I went into two different second grade classrooms recently and the mood of each classroom was very different. One seemed more intense and upbeat while the other more relaxed and calming. It was then that I realized how important the mood or tone of the classroom is. I want to create a mood in my classroom that will help my students feel at home and comfortable. This mood might change from year to year or day to day depending on my students needs. - Jaclyn

I thought this piece of insight was absolutely fantastic.  My mom recently talked to me about her second grade classroom and how safe she always felt when she went to school.  I don't think that we always realize how worried little kids can be. Even though they're usually only seven, they have things that they fear, and things that make it hard for them to learn.  It's possible to create a classroom where everyone feels safe, and I want to give that to my students next year.