Professional Development / Keynote Speakers

Student reading and writing abilities directly affect their success in school and on standardized tests. Schools can help by increasing exposure and practice of reading and writing skills throughout the day, not just during English Language Arts classes. This in-service is designed to help teachers in all academic areas use reading and writing strategies to enhance their own curriculum and provide additional exposure and practice for student success.

(Recommended as a 2 Day Workshop)
New teachers are both excited and overwhelmed by the thought of teaching in their own classroom for the very first time. This workshop offers practical strategies that work together to build a firm foundation for a successful classroom environment. Through modeling and hands-on activities, beginning teachers get specific help in classroom organization, classroom management strategies, parent communication, lesson planning, and planning for the first day of school.

When thrust into the role of mentor, many veteran teachers don't know where to begin. This workshop offers a practical approach to mentoring that provides guidelines to help both new and seasoned mentors work with their new teacher. Participants discuss the basic elements of their role as mentor, practice observation and assessment techniques, and engage in feedback scenarios.

Ever watch a middle school student and shake your head in wonder and confusion? Join us as we work together to unravel the mysteries of the middle level learner. We will discuss specific strategies to use in the classroom to help students overcome the common barriers to effective learning. Participants will also be engaged in solving the mystery of their “student” and will work together to determine which strategies should be used to best overcome the challenges presented.

The teacher-parent relationship is one that directly affects the students. Without a positive partnership between parents and teachers, the learning process is hindered and students suffer. Through this workshop teachers will learn about the different characteristics they will encounter when communicating with parents and families. Presenters will also provide practical strategies for informing, interacting with, and involving parents to help build a positive partnership for student success.

Students learn best when actively engaged in their own learning. Through modeling and hands-on activities, teachers will learn practical strategies to implement in the classroom that encourage active learning. We will begin with a discussion about the brain and how learning is affected by environment, emotions, and other developmental issues. Participants will then actively work with the four main motivators teachers can incorporate into lessons to get students excited about learning. When finished, teachers will be fired up and ready to make their classroom spark!