Teachers ARE Sparklighters: Where Do They Get Their Spark?

Today I decided to do a quick post for teachers, highlighting what hopefully are some new resources you don't know about.  I believe great teachers today have to be creative, intuitive, and always on the lookout (and I want to help make that latter activity easlier). I thought it might be fun to share some resources with you, starting with my current hometown on Huntsville, AL

1)  The U.S. Space and Rocket Center.  Some of you may be interested in a field trip to Space Camp but even if you can't come with your class in person, they've put together a great set of resources for you:  Check out these teacher resources.

2) Do you know that Maupin House (the publisher of The Literacy Ambassador's two print books (Anytime Reading Readiness for parents of 3-6 year olds and the partner title, Before They Read, for educators working with children the same age), has a wealth of quick, free videos to watch from the talented pool of authors?  Check them out at:  http://www.maupinhouse.com/. 

3) Need a little encouragement and solid advice to motivate you?  Visit Inspiring Teachers.  From e-books, to advice for first time teachers, and those who have been around the block a few times, you're sure to find something there for you.

4) Hands on museums are always fun but many of them have online resources you can tap into as well like Exploratorium's Evidence website and of course the Smithsonian.  .

5)  Need supplies, materials or technology for your classroom?  Check out the Thinkquest competition.  The Deadline is April 24 for the year 2011.  Check their website for updates in future years.

Finally, don't forget how zoos can combine fun and learning.  Many have webcams so you can watch the animals live from your classroom and find fantastic online games for growing young brains.

I'd love to have your feedback.  Did you know about these resources?
Do you have others to share?