A brand new school year has begun! A clean slate for both students and teachers. What will you write on this year's slate? Will it be a success story filled with laughter and learning? Sometimes we start out the year with high hopes and energy only to experience an emotional crash by Thanksgiving when we are indeed thankful to have a four-day weekend away from our students.

It is impossible to sustain our motivation when the students are apathetic or rebellious. This issue has some great ideas for interesting and enjoyable activities that will increase student motivation in the classroom. If you are a professional developer, be sure to check out the Trainer Tip.

You are off to a great start! Keep the momentum going, and make this your best year ever!