There are many competing interests in schools, but the one we must focus on is the children. What do they want? What do they need?
That's not to say that the other matters in schools aren't important, but at the end of the year when you're a bit tired, it's possible to put the other matters on hold while students own the energy left.
With that in mind, what do my students need right now?
First, they need to work through the research project's tough part--finding the best facts in the sea of information that exists. I'll have meeting after meeting to help children discern which facts are accurate, and which information is important for the projects. Following the research, students will embark on multiple presentation paths.
Next, it's time to engage in the many end-of-the-year celebrations including a field trip, field day, instrumental concerts, class games, and picnics.
After that, there needs to be time to rest during the hot days in a a room without air conditioning. Read aloud on the rug is perfect for those moments. We have one book to finish (Wonder) and another one to start and finish (The One and Only Ivan).
Then, time for play. I rarely give extra recess at the start of the year. Instead I save those minutes for the end of the year when I know a few extra minutes of play serves to fuel students' energy for end-of-the-year project/skill study.
There's 19 school days left--19 days to teach children with care. That's the main focus.
