2 Mondays Left...

... in the 09-10 school year.  Oh, man, am I excited!  While I am really looking forward to summer break, I still want to finish this year strong.  My instinct is to 'coast' during the last few weeks, by planning easy days for myself and for my students, cutting back on assignments and grading, and not doing my very best.

But that sends the wrong message to my kids.  It tells them that it's alright to slack off when there are still plenty of days of school left, and it tells them that they are worth me working hard all the way until the final bell on the final day of school.

Coasting also makes my days longer and harder.  It is an easy habit to fall into, because it seems to make life easier.  In truth, the more planning and preparing I do, the better things go.  My day runs more smoothly, the kids behave better, and I enjoy my job much more.

Also, it contributes to my personal goal of being disciplined.  It takes discipline and effort to continue to work hard when I can see summer break right around the corner.

All in all, some good reasons for finishing strong.  So far, so good.  And, just 2 Mondays left.