me arts ed

This week at Thomas College, Waterville

I am attending the 25th MLEI with about 60 middle level educators from all over the state of Maine. Most participants are here with a team and have a work plan for the week. The plans are challenging them to create something that will have a lasting impact on their schools and kids learning.

Jill Spencer and Chris Toy are the institutes planners and are also doing a marvelous job at facilitating the week. The participants are enthusiastic and are having fun learning.

Last night we had a session led by Mark Springer. Mark is a “master at developing classroom cultures that encourage students to take responsibility for their own learning and achieve at high levels.” The group worked collaboratively to solve group challenges.

Bright Futures, the middle level report from the Maine Commission on Middle Level Education was rolled out today by Jill and an exercise was done focusing on the Core Practices.

All week there are sessions by top notch consultants from around the country and Maine who are presenting on important middle level ideas.

Not only am I learning but I get to see old friends and meet new middle level educators. I am leading three sessions: digital photography, blogging and bookmaking.