The attended the Superintendents and Administrators of Iowa (SAI) conference this past Wednesday. I am neither an Administrator nor a vendor. I am a teacher. So how is it I was able to attend an elite function such as this?
I went in hopes of furthering "My Big Dream." More on my dream in another post. For now, I want to reflect on the conference.
As a life-long learner, I took in all the sights and sounds of the event. (I even sneaked in on one of the event's speakers- don't tell though).
After I left the event, I found myself reflecting on the concept of education as a business. Vendors from every aspect of the educational process vie for the attention and money from the ones who make the crucial decisions for our schools. Speakers hammer away at the newest research and techniques they feel administrators, principals, and teachers must employ to provide a safe, productive education for our children.
The event deepened my understanding not only of the elements it takes in providing quality education for students, but in the mulitfaceted pressures and decisions our Superintendents and Administrators face on a daily basis.
I came away with a greater sensitivity toward these decision makers and the pressures they endure between the business of education and the realities within the classroom. Let's all keep the children in the forefront of our minds while making all of this come together.
I found this slideshare a powerful reminder of my responsibility as an adult, teacher, and learner.
Enjoy!
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