When high school students and college students come together to learn about teaching, SC ASCD knows it is preparing future teachers for success. SC ASCD is proud to report that our first Winter Student Conference was a tremendous success. 

Two years ago, we began to brainstorm how the organization could further support our College Chapters with professional development. We also recognized the number of high school students in our state who were enrolled in Teacher Cadet classes who could benefit from a day set aside to honor their dedication to learning about and working with students in their local districts. The result was our first Winter Student Conference held at Spring Valley High School in Columbia on February 27.

The day began with an upbeat keynote from the 2010 SC Teacher of the Year, Brian Coburn. Choice sessions included topics about classroom management, building relationships, differentiating instruction, and engaging students. These sessions were conducted by first and second year teachers who shared their experiences and expertise with these future teachers. Another session brought together two groups of first and second year teachers who were part of panel discussions. For a side benefit for the attendees, Dr. Judy Lehr led a session on starting and growing our college chapters.

An additional highlight of the conference was the number of districts who came to conduct district interviews with graduating seniors. These students gained valuable interviewing experience as well as the possibility that the interviews could provide potential employment. As we reflect on the success of this conference, we know that the future holds endless possibilities and opportunities for us to support our Student Chapters and Teacher Cadets in South Carolina. We extend special thanks to two seasoned College Chapter Sponsors, Dr. Kathy Jones (The Citadel) and Mrs. Renee Stubbs (Newberry College), for their tireless efforts in collaborating to plan a conference that held true to its theme of “Preparing Future Teachers.” Above all, we look forward to hosting the second annual Winter Student Conference in 2011. Make sure that your Chapter joins us next year!