Ahhh Summer… A much anticipated, well-deserved time to rest, relax and recuperate for both educators and students. And a time when many educators can put their teaching hat to the side and take a seat on the other side of the classroom, as a student.
In my last post I reflected on an ETFO program I participated in this school year and mentioned I would highlight another amazing program that I love, Summer Academy. In Arianna Lambert’s recent post ETFO’s Summer Academy Is Coming Soon, she shares her experiences with Summer Academy and an overview of one of over 40 amazing upcoming in-person and virtual 3-day courses planned this summer.
From Math and Literacy programs, to Mental Health, Technology, Assessment and Culturally Relevant Pedagogy, there is something from everyone. Working with locals across the province, ETFO is offering a number of in person sessions as well as virtual. Take a look and find one that suits your needs!
Check out if there’s one happening locally for you, or maybe one of the many virtual sessions planned is more accessible. Or, try one of my favourite ways to narrow my own search, by finding a cool place to explore. What I mean is, if you’ve always wanted to check out the capital, head to Ottawa for some learning during the day and city exploring in the evening! Or maybe Stratford is just the place for some Outdoor Exploration with Jacquline Whelan and Joanne Burbridge during the day and an evening play. Or Niagara-on-the-Lake might be for you with evening shopping and wineries after a day of learning how to better integrate and utilize technology in your classroom. Kingston is a beautiful old city with lots to see! Barry’s Bay, London, Brantford, Waterloo, Burlington, Barrie, and Toronto are all on this year’s Summer Academy in person locations!
And I can’t miss this opportunity to give a shout out to my hometown, Sudbury, where the Rainbow Local is hosting what is expected to be an incredible learning opportunity titled The Art of Teaching Kindergarten. This will be led by ETFO member and Toronto Teacher, Marcia Bumbury. Just another reason why I love Summer Academy: The programs are facilitated by fellow educators and ETFO members. How great is that? To meet, learn and network with our educators from across the province.
And finally, I would love to meet you in Toronto at Mindfulness in Education scheduled in mid-July! This is my first year back facilitating since 2020 and am looking forward to offering this in person once again. Designed for educators at all levels who are looking for new or creative ways to bring mindfulness into their classroom and/or personal life, you will leave this three-day workshop with accessible, hands-on activities, read-alouds to introduce mindfulness concepts to students and practices to help you and your students.
While there is much to say about the individual programs, there is more to just giving one a go. For a nominal fee (some locals offer PD reimbursements), lunch and snacks included and incredible professional development from talented educators, I hope you find one that suits your needs this summer!
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