As a new school year begins, we here at TPI are excited to re-energize our blog and share the innovate work that is being done in our 6 partner districts and at SCSU.
Today's post comes from Beth Mann, the TPI P-12 Liaison.
On Wednesday, June 11, 2014 an inaugural common professional learning day for P-16 educators was held. This day was planned and implemented by the Teacher Preparation Initiative, which is a partnership of St. Cloud State University and six P-12 Districts: Holdingford, Monticello, ROCORI, St. Cloud Area, Sartell-St. Stephen, and Sauk Rapids-Rice. Speakers at the workshop presented on various topics relating to the themes of assessment, differentiation, student engagement, and technology.
Kathy Flaminio, the keynote speaker, spoke of the science and practice of mindfulness, social and emotional learning, and yoga-based movement for students. Using lecture, discussion, and hands on learning, Flaminio explained how these techniques can help educators to understand the impact of trauma and stress, self-regulation, and well-being.
All sessions were evaluated via a technology application (Qualtrics); with about 60% of attendees responding. Highlights of findings include: 93% of session ratings were at the highest two levels of approval and 90% of session ratings scored at the highest levels of career usefulness. So positive were session ratings, that over nine in ten participants (94.2%) reportedly plan to attend next year. Thanks to our host, Sauk Rapids Rice High School; Nearly 100% of attendees rated the facilities as good or excellent (99%)! Overall, the conference proved successful, from logistics to the quality and utility of presentations.
If you have any questions, or ideas for sessions for the next Professional Learning Day, please feel free to contact Beth Mann (bjmann@stcloudstate.edu) and she will share them with the planning committee.
