Tush Cush

Once again the MLHS rummage sale was a success! My students had just been talking about how difficult it is to sit still in the reading corner when we do our mini-lesson because the floor is so hard. One of them thought we should get cushions for everyone to sit on. My first thought was "no way! that'd be so expensive!" But then, $$ Bag Day came and I found enough for everyone in my class at just the right price!

We spent a lot of time talking about how to appropriately use the cushions throughout the day. First rule is that you never throw them. Second rule is that they go back on the couch when not in use. Third is that you just grab one off the pile as you head into the reading corner, no arguing about which one you get. Fourth, if you change your mind about using it, just hang on to it until we change rounds.

As you can see, they did a great job stacking them up at the end of the day! I was extra impressed because today was one of those squirrely-can't-get-anyone-to-focus kinds of days.

I came up with a new procedure for our end of the day routine to make things go smoother/quieter. Instead of doing highs and lows at our desks, once students are finished with their end of the day job they are to go into the reading corner and have a seat (they can grab a cushion if they want). Everything should be packed up and waiting at their desks. Then, after highs/lows and praying, they can get up, put their cushions back, grab their things from their desks, and head out to the bus. No distractions in the reading corner because they're not supposed to bring anything with them. It worked great today! I'm excited to see how tomorrow goes.

The 7-8th graders are also fans of the pillows. One 8th grade girl came up with the 'classy' name: Tush Cush. Much better than their previous idea: butt cushions.