Project TEACH and the Washington State Center of Excellence for Careers in Education hosted the 10th Anniversary of the Future Teachers Conference at the Green River Community College on March 7, 2009. The 2009 Future Teachers Conference was sponsored by WaMu, now backed by the strength of JP Morgan Chase, Washington Education Association, and the Kobe Foundation.
The day-long symposium honored future and current teachers. President Rich Rutkowski and Executive Vice President April Jensen of Green River Community College opened the 10th Anniversary celebration by welcoming the audience. The 2009 Future Teachers Conference had over 400 statewide attendees, consisting of high school and college students, K-12 teachers, administrators, and other local community college and four-year university educational professionals. We were also honored by our out-of-state attendees from Mott Community College, Michigan; Boise State University, Idaho; Walden University, North Carolina; Clark College, Oregon; and Sherry Gates, GRCC Board of Trustees.
Dr. Harry K. Wong, our featured guest and keynote speaker was dynamic and inspirational. Voted by readers of Instructor Magazine as one of the top 20 most inspirational people in teacher education, Dr. Wong enthused the audience with his practical advice for classroom teaching. His three hour presentation covered the results of student learning and achievement. His dynamic presentation focused on the three components of effective teachers; classroom management, learning to instruct from objectives; and assessment with rubrics, all of which enable students to progress in their learning. Dr. Wong also spoke about positive teacher expectations and the role they play in helping students learn.
During lunch, the 2008-09 Teachers of Tomorrow Club officers were recognized and received their WaMu, JP Morgan Chase scholarship. It was followed by an acknowledgement of Project TEACH Advisors and Mac Macaranas from WaMu.
The last hour was dedicated to future teachers. They were encouraged to network with other attendees and explore our informational booths, which consisted of City University, University of Washington, Western Washington University, Green River Community College, and Project TEACH. Dr. Wong was also available for photographs with students and to autograph his book. |
