And speaking of new teachers...

Teaching Pre K-8, Nov/Dec 2001 by Broderick, Patricia, Raymond, Allen

We received a "New Teacher Survival Guide K-5" we think will really help. That first year is so scary in so many ways. But there are so many things little tips and ideas - that can make all the difference in the world. In these next two entries you'll find some wonderful help from experienced teachers who have been right in your shoes.

This book is a no-frills collection of 10 chapters taking a teacher straight through the year. There's material for preparing for the first day of school, that wonderful (?) parent open house, lesson planning, assessment, management techniques, avoiding bum-out before December...right through to the last week of school.

There's a wonderful first-day checklist, a pre-conference questionnaire, sample classroom layout and even a suggested supply list. 122 pages, 8 1/2" x 11" wire-o binding (great for photocopying templates, etc.), $20 plus slh. Truth to tell, this is a nice refresher course for every teacher. Try the publisher's online store www.emelior.com

Judith Kando-Ferriera

W. Warwick, RI