We're Wild about Fourth Grade

Thirteen years ago was my first day as a fourth grade teacher.  I am just as excited now as I was then.  The students came yesterday for our Open House.  They got to see their classroom, visit with their classmates and organize their desks.

This year our classroom has a safari theme.  I love changing the classroom decor every year.  It makes each school year unique and special for that group of students.  I love when my former students visit our room just to see the new theme.  

We are going on an African adventure this year.  A trip to Africa would not be complete without seeing a traditional hut.  I've affectionately named our hut the "Reading Rondavel".  Each day two students will get to sit in the rondavel during their free time and read.  

I think we can all agree that the "after" is much more inviting for a group of Fourth Graders.

Before

 

After

Here are a few other pictures of our classroom.

All tests/quizzes and important reminders are written on the calendar.
Did you know that Sharpie markers easily erase off laminated paper with rubbing alcohol?

I love this rocking chair!  It was a baby shower present from my mom when I was
pregnant with my first son.  Yes, his nursery was safari themed, too.  

I make seat covers for all the students' chairs.
This year they are cheetah print.
The seat covers are so much better to look at than the orange plastic school chairs.

The window valance is made of old burlap and has a black fabric trim.
I made a matching table skirt for my computer table.
The table skirt helps hide all the computer cables and cords.