Paws, Plans, and Personal Joy

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Hello and welcome back to Chalkboard Chatter! I’m your host, Candice Nicholson, and I’m thrilled to bring you another episode of honest conversations, classroom highlights, and personal reflections from the heart of education. Today’s episode is full of joy, creativity, and a few fun surprises. Before we dive in, let’s take a moment to reflect on where we’ve been.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Over the last few episodes, Chalkboard Chatter has explored some powerful topics. We’ve talked about boundary-setting during parent-teacher conferences, navigated the unpredictable landscape of school lunchrooms, and shared tools for managing burnout while prioritizing wellness. In our last episode, we looked back at end-of-year transitions and field day moments—both chaotic and meaningful. Listeners have shared incredible feedback, and it's clear that the shared experiences of educators everywhere continue to resonate. Thank you for being part of the journey.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Okay, let's talk about ways we can organize your school week. One thing that always comes up in teacher circles—especially at the start of the school year—is how to stay prepared and feel confident each day. For many, wardrobe planning is an effective way to reduce stress and save time during the week. Planning outfits, whether for a few days or the entire week, can help create consistency and ease during the morning rush. Many teachers find success with organizational methods like using labeled hangers, arranging outfits in advance, or even setting aside backup clothes in case of unexpected spills or weather changes. The key takeaway: having a system in place that works for your schedule and style can make a noticeable difference in how smoothly the week flows—especially when the school day is full from bell to bell.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

I want to rewind a little bit here and talk about my LLC, which happens to be named Chalkboard Chatter, as well was selected to plan a meaningful summer retreat for 4th and 5th-grade girls. The event was designed to encourage connection, creativity, and confidence at the start of summer break. Planning involved thoughtful coordination around meals, structured activities, and open-ended reflection time. Some of the highlights included morning yoga sessions, outdoor scavenger hunts, and group conversations that centered on kindness, self-esteem, and leadership. Meals were kept fun and simple, offering plenty of opportunities for collaboration and conversation around the table. The retreat was more than just a summer event; it became a space where young girls could express themselves freely and support one another in meaningful ways. The impact of that experience will surely carry into the classroom and beyond.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Can we transition to one of my favorite subjects? For classrooms implementing Eureka Math in the upper elementary grades, there are a few key outcomes educators can expect over time. One - Stronger Conceptual Understanding: Students begin to grasp the “why” behind math processes, not just the steps. This lays a foundation for deeper learning in later grades. Two - Improved Problem-Solving Skills: Multi-step problems and structured models encourage persistence and logical reasoning, helping students approach challenges with greater confidence. Three - Clear Math Communication: Students are given consistent opportunities to explain their thinking. This verbal processing builds not only math skills but academic language overall. Educators using Eureka Math often highlight these gains, even while acknowledging that the program requires thoughtful pacing and scaffolding to support all learners.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Let me tell you about an exciting moment in my classroom this year—introducing our new class mascot, Paws the gecko! During the first week of school, students were invited to research different pets—considering fish, a hamster, or a gecko—and present their ideas. The classroom buzzed with creativity: poster campaigns, mini-presentations, and persuasive pitches. Once the votes were in, the gecko was the clear winner. As it turned out, our ability to welcome Paws hinged on timely support from the Pets in the Classroom grant program through PetSmart. This initiative helps educators afford the cost of classroom pets—and their habitats—by covering at least 50% of the expense in the first year. It’s a fantastic way to bring animals into learning environments without stretching budgets. The day Paws arrived from PetSmart, the classroom energy was electric. The students watched in fascination as I gently introduced Paws—sharing details about her care: housing, diet, and trusted handling practices. We emphasized how important regular cleaning and a safe habitat are, guided by the PetSmart teacher resources that even include STEAM-based lesson plans to enrich learning around the pet. PetSmart student took a turn greeting Paws—soft voices, shy waves, and smiles all around. It was sweet, and one of those moments that felt bigger than the classroom walls. When my colleague, who happens to have a gecko in her class, visited, she calmly let Paws climb onto her shoulders. The students were mesmerized—and I will admit, my nerves were real. Watching someone handle her so confidently gave me a laugh and a learning moment of my own. This experience has brought so much to our classroom: scientific curiosity, empathy, collective responsibility—and a gentle reminder that introducing new experiences sometimes requires humility and trust. Paws is more than a pet; she’s helping us explore science, empathy, and care.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

On a personal note, this year brought a beautiful new chapter in life. After a legal marriage ceremony on February 14, followed by a heartfelt wedding celebration on August 30—surrounded by our children, family, and friends—love truly took center stage. The experience was more than just a celebration. It was a reminder that meaningful milestones, both inside and outside the classroom, deserve to be honored and savored. Love, in all its depth and simplicity, brings perspective and balance to the busy rhythm of school life. One of my favorite new rhythms since marrying Vern has been our evening walks in the park. After long school days filled with grading, noise, and joyful chaos, those quiet walks have become sacred. Whether we’re holding hands under fading sunlight, talking about our dreams, or just walking in peaceful silence, it’s in those simple moments that I feel most grounded. We’ve made it a ritual—our way of checking in with each other, reconnecting, and breathing deeply before the next day begins. Sometimes we talk about what we’re cooking for dinner, other times it’s about life goals, silly memories, or just how lucky we feel. Whether in a quiet ceremony, a joyful gathering, or a walk through rustling leaves at sunset, celebrating with those we love adds richness to the journey. And it’s moments like these—so small and yet so profound—that make everything feel more complete.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

From classroom fashion tips and retreat planning to curriculum wins, classroom pets, and personal milestones—it’s been a full and joyful episode. If today’s conversation sparked an idea, reminded you of your own classroom journey, or made you smile, consider sharing this episode with a colleague or friend. And don’t forget to follow Chalkboard Chatter so you don’t miss what’s coming next. Until next time, I’m Candice Nicholson. Keep showing up with heart, holding space for wonder, and finding joy in both the little and the lasting things. Take care, and I’ll talk to you soon.