A New School Year

I received some exciting news this past week.  I am the new Special Education Teacher for Northeast Elementary in Glenwood, Iowa.  I am looking forward to getting the school year started and to getting to know my students.  As I have been preparing to step into the classroom and get things set up and organized, I have found myself feeling a bit overwhelmed, however, I am enjoying decorating my classroom and brainstorming ideas to share with my students.  As I have been looking over IEP's and assessments and trying to determine where to start and what to focus on with each student, I have been struck by the thought that first and foremost, I want to focus on all of the things they can do and all of the things they are good at.  I want to focus on their abilities rather than their disabilities.  I have developed several lessons that I feel will provide them with encouragement and a positive outlook and I am truly anxious to start the year and get these students motivated.  While I was researching ideas a for my lessons I found a great video that I am planning to share with my students.  I wanted to share it with you as well.....

Welcome!

Hello Everyone!
      My name is Kimberlee (Kim) Denning.  I am currently a substitute teacher for Council Bluffs, Lewis Central, Bellevue, Tri-Center, and Underwood Schools. I currently live in Neola, Iowa with my two cats, Sydney and Sophey. I was raised and grew up in the Neola area. I really enjoy spending what little spare time I have reading, scrapbooking, attending concerts and sporting events, and with family and friends.
     I graduated from Buena Vista University in 2009 with my degree in Elementary Education and endorsements in Special Education, Social Studies, and Reading. In January 2011, I decided to start working on my Master’s Degree.  It has been quite a processing trying to juggle work and school. I will be finished with my master's in May 2013.  I am also working part-time as a Case Manager for adults with developmental disabilities.  Between work, school, family, and friends, there is not a whole lot of time left over, but I love every minute of it!