Nelson County Teachers Pursue Professional Development and Learning Opportunities Over the Summer

As summer break comes to a close, we want to celebrate a truly amazing summer of learning! Through the Summer Leadership Pathway Nelson County Schools has offered several internal opportunities for learning and growth. However - some leaders across NCS just can’t get enough. From FFA conferences to PBL Works in Napa Valley, California and more - our leaders are models for lifelong learning.

Foster Heights Elementary School Teachers' Journey to PBL Works in Napa Valley, California

Kaylen Runner, 5th-grade teacher at Foster Heights Elementary School, was a part of a larger group from FHES to go on a trip to PBL Works in Napa Valley, California. The conference focused on Project Based Learning (PBL) and how to integrate social emotional learning into this teaching approach.

"We've always integrated project-based learning in our classrooms; that was kind of our mantra," said Kaylen Runner. "We wanted to give kids more of an experience of hands-on project-based learning, versus the standard. PBL is beneficial, as it allows students to not only learn new things but to apply them - showcase their learning and defend it."

The conference, organized by the PBL Works organization, provided valuable insights into deepening students' understanding through PBL. Teachers had the opportunity to improve the quality of student work and further integrate state standards into their projects.

"The most valuable thing I think I got from it was the reassurance," Runner added. "It was just the fact that there are like-minded people out there who are following the progression of education. PBL Works was a chance for us to connect with educators who share our passion and vision for student-centered learning."

Inspiration and Renewed Passion at the Elevate Your Classroom Conference in Tennessee

Meanwhile, at the Elevate Your Classroom Conference in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, teachers from The Nelson County Early Learning Center experienced an inspiring and motivational two-and-a-half-day event catered specifically to early childhood through second-grade educators.

Kristen Greenwell, a teacher at The Nelson County Early Learning Center, spoke enthusiastically about the conference, "Generally, early childhood teachers are one of the least targeted groups in education professional development. This conference was a breath of fresh air for us."

The conference featured keynote speakers such as Gerry Brooks, who discussed classroom culture and positive contributions, and Ron Clark, who delivered a motivating speech about the power of giving "1% more" in our teaching practices.

"The sessions were diverse, ranging from setting up those crucial first 30 days of school to exploring the science of reading," Greenwell shared. "We also attended sessions that aligned with the priorities of Nelson County, such as mindfulness and student-led learning, which left us feeling excited about implementing new ideas in our classrooms."
For the group, the conference provided a renewed excitement and motivation as they prepared to embark on a new school year.

To learn more about learning design and professional development opportunities - visit ncunwrapped.com