Mahatma Gandhi once stated, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." As Montessorians we witness change throughout the days, weeks, months, and years that we spend in the classroom. We watch children grow, explore, discover, rationalize, and problem solve, as they continue to develop a strong sense of self through their experiences and expanding knowledge. It goes without say that change is important and an intrinsic part of our lives. It helps keep our perspectives fresh and our focus moving forward.
In keeping with this sentiment, we are happy to introduce a few changes to the 2014 Refresher Course. Next year's conference will feature an opening night panel rather than a keynote speaker. Moderated by Annette Haines, Ed.D. and joined by panelists, Lynn Gulick (A to I), Joen Bettmann (primary), Maryse Lepoutre-Postlewaite (elementary), and Laurie Ewert-Krocker (adolescent), this panel will focus on the child's journey and reinforce the importance of our role in preparing and guiding the child as s/he navigates through the natural phases of growth. We believe this new format will kick off the Refresher Course with much gusto!
In addition, we are also introducing a new format for Monday's closing sessions. The Refresher Course has been designed to provide all teachers with a greater understanding of where the child has been before entering their classroom and where they are headed when they leave. To that end, the sessions on Monday are uniquely planned to provide teachers at each level the opportunity to hear from pedagogues at other levels. Molly O'Shaughnessy and Silvia Dubovoy, Ph.D. will speak to the A to I guides; Allyn Travis and Jenny Höglund will address the primary audience; and Baiba Krumins Grazzini and Laurie Ewert-Krocker will present to the elementary group. The final closing address will be presented by David Kahn.
Stay tuned for more information next week when we will discuss the special interest workshops being offered on opening day Friday!
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