Number Talks

Number talks are short discussions among a teacher and students about how to solve a particular mental math problem. The focus is not on the correct answer, but on all the possible methods of finding the answer. Each student has a chance to explain their method, and everyone else learns from other people's methods.

To start a number talk, the teacher gives the students a SHORT math problem to solve — but the students are not allowed to use a calculator or paper and pencil. The idea is to solve it mentally. For example, you could ask 4th-12th grade students to solve 5 × 18 using mental math.

Magnolia's second graders (below) are learning to mentally add  two-digit numbers.

Quotable Quote

“Remember there's no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.”

—Scott Adams (born 1957)
Creator Of Dilbert Comic Strip

Quotable Quote

“Kindness can become its own motive. We are made kind by being kind.”

—Eric Hoffer (1902-1983)
Philosopher

Opening Day in TCS

New Teacher Orientation

Trussville's newest teachers were welcomed and given an orientation Friday, August 4, at the TCS Central Office.  The teachers got the opportunity to meet one another and central office personnel and learn about the district's mission, vision, expectations, and TCS Educator Effectiveness.  Every teacher received a laptop computer, along with login information and quick introductions to iNow, website maintenance, and Ready Sub.  

Trussville Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Diane Poole, greeted the group and presented them with bags of goodies.  Breakfast was provided by AFT, and lunch was provided by AEA.  

Dr. Neill Greets New Teachers

Mrs. Logan Discusses Mandatory Trainings

Dr. Faust Orients Everyone on the District's Mission and Vision

Dr. Cardwell Provides Educator Effectiveness Information

Mrs. Chamberlain Reviews Technology Policies

Mrs. Rosetta Provides Technology Training

Diane Poole Welcomes All to Trussville

Goodie Bags from Trussville Chamber of Commerce

Reading Professional Learning

Reading Coaches, Kelly McGough and Jenni Peters, along with reading teachers, Kim Evans, Chrissy Mauldin, Shayna Swann, and Tamra Higginbotham, attended The Teachers College Reading and Writing Project at Columbia University in New York in late June.  The five-day professional learning was led by world renowned reading specialist, Lucy Calkins.  The group shared their new learning with K-5 teachers throughout the district, July 26 and 27.  

Quotable Quote

“A book is a dream that you hold in your hand.”

—Neil Gaiman (born 1960)
Author

Quotable Quote

“The first time I read an excellent book, it is to me just as if I had gained a new friend.”

—Oliver Goldsmith (1730-1774)
Poet, Playwright, Physician