DonorsChoose.org is a remarkable website that allows teachers and other school educators (i.e. school counselors) to post projects. Typically, projects include items that educators may find difficult to purchase on their own due to cost. You can register and create your own project OR you can donate to others. It's a wonderful site; I know many teachers who had their projects fully funded.

Check out my project here. I'm getting a bigger office next year, so I get to create new features to my room. Unfortunately, that comes with a big price tag!

***Use the match code "BLOOM" 3/18 or 3/19 to double your donation***

In Ohio, we have the OAA (Ohio Achievement Assessment), a state-wide measure for students in grades 3-8. In addition to organizing the tests, I often have a small group or an individual testing in my office. My students typically have accommodations, such as extended time, questions read aloud, or a scribe. In some cases, they also have behavior concerns as well.

This year, we started a mentorship program where staff members are matched with their OAA small group/individual and take time to develop a positive relationship with their students. Taking an OAA can be stressful. We want students to be as comfortable as possible when they work on their assessments, so a positive relationship with their test administrator can be extremely beneficial.

I created a weekly note template that I am using to write a message to my student. I also include puzzles and other treats that I know my student will enjoy.