As summer winds down and the buzz of construction at South Harrison Community School Corporation continues, our teachers are building their own foundations for the upcoming school year. Two days before the students filled the hallways, SHCSC teachers returned, diving into a day dedicated entirely to professional development aptly themed "Building Excellence."
This year's Learning Fair was not just about sitting through sessions; it was about actively engaging in the craft of teaching, learning from one another, and preparing to construct supportive classrooms that foster successful students. The fair featured a range of sessions designed to enhance our educators' skills and strategies, ensuring they are equipped to meet every student's needs.
One standout session, "Drawing up the blueprints: planning for a K-6 whole group and small groups," provided teachers with new techniques for managing diverse classroom settings—ensuring each child gets the attention they deserve. Another, "Building on: high ability strategies to extend learning," offered insights into pushing our brightest students to reach even higher.
Dr. Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in teaching. Her message underscored that as our physical school environments are transformed, so too should our educational practices.
Why does this matter? Because at SHCSC, we believe that a teacher's growth directly translates to student success. We recognize that effective teaching is dynamic and requires constant evolution. This day of learning exemplifies our commitment to excellence and our belief in the power of education to change lives.
As we step into this new school year amid the echoes of construction, let’s remember that we are not just renovating buildings but rejuvenating our approach to education. Each lesson planned and each strategy developed during the Learning Fair is a step toward crafting an enriching, engaging, and inclusive learning environment for all our students.