Happy Friday!
Without students in the building today, teachers arrived for a day of professional development. I planned a full morning, asking teachers to engage in a process of learning to expand on the ideas of Nantucket’s diversity. Using the “5E Model,” teachers were divided into smaller groups to engage in conversation and develop a key area of focus, explore that area, explain to others, elaborate, and evaluate. Cross-divisional teams could choose to leave or stay on campus to gather data and create presentations for colleagues on the diversity of Nantucket.
I believe in empowering teachers through professional development. As a newcomer to the school, I see wonderful teaching underway, with opportunities for more conversations about teaching and learning. As the New School digs more deeply into our commitment to being an inclusive community, there are many opportunities to think about and develop this work. Working collaboratively is important because learning outcomes are deeper and more meaningful through social interactions. It’s usually more fun to work together and to push others’ thinking and ideas through conversations and questions.
The presentations were as fascinating as they were unique. One group focused on what grocery items at Stop & Shop can teach us about the diversity of the island. Another group looked at the history of the island, exploring racial and gender roles, while another shared specifics on languages spoken in homes on island. One group asked great questions regarding how economic diversity impacts the community, including QCAs at Morning Meeting and implications for our work with students.
It’s wonderful to have a chance to learn together as a group of professionals, using resources and primary sources to deepen our understanding. I was grateful for the teachers’ engagement and look forward with optimism to more conversations about teaching and learning at New School.
Have a wonderful long weekend!
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