The Stout Conference

My presentations at Stout went pretty well. My first group was highly interactive and my second was not, so I got a little taste of both. I was organized and stayed on track, so that was a big plus! Also, my technology worked just fine. I seemed to have a good report with the audience in each group. I'm hoping I can get copies of my evaluations so I can see what I can improve on for next time.

I'd like to blog about one presentation that I really enjoyed. It was called, "The six habits of highly effective teachers," and it was given by Dr. Judy Herr. Her presentation was fabulous. It was her personal take on the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People as it relates to teaching. If you ever get the chance to hear her speak, do so! I definitely will be looking into some of her books for my staff.

Some newly discovered resources that I'd like to share!
Early Childhood News
Early Childhood Focus
The Foundation for Child Development
Council for Professional Recognition
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
The National Prekindergarten Center
Videatives
PreKnow
ECE-SOS

I'm hoping to speak at. . . .

My proposal is written! I'm hoping that I'll be selected to speak at the 2008 WECA Early Childhood Conference. I'm hoping to present on the importance of play and the elementary school skills it helps to develop. I also want to discuss how teachers can support play within their classrooms. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

I'm planning on attending the 2008 Whitewater Early Childhood Conference and I'm hoping that I'll get to speak at this one next year. This year, they will be having lots of presentations regarding leadership and management. I'm hoping that these will be helpful as I get into the swing of things with my leadership role at work.

Speaking of work, things are going pretty well. I am so short teachers and hiring is a big priority right now. I'm having a tough time wrapping my mind around how to recruit staff other than the traditional methods. Advertisements are in the local papers, advertising up to 45 minutes away. I'm working to get into the local technical college to speak in some classes, but I'm not sure where else to go.