The Fire Marshall is not a big fan of mine.   That's an understatement.   I have been very fortunate to have worked for a group of principals over the years who have been able to "look the other way" when I decorate my doors, knowing that they are obviously a violation of the fire codes.  Usually, I keep my door up for the first two or three weeks of school, and then I would respectfully take it down, grateful that I was able to keep it up that long.

The Jungle Year

      One year,  I received a call over the summer from my principal telling me that things were getting a lot stricter, and that I wouldn't be able to decorate my door that year.  Of course, by the time I received that call, I had already planned out the entire Jungle themed door, and every monkey had been made.  I was so upset and wasn't quite sure what to do.
     That particular year was Amanda's year.  I had known Amanda since she was a baby and had taught her two older brothers.  She had been wondering what her 4th grade theme would be for years- there was no way I could let her down!
     I decided to head down to the Home Depot and started looking for my options.  I was drawn to these large, pink lightweight insulation boards.  They were inexpensive and very sturdy.  I brought two of them home, attached them together and covered them with bulletin board paper- I had it! A portable door!  I placed it right beside my classroom door and no one had any problems with it.  I actually loved it, because I kept it in our classroom for the entire year- I didn't need to take it down on the third week of school!
    Since that year, I have been able to go back to the traditional door, but I like that I know that I can continue with my traditions even if the rules get stricter in the future.  

Maggie xoxo