Khristina's Book Blog

  When I reflect on my literacy experiences from 6th through 12th grade, I can pinpoint a negative shift from middle school to high school. The time when I loved reading the most was definitely 7th grade. It started with having the summer assignment of reading "Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins. It was the first book in a while that had actually hooked  me. I'm not usually someone who re-reads books, but I definitely read "Hunger Games" a handful of times! Then, my positive literacy experience in 7th grade only grew once school started. Ms. Matthews was my 7th grade English teacher, and she actually helped me to enjoy  reading and writing! In elementary school, I always loved math and science so much more, and reading was just a "have to" instead of a "want to." In elementary school, I read books solely for the purpose of gaining more AR points, but I didn't find joy in reading. That was, until 7th grade, Ms. Matthews overflowed with a lov...

  My One Word: Renew      This word popped into my head almost instantly when I was thinking about what my One Word would be. I think this word fits well because in the midst of the chaos and changes over the past year, I have felt beaten down and broken. However, at the start of this new year I have been striving to take actions the help renew my heart, spirit, and emotions. My daily, ultimate reminder is that I am made new through Jesus. My brokenness is restored, my burdens are lightened, and my joy is found in him. I know this all to be true, but life still throws curveballs and I constantly need the reminder that I am and can be renewed.      All of us, including our students, can get  overwhelmed and feel beaten down. They can feel these things because of situations at home or even from the stress of school. As teachers, it's important for us to build relationships with our students so that we're able to tell when they are fe...