The second day of the conference was once again a great success. Following another fantastic meal (we feel as though we are on a cruise...every time we turn around there is more wonderful food! Do they know teachers or what?) we were once again fired up by Janet. Where does she get all of her energy?
I was fortunate enough to attend the morning session on Implementation Models. It never ceases to amaze me what wonderful things educators are doing with Ford PAS. The National Council of La Raza is doing amazing things with schools across the country. The State of Ohio is entering new territory by embracing Ford PAS as a state initiative (I do hope other states stop and take notice). And the teachers from Romulus Community Schools are one of the most energetic and empassioned group of teachers I have encountered in a while. The stories that all of the presenters shared brought tears to my eyes. It once again affirms the work that I am doing as a University Partner. I know that Ford PAS can and does make a difference in the lives of young people.
While I could not be in three places at once, I did hear fabulous things about the other sessions that were taking place at the same time.
Following lunch, we had our second regional planning session. Where was everyone? I know it was a beautiful day, but... We once again made great progress with the planning for the upcoming school year. Networking is always so helpful!
From what I understand, the afternoon sessions were very useful to conference attendees. I was a panelist so I did not get to participate. I do hope that everything that was covered by our panelists proved useful to those who attended.
It is becoming apparent that the conference is drawing to a close. I think that jet lag is catching up to people. I am looking forward to seeing the student presentations tomorrow morning and wishing my new friends a safe journey home.
The first day of the Fourth Annual Ford PAS Conference has ended and what an exciting day it has been. I first want to mention what an incredible job the conference planners did setting up this event. This is the second conference that I have attended and I never thought it could be better than San Antonio, but it is. The changes in the conference format this year are fabulous; networking is such a valuable experience and the time is so limited in the world of education.
The day began with Janet Padilla getting everyone fired up with a state-by-state role call...I believe that 22 states are represented this year. Wow! The overview caught everyone up on the exciting changes that will be happening in Ford PAS over the next few years and the activity gave those new to Ford PAS a taste of what was to come.
I personally found the planning sessions very valuable. What a rare opportunity to meet with educators from your own region. The discussions were very rich and great strides were made to plan out the next year. Having the opportunity to trouble-shoot experiences with others who have been faced with the same challenges is always rewarding. As a University Partner, I was able to understand what the needs of the teachers really are and how I can better help meet those needs. I am certainly looking forward to tomorrows meeting time.
The spotlight sessions in the afternoon were fantastic. I have heard nothing but positive comments from fellow conference attendees. This year the sessions were based on themes (Building Foundations, Science & Engineering, and Business & Entrepreneurship). We had an overview of what the curriculum is like and participated in an activity from the modules being discussed. However, the most exciting parts were the student presentations and teacher panel. This year the students were part of this break-out session and talked with us about their experiences. I am so impressed at how professional they all are! The teachers followed and shared glimpses into their classrooms, what worked well, what didn't, and how their students responded to the curriculum.
The afternoon ended with a wonderful networking reception. Thank you to the Ford PAS team for yet another wonderful opportunity to meet fellow educators. I am certainly looking forward to tomorrow's agenda.
Hello Ford PAS community,
This week, we kick off the Fourth Annual Ford PAS National Networking Conference on June 21–23, 2006 at the Scottsdale Plaza Hotel, Scottsdale, Arizona.
For conference details visit the Ford PAS website.
Our featured blogger for the conference is Heather Simpson. Check back for her updates from Scottsdale.