Author Archives: Liz Janusz

Keep Those Books Out!

The other day we celebrated Indigenous People Day, formally Columbus Day. I think rebranding that day is a small step in the direction we need to be heading: honoring and respecting people from all backgrounds. Back when I was in the classroom, I was one of those teachers that has bins and bins of pictureContinue reading “Keep Those Books Out!”

Spooky Middle Grade Novels

Middle grade novels are my favorite! I’ve blogged about this before so it’s not a surprise. The length is perfect and they’re always so well written. One of my favorite things though, is just how many different genres there are for our intermediate readers! My favorite is historical fiction, but every once in a while,Continue reading “Spooky Middle Grade Novels”

Starting Storywalks

We’ve had students back in our building for about 3 weeks now, and even with all of our new procedures and safety routines, it’s been going really well!!! We’re all getting used to staying 6 feet away from each other and making sure we’re not working one on one with a student for longer thanContinue reading “Starting Storywalks”

Halloween Picture Books

In my crazy mind, I fully believe the holidays begin on October 1st with Halloween season!! The decorations come out of storage, the stores are decked out for every holiday between now and January, and the themed picture books are amazing!! I’ve rounded up some of my favorite Halloween picture books just in time; myContinue reading “Halloween Picture Books”

Election Day Books

Election Day is quickly approaching and it’s never been more important to get out and VOTE!! I’ve already sent in my mail-in ballot and have been talking about the importance of this day with my two kids. They watched my husband and I as we chose our candidates and put the ballot in the mailbox.Continue reading “Election Day Books”

Remote Teaching Takeaways

Well, we’ve been remote teaching now for 5 weeks and just as we think we’ve gotten a handle on it, we’re switching to hybrid on Monday! The building has an exciting vibe right now; we’re all ready for those sweet little faces to be back in our building and filling our halls with noise andContinue reading “Remote Teaching Takeaways”

Book Report Alternatives

Is there anything more terrible than a traditional book report?! Forcing kids to write a summary and/or reflection about their book seems so boring…the only thing a traditional book report does, is kill a love of reading. There are so many alternatives out there that are engaging and would provide excitement for students. Any ofContinue reading “Book Report Alternatives”

Back to Basics: 6 Reading Strategies

Our new way of teaching has us going back to basics in a lot of ways. Lessons we used to teach in the classroom are now taking twice as long through a screen. In addition to building relationships with students through Zoom, answering constant emails, and keeping a pulse on our mental health, teachers areContinue reading “Back to Basics: 6 Reading Strategies”