Several weeks ago, I had the extreme privilege of visiting my childhood elementary school to check out the newest and best in classroom decorations! Despite their busy schedules - meetings and last minute preparations before school started the next day - the gracious teachers at Hartville Elementary welcomed me into their colorful and engaging world; a world in which they will spend countless hours the next 180 days, imp!acting the lives of the children in our community. I thank you all for dedicating your lives to helping our children grow, both as students and individuals. Here's to a brilliant school year, ladies and gents! {And thanks a million for allowing me the opportunity to visit your classrooms! I had a blast!}

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Here's the wrap-up of Mr. Knepp's awesome sports themed classroom! Want to entice your kiddos to pick up a book during free time? Check out this fantastic reading 'locker room'!

Reading Locker Room

Green indoor/outdoor grass turf. Lockers. Jerseys. Sports paraphernalia. A comfy baseball beanbag and pillow. All of these elements work together to create a fun and inviting classroom library/reading nook that is sure to entice even the most reluctant readers in Mr. Knepp's class to check out a book or two! Love it!

Classroom Tour

Notice the motivational sayings posted around the classroom (above the windows and at the front of the room)? We think it's a fantastic way to incorporate inspirational thoughts and reminders. Here are the ideas that Mr. Knepp wants his students to remember...

• Effort, Attitude!
• Big Goals, Big Dreams!
• Teamwork Makes The Dream Work!
• Did I Get Better Today?
• Be A Leader!
• Welcome To Success - Where Together We Can Shoot For Achievement!

Hope you enjoyed the tour of Mr. Knepp's third grade classroom! We love how it shows Lee's personality, helping his students get to know him a bit better, and makes for an inviting place to learn! Good luck to "Mr. Knepp's Team!" - we hope you have a fantastic school year!