Agenda

Agenda at a Glance 

Breakout Session I   9:35AM - 10:20AM

The Lion in the Classroom
Presented by Don Clerveaux
2024 Francisco R. Walker Teacher of the Year
Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Drawing from his poignant childhood experiences, Mr. Clerveaux illuminates the transformative journey from his past to becoming an exceptional educator. With heartfelt storytelling, he explores the parallels between his early life challenges and the nuances of teaching. Through his session, attendees will gain valuable insights into the profound impact teachers can have and discover the power of empathy and understanding in the classroom. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from a passionate educator who embodies the spirit of teaching excellence.


Mary Poppins' Teaching Philosophy: The Magic of Learning Styles
Presented by Andreina Diaz
Graduate Student in Curriculum and Instruction
Florida International University

Explore the timeless wisdom of Mary Poppins' teaching principles and how they can transform your classroom. Delve into the art of adapting your teaching methods to be inclusive of the four main diverse learning styles: visual, auditory, read/write, and kinesthetic, and learn practical strategies to adapt your teaching to diverse student preferences. Engage in lively group discussions, solve real-life teaching challenges, and leave with a toolkit of innovative techniques. Unlock the magic of education and empower your students to learn and thrive in a way that suits their unique styles. Don't miss this transformative workshop!

Teachers’ Role in Educational Leadership 
Presented by Dr. Krisdhal Ugarte Torres
Program Director and Visiting Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership
Florida International University

Traditionally, the concept of educational leadership has often been synonymous with school site administration, where school site administrators play pivotal roles in shaping the direction of schools. However, in today's dynamic educational landscape, leadership opportunities have expanded far beyond these conventional roles. This presentation will show the vast teacher-leader opportunities in the field of education. As we explore the multifaceted nature of educational leadership, participants will hear from educational leaders within Miami-Dade County Public Schools who aspire, lead, and influence positive change in their schools and district.

Project REDI/FEA Program Panel
Presented by Treska V. Rodgers
District Director, M-DCPS Office of Professional Learning and Career Development
Project REDI/FEA Students

Project REDI is a component of Future Educators of America (FEA) Clubs within Miami-Dade County Public Schools secondary schools. 9^th and 10th-grade male high school students are recruited to expose them to the teaching profession as a career lattice. The program provides students with professional career options and early exposure to the impact that male teachers have on students. Students participating in the program will be provided with mentoring opportunities, professional development, formal and informal networking sessions, a solid introductory foundation of effective teaching strategies and hands-on instructional techniques, and paid summer internships

Breakout Session II  10:25AM - 11:10AM

Becoming a Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH)
Presented by Haley Shurack
2024 Teacher of the Year
Broward County Public Schools

In this session, we will discuss the purpose of a DHH teacher, the different types of settings that DHH teachers work in, and the various pathways to becoming a DHH teacher. If time permits, we will learn some sign language too!


Research is Me-Search: Why Undergraduate Research Experiences Can Launch Your Future Career and How to Get Them
Presented by Nicole Villa
Lead Undergraduate Research Assistant for the Talking Science Research Lab
Florida International University, and
 
Dr. Remy Dou
Associate Professor and Director of the Talking Science Research Lab
FIU STEM Transformation Institute
Florida International University

This workshop is designed to benefit students who are thinking about majoring in psychology, pre-med or pre-health, or another STEM field, as well as students who intend to pursue graduate studies in these fields, including medical/dental/PA schools and PhD programs. Students who attend will learn about the ways that research experiences can help them develop valuable skills and strengthen their resumes in ways that college courses cannot. Participants will be equipped with valuable insight into the importance of undergraduate research experiences and will be provided with practical tools to kickstart their research journey. Participants will also be given tools to identify and secure undergraduate research experiences.


The Power of Communication in Teaching
Presented by Gabriella Portela
Lecturer, School of Communication
Doctoral Student, Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Florida International University, and

Ms. Clotilde Picart
Adjunct Lecturer, School of Communication
Career Advisor, College of Communication, Architecture and the Arts
Florida International University

Introduction to Effective Communication in Education: At the heart of every successful educator lies the power of effective communication. This session illuminates the important role that communication skills play in the realm of teaching. Participants will embark on a journey to understand how communication is essential to building relationships between teachers and students. Through insightful discussions and role-play, we will uncover how adept communication not only facilitates the transfer of knowledge but also cultivates an environment of trust, respect, and active participation.


FEA Roundtable
Presented by FIU Education Faculty and FEA Members

This session will help you plan for a career in the field of Education. Join the conversation with FIU Education faculty and students in this interactive session where you will learn about the most popular and in-demand education and teaching careers, as well as the different types of teaching degree programs that will prepare you to pursue the career of your dream. Professors and college students will give you the inside scoop about what you should be doing while in high school to make sure you succeed in college.

Breakout Session I & II   9:35AM - 11:10AM

Competitive Events
Job Interview Competition, GC 273A
Public Speaking Competition, GC 271B
Spotlight on Education Competition, GC 355
Writing Creative Non-Fiction Competition, GC 355
Leadership in Education Competition, GC 275B
Ethical Dilemma Competition, GC 286
Researching Learning Challenges Competition, GC 274
Chapter Display Competition, GC 243

General Session II   12:10PM - 12:55PM

Shine Bright for Florida Students
Presented by Adrianna Swearingen
2024 Florida Teacher of the Year
Bay County Public Schools

Adrianna Swearingen, 2024 Florida Teacher of the Year, sheds light on the importance of educators standing as lighthouses for Florida students, shining as beacons of hope, resiliency, and curiosity, in order to help students shine toward the shores of their potential.

Teacher Networking Meeting
GC 150