PD Reflections

Craig King

Craig King, a teacher who cares a lot about doing the right thing, recently came to talk to us, the juniors and seniors, about how to make good choices in the classroom. He knows a lot about what's expected of teachers in South Carolina. His talk was really interesting and easy to pay attention to. Before, I never really thought much about ethics and what could be right or wrong in teaching. But Mr. King made it clear with examples and stories.

He didn't just talk at us; he got us involved. We looked at different case studies together and talked about what we would do. It helped us see how tricky things can get and what the best way to handle them might be. Mr. King didn't just tell us what to do; he showed us how to put it into practice in real life.

Thinking back on the meeting, it's clear Mr. King's talk wasn't just about teaching us rules. It was about giving us tools to make good choices, not just in school but in life too. I feel more confident now about doing the right thing, whether I'm in the classroom or anywhere else.

Resume Workshop

This professional Development meeting focused on resume crafting and interview preparation. Led by Heather Cook, the Associate Director of Career Development, it covered essential resume elements and interview etiquette. The Career Development center provides extensive support for resumes, cover letters, interviews, and more. Cook emphasized the critical 1.5-second window employers typically spend reviewing resumes, highlighting the necessity of a polished and comprehensive document. I gained insights into resume structure, content, and appearance, alleviating concerns about creating effective resumes. Additionally, the session offered a brief overview of interview essentials, including personal presentation and interaction tips. The Career Development Center also conducts mock interviews, offering valuable feedback on both verbal and non-verbal communication cues. Overall, the session was a valuable resource, providing practical guidance for students at Clemson University.

Trauma and Its Impact on the 21st Century Classrooms

The third professional development session focused on Trauma and Its Impact on 21st Century Classrooms, led by Mr. Darryl Imperati. He discussed the prevalence of trauma in modern classrooms and strategies to address it effectively. Imperati outlined learning targets for creating safer environments, teaching students about brain regulation, fostering inner strength, and recognizing emotional needs. Understanding how trauma manifests, including brain integration, self-development, attachment, and external influences, was emphasized. Imperati highlighted alarming statistics on student anxieties, such as fears of bullying and violence. He also provided insights into identifying and managing student emotions, stressing the inadequacy of traditional disciplinary approaches. By delving into brain function and emotions, Imperati offered valuable perspectives for educators. This session underscored the importance of trauma awareness for all individuals, not just those in education.

Renee Atkins Teacher of the year

During this professional development, we had the privilege of hearing from Renee Atkinson, the 2024 South Carolina Teacher of the Year from Aynor High School. Atkinson emphasized that teaching is a calling and requires a genuine love for people and children. She shared practical tips for educators, including the importance of giving ourselves grace, celebrating successes, asking questions, learning to say no, staying organized, prioritizing self-care, focusing on classroom management, and prioritizing relationships with students. Atkinson's advice resonated deeply, reminding us of the profound impact educators can have when they prioritize care and connection. Her words of wisdom will undoubtedly guide us throughout our teaching careers, and we are grateful for her insightful presentation.

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