Attitude of Gratitude - 2024/2025 School Year by Brooke Dunham

“Like a memory muscle is about practicing a motion so often the body “remembers” the motion, faithfully practicing giving thanks strengthens a gratitude muscle, so your soul remembers what to do in crisis.” - One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

bdunham2 — 2024-08-17 14:46:50 UTC

“Exercise your gratitude muscle- to grow strong in joy.” - One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

bdunham2 — 2024-08-17 14:47:39 UTC

“One of our greatest weapons against hopelessness is gratefulness.” - One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

bdunham2 — 2024-08-17 14:48:03 UTC

“We don’t wait till we’re joyful to be grateful-being grateful is what makes us joyful!” - One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

bdunham2 — 2024-08-17 14:48:45 UTC

Journal Entries This Week:

bdunham2 — 2024-08-17 14:50:31 UTC

all air conditioning working when I came in this morning.
a supportive husband
staff who cares
Walter having a good 1st experience at football
energy
Brooke Dunham

2024-08-20 14:10:03 UTC

-Students who are excited to be at school

-Parents who say "thank you for all you do"

Inclusion Teachers

2024-08-25 17:45:31 UTC

Thank you for your unwavering dedication and for helping make the start of the school year a success for our kids! Your kindness and care create an environment where they feel truly valued, supported, and excited to learn. We couldn't do this without the heart and effort you bring every day—you're making a lasting impact, and we're deeply grateful!

2024-08-25 21:15:46 UTC

A team who supports each other inside and outside of school!

Teamwork

2024-08-30 12:17:35 UTC

My team is hardworking and always looking out for each other to help our students be the best they can be at IES!

-Lauren Bickelmann

2024-08-30 12:42:24 UTC

My husband has recently started a new job that has been truly life-giving for our marriage, parenthood, etc. He went from working 6-7 days a week (10-12 hours a day) to working Monday-Friday and leaving at 4:30. It is a huge answered prayer! -Harkins :)

ESL Department

2024-08-30 13:26:27 UTC

We are so blessed to have Laura Habshey and Leigh Welch love on our ELL kids and families. They truly want to create the best experience for these families, and it shows in the way they make relationships a priority early on. Thank you for taking the time to make these families feel welcome and included. It means so much!

-Bush

What a Great Week!

2024-08-30 14:02:59 UTC

This has been such a great week with meeting with my 3rd grade GRC students and continuing to work with all the 2nd graders! I so love school and am so thankful to be here! I especially love the hugs in the hallway when the kids see me.

M. Thomas

2024-08-30 15:08:51 UTC

Bachtel helping with all of our friends
My wonderful team who is always willing to do whatever it takes to get the end goal
Remke, Lee and Blocker supporting our class
active room moms who are already on it
all the updates to IES- they look so good

-Swede

Great People

2024-08-30 16:31:00 UTC

I am so thankful to work with just the very best people. Stephanie and Laurel keep me so motivated and inspired to work hard for the kids and to keep challenging myself to improve and grow. It's amazing to come to work and really like and appreciate your people every day.

Crystal Knezek

Third Grade Team

2024-08-30 20:23:45 UTC

I am so thankful for the third grade team who has welcomed me with open arms and helped me through beginning the school year in a new grade level! I so grateful to you all!! *Missy Seeley

2024-08-31 14:35:57 UTC

I’m grateful for my placement with Swedenburg this year! I was nervous because of my perception of Kinder-chaos but she has shown me a calm, orderly classroom based on firm, compassionate discipline. She is an exceptional leader for her students and for the educators around her.

Katy Bachtel

2024-08-31 15:53:28 UTC

Those little “I love you!” words and hugs from students across the grades! Holly Browder

2024-09-01 14:09:19 UTC

I am thankful for the wonderful adapted art lessons Ms. Weaver creates for our students in resource. She does an amazing job and I love seeing our students enjoying her class!

Maggie Johnston

2024-09-01 15:24:15 UTC

I’m thankful that my schedule has been working smoothly so far! Remke is a blessing to share a room with and it’s been fun watching each of us in our element. :)

I’m also thankful to get away to the beach with some longtime friends and enjoy time away.

2024-09-02 18:11:38 UTC

I’m thankful for all the love and support I’ve received leading up to my newest season in life!

Thank you all for the beautiful shower and words of encouragement ♥️

-Darby

2024-09-06 13:31:40 UTC

-I am so very thankful for a job that I love.

-I am thankful for the awesome people that I work with and the precious children that I get to work with.

-I am thankful that I have the ability to visit my son at college because I miss him so very much.

-I am thankful for my time in the afternoon to get in a nice walk and prayer time. It has been so good for my soul!

-I am thankful for the joy Andrew Cobb brings to my days.

Kim Youngblood

Special Ed Team:

2024-09-06 14:05:22 UTC

What an amazing team we have! Thank you for giving 110% to our students every day!! Love you all and am so thankful for our team!

Susan Lee

2024-09-06 14:44:08 UTC

I am thankful for Megan! She is always willing to help in all types of situations! I am hoping I can now provide her with less situations for the rest of the year! ❤️ Browder

Supportive friends

2024-09-06 17:52:33 UTC

I am so blessed to have friends/coworkers who are there when you need them. I have had my son and my mom in the hospital the past 2 weeks consecutively. My sub plans and copies for my sub were done for me so I could take one thing off my plate!

Niki Burke

Supportive Room mom

2024-09-06 17:55:04 UTC

With all the craziness in my past 2 weeks my room mom gifted my husband and I a DoorDash gift card so I wouldn’t have to worry about dinner! So thoughtful and I was so grateful and touched!!

Room Mom Support

2024-09-07 19:32:08 UTC

I have 4 excited Room Moms this year willing to do whatever it takes to help me, my students, and the class parents. I feel good vibes ahead for my sweet kindergarten class this year~

Lauren Bickelmann

2024-09-07 19:59:41 UTC

-Room moms who are so incredibly helpful

-Supportive coworkers who are willing to listen and give me advice

-Parents that have provided so much to our classroom

-An amazing team of third grade teachers!

Nolen

Thankful

2024-09-08 04:02:55 UTC

I am so thankful to have Jennifer Hernandez back with us this year. We sure have missed having help.

Habshey

Music

2024-09-08 14:49:08 UTC

So thankful for Mrs. Youngblood and sharing her love of music with our kiddos. Even when we get off schedule, she’s willing to make sure our sweet friends still get the chance to join in all the musical fun.

-Laurel Lowe

To the SUPERHEROES

2024-09-10 01:25:45 UTC

To the administrators, thank you for your leadership and guidance. To the office staff, your support and organization are invaluable. To the cafeteria staff, your meals keep us nourished and energized. And to the custodians, your attention to cleanliness ensures a safe and welcoming space for all.

Your combined efforts contribute greatly to our success, and I am deeply thankful for each of you. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and I truly appreciate everything you all do.

Remke

I am grateful for:

2024-09-10 18:19:02 UTC

•Mrs Remke, Mrs Free, and Mrs Blocker for the support and advice they have given me to be the best that I can be

•My boyfriend for being my rock on the toughest of days

•My mom for being my super hero and always staying strong no matter the circumstance

•Both of my parents receiving the medical treatment they need to be healthy and well

•Maggie and Mrs Moody for what they do along side me to ensure breakfast goes as smooth as possible

•All the ladies that work hard in the lunchroom to provide us with delicious food

-Sellers P

2024-09-12 20:39:39 UTC

I am thankful for...

-My mom for everything she does to make my life easier.

-My sister and our friend Whitteny for supporting me through the past few weeks.

-That I have a functioning car.

Holleyanna Nolen

So thankful for….

2024-09-12 22:09:28 UTC

My wonderful husband Benny and my family! God has truly blessed me beyond measure!

~Rosie

Mommas at the park…

2024-09-12 22:34:51 UTC

As I reflect on my current season of life where we are hustling and bustling to get to soccer fields and the ball park, I’m super grateful for the moms in the stands and on the sidelines with me. I love my village, their children, and the memories we are making as we raise our kids together ! Grateful ⚽️❤️⚾️ -T.Martin

Family

2024-09-12 22:46:06 UTC

Thankful for my family, rare dinners together with all my kids home, and laughter!

Susan Lee

2024-09-13 00:45:28 UTC

I am grateful to live near parents that have always been there for all of our Girls’ events!

Holly

2024-09-13 10:08:16 UTC

I am so grateful to have a loving husband that is helpful and supportive. He makes raising 5 kids together easy 😉 because we are a team. -Warren

Grateful

2024-09-13 11:23:25 UTC

I love my neighborhood and walking with my dogs, my husband, a friend, or even alone with my music. I hope to start getting back to running in training for the seaside half marathon in February! #goals

-Lauren Bickelmann

New Car!!!

2024-09-13 13:12:37 UTC

I am grateful for my husband who texted this picture to me in the middle of my workday, 2 1/2 weeks ago, and said, "wanna go to the dealership when you get out of school today?" 🥰

-Abby

Grateful

2024-09-13 13:12:56 UTC

I am grateful for our sped family! I am so proud of our collaboration and the impact it has on our students. I am especially grateful for Maggie! She always goes above and beyond to meet the needs of our classroom family. I am grateful for friends outside of school that have become family to me. I am grateful for my sweet baby Henry. He is the sweetest puppy ever, and I wish I could take him everywhere with me! I am grateful for Inverness Elementary. The culture we have is unmatched!

~ Mr. Moore :)

Grateful

2024-09-13 16:29:55 UTC

I am grateful for this stage of life. My kids are almost all teenagers and it's a humbling and beautiful experience to watch them bloom into young adults who are able to go out into the world and make good decisions and understand that the world can be made better or worse by their actions!

Crystal

Thankful

2024-09-13 17:30:51 UTC

I'm thankful this week for Remke who gets our room ready each morning when she gets here. I always walk in to our lights on and music playing. It helps set the tone for the day.

Square 1 deliveries on Fridays are always a plus!

Coming to work here everyday because of the teachers and the work you all put in really make my day and help me to want to do my best as well! Thank you, IES teacher and staff for putting 100% each day even when it's hard.

-Blocker

Blessed Beyond Measure

2024-09-16 14:23:00 UTC

-I am thankful for Valleydale Church and the spiritual food that I get every week by attending.

-I am thankful for the best family! What a blessing they all are to me.

-I am thankful for the best friends a girl could every ask for!!

-I am thankful for the "Walk Wenches"

-I am thankful for my fur baby Zoey who makes me smile and every day!

Kim Youngblood

Thankful

2024-09-17 01:27:07 UTC

I'm thankful for my husband. He is gracious on nights when I don't have energy to talk to another person. I am grateful for the understood silence and grace.

-Lizzie

Beyond Blessed

2024-09-18 00:03:18 UTC

Beyond blessed to have received a very positive result from my MRI! Spots are shrinking or have already disappeared! Thank God for my health!
Extremely grateful for all the times daily that our SPED family and inclusion teachers put up with my squirrelliness!
My DAILY morning chats with Dawn, Kristi, and Walter! They keep me laughing!
Blocker and Lee for always making me smile, and assuring me I’m doing exactly what I should be doing!
Welch and Habshey for always telling me the little things they notice I do!
For Invernesss. . .you just don’t know what you are missing until you work here! The culture, the connections, relationships, support and the sense of belonging is UNMATCHED.
-Remke

I am thankful for Friday Night lights so I can watch my Jaguarette twirl for her last season! Savoring these moments!

2024-09-20 12:10:51 UTC

Grateful

2024-09-20 12:35:47 UTC

*I am thankful for God's grace in always knowing what we need even when we (I) think we know.

*I am grateful for my wonderful family and friends who uplift me all the time.

*I am grateful for my health!

*I am grateful to being at Inverness! Moving to elementary has honestly been the best decision of my career.

-Melanie Thomas

Laughing With My Family

2024-09-20 13:36:43 UTC

This week I am especially grateful for my husband and daughter, who make tough days into better evenings. My daughter has been in a princess phase since she was 1 1/2, and she is almost 4! Every day, she wants to come home from school and put on a princess dress. She loves to twirl and dance in the kitchen to Disney music while we make dinner, and it makes us laugh and smile. This week we taught her how to play Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, and we laughed so hard at her trying to memorize the order.

I am also grateful for those at school who love me well and notice when I need a pick me up. It feels good to have people on your team who want to see you shine!

-Bush

Kids

2024-09-20 14:03:18 UTC

I am thankful for Alyssa's good start to her shoolyear at the high school. I am thankful both of my boys are doing so well and enjoying their careers. There is nothing better than loving what you do each day!

Susan Lee

Weekends

2024-09-20 16:23:39 UTC

I am thankful for the weekends to refresh and relax for the upcoming busy week. Weekends are for reflecting, relaxing, and refreshing :)

-Lauren Bickelmann

Struggle Bus

2024-09-20 18:21:23 UTC

Our jobs are really hard and sometimes there are not clear answers or solutions to problems. I, for one, have struggled this school year feeling inadequate in my role. In the spiral of self doubt and worry it is really hard to feel grateful for anything. So it is an important reminder that when we feel the least grateful, that is the time to sit down and count our blessings. Getting to work with incredible and positive people who care about doing a good job helps keep me motivated, so even on the hard days I know I get to come back and try again tomorrow. Thank you INES for being such a kind and uplifting place to work.

-Graham

Gratefulness this week

2024-09-20 19:31:16 UTC

As a single parent this week, I'm thankful for my village who helped me get kids to places or allowed them to go home with them until I could pick them up. It truly takes a village! Even though it's hard when my husband and parents (who help weekly) are both gone, it's good for them to get away for work and play. I'm always happy to hold the fort down even when it's busy and hard!

-Blocker

Family and work family!

2024-09-22 17:18:19 UTC

I am so grateful for the phase of life I am in. The toddler stage is so fun and entertaining and I am soaking it up. Getting to do all things little girl with my daughter is so fun! We bake cookies and play dolls and color and dance and make up songs about everything.

At school, I’m grateful that I get to work with the same group of kids from last year. Seeing their growth has been amazing.

I’m also grateful for Bryton who makes work fun and supplies me with treats on exhausting weeks!

Lastly im so grateful for art club with Ms. Harkins! It is such a fun change of pace every Wednesday and I am grateful to work with such a great teacher who is in a similar phase of life as me!

2024-09-23 00:56:40 UTC

I am grateful for the amazing weekend at the lake! It was the perfect chance to relax, slow down and enjoy quality time together. We kayaked, played with the dogs in the lake, and had a blast on the Seadoo with my nephews. Cooking up homemade brick oven pizza was a highlight, with homemade peach cobbler for my birthday! We had a great time watching football games and played tons of board games. We ended the weekend with a sunset boat ride and s’mores over a campfire! Those moments together really recharge you and make you smile!

-Remke

Wheelchair van

2024-09-27 12:48:28 UTC

On this morning as we rush around to more medical appointments for Alyssa, I watched a parent struggling to lift a wheelchair in and out of their car and then lift their child in and out of the wheelchair. I am thankful for my wheelchair that allows me to transport my child more easily and safely.

Susan Lee

Grateful for my CAR!!!

2024-09-27 13:50:01 UTC

On August 31st, Lee, my 8 year old, and I were in a car accident. We thankfully were fine, but my driver's side door did not fare so well. I FINALLY got my car back yesterday!!! I am so thankful for that whole ordeal to finally be resolved and to have my car back!

Melanie Thomas

Nolen

2024-09-27 13:50:16 UTC

-Phone

-Audible/Audiobooks

-A working car

-Chickfila

-Air Conditioning

My Home

bdunham2 — 2024-09-27 13:53:28 UTC

When weeks are busy and I feel like I am only there to sleep, I am so grateful to have the weekend to rest in my comfortable home. I have decorated for fall, bought all the fall scented candles, and "game day" food. It is such a blessing to be able to snuggle up on the sofa with my amazing kids while my husband grills out and we enjoy football and fall scents.

Brooke Dunham

2024-09-27 15:37:25 UTC

I’m grateful for:

My husband who is a big kid & cheers me up with his silliness.
My Corgi Henry who herds my family around our house when he’s excited.
Harvest Snaps, Square One & Alani, my favorite over-priced indulgences 💜

Bachtel

Burke

2024-09-27 17:27:17 UTC

I am grateful for my health, my wonderful family, and friends. I am also thankful for fresh coffee each morning, the ability to work out at the gym, and reading books to unwind!

This week I am grateful for..

2024-09-27 18:27:38 UTC

•My dad finally being out of the hospital and getting to heal at home

•my dads home health nurse for taking good care of him on Tuesday

•My boyfriend and how he’s always willing to help my parents and I out while we adjust to our new “normal”

•celebrating one year with my boyfriend

•Mrs Bramblett for giving me a pretty dress

-Sellers

BEAR!

2024-09-27 19:53:19 UTC

I am SO thankful for Bear's safe return to our classroom. Special thanks to Renta, Dunnaway, and Nolen for providing his safe return :)

Material items that make me😃

2024-09-28 02:40:55 UTC

-Lattes

-Leggings and Sweatshirts… basically all things cozy

-Thankful for new den furniture which gave this space a facelift!

-Books to have a little escape

~Martin

My husband

2024-09-28 10:01:45 UTC

I am thankful for my amazing husband who worked so hard to make my birthday feel so special 🩵

-Lauren Bickelmann

I’m thankful for...

2024-09-30 13:32:56 UTC

The support of family and friends who lift me up.
Moments of laughter that brighten even tough days.
The beauty of nature, reminding us to slow down and appreciate the world.
The lessons learned through challenges that help me grow.
Every small victory that brings joy and motivation.
- Vansant

2024-09-30 16:55:52 UTC

This year I added a bird feeder outside our window! The kids love it!! Holly

:) My First Grade Team

2024-09-30 22:55:59 UTC

To My Incredible Team,

This is our 4th school year *I think* that we have been together. I just want to express how grateful I am for each of you. We've shared so many laughs, supported one another through the ups and downs, and shown each other endless grace. I truly couldn't imagine doing this work without such an amazing group by my side. Thank you for being a constant in my daily life. I know I can always count on each of you. We know each other so well, and I know can always be myself around you all. Thank you for the love and the laughs!

~Ash

Things I am thankful for in this season of life

2024-10-04 13:21:18 UTC

- Velcro swaddles

- Coffee & Coke ( basically any caffeine 😊)

- Baby Brezza

- Halloween/ Fall decorations

- Halloween outfits/bows

Cooke

Family

2024-10-04 13:41:37 UTC

I am thankful that my girls have both sets of grandparents that live close by! I couldn't survive without our village!

AF Walker

This week's thankfulness

2024-10-04 13:43:29 UTC

I'm thankful for jogger pants and sweatshirts! I love the cooler weather to wear these types of clothes!

I'm also thankful for dishwashers! I hate doing dishes! :)

-Blocker

My Dad

2024-10-04 13:54:53 UTC

Today I am very thankful for my Dad and his continued improvement from a very severe medical emergency in June. He has been in Alabaster at Shelby Ridge since July 3rd and is very ready to get home to Auburn/Opelika. Unfortunately, he is not ready to go home yet, but I have been able to get him in an AMAZING skilled nursing home in Auburn and the staff have been great. He should be transferred there next week and will be among all of his family and friends (I'm really the only one who lives outside of Opelika). I am so grateful that God has brought him this far and I know full healing and strength is very close.

These are a few of my favorite things:

2024-10-04 14:31:58 UTC

Pets that ride with their kids in car rider.
Classic rock blaring in my car.
Hiking to a waterfall.
Taco trucks.

Now if I could just find a taco truck full of puppies blaring Deep Purple under a waterfall…

Bachtel

I am grateful for pumpkins! Holly

2024-10-04 14:33:39 UTC

Comfy Cozys and Good Laughs

2024-10-04 14:33:52 UTC

I'm so thankful for cardigans/sweatshirts, leggings, NEW Brooks tennis shoes.
I'm thankful for my overpriced coffee creamer and hot teas.
I'm thankful to wake up with hot coffee in the mornings, and listening and watching the world wake up with my husband every day.
I'm thankful for the -BER months, because I love all the decorations.
Thankful for Saturdays with endless football which brings friends and family to fill our home with noise, food, and fun!

-Remke

I'm thankful for...

2024-10-05 02:10:19 UTC

-Pastel Halloween Decor

-Heating pads and blankets

- A dedicated and caring lunchroom staff who work hard to put out a yummy breakfast and lunch each day

- Nurse Cobb for truly caring about the kids

- Mrs. Nicholson for thoughtfully curating a special area filled with beginner chapter books

-Mrs. Powell who brings me "happies" and makes me smile whenever I get to see her

- My husband who takes care of so many things for our family, especially during my busiest times

- Brooke, Erin, and Lizzie for being supportive and encouraging :)

~Ash

Fall season~

2024-10-05 12:43:12 UTC

My brother and sister-in-law coming to visit to celebrate my birthday. I loved seeing my nephews and the amount of talking they both can do now makes me happy! Both of their sweet little hugs warms my Aunt heart! We as a family visited the pumpkin patch which is my favorite thing during the fall time- pumpkins 🎃

-Lauren Bickelmann

Thankful

2024-10-11 15:26:05 UTC

I'm so thankful for a job I love and for the amazing people I work with. No matter how tired I am or how bad I feel when I wake up, I still WANT to come to work.

-Kristi

I'm thankful for....

2024-10-11 15:28:04 UTC

-Lauren Ash & the 1st grade team for bringing a sweet little treat and note during a busy week! They also participated in praise walks and brought each teacher they visited a little "happy". It truly was such a great reminder of the little pick-me-ups that go a long way!

-2nd grade team - I just got off the phone bragging to Celita about y'all's incredible PLC meeting. I've been a part of several PLC sessions, but each of you brought data to the table to review and discuss instructional next steps with your students. I couldn't be more thrilled to celebrate all of the growth and work that y'all are doing and it shows in each of your students.

-3rd grade always does such a fantastic job supporting each other. There have been so many personal challenges this year and it hasn't stopped them both professionally or personally - they're like an engine that just keeps moving forward regardless of what challenges are coming their way.

-Kindergarten team - WOWZERS - each of these ladies works collaboratively and with the utmost level of respect for each other. When I think of collective team efficacy, they're group picture should be in Hattie's book as the sheer definition. They always consider each other before making instructional decisions and always turn to the research and what the professionals say.

As a parent and as a colleague, I could not be more thrilled to be a part of this community. It is not like this everywhere and I am just so proud of all of the incredible things that we are doing at Inverness to move the bar - it truly is remarkable to see what our teachers are able to accomplish and I'm proud to be a very small part of it!

-Lizzie

Plumlee

2024-10-11 17:10:15 UTC

IES, first as a parent and now as a faculty member. This is a special, special school.

My husband and his love for our community. I’m also very thankful for his willingness to step right in and help with all the kids sports, carpools and activities… and taking Annie to school on those tough mornings.
Tuesday/Thursday car rides to/from soccer practice with my oldest daughter. I love our one on one time together and our conversations. I learn the most during these 20 minute car rides.
Mrs. Janice Moody for her attention to detail. Through her notes and record keeping I feel like she is here training me everyday.

Thankful

2024-10-11 19:23:00 UTC

I am so very thankful for my amazing husband, Holt and our son, Lee. For the past 4 and 1/2 months that I have been taking care of my Dad at the hospital and short term rehab (made it safely to Auburn yesterday). They have built me up and supported me!

I am thankful for everyone in our amazing school family for welcoming me with open arms!

I am thankful for Laurie Sherrill who has been my superhero in helping navigate 2nd grade child find.

And I am very thankful that Auburn is off tomorrow so I won't have high blood pressure or yell at my tv screen.

2024-10-12 12:23:18 UTC

I am grateful for Lisa. It doesn’t matter how much time goes by we can just pick up where we left on. She is always there when I need her and I always do the same for her. She is my soul sister. Holly

Thankful/Grateful

2024-10-12 16:09:36 UTC

I am thankful for Lauren Ash for the little reminders of how wonderful this school truly is. I am so happy to have a friend like Lauren Ash and the small convos we have here and there 🎃

~Lauren Bickelmann

Grateful for…

2024-10-15 06:14:54 UTC

*Mr. Cecil and his thoughtfully planned out carpet designs he leaves for my kids DAILY. I wish everyone could’ve seen them when they walked in and saw the American flag design from Friday! 🇺🇸

*Officer Florence for keeping us safe, making balloon hats, and his yummy popcorn! And for directing traffic, which isn’t the safest job. He is an Inverness Icon— welcoming our families in each morning and sending them on their way in the afternoon!

*Kindergarten for doing what’s right and best for their kids. During our praise walks, we were reminded of the amazing job they do of building a lifelong foundation AND all of the hard work put into preparing them for first grade!

💗Ash

A Supportive Team

2024-10-16 14:22:50 UTC

I am feeling especially thankful for our admin, my kindergarten team, our other grade level teachers, our special area teachers, SPED teachers, ESL teachers, our SLP, custodians, our office staff, and our lunch ladies. I don't think that I have ever felt as supported by our village as a whole as I do this year. Some days are just hard, but I feel capable of meeting each day as a new one with our school team!

-Bush

Person-thankful

2024-10-16 17:18:16 UTC

On a personal level, I'm thankful for my husband and parents...As a mom of 3 in a super busy season of life (which I LOVE) I could not do it without them. They help everything go much smoother.

On a professional level, I'm thankful for Susan Lee who leads our sped team SO WELL and answers all my crazy questions with patience. She has so much going on and is always willing to stop what she's doing to help.

Nolen

2024-10-18 22:54:06 UTC

Renta-for keeping me sane and for being my other half!
Martin, Free, Seeley, Burke, Price, and Harkins -best team
Lizzie- all of her hard work to help my classroom
Brittany Broski- her podcast brings me so much joy each week
Mykah - my sister♥️

2024-10-18 23:22:32 UTC

Sara Lawrence - My intern is SO incredibly intentional, encouraging, and supportive. I am crushed this is her last week with me, but know she will have a great experience in K with Bush!

Swede + her class - This week was our second week of Book Buddies and I’m so thankful our students will get to grow together throughout the year.

Vansant - She always has an open heart and listening ear. She meets you where you are and supports you in the best way she can.

-Harkins :)

My Husband!

2024-10-18 23:38:54 UTC

Today, Holt had taken off for a day of rest! He’s been working so hard and doing great in his show (The War of the Worlds at South City Theatre in Pelham. Saturday is still open and tickets are available!). Well my car had different ideas. While he was taking Lee to school, I realized my car battery was dead…like dead dead…RIP. So he dropped Lee off, came back and dropped me off at school and then spent the entire morning getting my car fixed!! I’m so grateful for him and how he always takes care of me!

Grateful for Girl Scouts

2024-10-19 01:26:12 UTC

As I sit here with my troop of Girl Scouts, watching them be so mature, yet have so much fun together... I am grateful for these amazing young ladies. They are kind, responsible, and true leaders!

2024-10-19 03:36:24 UTC

I’m thankful for Kerri Baggett and Shannon Williamson for helping pull off our first girls night out!

AF Walker

2024-10-19 11:56:52 UTC

I am grateful for a wonderful group of parents that are always willing to help! Holly

2024-10-19 15:19:51 UTC

My husband - he is my rock.

Cox

2024-10-20 11:47:35 UTC

I’m grateful for my kids and getting to watch them enjoy all the fun things this season brings 🎃

-Kristen

2024-10-21 02:02:48 UTC

I am grateful for my good friend Olivia. She makes me laugh when I’m feeling down & she’s great at encouraging me to be better while reminding me I’m already enough.

Bachtel

Person - Thankful

2024-10-21 11:39:11 UTC

Professional - I am beyond grateful for Susan Lee and Shelley Blocker! They keep me learning and laughing every day! This job would be impossible without the two of them beside me! I am thankful to not only call them my colleagues, but my friends as well!

Personal - My little cousins are so special to me! Being their "Emmy" brings me so much joy, and I wouldn’t trade my role as their cousin (aunt figure) for anything. My aunt had such a profound and lasting impact on my life—and still does—and I love that I now get to be that person for them. Watching them grow through their sports, plays, and everyday moments has brought me more happiness than words can express. Our Starbucks runs, ice cream dates, and babysitting Saturdays are memories I wouldn’t trade for anything!

- Remke

Thankful

2024-10-21 12:14:23 UTC

I am thankful for my family-- my husband and my children that keep me smiling and give so much purpose to my life.

I am thankful for Hudson's senior year and watching him play soccer (which he loves).

I am thankful for Knezek, Moore, Laurel, Maggie and Stephanie that are always willing to collaborate and "pivot" with speech :)

I am thankful for the K team that surrounds me. The dedication and joy they put into everyday lessons- I can see it and hear it...these ladies are working HARD and making learning fun everyday for their students.

I am thankful for the quick conversations in the hallways and classrooms with all of the wonderful IES teachers and staff. I don't get to see many of our teachers, staff and wonderful paras often throughout the day but when I do, I enjoy the little interactions so much!

I am thankful for my wonderful graduate student, Erin!

Finally, I am grateful for this FALL weather!

-Alexander

Grateful and Thankful

2024-10-21 20:46:22 UTC

I am grateful for my husband, Baker. He cooks, he dads, he is the best travel partner and friend. He really is the best.
Bachtel because she "moms" me and helps fill in all the gaps in my room.
K team- they are kind, helpful, funny, creative, flexible, and make every day better (including honorary Beth Beard)
supportive admin and Lizzie Vansant for ALL the things they do every day- thank you will never be enough.
first grade for collaborating and letting us into your rooms- we learned so much and loved to see your styles!
CNP for being so kind and helpful with our babies
Jackie Degan for loving my baby boy this year- he has grown so much
Kim Youngblood for having a heart for all the boy things. My kid, my rowdy boys in my room, etc. She normalizes boy things and makes me feel better every time!
Blocker, Lee, and Knezek supporting us in our rooms with all our K friends with needs!
Harkins for being a good friend and doing book buddies with me every year. Thanks for always making me laugh, being flexible and being a great teacher! *Also love getting to see my first round of kiddos get to third grade and have a full-circle moment. All the feels.
Mr. Paul- he cleans, he plays paper-rock-scissors, he replaces/fixes, he does it all!
Megan. Cobb. You rock. :)

Just to name a few! IES is the best. The end. Happy Monday.

Driver for the Black Bus Route

2024-10-23 16:22:44 UTC

I think I speak for everyone when I say we are VERY grateful for the new bus driver for black bus!

2024-10-25 20:54:10 UTC

I am thankful that my kids love me through my flaws!

AF Walker

Our sweet kids ❤️

2024-10-25 21:32:20 UTC

I’m so grateful for the 5 sweet kids I get to work with everyday!! I’m grateful for their snuggles, their humor, and their positivity. I’m especially thankful I’m getting to work with most of them for a second year and that I’ve been able to see so much growth!

I’m also so thankful for the kids I’m getting to know during art club. We have so many talented and creative kids at IES! I can’t wait to show off their work in our art show!

Maggie Johnston

Student Progress

2024-10-25 21:38:13 UTC

I am so thankful for my students and the amazing progress each of them have made, not only academically, but more importantly, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally!

Lee

I’m thankful

2024-10-25 21:39:03 UTC

that some of the kids like to hold my hand on the way to the field.

~Rosie

Kiddos

2024-10-25 23:16:48 UTC

I'm so grateful for the daily hugs and "I love you's." Their smiles mean everything to me, and they help me in ways they'll never realize. We truly have the best kids at IES!

-Remke

2024-10-26 10:55:20 UTC

I love our different greetings every morning during our morning meeting! I also love the hugs and blowing kisses when we are leaving in the afternoon! It makes my heart happy to see how comfortable and safe they feel in our room! Holly

What a blessing!

2024-10-27 21:08:29 UTC

My GRC kids are absolutely amazing! I’m thankful for each one of them!! They are creative, funny and so very sweet. We have such a great time! They have really amazed me with their deep thinking and willingness to try new things. I’m also thankful for the opportunity to go into the 2nd grade classes for child find! That has been such a fun experience!

Melanie Thomas

My Students

2024-10-28 00:53:05 UTC

I am thankful for my hard working class! They rocked the praise walk on Boosterthon Day! I am so proud of how they were able to show off their phonics and writing skills for the 1st grade teachers :)

-Lauren Bickelmann

Kids Who Challenge Me!

2024-10-28 12:13:07 UTC

One particular friend told me that bats aren't the only mammals that fly. He said angels are mammals and they fly! What'd you say?! Ha! It's one to think on! :)

Kids

2024-10-28 16:33:34 UTC

Teaching just reading and writing this year has been the BEST thing for me and really focusing on those two areas to help my kids improve! I have seen improvements with ALL of my kids and I'm so thankful! I have 1 who may not even need an IEP much longer! They are always working so hard and I love all of my kids!

-Blocker

My Class

2024-10-29 02:09:49 UTC

Beyond blessed for a class filled with students with 💛s of gold! Thankful for the third grade leaders in my class who set the bar high and model excellence daily. I LOVE their sense of pride in small victories and how they genuinely care about each other. -Martin

My Students

2024-11-01 17:35:21 UTC

I am thankful for my students always making me laugh! They keep our classroom fun and exciting! :) - Christina Renta

The kids in my Class

2024-11-01 17:53:25 UTC

The one who greets me every day with, "I'm BAACK!!"

The one who finds joy in every single tiny thing.

The one who fights so hard to be understood.

The one who laughed yesterday for the first time this year.

The one who always rolls her eyes but is so quick to hug.

The one I don't quite understand but really hope to one day.

The one who learned to climb the big pole on the playground and face his fear.

The one who has shown incredible growth in communication skills.

The one with the most positive attitude and willingness to try.

The sneaky one who is so clever with technology.

I really like them.

Kiddos

2024-11-01 18:03:37 UTC

Love getting to see all the happy kiddos coming in the door first thing in morning. Helps me stay positive especially on the hard days!

Graham

Nolen - Students

2024-11-01 18:05:13 UTC

One of the special things about my class is their willingness to cheer on one another. We have a bell that the kids get to ring when they pass an iready lesson. Since the beginning of the year they have clapped and cheered each other on when they click it. I didn't tell them to start doing this, but they started this on their own.

I am thankful for my students' greetings every morning during our Morning Meeting. Every day we choose a different way to greet! I love their expressions when they greet me! Holly

2024-11-01 20:09:54 UTC

Teachers :)

2024-11-04 01:49:31 UTC

I'm so thankful thankful for my kids' teachers. My daughter Ava has grown so much this year with her precious 3K teacher Miss Staci... we love her so much! Aidan has been blessed with two amazing teachers at IES who continue to nurture him and help him grow! We love Mrs. Bickelmann and Mrs. Williamson! We thank God for them every day!

~Ash

2024-11-07 15:15:59 UTC

I am incredibly thankful for how inclusive my students are with our friends in Mr. Moore's class. We recently did a lesson with Mrs. Alexander and Mrs. Johnston exploring the LAMP communication. Students were engaged and excited, but also realized how complex the LAMP system is. I think it truly gave them a good understanding of how important it is to be patient when we are waiting for our friends to communicate with us. -Mrs. Harkins

Veteran's Day Thankful

bdunham2 — 2024-11-08 12:56:35 UTC

my father in law and his father, their service to our country
freedom of religion
freedom to pursue the career I want
freedom to have children and raise them the way I feel led

Dunham

Freedom

2024-11-08 18:25:14 UTC

My 95 year old grandfather is still alive and is the only veteran in my family! He served in the Air Force. I'm so thankful for the military and the the freedoms they provide for us in keeping us safe. Happy Veteran's Day!

-Blocker

Veterans

2024-11-08 18:39:50 UTC

I am thankful for my grandfathers, father, husband, and brother who all served our country to ensure our freedom! We live in the best country in the world!

Lee

November 8th

2024-11-08 18:43:03 UTC

I am grateful for…

•my grandfather who has served

•my great grandfather who served Pearl Harbor

•WW2 veterans I met while in DC in 2018

Sellers Philpott

Veteran's Day

2024-11-08 19:02:34 UTC

I am thankful for both my parents serving in the Air Force, my uncle and grandpa for serving in the Navy, and my brother and sister in laws for serving in the Army! Lots of military service in my family haha

-Graham

Nolen

2024-11-08 20:57:33 UTC

I have a friend from college named Dalton Turner who currently in on base in California with the air force.

2024-11-09 22:26:22 UTC

My Dad is veteran! I am grateful for his service! Both of my Grandfathers were also soldiers!

Veterans Day

2024-11-11 17:55:14 UTC

I am thankful for my father and my uncles. I am thankful for their service and I am so proud to be an American. Let freedom ring~

*Lauren Bickelmann

Veteran's Day

2024-11-12 19:27:13 UTC

This Veteran's Day I am thankful for my Dad who served in the Army National Guard and all of the men and women who have served our country to protect our freedoms.

Burke

2024-11-12 21:40:17 UTC

My grandfather received a Purple Heart. He was able to save 2 fellow soldiers.

My brother-in-law Ted, he retired as a Colonel in the Air Force.

My dad served in the Army

Nolen

2024-11-15 20:34:28 UTC

We have a tradition in my family that we take pictures at my uncle Tommy's farm. We have a photo at the same tree for the last decade or so. We love looking at those picture to see how things have changed.

2024-11-15 20:39:16 UTC

I am THANKFUL for the holiday of Thanksgiving. I love that m y family can focus on Thanksgiving and thanking God for all we have before we rush into the craziness of Christmas.

Susan Lee

One of my favorite traditions is hosting a brunch on Christmas Eve! Both sides of ou family look forward to it every year! Holly

2024-11-15 21:11:55 UTC

Holidays

2024-11-15 21:47:32 UTC

My grandmother would always decorate her house with Dept 56 village pieces and I loved studying them when I was little. She would buy each of us grandchildren a village piece every Christmas. When my brother and I were old enough we would make our own village, spending all day as a family assembling and decorating it. I can't wait for James to be old enough to appreciate the village fully assembled.

-Graham

2024-11-15 22:16:22 UTC

We host our family, and have a full day of watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade and watch all the football. I'm thankful we get to bring noise, laughter, and people to our home! We also travel over the holiday to see all the other families, so we travel and eats lots of food! :)

-Remke

Holiday Traditions

2024-11-16 01:40:32 UTC

I am thankful our tradition of always playing a family game after our holiday meals. I have so many memories of laughing until I cried playing Scategories, Catch Phrase, or a cutthroat game of Spoons. Although Jake has never been able to share a holiday with my mom I love keeping her memories alive with this simple tradition.

-Degan

Thanksgiving Traditions

2024-11-16 12:05:30 UTC

We have family in town and make oodles amounts of food from the moment we wake up. My nephews are running around enjoying life~ I have always loved waking up and watching the Macy’s Day parade🧡

This year John and I are hosting Thanksgiving at our house 🦃

-Lauren Bickelmann

Christmas music

2024-11-16 15:26:17 UTC

My daughter is obsessed with singing Christmas songs. She loves to run around in her Elsa dress and sing “Silent Night” and calls Christmas music “baby Jesus songs”. I am so grateful for the sound of her little two year voice.

Johnston

Holidays

2024-11-16 23:12:50 UTC

I'm thankful for hard days because they remind me to be truly grateful for the not-so-hard days.

I'm thankful for cold mornings and hot drinks.

I am thankful for our mixed Jewish/Christian holiday traditions and going to look at Christmas lights.

I'm thankful for people who really care about other people and make that care felt.

Crystal

Holiday Traditions

2024-11-18 00:59:15 UTC

One of my favorite things to do is to crochet Christmas crafts. Each year I start planning what ornament I will make for Christmas and begin crocheting with red, green and white yarn. This time always makes me reflective on the blessings of the year and the promise of the year to come. Today, I just finished an order of 10 ornaments that someone wanted after I made them a gift last year and I have started the holiday themed gifts. Crocheting Christmas crafts is my way of welcoming in the season.

Melanie Thomas

Bringing the Family Together

2024-11-20 19:14:43 UTC

I love the way my family gets together for every holiday! Our families are HUGE on both sides, so it doubles the fun! I am so grateful for a family who loves to be together and that I married into a family who feels the same way. It makes the holidays so fun, and my heart hurts for those who do not have that type of family dynamic. Sending extra love to you if Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other holidays are tough times to get through with your family.

-Bush

Time With Family

2024-11-22 17:37:43 UTC

I'm so thankful to be able to spend Thanksgiving week with my family. I can't remember the last time I was off the entire week of Thanksgiving! This is such a gift.

Sarah

2024-12-01 02:08:45 UTC

We have a Christmas brunch at our house that is greatly anticipated by both sides of our family! Holly

Smells

2024-12-06 20:04:50 UTC

I am

Thankful for the smell of fresh baked cookies, delicious family meals, and fresh cut Christmas trees! The smells of Christmas make me so happy!

Susan Lee

Wilford Brimley

2024-12-06 20:41:29 UTC

For 35 years, my family has gathered around an old and tattered pop-up book version of the story, 'Twas a Night Before Christmas. We cozy up and pop in a cassette tape to hear the version read by Wilford Brimley.

Although, the little wheel that once made the sugar plums dance in their heads may not work anymore, and there may have been a few years where we had to gather on FaceTime or listen to it on YouTube...the memories are all just as special!

Holiday Traditions

2024-12-06 20:48:39 UTC

I love a fully decorated tree with lights and a fire all cozy up on the couch with my dogs and wearing my fuzzy socks and wrapped up in a winter blanket while watching a Christmas movie :) Oh for the holiday time!

*Lauren Bickelmann

2024-12-08 18:11:41 UTC

For 42 years my parents have put an angel on the top of their tree. This angel was made by me in first grade. It has my face on it. I have begged them not to put it up there! They get pure joy from it—and my discomfort with it! 🙃 Holly

2024-12-09 13:45:56 UTC

This Christmas season is so special with Penelope because she now recognizes Santa Claus and tells us "he bring presents if good" :-) The only problem is she wakes up every day saying "Presents?" so we are working on knowing that Christmas isn't here jusssttttt yet! We normally travel to Tennessee on Christmas day, but this year we will have Christmas at our house (I am SO excited!!!). -Harkins

Christmas Lights

2024-12-13 17:14:55 UTC

My family loves driving around and looking at Christmas lights. I have always loved lights which is probably why I was a lightboard operator for a local theatre in my younger days. Lights flickering in the darkness reminds me how Jesus came and lit up the world on a very dark night. I can't wait for my family to do this again.

Melanie Thomas

Christmas gratitude

2024-12-13 17:19:45 UTC

I love combining traditions I had growing up and what my husband had to our family. I'm thankful for family that lives in town and can be apart of all the holiday activities with us. Christmas music is probably what I love most about the holidays! I never tire of hearing it in the car. Grateful we have songs to sing during this time of year!

-Blocker

Holiday Cheer

2024-12-13 18:33:26 UTC

Christmas Eve Mass and listening to our beautiful choir singing above- especially Silent Night- a holiday favorite of mine

❤️🤍💚

~Lauren Bickelmann

Nolen

2024-12-13 21:15:39 UTC

I have been thankful this week for some fun crafts with the kids and to be able to make memories with them. This time of year is so special and some of my favorite things we do all year.

2024-12-14 18:11:10 UTC

Our dog Bailey has made it her own tradition to open at least one present under the tree each year—when no one is around to catch her. She also loves helping everyone open presents Christmas Day. Holly

2024-12-16 00:09:43 UTC

I have been thankful for this time at home with my sweet baby boy, and am ready to celebrate the holidays with my Inverness family ♥️

Griffin

Christmas Eve Tradition

2024-12-16 13:49:20 UTC

Christmas Eve is my favorite day of the year. Hudson and I make cookies for Santa (yes, he is almost 20) together and goodies to take to our neighbors and sometimes to the Fire Station. Then Mark, Hudson and I all go to Christmas Eve candlelight service at our church. After we have Chinese food and watch "A Christmas Story". It is a simple but fun tradition that I look forward to all year!

Kim Youngblood

Holiday Fun

2024-12-20 17:46:34 UTC

Today I am thankful for all the holiday fun we have as a faculty, from dress-up days, to snacks, to sing-alongs and everything in between! I am definitely in the Christmas spirit!

Susan Lee

Holiday Traditions

2024-12-20 17:48:28 UTC

I love bringing the Polar Express to life for our kindergartners each year-it’s all so sweet ❄️🩵🤍

Thank you to Cobb, Rose, Youngblood, Bush, Browder, Swedenburg (our conductor), and Beard to make this all happen!

-Lauren Bickelmann

Family

2025-01-02 20:24:15 UTC

I am so thankful for restful time with my family over the break. We got to spend time with all brothers, sisters, grandparents, etc... Love my family time!

Susan Lee

Niki Burke

2025-01-02 20:42:45 UTC

So thankful for time with family and friends over break. Love the Christmas season and just the rest it allows us. 🎄

Christmas Break

2025-01-02 21:26:26 UTC

I enjoyed staying local and resting with my husband and pups. I took full advantage of the break:)

-Lauren Bickelmann

Christmas Break

2025-01-02 23:03:17 UTC

I was so grateful for the chance to rest, reflect, and focus on what really mattered. It was a time full of peace and love. So many new memories were made. It was the perfect opportunity to recharge and enjoy the simple things in life.

- Remke

2025-01-02 23:06:28 UTC

I am grateful for UAB’s Doctors, Nurses, PAs, NPs, and PCTs that showed empathy, love, and encouragement to my Mom over the last two weeks. Holly

Christmas Break-Martin

2025-01-06 02:57:56 UTC

Although our Christmas break had a rocky start with sick kiddos, I’m thankful for our second half. I was able to catch up with my brother who lives in St. Pete over break. My crew also enjoyed spending time with our neighborhood friends. Our dog, Violet, certainly has loved the slowness that comes with school breaks and taking a pause from winter sports🐾

Nolen

2025-01-06 14:06:26 UTC

My family was able to go to the creation museum and the ark encounter over break with our extended family. It was a great experience getting to spend time with our new family members.

Holiday Break

2025-01-09 21:08:17 UTC

I have loved watching all sorts of shows on Hulu and movies on Netflix and Hulu over the break with my husband. We had some great laughs~ creating memories :)

*Lauren Bickelmann

Christmas eve was good!! Our brunch on Christmas Eve was great!! We rested and then went to church. We got to spend time with Keith's brother, his wife, and his parents that night. Holly

2025-01-09 21:50:33 UTC

2025-01-17 23:13:34 UTC

I love walking outside even when it is cold outside. I miss the leaves but you can really see the nests when the trees are bare. I love coming across animals too. Holly

Thanks to Nature

2025-01-18 15:16:03 UTC

I love walking outside to get some fresh air as well as seeing all of the birds fly around along with the trees swaying! I can’t wait for warmer weather, so I can be outside more=(summer time 😉) I am so thankful for nature 💚

•Lauren Bickelmann

2025-01-18 22:53:29 UTC

So thankful for the closeness we have at IES

Mike Daniel

Nature

2025-01-26 00:35:38 UTC

I'm thankful for the bareness of winter (despite it being my least favorite season) because it makes the budding of spring so much more wonderful. I enjoy looking at snow, but not always living with it. Ha! I'm thankful for the quietness of winter.

-Blocker

Snow

2025-01-26 00:59:58 UTC

I am thankful we got snow in Alabama in January to make more memories with my family. It was beautiful scenery.

Habshey

2025-01-26 01:19:32 UTC

I love that is it a great time to hike!! No snakes!! Holly

Nature

2025-01-26 18:50:05 UTC

I will be honest that this one is hard for me as I typically don't like being outside....allergies and too many things I could fall over. Also if it doesn't warm up soon, I am going to have a full on temperature tantrum lol. But when we had snow a couple of weeks ago, the silence and majesty of the winter landscape covered in snow early in the morning before the snow came in struck me. That silence and moment of serenity allowed me time to pray and to truly listen to God. Also watching Holt, Lee and Buster play in the snow was a delight to watch.

Melanie Thomas

2025-02-02 00:30:35 UTC

I love seeing their growth as a class family! They truly love each other. I love seeing their interactions and how they encourage each other! Holly

My class

2025-02-03 10:04:35 UTC

I have noticed over time how my class loves each other and wants to help their friends out however they can.

L. Bickelmann

Swede class

2025-02-08 00:46:32 UTC

When I got my roll I was worried about this class since we had so many “known needs” coming into the year. I wasn’t sure how the dynamics and all of it would work out but it really has been a great year. I love this group with all of their quirks and big personalities. They are funny, kind, and want to learn/please. I am grateful and thankful for this class and making me a better teacher. Ps Couldn’t do it without my right hand woman this year, Bachtel.

Depending on Others

2025-02-08 02:26:00 UTC

I have struggled with being enough this year and getting everything done when it comes to my kids and their needs. My class has so many various needs and abilities, and most of those things we had no idea about coming in. That is such a tough part of teaching kindergarten - we never really know what to expect! When my team saw me fading, they stepped in with all the Dr. Peppers, treats, and encouragement. They looked for ways to support me in caring for my kids and helped me look at things rationally. This class has reminded me of the pride I carry when it comes to teaching. I had to rely on my team - my grade level, ESL, SPED, speech, counseling, custodial, special areas and admin - you name it. I’m so grateful to feel seen this year by our admin and know that they know my needs and my kids. I have never once felt alone, even though I had to get out of the mindset that it was on me to fix it all. This is the most challenging class I have ever taught when it comes to needs, but I know there is a deep purpose in the challenge that will help me become more empathetic, more knowledgeable, and more ready to serve my kids in the future.

-Bush

Nolen-Class

2025-02-08 02:29:20 UTC

This is truly the best class I have had and will ever have! I have such supportive and helpful parents and very kind kids. This entire year, we have made such sweet memories together. My room moms have been the backbone of making this year successful! I have been able to build a bond with each of my kids, more so than previous years. I genuinely don't know what I am going to do at the EOY.

2025-02-08 15:45:44 UTC

I love to see the change in their writing this time of year. We work so hard on phonemic awareness, grammar, phonics, and sight words!! It is amazing to see the pay off! They learn that their writing gives them a voice to express their ideas! Holly

My Class

2025-02-12 01:08:15 UTC

There are so many things that I love and am thankful for when it comes to my sweet class this year. My favorite thing about this group is their genuine innocence and enjoyment for actual "kid" things. My kids this year love simple things like coloring and seeing what carpet designs Mr. Cecil left for them. It doesn't take much to impress them- they are just happy being with each other, chatting, and having extra free draw time. I love that they have actual kid imaginations. I love to watch as they make elaborate fairy gardens and towns outside. They bring stuffies and baby dolls for Fun Friday. When our Elf came to our classroom for December, they made an entire bedroom suite in the corner of our classroom...our elf even had a homemade sleep mask. My kids are the best part of my job and brighten my day EVERY DAY in some way. Is this job tough and stressful?? Yes, of course! But when I'm overwhelmed, I thank God for my 6 and 7 year olds, and we make a circle on the rug and have share time. Reading this back, I realize it may sound like all we do is play lol, but they also love to learn!!!!!!!! And are obsessed with searching for homophones and homonyms...I told you it doesn't take much!

<3 Ash

2025-02-15 15:33:27 UTC

I love this time of year in kindergarten. This is the time when you see them blossom. You see the fruit of the seeds that you have planted. Holly

Time to laugh

2025-02-17 02:38:46 UTC

I love sitting in the lunchroom with my girls and just talking and laughing about so many things. A time to connect and enjoy each other!!

Burke

My family and the gratitude I’m feeling after an extremely hard day

2025-02-17 06:31:05 UTC

I really love my family and how quick they are to take care of me when I need it most. Today I had to go to the ER due to severe abdominal pain. My parents and boyfriend did everything they could for me and were so quick to respond in my time of need. I’m so thankful for first responders who did an amazing job getting me to the hospital and ensuring I’m as comfortable as I could be. I am also thankful for the AMAZING nurse and doctors that treated me. I’m just left feeling super grateful and loved as I am starting to recover at home.

-Sellers Philpott

2025-02-17 18:52:00 UTC

I am on a new Bible reading plan this year, and love reading through it each day. I am reminded of God's faithfulness to us in all circumstances. Many of the current passages are stories I have heard my whole life, yet I am understanding them more deeply than ever before.

-Bush

A Love I am Thankful for

2025-02-18 20:30:20 UTC

My true love of almost 29 years marriage and 32 together is Mark. He is truly an amazing husband and father and I am so thankful for him.

ONE

2025-02-22 16:41:10 UTC

One person I love is Charles. He challenges me, supports me, and loves me everyday especially when it is hard. So grateful for him and all he does.

One thing I love is my car. I am still so thankful for my new(ish) car and having a great ride around town. (For me and James)

One place I love is hard for me. I love my home, I love the beach, I love Chicago.

-Ben Graham

2025-02-22 16:58:33 UTC

I love being at home with my family!

-Walker 🫶🏼

Love & Laugh

2025-02-22 17:30:40 UTC

I love laughing with my kindergarteners, my friends, my husband, my family. I find a moment in the day to laugh and enjoy life🙂

-Lauren Bickelmann ❤️

2025-02-22 18:01:39 UTC

-One thing I love is the relationship my previous intern Sara has with my (our) students! She came on Friday to be a mystery reader and my students were so excited to see her again.

-I’ll keep this brief before I start pouring my emotions but I am so thankful for the friendship Burke and Price have shown me since day one. It’s incredibly hard to know they are retiring this year, but I am forever thankful for the love, lessons, and life they have shared with me!

-Harkins ❤️

2025-02-23 03:08:27 UTC

I love to see my Jessica getting ready to fly. I have prayed so much for this! Holly

2025-02-24 13:38:20 UTC

I love spending time at home with my family! My kids are starting to play together and I could spend all of my time watching them interact and make each other laugh!

I also love my library card & Taylor Jenkins Reid :)

-SG Stevens

Bachtel

2025-02-24 15:37:27 UTC

I love my husband Martin. He sees humor in everything & he keeps me & our girls laughing.

Love

2025-02-25 15:04:22 UTC

My favorite people are my family (husband, kids, and parents)! I feel I am at my best when I'm with them. They are my support and help get me through each day. These months can sometimes be hard so they are always able to get me through the days.

-Blocker

Love

2025-03-01 00:56:20 UTC

I love being outdoors and I love being with my family. I love my job and my students.

Susan Lee

2025-03-01 01:06:15 UTC

I love being silly with my kindergartners! It is so fun when they get your humor! Holly

Growing

2025-03-01 22:36:36 UTC

I love watching my students work hard and make progress! January-May has always been when I love teaching the most!! Third graders mature and take their work more seriously! So fun to watch!

Burke

Love

2025-03-02 21:14:34 UTC

I love working with my amazing GRC students! They astound me daily with their creativity, their insight and their humor. I absolutely love our time together!! In fact, I am starting to struggle with the fact that I have to say goodbye to them in just a few short months. This group will always hold a special place in my heart.

Thomas

Mini Bagels

2025-03-07 22:27:22 UTC

I love bread…all kinds. But I know I can’t eat it all so that is why mini bagels are perfect. A small size and bagelicious!!

Of course…I always only have 1….ish lol

Thomas

Snack Food

2025-03-07 22:52:51 UTC

Hot honey Pringles… the perfect balance of sweet and spicy (and I’m not a chip person)

Popcorn and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate

2025-03-08 00:24:08 UTC

I love eating popcorn! It is so easy and yummy! Plus, I always seem to smile when I eat it, because I am usually doing something fun (movies with my husband, throwing popcorn in the air to not only my dogs, but sometimes our kiddos at school) 🤪

Sea Salt Dark Chocolate is another favorite! It’s just enough sweet with a little hidden salty! It’s not only a comfort when I’m having a tough day, it’s energy and a mood booster! Has a lot of other health benefits too!! -Remke

2025-03-08 19:51:10 UTC

My favorite snack is Harvest Snaps Pea Crisps & Lentil snacks. I literally eat them every day!

~Bachtel

Favorite Snack

2025-03-09 00:29:53 UTC

My favorite snack is Dot's Pretzels! I love the original seasoned ones!! -Renta :)

2025-03-09 13:24:49 UTC

I love fruit especially berries!! Ohhhhh raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries!!!!! Holly

2025-03-09 13:51:52 UTC

Peanut butter pretzels!!!!

~Rosie

Chocolate!

2025-03-10 01:20:37 UTC

I am very thankful for chocolate!

Maggie Johnston

I love peanut butter and apples! Such a great snack!

2025-03-10 01:23:48 UTC

Burke

2025-03-10 11:11:14 UTC

I’m thankful for peanut butter pretzels and anything sweet!

Dee Cooke

2025-03-12 14:02:31 UTC

I am thankful for french fries!! They are my comfort food and my favorite!

Snack

2025-03-12 19:37:05 UTC

My favorite snack right now is a yogurt bowl - vanilla Greek yogurt, granola, berries, and almond butter drizzled on top.

Honorable mention to apples and peanut butter.

-Sarah Grace Stevens

Snack

2025-03-13 20:31:17 UTC

I'm thankful for Extra toasty cheez-its and Cheetos...you know...the healthy snacks! :)

-Blocker

Nolen

2025-03-14 22:00:49 UTC

I don’t have kids but one thing I’m thankful for with my pets is when they are super snuggly.

Lee

2025-03-14 23:01:25 UTC

I’m so thankful for my precious son, Lee. We waited a long time before we were blessed with our boy and he was definitely worth waiting for. I’m so thankful for his kind heart and his love for Jesus. He loves to take care of others, especially little ones and our animals. If he sees a missing pet poster, he immediately says a prayer for the animal to be found. I’m so thankful for everything about him but his kind and giving heart is the top!

Thomas

2025-03-15 19:10:22 UTC

I’m thankful for our little surprise baby Caroline! She has been the perfect caboose to our family. I’m thankful for Linley’s personality (she’s basically feral) but it keeps us laughing constantly. I’m thankful for Walker’s sense of adventure. He isn’t afraid to try new things. I’m thankful for Beckett’s calmness and willingness to help. I’m thankful for the grace my kids show me every day, especially on the hard parenting days!

Dee Cooke

Rose and Ruby

2025-03-16 21:49:17 UTC

Im so thankful for my daughter’s silly personality! She is so full of surprises and makes us laugh everyday. I am so thankful that my baby is growing healthy and can’t wait to meet her and see my daughter become a sister!

Maggie Johnston

2025-03-17 12:35:23 UTC

I am thankful for a thousand things about Hudson but one thing I am thankful for is his precious heart. He has always been a bit of a rascal but he truly is a kind soul.

I am also thankful that he keeps me laughing!

I thankful for my sweet, snuggly fur baby Zoey as well.

Stevens

2025-03-17 14:36:41 UTC

I am thankful for Hayes's kindness, his expressions and every thought that comes out of his mouth, and his laugh! I am thankful for Catherine's curiosity, determination, and sense of humor!

Kids

2025-03-17 16:37:07 UTC

I'm thankful for the teenage years! Yes, I said it! I know there will be rough moments, but honestly...so far, Will has been amazing! I'm thankful for the high expectations he has for himself academically and athletically. I'm thankful for Maggie's willingness to try things that may be hard or be in a situation where she doesn't know anyone. She always comes out with a friend. And Audrey..easy going and full of personality! I'm thankful she is easy going in our busy season of life with 3 kids going in all different directions!

-Blocker

Sleep

2025-03-21 22:09:02 UTC

I am thankful for a little extra sleep over the break.

Burke

Spring Break

2025-03-21 23:37:15 UTC

I am thankful to head to the beach with my family for spring break! -Warren

Spring break

2025-03-22 11:12:41 UTC

I am ready to rest and enjoy some outside sunshine in my neighborhood! Also I can’t wait to visit with friends, my sister, and her 2 little boys ❤️

~Lauren Bickelmann

Spring break

2025-03-28 20:39:41 UTC

I am thankful that my husband and I were able to spend a weekend away together to relax! I’m also thankful for the lazy long mornings I’ve had this week with my daughter.

Johnston

2025-03-30 01:05:10 UTC

I am grateful for time to relax! Holly

2025-03-31 21:54:29 UTC

I am thankful for no sports practices over spring break which meant we got to sit down as a family to enjoy dinner.

Dee Cooke

Nolen

2025-04-01 11:45:41 UTC

I was so excited to rest over spring break!

Spring Break

2025-04-06 18:12:35 UTC

I am thankful for resting over spring break and having a girls trip to blue ridge with my mom, sisters, aunt, and nieces! -Renta

Nolen

2025-04-06 18:13:01 UTC

Over spring break, I was very thankful to see some of my sorority sisters who I had not see in over 2 years!

2025-04-06 19:00:22 UTC

I am thankful for a spring break with no plans! We got to just relax and reset.

Spring Break

2025-04-06 20:45:07 UTC

Thankful for my parents watching little man while we travel to NYC! It was my first time and we had such a great trip. Got to see the sights, ate great food, and spent time with friends.

-Graham

2025-04-06 23:16:03 UTC

Thankful for time over spring break to catch up on spring cleaning and cleaning out. Also thankful for much needed rest!

Kim

Spring Break

2025-04-07 15:30:13 UTC

I was so thankful that my family was able to go to Mississippi to spend time with my in-laws. I love being back home and it is fun to be there with my kids! We had great weather so spent all of our time outside playing in the dirt pile my FIL made for Hayes!

-Stevens

Spring Break

2025-04-07 19:19:41 UTC

I am thankful for the Swedenburg boys and their kindness (Claire too!). Over the break, we had some play dates with Liam and Wynn. Both boys were patient and kind to Penny girl. They found ways to include her in playing :) -Harkins

Spring Break

2025-04-09 16:03:57 UTC

I was thankful to not travel for spring break for once. We typically take a trip as a family, but we stayed home, rested and cleaned out! It was a nice week!

-Blocker

Spring Break

2025-04-13 02:09:23 UTC

I love every chance I get to spend time and make memories with my family. Spring is always refreshing and a time to get some much needed rest.

Habshey

Nolen-Spring Break

2025-04-14 01:32:10 UTC

Over spring break, I was able to get some much needed rest. My parents went out of town for the week so I got to have the house all to myself. I got caught up on my shows/books that I have been putting off.

Struggle to Hope

2025-04-18 21:48:46 UTC

These last few weeks have been hard. So much going on in my job, personal life and then the loss of my grandfather added to the struggle. BUT the Hope of Easter gets me through each day and I'm thankful for that Hope. I will see my grandfather again one day and I look forward to it!

-Blocker

Nolen-Struggle to Hope

2025-04-21 02:42:16 UTC

Over the past few days I have struggled with coming to the realization that this school year is almost over. I am so beyond grateful for this class. They have truly been the BEST this school year. We have come so far academically and socially. Filling out this transition form for OMIS is giving me hope though because I know they are going to do so well next year!!

Thomas-Joy comes in the morning

2025-04-25 18:45:55 UTC

My struggle wasn't just over Easter. It was actually through most of Lent. I realized that my Dad needed to be moved to a permanent environment as being at home wasn't working. It was a struggle getting everything settled and also Dad's changing moods before the move. But then God! Once Dad got to the nursing home in Alabaster (literally 2 minutes from my house), he has done great! His mood has improved, his memory has improved and he is making baby steps to being more active. It is such a joy to go see him that I'm going almost every day. Lee is also enjoying spending more time with his Pepaw. They even played chess together for the first time last Friday. We had a truly joyful Easter visiting him and he loved my cooking. Now while there is still much to do and other struggles to deal with getting everything settled, I'm comforted that my Dad is in a great place and is thriving!

Thomas

Struggle to hope

2025-04-25 20:12:14 UTC

One of my students finally had a light bulb moment with writing. She is sounding out words and using spaces!!!! Wooooo hoooo!

Swede thoughts

2025-05-02 23:00:29 UTC

This year has been fantastic- I love my class, my team, IES, having my baby at school with a teacher that loves/sees him, fun committee, the opportunity to move to a new team, supportive admin, phenomenal support staff and great friends that are like family at my job. I am excited about a new position next year and I’m incredibly grateful and thankful that I’m leaving kindergarten on a high note. Thank you IES for making me a better educator and giving me so many opportunities to grow.

2025-05-03 22:51:15 UTC

Thankful for my team this year. Holly

I am thankful for the past 27 years of teaching at IES. As it gets closer to retirement, I am having flashbacks of all the wonderful memories!

2025-05-05 00:09:25 UTC

Burke

Bush - Teamwork

2025-05-05 14:26:55 UTC

I am so thankful for my amazing team. This year has brought so many challenges my way, and I have been able to show up each day ready to go because my team is supportive and caring. Even in my worst moments, they have been there with a hug, encouragement, and a Dr. Pepper. What more could I ask for?! I am so grateful for them!

Great Year - Youngblood

2025-05-08 17:57:22 UTC

This has been a truly rewarding year for me as an educator. Even after 29 years, I still genuinely love what I do and look forward to coming to work - most days, anyway!(lol)

All of our programs went smoothly, and the students were amazing. One of the most meaningful parts for me is seeing kids who typically struggle with being in the spotlight step up and shine. We had quite a few of those special moments this year.

Being part of Fun Committee continues to be a highlight. I love seeing our team come together to make others feel valued, celebrated, and appreciated.

I've also really enjoyed our Thursday morning Bible studies. It's been a blessing to grow in faith and deepen connections with that group throughout the spring.

Even though I am very sad that many of my career long friends (who are now family) are retiring. I am excited to see what next year holds.

Kim

My Team

2025-05-11 23:17:54 UTC

I am grateful for my team. Kindergarten is a difficult world to navigate at times. I am grateful for colleagues that show up for all of our kids and for each other. I am thankful for the encouragements, laughter, advice, and friendship. I am grateful for admin that hears what we need and encourages us to challenge ourselves. With that said, I wish Swede and Bush all the best in their new adventures. They are both phenomenal and will soar high. Their grade level may change but both will always have a special place in my heart! Holly

KNEZEK

2025-05-13 13:55:39 UTC

This year I am grateful for all that I have learned, the patience of the amazing people I am surrounded by every day, and the incredible resilience and tenacity of my students. I am thankful to see the garden grow and the students interact with it, and for the opportunity to continue to build a beautiful outdoor space for the school. It has been a pleasure to see my students thrive in music and art this year and watching them on stage in their music program was the highlight of my year! Working with Stephanie and Laurel has been incredible - having two strong women as classroom partners is fulfilling and has allowed us to push the boundaries of sped education. They always go along with my crazy ideas! I am thankful for Bryton and his collaboration and growth mindset. And for Maggie's creativity and unique ability to see to the very core of our students. I'm thankful for our leadership and school culture. Feeling safe to express myself, learn, and grow is a luxury I don't take for granted. Im thankful for Jessica Tyler and her willingness to allow us to collaborate with other self-contained teachers in the county. Lastly, I'm thankful for summer break and the chance to recharge, rest, and spend some time with my family (and do all the chores I've been putting off since fall!).