Our team came together for an enriching professional development week focused on creating a stronger, more connected learning environment. We kicked off with team-building activities, setting the stage for a week of collaboration and growth.
A highlight of the week was welcoming Becky Udman, a renowned educator from Dallas, TX, who brought her expertise in Love and Logic and Conscious Discipline. Her workshops focused on the importance of building a "school family" and a procedures based classroom to foster an optimal learning environment through meaningful connection and routine. She emphasized the role of emotional safety and positive relationships in promoting academic and social success.
In addition to her sessions with our team, Becky hosted an evening workshop for parents, graciously held at the home of Orit and Jackson Fragozo. This event helped to extend our work beyond the classroom, involving families in the process of supporting their children’s development.
We also heard from our veteran teachers, Paris Labran, Libby Groner, and Sara Chaya Pertuit, who led inspiring discussions on family engagement, social-emotional learning, and fostering independence in students. Their talks deepened our understanding of how these elements contribute to a more supportive and empowering school culture.
Throughout the week, our staff was hard at work designing our learning spaces to serve as a "third teacher." We focused on creating calm, welcoming environments with warm tones and clearly defined procedures to enhance student learning and well-being.
The week left us energized and inspired, ready to implement these practices and create a nurturing, effective learning environment for our students.