Byron V. Garrett was our first keynote speaker on Friday morning, Family Engagement: The Next Frontier. He was the perfect person to fire up the crowd! If you haven't met Byron, let me just tell you that he is a dynamic individual with a keen sense of style. His thoughts and convictions regarding education are sound and he articulates his ideas beautifully. Check out his website: http://www.byrongarrett.com/. I purchased his newest book, The ABCs of Life, which I will be certain to review on my blog soon.
The other keynote speaker was incredibly funny and outspoken as well. Katherine McKnight spoke to us about Self Regulation and Struggling Readers. Katherine is an author, educator, consultant, and a comedian! Her keynote was notable, but I especially enjoyed her breakout session in which she taught us the fundamentals of improv and how to integrate dramatic play to build literacy, language, critical reasoning, creative thinking and problem solving. This session was interactive and fun!
SCIRA recognized the Distinguished Teachers of Reading winners at the opening session on Friday. I offer my congratulations to Sarah Liebenrood of Greenville for her dedication to the field of education. Since she has earned the title of DTR, Sarah has joined our local board and has proven to be an asset to our organization and the community.
Another highlight of the opening session was the recognition of the finalists for Administrator of the Year. This is the second year in a row that Greenville has finalists in this category. Great leadership in the field of literacy Virginia Burrows of Legacy Elementary!
Congratulations also goes to to Lyndsey Grimmett, first grade teacher at Legacy Charter Elementary, for winning the Mary A Kelly SCIRA award and scholarship. This award is given to a teacher pursuing graduate studies in the field of education. Lyndsey attends Furman University, and Dr. Katie Stover had the honor of presenting Lyndsey her award at the SCIRA conference Saturday morning.
Another favorite from the conference was the Pit Party with storyteller Tim Lowry. After hearing about Tim's experiences, I felt rejuvenated and ready to take on the world!
I was sad to leave freezing cold Myrtle Beach, but I am so excited to share great literacy ideas with my staff!
Wow, it is wonderful to see other colleagues in Greenville County recognized for their excellence in literacy!! I can't wait to hear new strategies to implement in the future. Thanks for representing us :)
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