This space is for teachers in years 1-5 of their career (including preservice teachers). We'll do some active reading, writing, and talking about early career triumphs and struggles and how to sustain ourselves in this profession. This will be a brave space where vulnerability and authenticity are valued. We will place an emphasis on work/life balance and culturally responsive practices in the English classroom. This session will be adaptive to attendee needs, so feel free to come with personal concerns or areas where you need extra support. NOTE: In order to maintain the integrity of this session, this is not a space for teacher educators, mentors, or veteran educators.
Iowa Council Teachers of English: Teachers are leaders by nature. We can lead a classroom, guide an entire group of students and manage all of the decisions and data that this requires without even thinking twice. Before we do it all again the next day. And right now, our state needs to hear from you. Our nation needs your story and your voice. Come learn about the many ways you can share your experience and your leadership within our organization at ICTE. Because you matter.
2. Iowa Writing Project: Directions in Teaching and Learning: Sheila Benson and Kirstey Ewald invite you to reflect on the four directions and natural elements as a way to consider how you might best fulfill your needs as a writer, teacher, learner, and leader. Each of these takes you on a particular professional learning path that might best fulfill what your spirit calls out for, what resonates within your soul, what beats within your hearts. They invite you to participate in one (or more!) of Iowa Writing Project’s offerings and find whatever it is you seek waiting for you there.
3. Breadcrumbs to U-Turns: What is your reading journey? What turns did you take to get here? What mountains or cliffs did you face as a child or teen reader? Create a map of your reading journey to notice your patterns, joys, and challenges. As an ELA teacher, use this activity with students and gain insights to their reading lives, to generate class discussion about reading/books, or extend students' reflections with writing.
Dr. Stacy Haynes-Moore is Assistant Professor of Education at Coe College. She is a veteran classroom teacher of English language arts and student journalism programs. Stacy serves on the ICTE Board as the affiliate liaison for NCTE.
Educational Services Consultant, Central Rivers Area Education Agency
Kirstey Ewald is just shy of 30 years in education. She is a 20-year veteran teacher of high school English. The highlights of those years during which time she was a DLT/BLT member, department chair, and PLC facilitator. Kirstey Ewald is an English Language Arts teacher who currently... Read More →
