I know a lot of GOOD teachers. Teachers that care about their kids and go out of their way to do what's in their students' best interests every day. However, if I asked them when the last time they attended a professional learning conference, I bet they'd say it's been a while.
We all know the value of attending conferences. As educators, we all value "life long learning" but when it comes down to it, do we practice what we preach? Sometimes it feels as if we're afraid to leave our classrooms. Too often, as teachers, we get stuck in our bubbles and forget the value in venturing out. We worry about missing time with our students or having to write sub plans. Or maybe the timing sucks. I totally get it. To say it's easy to miss class for any professional learning experience would be a misrepresentation of my (and many others) feelings. However, it can be SO worth it.
I was reflecting on this last week as I attended IDEAcon 2020, where I had THE BEST experience. I got to hear from some amazing leaders in education, meet new people, grow, learn, and recharge. I also stepped out of my comfort zone to present for the first time. And like I said, it was awesome. As I was reflecting on this, I couldn't help thinking about all the teachers I know who were missing out on this experience. I know it's hard to leave, but getting a day, or a few days, outside of the classroom can be so invigorating. Sharing with other educators, hearing new voices and new perspectives, while still getting validation of all the good stuff happening in our classrooms really re-energized me. And after being away from my students for a few days, I was excited to get back to see them and get to work.
I challenge anyone reading this to take a day for themselves to continue learning this year. Your students will be okay without you (yes, I know we hate to admit this sometimes). Find a friend, find a conference, find something that interests you and take a day for yourself. I promise it will be to your - and your students - benefit in the long run!
p.s. I couldn't end this post without highlighting some of my favorite moments from IDEAcon. As I mentioned above, I really enjoyed this conference, got to meet some cool new people, and feel like I really learned a lot. If you're interested in the long version of my notes --> IDEAcon 2020 Notes. Also I mentioned I presented so if you want to take a look at that here is my session presentation: Applying Digital Skills to "Non-Digital" Classes. See below for more highlights!
Dwayne Reed: This was THE PERFECT start to the week. If you don't know about this guy - you're missin' out! His high energy and enthusiasm got the conference started in the best way. Check out this video if you want to see more of what makes him so awesome. Dwayne emphasized learning your students AND letting your students know you. My favorite quote of his was this: "Know your students well enough to know how they need to be loved." SO good.
Punk Rock Mindset with Mike Earnshaw: This was probably my favorite breakout session of the whole conference. Mike brought such a unique and positive perspective to leadership and culture that was refreshing to hear. If you're interested in hearing more from the man himself, check out his podcast Punk Rock Classrooms. Mike preached the importance of relationships and being you while still challenging yourself to get out of your comfort zone!
Lastly, Gerry Brooks was the keynote on my last day. If you haven't seen one of his videos, I think you're living under a rock. I think his Snow Day video is one of my favorites. Gerry brought humor and fun to the stage, while still delivering a powerful message about the culture and climate of your school. His best line? "Just do your best every single day. With the kids you have and the situation you are in."
There are so many more I could add, but I didn't want to keep you here reading forever! I hope maybe I've inspired you to take a day, step out of your comfort zone, and get your learn on! There are some really awesome opportunities out there! Hope to see you out there!
We all know the value of attending conferences. As educators, we all value "life long learning" but when it comes down to it, do we practice what we preach? Sometimes it feels as if we're afraid to leave our classrooms. Too often, as teachers, we get stuck in our bubbles and forget the value in venturing out. We worry about missing time with our students or having to write sub plans. Or maybe the timing sucks. I totally get it. To say it's easy to miss class for any professional learning experience would be a misrepresentation of my (and many others) feelings. However, it can be SO worth it.
I was reflecting on this last week as I attended IDEAcon 2020, where I had THE BEST experience. I got to hear from some amazing leaders in education, meet new people, grow, learn, and recharge. I also stepped out of my comfort zone to present for the first time. And like I said, it was awesome. As I was reflecting on this, I couldn't help thinking about all the teachers I know who were missing out on this experience. I know it's hard to leave, but getting a day, or a few days, outside of the classroom can be so invigorating. Sharing with other educators, hearing new voices and new perspectives, while still getting validation of all the good stuff happening in our classrooms really re-energized me. And after being away from my students for a few days, I was excited to get back to see them and get to work.
I challenge anyone reading this to take a day for themselves to continue learning this year. Your students will be okay without you (yes, I know we hate to admit this sometimes). Find a friend, find a conference, find something that interests you and take a day for yourself. I promise it will be to your - and your students - benefit in the long run!
p.s. I couldn't end this post without highlighting some of my favorite moments from IDEAcon. As I mentioned above, I really enjoyed this conference, got to meet some cool new people, and feel like I really learned a lot. If you're interested in the long version of my notes --> IDEAcon 2020 Notes. Also I mentioned I presented so if you want to take a look at that here is my session presentation: Applying Digital Skills to "Non-Digital" Classes. See below for more highlights!
Dwayne Reed: This was THE PERFECT start to the week. If you don't know about this guy - you're missin' out! His high energy and enthusiasm got the conference started in the best way. Check out this video if you want to see more of what makes him so awesome. Dwayne emphasized learning your students AND letting your students know you. My favorite quote of his was this: "Know your students well enough to know how they need to be loved." SO good.
Punk Rock Mindset with Mike Earnshaw: This was probably my favorite breakout session of the whole conference. Mike brought such a unique and positive perspective to leadership and culture that was refreshing to hear. If you're interested in hearing more from the man himself, check out his podcast Punk Rock Classrooms. Mike preached the importance of relationships and being you while still challenging yourself to get out of your comfort zone!
There are so many more I could add, but I didn't want to keep you here reading forever! I hope maybe I've inspired you to take a day, step out of your comfort zone, and get your learn on! There are some really awesome opportunities out there! Hope to see you out there!
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