Teacher's Appreciation Week began during the reign of Eleanor Roosevelt as First Lady of The United States. It is the first full week of May every year. Here is my list to help celebrate the art of teaching for students, teachers and future teachers.

1. The Junkyard Wonders by Patricia Polacco. This book celebrates the wonder and potential of every child. 2. I Knew You Could! A Book for all the Stops in Your Life by Craig Dofman - excellent gift for a grad or a student who has reached a remarkable goal...a take off of The Little Engin Who Could. 3. The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds- a delightful fable about the creative spirit in all of us. 4. Curious You On Your Way illustrated by H.A. Rey (creator of Curious George) - a replacement for OH THE PLACES YOU'LL GO by Dr. Seuss. 5. 180 Devotions for Teachers by Suasn O'Carroll Drake 6. Chicken soup for the Soul Teacher Tales - 101 Inspirational Stories from Graeat Teachers and Appreciative Students 7. Teach Like Your Hair's On Fire - The Methods and Madness Inside Room 56 - A New York Times Bestseller by Rafe Esquith 8. Not Quite Burned Out, but Crispy Around the Edges- Inspriation, Laugher, and Encouragement for Teachers by Sharon M. Draper 9, The Courage to Teach Exploring the inner Landsape of a Teacher's Life

During this difficult year of "unflattering words" being shared by politicians regarding my noble profession, we can look to literature for a positive outlook...a breathe of fresh air. We can also look to our students who have risen above society's problems to achieve the high standards against the greatest of odds.

Recently I asked my students to write "recommendation letters" for our departing student teacher, in hopes that their words would be a postive influence on our student teacher's job prospects. Here's an example of how a fourth grader can reach out in a meaningful way through writing:

To Whom It May Concern: I'd like to introduce you to an amazing person. Her name is Miss Faver. She is our student teacher. you need to hir Miss Favore before another school snatches her up! Here are the reasons you should hire Miss Faver.

First, Miss Faber dresses really well. Also, she dresses for the weather. Plus, she is neat and clean. A couple of days ago, she wore high heels! Oh boy, there were really pretty. This proves to me that Miss Faver respects her career.

Next, Miss Faber is dedicated. She comes to school early, and stays late at school. Also, she has had perfect attendance form the day she came to my classroom.

Let me tell you about Miss Faber's patience. Miss Faber has never lost her temper with any student in the classroom.

Finally, Miss FAber worked very well with Mr. Cole. They never ever had a disagreement. They were a very good team.

These are just some of Miss Faber's grand qualities. I will never forget Miss Faber. she was an awesome teacher. you will not be sorry if you hir Miss Faber.

Sincerely, Hannah McVicker P.S. She is a magnificent masterpiece.