Reaching Milestones: From Fourth Graders to Marathons

The barely five-foot tall Keila Merino, dedicated fourth grade teacher in a public school in the Bronx, New York, has completed dozens of marathons both in and out of the classroom. Her classroom consists of all bilingual students, reminding her of her own beginning. Originally from Mexico, her family (mother and four siblings) traveled to Mesa, Arizona to meet up with her father who was already settled there. Knowing little English, Keila understood only one thing she was told to do in her gym class, which was to RUN. She found that she was faster than everyone else, and she ran her first marathon race in her freshman year of college. And, so years of running races ensued.

Now, Keila directs a fourth-grade running group in hopes of combating child obesity. She knows the benefits of daily exercise on the mind and body, and she wants to help students improve their lives.

Read more about Keila's personal quest and how she has helped others in the process.

Kick Off the New School Year--Fun Ideas to Get Off to a Good Start!

In some parts of the country, students have been back in the classroom for several weeks, while for others, the new academic year is just beginning. To help get you started, check out these articles, posts, and pins, and get inspired for the new school year! Make sure to remember not to lose sight of your own professional and personal development in the midst of the many demands and excitement of the new year.

Check out this Education World post on "Fun Activities to Get the School Year Off to a Good Start." Pick up some great ideas to help you set the tone in your classroom this year!

Take a look at this great article from Edutopia.org, and start "Preparing for your Best Year Ever"! The first tip on the list? "Dive deep into your own professional learning." Take advantage of the amazing professional development that Pepper has to offer!

Finally, just for fun, head to Pinterest.com for a fantastic collection of "Back to School Teaching Ideas"--you can find resources, materials, and fun activities for your students!

Good luck, and have a great year!