On Thursday, Aug 17, 23 educators new to teaching convened for seven hours to plan for the first day / first week / first month of school. Teachers from Chenowith Elementary, Dry Hollow Elementary, Colonel Wright Elementary, Innovations Academy, The Dalles MS, The Dalles High School, and Dufur School who teach students in grades kindergarten to 12th collaborated, planned and supported each other, and finished their day with a scavenger hunt in their schools. Facilitators Hailey Elliott and Mauree Donahue Revier guided teachers in thinking about how they will build connections and relationships with students; how to establish routines and procedures that support a community of learners; and how will teach their expectations to the students.
Educators new to teaching will have ongoing opportunities throughout the school year to continue to examine their practice and build up their skills as teachers through the Columbia Gorge ESD Mentoring Program.