Back to School!

This blog is long overdue. From the first day I met my Adam I knew he was different from other guys I knew, especially since he had chosen to go into elementary school teaching. Not only is he a wonderful teacher, but he is also a wonderful person because of it- He loves knowing he is making a difference in the world. Many people expressed their concern over the lack of 'green' that teachers bring home, and I admit, I have had my reservations and concerns, but there is something you need to know about Adam: he was born for Education.

Adam is beginning his second year at Tanaka Elementary. Already he has gained experience from being Tanaka's Intervention Specialist in the 2006-2007 and a Third Grade Teacher in the 2007-2008 school year. This year he's moving up to Fourth Grade bringing some of his students back to his classroom.

It has been an inspiration and honor to watch him transform from the student he was, barley beginning his practicum in 2005 to now. I've had the opportunity to watch him in the classroom with his students teaching. He has such amazing classroom management skills and the kids really respect him. He is fun, yet gets down to business and he's not afraid to express what will and will not be tolerated.

Some of my favorite moments of Mr. Turney are when he was doing a practicum in Utah and a student spotted him walking around campus with his shoulder bag and told his mom that he saw a man carrying a purse. The police were called and very confused until the student spotted him and was able to identify him- the other adults had to explain to him that it was just a back pack to be worn on the shoulders. LOL! Another favorite moment was when a Mom approached me shortly after we'd gotten married to tell me how much she appreciated having such a strong male role model for her son. The boy had heard Adam talk about Australia and saw his CTR ring and put two and two together and told his mom he wanted to serve a mission like Mr. Turney. Adam also has Pizza with the teacher for students who excel and tries to give every student an opportunity to earn it with him. I get to go into the classroom and he's always so concerned with all the students being respectful with Mrs. Turney. That makes favorite moment #3 When not one, but two first grade students at his school asked if he was my dad HAHHAHAHAHAHA.

Not only is Adam starting a new grade next week, but he will also be starting his SECOND MASTERS DEGREE PROGRAM!!! I'm so proud of him! He'll graduate with the first one (Educational Leadership and Administration) in May 2009 and is hoping to graduate with his second (curriculum and technology development) in December 2009 when I'll get my bachelors in Elementary Education.

So here are some pictures of Mr. Turney's first year as a teacher: Enjoy my Handsome Man!

Mr Turney's Third Grade Class

(Does this remind anyone else of Michael Scotts Apology video?)

As the only Man in Third Grade Mr. Turney was well fussed over by the lovely ladies!