"The joy of learning is as indispensable in study, as breathing is in running."
- Simone Weil
Recently on a warm February afternoon I had the opportunity to sit down and engage in a relaxing conversation with NJAMLE President Tina Montelone and State Conference Chairperson Christina Requa. We took advantage of this particular occasion to launch the first episode of our new podcast, "The Middle Ground". The primary focus of the conversation was the organization's mission to provide high quality professional development for Middle School educators.
The discussion began with the emphasis on the rapidly approaching State Conference on Friday March 13 at Kean University from 8:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. A specific target of this year's Conference Steering Committee according to Chairperson Requa was to build on the success of last year's conference by being mindful of the rich feedback that was given by last year's attendees. This essentially helped to drive the planning and assisted in identifying what the focus would be this year.
One of the first things to plan for was the selection of this year's keynote speaker and President Monteleone enthusiastically spoke on this year's choice, Adam Welcome. She indicated that Adam as a Principal and Director of Innovation for a district of over 35,000 people has the ability to reach people in different ways. She went on to say that he pushes the envelope when it comes to kids and he will bring a "call to action"when he comes to New Jersey. Moreover it is her belief that people will be impressed with his energy and his "in your face way of getting things done." "Adam is passionate about technology and a huge advocate of using social media to connect with educators throughout the country. He makes it clear that kids come first as he has preached the message team kid for years." (premierespeakers.com , Adam Welcome Biography).
Following the keynote address there will be three 50 minute breakout sessions featuring an outstanding field of educators. There will be two morning sessions followed by lunch and then a final breakout session after lunch. Chairperson Requa indicated that this year the attendees can expect a variety of different sessions which feature sessions that are interdisciplinary, cross curricular and relevant to the needs of Middle School educators. Requa went on to say that the focus was on the practicality of the sessions and that the content of the various sessions could be implemented in classrooms when the educators returned to work on Monday after the conference.
The full compliment of breakout sessions address both the needs of he classroom teacher as well as school administrators. On the day of the event it was Chairperson Requa's advice that attendees map out their day using the session board. In using the session board the following advice was given; click on the title which brings you to a Google Doc., here you can find the session notes. The presenters can edit these notes and upload resources there as well. Moreover, on the day of the event all of the identification tags will have QR codes that bring attendees to the session board directly. These are just a few of the measures that are designed to create a joyful and efficient learning experience for those in attendance.
As the discussion moved toward closure President Monteleone addressed her desired takeaways for attendees at the conclusion of the days events. She passionately shared that there was a desire for everyone to leave with practical resources and stronger personal and professional relationships. She stressed that the theme is "better together" and really wants individuals to walk away with a more solid connection with NJAMLE and other middle level educators who attended the conference.
Continuing on with the topics of connection and NJAMLE identity, Monteleone also spoke about a new SWAG store where NJAMLE T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Tote Bags and Stickers would be available for purchase online. Adding to the excitement was the fact that the proceeds from the sale of the merchandise will be used to partially fund a new initiative, a Mini Grant for teachers. The details will be announced during this year's conference and the initiative is something that NJAMLE is excited to unveil to their members.
In the months following the conference NJAMLE members and middle school educators should continue to follow developments on Twitter and Instagram. The seasonal newsletter will be available in early spring for all members as well. As the calendar turns toward summer there is a great deal of enthusiasm for the continuation of the Summer Skills Sharpening Workshops along with possible expansion into new locations in both Northern and Southern New Jersey. Stay Tuned!
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