Professional Learning Networks

Early Childhood, Primary, Intermediate Instruction

Keith Lyons and Alison Critchfield

A civil society seems to be a more challenging concept in current times. Children's literature can be a tremendous resource to engage educators, young children, and families in meaningful ways to build foundations in the 5 democratic life skills. Literacy is the key to building and sustaining learning, thinking, engagement, empathy, and social interactions. We invite you to join in a session that will plant seeds and socially inspire through the lens of children's literature.

Middle and High Instruction

Claire West and Rebecca Roach

Step into the role of historical investigator in this hands-on, interactive workshop. You’ll explore the Indian Removal Act through powerful primary and secondary sources, and walk away with practical tools to bring inquiry-based learning to life—no matter your topic.

We’ll model how to lead students through critical analysis, support language development with AI tools, and organize your lessons for deeper engagement and understanding.

In this workshop, you will:

-Examine real primary sources related to the Indian Removal Act
-Learn how to adapt complex texts for student understanding using AI
-Use a ready-to-go graphic organizer that supports student thinking
-Discuss how to structure inquiry lessons for impact
Come ready to question, adapt, and inspire critical thinking in your classroom!

Dr. Rebecca Roach has over 30 years experience as an elementary teacher, university professor, international consultant, and professional development provider.

Claire West is currently a 5th grade teacher and has served as a middle school teacher in Eastern Kentucky. She has planned and implemented numerous professional development session on integrating literacy strategies in social studies instruction.