In the classroom of Jerrie Martin Teacher, Grade 5 Distinguished Teacher 1991, Teacher of the Year 1994 74th Street School Los Angeles Unified School District Los Angeles, CA Jerrie demonstrates her broad knowledge of children, teaching and learning daily in her classroom. Her dedication to children and excellent teaching practices have been recognized by The New York Stock Exchange which named her Distinguished Teacher in 1991. Jerrie relates that the CH-SSP stresses the importance of students being responsible and involved citizens. To help build positive self-esteem and class spirit I select a class super star each week.
Students ask the selected student questions.
Then, they use the answers to write a descriptive paragraph about the super star to share with the class at the end of the week. The paragraph can, also, include descriptions of good deeds as acts of kindness that the superstar was observed doing during the week. I collect all of the paragraphs, put them together to make a class book about the superstar, and display it in our class library. In addition, the super star of the week gets to plan a special activity or game, with my help, for class participation on Friday. I find that students are eager to give suggestions for activities and games.