Superintendent’s Conference Days are a time to gather with colleagues for workshops and discussions to further learning opportunities and best practices that help connect staff districtwide for professional growth, both as individuals and team members. It is a unique platform to come together, share experiences and gain valuable insights – harnessing new ideas and innovative approaches. On November 7, the school may have been closed to students, but the classrooms were filled with staff! Collegial circles were held and taught by staff covering a myriad of topics ranging from AI, literacy strategies, Regents plans, special education, next generation science, technology, mental health, speech, the arts – and so much more. These workshops were focused on clarity in collaborative planning, analyzing assessment data to identify student needs and creating success in the classroom. It was an immeasurable experience dedicated to building relationships with colleagues through collective wisdom and a network of support.

With an overarching theme of “innovation” for the November Superintendent’s Day, Jill M. Gierasch was thrilled to welcome one of the most innovative voices in educational learning. George Couros is a worldwide leader in the area of innovative teaching, learning and leading. He has published two books on the topic in fact, The Innovator’s Mindset and Innovate Inside the Box. Through his engaging and refreshing presentation, he had everyone thinking, laughing and even crying. He ignited a spark for the love of learning, and reminded everyone “We are all somebody’s kid.” His goal is to change the trajectory of those we serve, because change is an opportunity to do something amazing! He asked every teacher to look at their classroom tomorrow as though it was their first day, and to remember we are here to help every child find a pathway to success. He reminded us that “We all want to feel valued, not that we need to be fixed.” He shared, “School should be a joyous place, and by making students feel valued we empower them to learn. This is something that should never be taken for granted.” He encouraged teachers to make your positives so loud, the negatives are almost impossible to hear. Priceless! And if you think it can’t be done, don’t interrupt the person who is doing it…for master teachers, are master learners.

Thank you, Mr. Couros, for guiding us with your wisdom, humor and “Innovators Mindset.” You inspired so many at CSHCSD to become a role model for meaningful change, to be curious, collaborative and open to new learning so we can inspire our students to not only be prepared for the real world, but also ensure that they want to make the world a better place. Thank you to our Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, Genevieve LaGattuta, for spearheading this extremely thoughtful and insightful day of learning.

If you would like to learn more about Mr. Couros click on the link below: