Busy Summer for RSS Educators In Professional Development
Responsive Classroom Training
Earlier in June , over 30 Rowan- Salisbury middle school educators participated in a 4-day training to learn how to implement the Responsive Classroom program for this upcoming school year . Four middle schools will be piloting the middle school model that builds trust and a strong community / family atmosphere where risks can be taken . Open and positive communication , along with selfcontrol is modeled on a daily basis .
Elementary educators participated in Responsive Classroom training in June at Horizons Unlimited .
Responsive Classrooms utilize research-based approaches to K-8 teaching that focus on the strong link between academic success and social / emotional learning . These classrooms go above and beyond to create a safe and joyful learning environment that fosters productive and positive relationships . “ The Power of Our Words ” sets the tone and a defining characteristic of a Responsive Classroom .
During the Institute , teachers participated in learning activities designed to showcase the impact that Blended Learning can have in the classroom . Once teachers understood how to differentiate and personalize activities for students , they were able to break into grade level groups to start planning and creating Blended Learning based activities to share with their school and use in the coming year in the classroom .
Anne Fitz from Knollwood Elementary stated , “ This institute has allowed teachers to access and collaborate how to effectively blend digital learning platforms and resources to better meet the individual needs of my students .”
Dana Curry from Cleveland Elementary said that , “ The Blended Learning Institute was very helpful and informative . I have a better understanding of what blended learning is and how the different components work . I benefitted from being able to collaborate , brainstorm and learn from others ."
What is Blended Learning ?
“ Blended learning is a formal education program in which a student learns , at least in part , through online learning , with some element of student control over time , place , path , and / or pace ; and in a supervised brick-and-mortar location away from home . The modalities along each student ’ s learning path within a course or subject are connected to provide an integrated experience ” … As defined in the book titled : Blended by Michael Horn and Heather Staker .
Blended Learning Training
Fifteen Rowan-Salisbury teachers worked together to create a ‘ Blended Learning Institute ’ format that was used to train over 30 of their fellow K-5 elementary teachers with a basic understanding of Blended Learning . Prior to the Blended Learning Institute , the team developed an online course for participants and provided resources that would be useful for grade level teachers .
The training was held at the Wallace Educational Forum in June .
Blended Learning Team Members were : Kristie Jones , Mandy Dawkins , Kristen Smith , Kati Earl Bates , Kim Seaford , Meredith Corl , Susan Kimball , Lynda Hunter , Rachel Troutman , Amy Vedeikis , Jenna Rossi , Ashley Agner , Sally Schultz , Julie Shull , and Sarah Cole .
Relive Your Childhood !
September 9-17 th CabarrusCountyFair . com
Parent Teacher News • September / October 2016 • 3