When I was a teacher, summer break was a time for seeking balance. Between getting some much-needed rest, scheduling overdue appointments, and traveling as much as possible, I always tried to find opportunities for professional development during the summer months. By the end of July, however, the switch in my mind would flip, and I would begin thinking about returning to the classroom. How could I make the curriculum for the upcoming year more engaging and relevant for my students? In-person and virtual conferences to meet certification requirements or professional development hours were always helpful. It’s not too late to still find virtual conferences this summer and spark inspiration before the new school year begins. Here are a few to consider:
Online Teacher Professional Development Opportunities
Edweb: Free social network and professional learning community. You can earn CE Certificates through the edWebinars.
ScIC Science (Science is Cool): Virtual Unconferences, July 23rd featuring Disney Imagination Campus!
Champions for Science: Virtual Conference Series for Science Educators from Jul 14-17. Registration is free!
Center for Education, Engagement and Evaluation: (CEEE)Jul 17-18 Using Data Puzzles to Explore Ecological Tipping Points
ISTE: ISTE U is a Virtual Hub for best in-class professional learning courses for educators.
NSTA: Web Seminars range from book studies, wildfires, to lab safety. If you’re not a member, it’s worth asking your department chair or administrator to pay for the subscription.
California Academy of Sciences: Biodiversity Course. A variety of courses are offered throughout the year.
New School Year, New Resources: What’s New with GetWise
Speaking of new ideas and inspiration, our education team has been busy this summer creating resources for our energy conservation programs. Make sure to enroll for the fall at getwise.org to receive your materials and access the new digital resources! All new lesson plans, games, and supplemental resources will be available for you and your students!
World Conservation Day: July 28th
World Conservation Day on July 28th provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and protecting natural resources and ecosystems. There are many fun ways to participate:
-Plant a tree or native plants in your garden. No space? Volunteer with a local organization to help beautify a local park or community space.
-Volunteer to participate in a beach sweep or other scheduled clean-up activity. Going for an evening walk? Take a compostable garbage bag and a litter pick-up tool with you.
-Set a goal to find at least one way to reduce or reuse for the rest of the year. Use a water bottle, go thrifting, or repurpose items in the garage that are collecting dust.
-Conserve water at home by taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and using rain barrels to collect water that can be used for yard and garden irrigation.
-Share your knowledge and promote reputable local conservation organizations and events with your neighbors, on social media, and with friends and family.
Enjoy the remainder of your summer break! Our team is excited for the new school year and we’re looking forward to engaging with you and your students soon. See you in the classroom!