I never thought of sharing this idea until a friend of mine told me she had never thought of using photo books this way.
Every year, I photograph my classroom once it’s put together for the new year. I take more as I change parts of my room through the year. Finally, I pack everything up and take pictures of my jam packed closets.
Then, I head over to Walgreens.com and upload the photos. Once they are uploaded, I turn them into a small photo book. The downside is the small book can only take 25 photos. If you go with the larger bound book, there are more options.
I use this over the summer and throughout the school year to do a lot of things!
- Reflect on my use of space. Did it work? What do I need to change? What did I really like and want to keep? What made my life easier or more difficult? My desk is a perfect example! It has changed every year. I just can’t get it just right…
- Reflect on how my classroom has changed year to year and why I made those changes, like my class library in the images below (top – most recent image).
- Think about what I may need to purchase or find for the following year based on what I used and what I put in my closets/cabinets.
- Explaining an area or concept in my classroom (always easier with visuals).
- Where does this go? Do I want it to stay there? (This is helpful when I’m setting up for the new year and I can look back at where it was the year before.)
- and more!
- Load your photos at Walgreens.com
- Select the size and style photo book you want (don’t forget to check their deals tab for coupons!)
- Pick the 25 photos (or more depending on the size book you picked) and select create
- In the editing panel, put your photos in the order you want. I typically go chronologically from when the room is set up to the room torn down for summer.
- Review your book and checkout!
- Pick it up and use to make your life easier!
Creatively yours,
Teaching In Public
Teaching In Public 