MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4 THE HILTON RICHMOND HOTELSHORT PUMP

VAIS 2019LEADING LEARNING CONFERENCE

MAKING SPACE

WELCOME!

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2019-2020 VAIS Professional Development Advisory Commission (PDAC)Co-Chairs: Laura Akesson, Academic Dean, The Steward School+

Abi Ibarra, LS Foreign Language Teacher, Fredericksburg Academy+

Past Chair: Sarah Mansfield, Assistant Head of School, St. Christopher’s School

Members: Jenny Anderson, Dean of Faculty, Virginia Episcopal School Mandy Augst, Librarian, Trinity Episcopal School+ Johanna Cheney, 7-8 Math Teacher, Browne Academy Judy Davis, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Norfolk Collegiate School Thea Israel, Second Grade Faculty, The Hill School Shannon McCarty, Learning Specialist, Flint Hill School Melanie Nan, Upper Elementary Teacher, Sabot At Stony Point School Laurie Pierce, Technology Facilitator, Trinity Episcopal School Carey Pohanka, Upper School Instructional Technologist, St. Christopher’s School Scott Pohjola, Science Teacher, Episcopal High School+ Lana Shea, Director of Teaching & Learning, St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School

Representative, Member Services Committee: Kirsten Adams, Head of School, St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School

Special thanks to the PDAC members for their tireless dedication in developing this program and to growing the network and resources available to educators in the VAIS membership!

+PDAC Executive Committee

2019-2020 VAIS Board of DirectorsPresident: Mr. David S. Lourie, Head of School, St. Anne’s-Belfield School

Vice President: Dr. Elinor Scully, Head of School, The Langley School

Treasurer: Dr. Christian J. Proctor, Head of School, North Cross School

Secretary: Mr. Robert E. Gregg, III, Head of School, St. Michael’s Episcopal School

Chair, Accreditation: Mr. Treavor Lord, Head of School, The Hill School

Chair, Member Services Committee: Dr. Terrie Hale Scheckelhoff, Head of School, St. Catherine’s School

Past-President & Chair, Committee on Directors: Mr. Scott G. Kennedy, Headmaster, Norfolk Collegiate School

Directors-at-Large: Mr. Scott Baytosh, Head of School, Alexandria Country Day School Mr. Jesse Grapes, Headmaster, Benedictine College Preparatory Dr. Judy Jankowski, Head of School, Chesapeake Bay Academy Dr. Richard (Dick) Jung, Former Executive Director, Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington (AISGW) Dr. Cyndy Weldon-Lassiter, Head of School, St. Andrew’s School Ms. Janet F. Marsh, Director, Warren Whitney Mrs. Catherine S. McGehee, Head of School, Foxcroft School Mr. Peter Mertz, Headmaster, Hampton Roads Academy Ms. Susan C. Scarborough, Head of School, Powhatan School

General Counsel: Alexandra B. Cunningham, Esquire, Hunton & Williams

Executive Director: Ms. Betsy J. Hunroe (ex-officio)

The VAIS Educator Exchange will allow you to connect with your peers across VAIS to share and get feedback on new ideas and questions. You are free to join different communities to follow

conversations of interest to you.

Please log-in to the VAIS website (vais.org) and then click on the Educator Exchange button on the top right corner. Your first step is to update your profile. If you have questions on how to add or reply to a discussion post, add a library entry or update your profile, please click on the Help/FAQs link on the gray navigation bar. If you need help with your log-in, please contact

Joan Fargis at joanfargis@vais.org.

Let’s get connected!

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Twitter hashtag for the conference is #vaisllc19.

Schedule AT-A-GLANCE

The VAIS Board of Directors Salutes2019 Sally K. Boese Distinguished Service Winner

F. Robertson HersheyF. Robertson “Rob” Hershey has served as a remarkable example of dedication and commitment to the advancement of independent school education throughout his long and illustrious career. Rob began his service to independent schools as a young teacher and very successful basketball coach at Woodberry Forest School in the fall of 1970 following his graduation from Williams College. Rob was the product of an independent school education as well having attended Collegiate School in Richmond. Rob quickly rose to the ranks of leadership at Woodberry Forest School and left his position as Assistant Head of School there at the age of 29 to take on his first headship at Durham Academy. While at Durham Academy, Rob developed a number of innovative programs including his focus on the needs of those students with different learning styles who, in those days, had not been as well served by many independent schools. Rob left his position at Durham Academy after ten very successful years to return home to Richmond and to lead Collegiate School. There he also developed a number of innovative educational programs, focused important attention on the arts, created an outstanding Summer Economics Institute for students from throughout Greater Richmond, and enhanced the school’s financial strength. After ten years at Collegiate, Rob then transitioned to his final headship at Episcopal High School which he led for 18 years. Again, Rob played an integral role in enriching the school’s program and the student experience, and he transformed the school’s focus in innovative uses of educational resources in Washington to create uniquely powerful learning opportunities.

While at Collegiate, Rob began his long and very active support of VAIS. During his years at Collegiate and Episcopal, Rob supported numerous VAIS programs and served as an active and very effective board member across multiple terms as Treasurer and President. While in Alexandria, Rob also shared his leadership and wisdom with the AISGW Board as President, and he supported a local K-8 school, Alexandria Country Day School, as a Board member. Rob was a very helpful mentor and support for any number of new and younger Heads in VAIS and AISGW and was always ready to lend a hand in any situation when a fellow Head or school was facing a difficult challenge. Following his retirement from Episcopal in 2016 after 18 years at the school, Rob realized he had more advice and guidance to share. He now serves as a consultant for a number of independent schools across the country and continues to share helpful advice with Episcopal as well.

With his nearly 40 years of service as the head of three schools and his countless moments supporting his colleagues in any number of ways with a generosity of spirit and talent, Rob has set a standard of dedication to independent school education that is exemplary.

8:00 AM Lobby of Conference Center Pick up Registration Packet; Coffee with Sponsors

8:30 AM Capital Ballroom E-G Welcome, Introductions, Presentation of Sally K. Boese Distinguished Service Award - Betsy Hunroe, VAIS Executive Director - David Lourie, President, VAIS Board & Head of School, St. Anne’s-

Belfield School- PDAC Co-Chairs: Laura Akesson, Academic Dean, The Steward School,

and Abi Ibarra, Lower School Faculty, Fredericksburg Academy

8:45 AM Keynote Session for ALL Keynote Speaker: Andre Daughty

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM Stretch and Move to Sessions

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM Breakout Session

I11:00 AM – 11:30 AM Break & Visit with Sponsors

11:30 AM – 12:15 PM Breakout Session II

12:15 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch and Visit with Sponsors Box lunches distributed in hallway outside Capital Ballroom E-G

1:00 PM – 1:30 PM Pecha Kucha Presentations Capital Ballroom E-G

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM Breakout Session III

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM Business Meeting for Heads and Trustees Short Pump Room

2:45 PM – 3:45 PM Closing General Session for ALL Featured Speaker: Angela Watson

3:45 PM VAIS Innovation in Education Awards, Grand Prize Drawings, Wrap-Up and Closing

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Congratulations Rob!

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Keynote and Featured Speaker Bios Meet Andre Daughty(Keynote 8:45 AM – 10:00 AM; Con-versation with Andre, 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM) Over the past nine-teen years, Andre Daughty (pro-nounced  Daugh  like  how) has established himself as a highly regarded urban educator from Oklahoma City, OK. As an elemen-tary school teacher, he helped

to improve test scores at a low-performing school in need of improvement to state recognition. That year, he taught a class of over fifty fourth grade students by himself. He continued to serve in education in capacities of leadership, coaching and as a professor. Andre has been a public speaker, delivered conference and program keynotes, professional development workshops, parenting seminars and student assemblies. He enjoys sharing strategies to create and build culture within a school and or-ganization, bringing awareness on today’s generation, under-standing and developing attitudes of at-risk student popula-tions, and motivating excellence in the classroom and school with students of color, particularly young black male students. He takes the complicated and makes it simple to understand as he pulls from his experiences in education to take his audi-ence on an emotional and humorous journey. Andre Daughty is married to his wife, Danielle, and is the father of their two children, Jaiden and Cambria. He earned his B.S. degree in Elementary Education from Langston University and his M.A. degree in Educational Leadership from the Uni-versity of Central Oklahoma.

Meet Angela Watson(Closing Session 2:45 PM – 3:45 PM)Angela Watson is a National Board Certified Teacher with a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She has 11 years of classroom experience and over a decade of experience as an instructional coach. Angela created this website as a

young teacher in 2003 to share practical classroom ideas and help other educators build a positive mindset so they can truly enjoy their work. The blog now impacts over 8 million teachers each year, and her ideas have been featured in thousands of magazine articles, newsletters, and internet resources, and utilized in teacher preparation and support programs throughout the nation. Angela has authored numerous  printable curriculum resources, online courses, and four books. Her newest book

is Fewer Things, Better and was just released in spring of 2019. She is perhaps best known for her free Truth for Teachers podcast, which provides weekly encouragement for educators and consistently ranks in the top three K-12 podcasts in the world. Angela’s professional development on productivity is being used in over 20,000 schools through the 40 Hour Teacher Workweek Club. The club is designed to help teachers be truly intentional with their personal, contractual, and instructional time so they can focus on what really matters. Teachers who utilize the club strategies learn how to let go of outdated teaching practices that waste teacher and student time and bring their daily work into alignment with their vision for teaching. Through Angela’s mentorship, countless teachers have learned to take charge of their time and energy so they can prevent burnout and stay in the profession they love for years to come.

Meet Kathryn Starke(Session 202 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM)Kathryn Starke is an urban literacy specialist, reading consultant, author, and the founder of Creative Minds Publications, LLC, a global literacy based educational company.    She has been featured on multiple media platforms including Fox Small Business

News, Inspire Me Today, Virginia This Morning, and Conversations Live.   Kathryn has served as a literacy trainer for the University of Chicago Urban Education Institute and VCU AmeriCorps program.  Kathryn was on the executive board for the Richmond Area Reading Council and governing board for the Virginia State Reading Association.  She currently serves on the board of Reach Out and Read Virginia.  She previously served on the Chris Baker 92 Foundation and is the children’s author and literacy advocate for the Washington Redskins Charitable Foundation reading program.    She served as a panelist on educational forums for University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University and was the keynote speaker for the PBS Kids Writing Contest Awards Ceremony.    In addition, she leads an annual children’s writing workshop sponsored by the Library of Virginia Foundation. A native of Richmond Virginia, Kathryn graduated from Longwood University with a BS degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in Literacy and Culture.   She has taught first, second, and third grade and served as a literacy specialist for over a decade in inner city/Title I schools in Richmond Public Schools and Chesterfield County Public Schools in Richmond, Virginia.    She is the author of Amy’s Travels, a multicultural children’s book used in schools on over twenty countries on six continents.  The book was recently turned into a musical by the Latin Ballet of Virginia.

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Conference SessionsKEYNOTE, ROOM: Capital E-G 8:45 AM – 10:00 AMSpace For Project Based Learning (PBL) Schools around the world are adopting career-oriented, project-based, technology-embedded and real-world ideas in education. Those spaces recognize the connections between innovative learning and creativity. Build an understanding of PBL through storytelling, gaining examples while sharing proven, effective and diverse practices for early childhood through adult learners.  To make space for PBL, we must change how educators lead and learn. Get inspired by how we can build on the strengths, interests, and talents of our students and create better learning experiences for all. Explore how to move towards a shared vision of teaching and learning, embrace learning as a process and not an event, and make learning public to share what you are learning and inspire others.Keynote Speaker: Andre Daughty, Teacher and Consultant____________________________________________________

Session I (Breakout Session) 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM____________________________________________________

Session 101, ROOM: Barron Boardroomfor participants of 2019 NTI Only2019 New Teacher Institute Participant ReunionFacilitator: Cheryl Gahagan, Assistant Head of School, Lower-School Curriculum and Instruction, Collegiate School and Carey Pohanka, US Academic Instructional Technologist, JK-12 BUILD Coordinator, 8th Grade French Teacher, St. Christopher’s School___________________________________________________

Session 102, ROOM: Capital E-GSuggested Grade Level: All GradesConversation with Andre DaughtySpeakers: Andre Daughty, Teacher, Educational Consultant___________________________________________________

Session 103, ROOM: Capital ASuggested Grade Level: All GradesCreating a Culture of Professional Learning Making time for professional learning is a challenging endeavor for teachers. Between lesson planning, grading, conferences, report cards, etc... there is little time left to dive into professional learning. How can teachers, administrators, and schools gain useful tools to create an engaging and differentiated professional learning environment across the school year? Examine some strategies like Learning Walks‚ “Pineapple Charts”, Unconferences, “Choice Boards”, Peer Coaching etc.‚ to promote the importance of growth and learning within schools, and all driven by the teachers interests and passions.

Speakers: Jessica Catoggio 4th Grade Teacher, Envision Collegiate Capstone Coordinator, Collegiate School and Dr. Shayne Cooke, Director of Educator Development, World Leadership School___________________________________________________

Session 104, ROOM: Capital BSuggested Grade Level: Middle SchoolMaking Space for Students with Learning Differences: Mindfulness, Movement, and MotivationRethink strategies that tap into each student’s potential. Engage in activities that support mindfulness, movement, and motivation for all students. In collaboration with a Learning Specialist and classroom teachers, actively explore how these strategies can impact academic experiences in Math and the Humanities.  The end result is to create a space that makes learning purposeful, meaningful, and welcoming for all.Speakers: Ann Bazzarone, Middle School Learning Specialist, Erin Mahony, Middle School Math Teacher and 7th Grade Team Lead and Katie Knicely, Middle School History Teacher, Flint Hill School___________________________________________________

Session 105, ROOM: Capital CSuggested Grade Level: Middle SchoolGirls, Gizmos and Gadgets!Embolden girls to explore STEM-related challenges, including robotics, engineering, and general sciences.  Girls tend to take a back seat in difficult science concepts, such as robotics and engineering, but watch how they gain confidence in completing challenges! Gain some great ideas to challenge all of your students and ensure that engagement with all students.Speaker: Robin Blake, Middle School Science Teacher, Chesapeake Academy___________________________________________________

Session 106, ROOM: Capital DSuggested Grade Level: Lower SchoolCreative Movement for the Mind & BodyCreative Movement combines music and movement while working on gross motor skills, encouraging imagination, and creating positive energy. Creative movement is also a great way to channel excessive energy and “reset” the brain.  Laugh! And even cry as you enlarge your own repertoire from Miss Kim’s skits, songs, and presentations. Understand the meaning and importance of vestibular, proprioception, and crossing the midline. Learn how to use props that enhance the creative movement experience.  Witness a demonstration of children’s YOGA practice through storytelling!Speaker: Kim Black, Creative Movement Instructor/Children’s Ballet Director, The Burlington School/Burlington Dance Center

Session 107, ROOM: Henrico ASuggested Grade Level: All GradesWhen Tech Discriminates: Hidden Bias in AI and AlgorithmsThis hand-on session focuses on the role of technology in our lives, examining from a critical perspective the potential negative implications of some common tools and services. Examine recent case studies and digital experiences to uncover hidden bias. NOTE: Please bring an internet-capable device. Speaker: Colleen McNeil, Technology Director and Tom Johnson, Technology Teacher, St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School___________________________________________________

Session 108, ROOM: Henrico BSuggested Grade Level: All GradesThe Importance of Creating Cultural Competency The best educational practices include placing student learning at the center of the institutional culture; however, independent school students from underrepresented racial groups are not having the same educational experience as their peers. A significant reason for this disparity is the lack of cultural competence among faculty and staff that results in Whiteness being centered in community culture. In the absence of proportional racial and ethnic representation between faculty and students, what steps can faculty and staff take to be supportive of, and responsive to, the different cultural realities? Speakers: Cheleah Googe, Director Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Beauvoir School, Washington, D.C. and Abigail Whorley, Middle School Religion Teacher and Chair, Department of Religion, St. Catherine’s School___________________________________________________

Session 109, ROOM: Conrad Room Suggested Grade Level: Upper School Counseling or Coaching? Transformative or Transactional? Is college counseling an endangered species? College counseling has always been about encouraging students to use the college search process to think about who they are and what they care about. Is that approach outdated? Do students and parents today want coaching instead of counseling, strategy instead of advice? How can we transform lives in a transactional world?  Join us for a discussion that will explore these questions and seek solutions for balancing these competing paradigms. Speakers: Brian Leipheimer, Director of College Counseling, Collegiate School and Jim Jump, Upper School Academic Dean & Director of College Counseling, St. Christopher’s School____________________________________________________

Break with Sponsors11:00 AM – 11:30 AMVisit with our generous sponsors while grabbing some refreshments in the hallway outside the main meeting rooms.____________________________________________________

Session II (Breakout Session) 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM____________________________________________________

Session 201, ROOM: Room: Capital E-GSuggested Grade Level: Upper SchoolMaking Space for Curricular Intersections: Science & ArtCollaboration doesn’t just happen within school walls! Browne Academy teachers used the program Level Up Village to explore a variety of topics, build life skills, and discover new technology with students across the world. Students worked with peers in other nations through this age-appropriate interactive program. Speakers: Laura Akesson, Upper School Science Teacher & Bryan Innovation Lab Academic Dean and John Alley, Photography Teacher, Steward School___________________________________________________

Session 202, ROOM: Capital ASuggested Grade Level: Lower SchoolMaking Space for Innovative, Creative Literacy InstructionDoes your classroom promote a love of literacy? Do your daily language arts lessons include creativity and imagination for your students? This session will equip teachers with the mindset, motivation, and materials to answer yes to these questions. Teaching reading is one of the most complex subjects to teach with often the least amount of support. Teachers will feel confident and competent in making space for innovative literacy instruction for readers of all ages.Speakers: Kathryn Starke, Literacy Consultant/Author, Creative Minds Publications, LLC___________________________________________________

Session 203, ROOM: Capital BSuggested Grade Level: All GradesDesigning Your Space - What Messages Are You Sending?Have you ever thought about what your space says? Whether intentionally or accidentally, our learning spaces and offices send messages to students, parents, and colleagues. In this session we will share key ideas for matching your educational philosophy and goals to the message your space is sending. Participants will leave with ideas for their spaces as well as a design thinking project to redesign their spaces upon return to school.Speakers: Carey Pohanka, US Academic Instructional Technologist, JK-12 BUILD Coordinator, 8th Grade French Teacher and J.D. Jump, Media Specialist, St. Christopher’s School

Session 204, ROOM: Capital C Suggested Grade Level: Upper SchoolInto the Wild and Up A Mountain: Developing Outdoor Leadership Skills at Your SchoolWhere can students across grade levels gather to problem solve, create, and learn for six hours each day? How can they increase their appreciation of our local outdoor environment and the emotional, social, and physical benefits that come from time spent outdoors? Weaving together analysis of varied texts, creative and reflective writing, local history, outdoor skills, leadership, and environmental stewardship, students form a new relationship to the natural world and with one another. Learn about one school’s student-driven, experiential, and place-based SEL experience. What should you consider when designing an outdoor leadership experience at your school? How can you include urban and rural hikes, a camping trip, map, compass, and navigation skills, cooking, leave-no-trace and expedition behavior skills, and more?Speaker: Sophie Speidel, School Counselor, Robert Clark, Director of Religious Life/Humanities Faculty and Emily Falk, Humanities Faculty, St. Anne’s-Belfield School___________________________________________________

Session 205, ROOM: Capital DSuggested Grade Level: Middle and UpperOutside the Breakout Box: Adventures in GamificationIf you have an interest in gamification in the classroom, but you’re not sure how to get started, this session is for you. You’ll learn about the adventure of incorporating custom board games, virtual escape rooms and breakout boxes into instruction, complete with common pitfalls to avoid and tips for success. Secure a list of low- or no-cost materials and resources, adaptable templates, and also have a fun, first-hand “breakout” experience.Speaker: Mandy Augst, Head Librarian, Trinity Episcopal School ___________________________________________________Session 206, ROOM: Short PumpAudience: Heads of SchoolExecutive Coaching for Heads of School or “Beat the Odds: How to Get Past the Sixth Year as a School HeadAccording to current studies, the average tenure for a Head of School in independent schools is less than six years, and an increasing number of terms end even sooner, to the detriment of both the school and the Head. A Head’s job is not only challenging but isolating, but an experienced former Head of School as executive coach can provide a plan, a healthy “outside” perspective, and continual support to help the new Head develop his or her leadership skills and to develop a lasting legacy at a school. To that end, two experienced Heads and a new Head will “make the case” for executive coaching.

Speakers: David Dougherty, Director, Executive Coaching Team and Dave Davies, Executive Coach/Search Consultant, The Education Group and Rachel Connell, Rector, Chatham Hall___________________________________________________

Session 207, ROOM: Henrico ASuggested Grade Level: All GradesSummer School’s Not Just for Students: Using Summer for Effective Faculty OnboardingNew faculty are eager to learn more about the community that they are joining. Fall orientation is already packed full of meetings and too much information. Incorporating an online onboarding course is an opportunity for schools to start a new faculty member’s professional development over the summer when time is less rushed and when everyone can work at their own pace. We designed an online Introduction to Madeira’s course focused on five key values that allow new faculty to explore and reflect on each topic and then to share their discoveries with each other. Our goal is to capitalize on new faculty’s energy and desire to learn more about Madeira and it works!Speaker: Kathryn McGroarty, Assistant Academic Dean, The Madeira School___________________________________________________

Session 208, ROOM: Henrico BSuggested Grade Level: All GradesFaculty Conversations: Buying into Professional Development Recent research suggests students learn best when they have “buy-in” and ownership of their learning. Last year, we launched the Faculty Conversations program to provide the same type of ownership for teachers. Our optional, teacher-led meetings, centered around specific pedagogical topics, allow colleagues to engage in collective problem-solving and celebrate classroom successes. Hear how discussions have led to significant rethinking of the ways to grade, assign homework, plan experiential learning, and conduct projects. How can you reimagine professional development and consider the rich resources available to you in your own colleagues? Speakers: Rebecca Wise, English Teacher & Director of International Student Services, Dr. Anne Mueller, French Teacher and Steve McCarty, English & Economics Teacher, Foxcroft School ___________________________________________________

Session 209, ROOM: Conrad RoomSuggested Grade Level: All GradesPersonalized Learning Experiences within the Learning EnvironmentInterest in personalized learning is rising as students face increasing pressure to develop the skills they need to succeed in school, work and life. But personalized learning is more than

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using technology to tailor work for individual student’s it must involve a customized, holistic mix of activities that provide students with rich and meaningful educational experiences. Strategically designing classrooms to support the successful implementation of personalized learning experiences is key to helping students achieve their objective’s and thrive in the future. Join us as we discuss and actively imagine how your learning environments can support your Personalized Learning goals.Speakers: Lizzie Scott, Regional Education Manager, Steelcase and Christina Rogers, Creative____________________________________________________

Lunch12:15 PM – 1:00 PMGrab your box lunch in the hallway outside of Capital Ballroom meeting rooms. You are welcome to eat in any of the available meeting rooms. Meet with the sponsors too while you have the chance.____________________________________________________

Pecha Kucha, ROOM: Capital E-G 1:00 PM – 1:30 PMPecha Kucha (PK) is a storytelling format, where a presenter shows 20 slides for 20 seconds of commentary each (6 minutes and 40 seconds total). Watch as some of your VAIS colleagues present their PKs on areas of interest. ____________________________________________________

PK 1 – This Archive Will Go Down in History: Documenting Your School’s PastEvery school has a history worth sharing. Archives are a great way to communicate that story with alumni, prospective families and the broader community. In this brief session, attendees will hear from a lone librarian who is developing a school archives program from the ground up with limited funds, space and time. From digitizing to organizing, this session will touch on the key points of the process and recommendations for resources and materials.Speaker: Mandy Augst, Head Librarian, Trinity Episcopal School___________________________________________________

PK 2 – Making Space for FailureAs adults, when we learn something new, it is a series of failures - until we get it right. Yet in an era of testing and accountability, student experiences are becoming more driven by outcomes and product and less focused on the process of trial and error required in learning, leading to a decrease in student resilience and an increase in fixed mindset. This session will ask you to evaluate where you are providing opportunities for challenge and failure in your program, and present ideas on how to make your classroom a safe space for students to fail and learn.Speaker: Erin Coulter, Theater Director, The Hill School

PK 3 – Global Concerns of Sustainability: Important Conversations in the ClassroomThe genesis was the image of a bloodied straw protruding from a turtle’s nostril. Suddenly, plastic straws seemed more like cylinder weapons, shot thoughtlessly into the environment with horrible consequences. Thus, was born the blueprint for a more sustainable school project. Guided by questions about consumption and sustainable solutions, this project fueled our sustainable passions and provided students an opportunity to voice their hopes and dreams for a more environmentally friendly green school for the future. They began to see the school’s disposable resources such as plastics, water, horse manure, food, and energy as opportunities to recapture and reuse.Speaker: Denise Yassine, 5th Grade American History; 6th Grade Global Perspectives; Social Studies Academic Team Lead; 5/6 Team Lead, Congressional School___________________________________________________

PK 4 – Teachers Should Have an Honorary Degree in PsychologyAs teachers we are keenly aware of the social and emotional challenges that our students face each day. How do we respond to these challenges and support our students with the best tools? Are we responding with best practice or gut feelings and intuition? When we realize that some of our children are having significant challenges, how do we take a holistic approach to caring for their needs? Find the answers to these questions through the eyes of one teacher’s experience!Speaker: Erin Lee, Faculty, Lower School, St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School___________________________________________________

PK 5 – How My Grandmother Inspired Empathy in 8th Grade BoysInspired by my grandmother’s practice of making food to take to people having a hard time, my class of 8th grade French boys have been making French meals for people we know who are suffering in some way. These small acts of kindness have taught my boys to look beyond themselves and to help others in need, all while learning about French food and culture. How can you inspire your students to do the same?Speaker: Carey Pohanka, Upper School Academic Technologist, JK- 12 BUILD Coordinator, 8th Grade French Teacher, St Christopher’s School____________________________________________________

Session III (Breakout Session) 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM____________________________________________________

VAIS Business Meeting for Heads and Trustees, ROOM: Short Pump____________________________________________________

Session 301, ROOM: Capital E-GSuggested Grade Level: All GradesDiscussing Difficult Issues GracefullyIn today’s politically contentious world, teachers need strong communication skills to engage in conversation about difficult issues without losing their professionalism. Their students also need to learn these important communication skills. This session will give teachers communication tools and on-the-spot experiential practice in discussing difficult issues. Teachers can carry these tools back to their classrooms to share with students and to use with colleagues and parents. The session will offer teachers ways to stay calm in the face of conflict, strategies for teaching important social/emotional skills, and support for teaching an increasingly diverse student body.Speakers: Mary Riser, Education Advisor, and Marlene Ginsberg, Vice President/Development, Legacy International___________________________________________________

Session 302, ROOM: Capital ASuggested Grade Level: All GradesBeyond the Traditional ClassroomHow can a teacher support “student-initiated” learning environments for play, creative exploration, decision-making, observation, and making mistakes? Here’s the ticket! Beyond the traditional classroom in after school offerings, a community garden program, summer camps, and community outreach programs, that’s how! Hear how one teacher fosters the natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning and the world around them. Learn how you can apply this in your school. Speaker: Kerry Mills, Director of Beyond the Classroom and A Sabot Summer and Melanie Nan, 4th Grade Teacher Researcher, Sabot at Stony Point___________________________________________________

Session 303, ROOM: Capital BSuggested Grade Level: All Grades Classroom Teachers Giving Technology MERITLearn how a team of passionate “techy” teachers work together to form the MERIT team and integrate technology into the St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School curriculum and community. The team provides PD, utilizes Learning Management Systems effectively, mentors new or reluctant faculty members, and more. Hear why we were established, the milestones we have surpassed, and how we became an integral part of our school. Become empowered to create an interdisciplinary team of your own!Speakers: Rebecca Qian, Middle School English Teacher & MERIT Team Member and Alicia Blowers, Middle School Librarian, St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School

Session 304, ROOM: Capital CSuggested Grade Level: Lower School Schedules and Spaces: Creating a Student-Centered Learning ExperienceWhat factors drive your school’s scheduling decisions? What do teachers take into account when arranging their classrooms? In recent years, many schools have moved away from traditional learning schedules and spaces, but what drives those changes? Learn about what children need at each stage of development and how to consider those factors for your own daily schedules and learning spaces. See what one school has done to create a student-centered learning environment that promotes independence and student ownership.Speaker: Jennifer Street, Head of Lower School, Alexandria Country Day School___________________________________________________

Session 305, ROOM: Capital DSuggested Grade Level: Upper School The Space to Broaden Perspective: Simulations and the Mantle of the “Other”Delve into the process and benefits of creating and implementing simulations in the classroom. Take a look at a simple one-day simulation to a more complex multi-scenario, multi-day simulation. Explore how taking on the mantle of differing actors in international (or national) scenarios can broaden a student’s ability to see other “truths”, employ strategy, leverage position, and form coalitions to further perceived interests. Also, discuss the importance of incorporating some type of reflection to get the most out the classroom experience.Speaker: Kristoff Kohlhagen, Upper School Social Sciences Teacher, Flint Hill High School___________________________________________________

Session 306, ROOM: Henrico ASuggested Grade Level: All Grades Empty Cup to Full CupOur intentions are clear and commendable: empower students, support colleagues, live the mission of our school, be a dependable colleague. What gets in the way are compounding deadlines, expectations, personal and professional commitments, endless to-do lists and running the gauntlet of the academic year. We want to pour from a cup full of energy, compassion, joy, and purpose; yet, our cup is often empty. Come converse and learn 3 strategies to shift from empty to full without strengthening your caffeine habit!Speaker: Nicole Weyer, Holistic Health & Life Coach, and Founder, Root to Rise Coaching

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Session 307, ROOM: Henrico BSuggested Grade Level: All Grades The Beautiful Chaos of Project-Based Teaching and Learning – Deepen the Understanding No matter the age, our students are creative and imaginative. In a traditional classroom environment, those gifts are left untapped. On the other hand, lessons that only scratch the surface with arts and crafts projects, squander opportunities for deep learning. See how to love the creative hum of project-based learning, guided by well-selected questions, visible learning targets, and teacher-as-facilitator feedback. Learn how to make space to ensure that your students not only enjoy the opportunity to collaborate, communicate, and create, but they will also think critically about the content and deepen their understanding of its connection to themselves and the world.Speaker: Denise Yassine, 5th Grade American History; 6th Grade Global Perspectives; Social Studies Academic Team Lead; 5/6 Team Lead, Congressional School___________________________________________________

Session 308, ROOM: Conrad Room Suggested Grade Level: All GradesTransforming Teaching and Learning with Apple ResourcesJoin Apple Education for an immersive learning experience as we explore and share new ways to raise the bar for what’s possible in teaching and learning. Everyone is born full of creativity. And nurturing that creativity is critical for communicating ideas, solving problems, and making a positive impact on the world. Come unleash your creativity, and discover what’s possible only with iPad. In our interactive classroom, you’ll explore drawing, photography, video, music, coding, and augmented reality. You’ll get hands on with fun activities, then take your projects home to share with peers. You’ll also have an opportunity to meet one-on-one with Apple Education representatives to learn more about leading new learning initiatives in your school or district.Speaker: James Richardson, K-12 Account Executive, Apple Education____________________________________________________

Closing General Session for All ROOM: Capital E-G, 2:45 PM – 3:45 PMFewer Things, Better: How to Teach with Intentionality Do you feel like you’re always working and yet you’re never done (and are never doing enough)? In this keynote session, Angela shares simple mindset shifts that will empower you to give yourself permission to do fewer things, better. Learn 4 questions to ask yourself when deciding what to add, streamline, or eliminate to create more space in your day for

innovative teaching strategies. Discover actionable ideas for analyzing and letting go of practices that aren’t the best and highest use of your time. You’ll walk away from the session knowing how to set clear, realistic goals so you can conquer overwhelm and focus on the right priorities for YOU. Closing Featured Speaker: Angela Watson, Master Teacher, Author, and Founder of the Cornerstone for Teachers____________________________________________________

Grand Prize Drawings ROOM: Capital Ballroom E-G, 3:45 PMMust be Present to Win

Special Thanks to Federated Lighting Virginia and Hyve for their donation of The Little Farm. Richmond Office, 804-533-3100/Roanoke Office, 540-900-3001

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>>>>>> Mark Your Calendars Now! <<<<<<2020 Leading Learning Conference

Monday, November 9

The VAIS Professional Development Advisory Commission (PDAC) is accepting nominations for new members!Are you a vibrant, innovative educator (teacher or academic administrator) with an interest in professional development and creative, intellectually-stimulating conversations? The VAIS Professional Development Advisory Commission (PDAC) is accepting nominations for new members!

What benefits can a PDAC member expect? A member of the Commission can expect to:> Represent your school in a statewide committee that works to bring effective

professional development to Virginia educators. Contribute to the statewide con-ference planning, including theme, speaker, and award selections.

> Identify themes and topics of interest to inform VAIS.> Network and contribute to the exchange of new ideas and methods in indepen-

dent school education.> Earn professional development credit to fulfill school requirements and state cer-

tification.> Receive complimentary registration for the annual Leading Learning Conference,

as well as special recognition at the event. 

Position requirements include but are not limited to:> Two-year+ term beginning winter 2020. > Attendance at two on-site meetings during the school year and teleconference

meetings, as needed.> Participation in the annual Leading Learning Conference planning, as well as the

Educator Exchange and VIP program advocacy.> Attendance at the annual Leading Learning Conference and member tasks,

as needed.> Some travel required.

Stop by the Registration Desk and complete a card to be considered for openings on the Commission! Or email Kim Failon at kimfailon@vais.org.

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