Literacy, Life & Learning with Mrs. Paul

It's We Will Write Wednesday!
Even though I am serving as summer site coordinator I took time to visit a 5th grade class to show the teachers how they could implement WeWillWrite.com into their classes next year. The students and teachers enjoyed it, I think I will have to lead a PD when we return in the fall.

Tuesday Teacher Tip: The "Summer Slow-Growth" Strategy
The Tip: Don't completely turn your teacher brain off this summer, but don't burn it out either. Protect your peace by pairing true relaxation with one intentional piece of professional reading. Investing even 15 minutes a day while sitting by the pool or drinking your morning coffee can completely transform how you walk into your classroom this fall.
Think of it as a gift to your future self.
My Summer "Hone Your Craft" Reading List
(All available on my Amazon Storefront! )

1. For the Literacy Lovers
"Shifting the Balance" by Jan Burkins and Kari Yates
The Vibe: Bringing the Science of Reading into the balanced literacy classroom.
Why it’s a must-read: It offers practical, high-impact changes you can make to your reading instruction without making you feel guilty about how you used to teach. It's incredibly digestible for summer reading.

2. For the Classroom Commanders
"The Classroom Management Book" by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong
The Vibe: The ultimate, step-by-step blueprint for a smooth-running room.
Why it’s a must-read: Classroom management is the foundation of everything. This book is packed with concrete routines and procedures that save your sanity. Reading it in July gives you plenty of time to script your first week of school.

3. For the Soul & Self-Care
"The Resilient Practitioner" or a Dedicated Teacher Affirmation Journal
The Vibe: Reclaiming your time, setting boundaries, and mental wellness
Why it’s a must-read: Teaching is emotional labor. Spending part of your summer journaling or reading about teacher burnout ensures you pour back into your own cup before trying to pour into your students.
Summer is for resting, but a little bit of inspiration goes a long way. Pick one book that addresses your biggest pain point from this past school year, and take it slow.
I’m committing to reading just one of these by August. Who is joining me? Whats on your summer PD agenda? Let me know in the comments.

How do we stop the "summer slide" without spending hours at the kitchen table? ☀️📚
​As a teacher and a mom, I know firsthand the struggle of wanting to keep our kids' minds sharp over the summer while still letting them just be kids. We don’t need hours of flashcards to maintain the hard work they put in all school year!
​That’s why I created a curated list in my storefront called "Literacy Lab at Home" featuring the exact resources I use with my own children.
​My absolute top recommendations? The Summer Bridge Books and the Scholastic Weekly Reader: Summer Express.
​Here is why they are a total win for both parents and kids:
⏰ Just 20 minutes a day: They cover both reading and math concepts quickly, leaving plenty of time for pool days and playing outside.
🔑 Parent-friendly: They include an answer key, so you don’t have to second-guess the lessons.
🎉 Kid-approved built-in motivation: They come with stickers to track progress and a certificate of completion at the end!

​Keeping a routine doesn't have to be overwhelming. Grab my favorite summer learning essentials right here: https://amzn.to/4tU5I8w
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What is your go-to strategy for keeping your kids reading over the summer? Drop it in the comments below! 👇
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📖 Z is for Zero Pressure
One of the greatest gifts we can give young readers is the freedom to enjoy books without pressure.
No quizzes. No worksheets.
Just a child, a favorite book, and a beloved stuffed friend enjoying a story together. 💕
When children associate reading with comfort, connection, and joy, they are more likely to become lifelong readers.
Today's reading session may look like play, but this is exactly where literacy grows—through curiosity, imagination, and positive experiences with books.
Sometimes the best thing we can do is simply let them enjoy the story.
✨ Zero pressure. Maximum impact.
📚 This tip is inspired by "Z is for Zero Pressure" from The ABCs of Literacy: A-Z Tips for Parents PreK to 5th Grade.
Book available for purchase here: https://amzn.to/4ecdRPX