Finding Inspiration: Faculty Professional Development Day

This past Friday, faculty and staff spent the day learning from one another. The day began reconnecting with the land around us. Our faculty and staff started the day on top of the hill, gathered in the woods with coffee, pastries, and good company. Together, we set off to hike our newly constructed one-mile cross-country trail, a path that winds through the forest and offers fresh opportunities for exploration and learning. Along the way, we discovered countless ways this space can enrich our students’ experiences, whether through outdoor science investigations, cross-grade hikes, or simply moments of reflection and play.

After our time in the woods, the day shifted to important professional learning. We reviewed our emergency preparedness protocols to ensure that we are ready to respond quickly and effectively. We also learned from a team of teachers who have been expanding their expertise in reading instruction that not only supports learners with dyslexia, but benefits all students through universal practices. The afternoon was spent working together on collaborative problem-solving strategies and curriculum planning, strengthening both our teaching and our sense of community.

Our time in nature and in professional learning reminded us why we do this work: to be a community of educators dedicated to sparking curiosity, fostering creativity, and building genuine connections with every child.

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Meadowlarks Explore Rivers at Clackamette Park