SPSEA attended a workshop by our professor here at Pennsylvania Western University California on November 14, 2024. Professor Lynne Langley has taught at Penn West California for 34 years and advocates for mental health in students and teachers alike. During this workshop, we discussed our circle of control. Inside our circle, we wrote down things we could control about our lives. Once we discussed the criteria we could control, we got into what was outside our circle. We spoke about how often we let the criteria outside our circle worry us, but we can't control them, so we should not stress over the issues we have no control over. Professor Langley ended the conversation by allowing us to talk about the coping mechanisms we all have for dealing with stress and anxiety. We were able to share powerful information with peers and create bonds through shared experiences. 

SPSEA attended a workshop that was combined with our Tote Bag Painting Social. Mr. Burnett spoke to us about applying for jobs, what to put on your resume, and how to be prepared for your first day of teaching. After speaking to us, Mr. Burnett stuck around for our tote bag painting and answered individual questions SPSEA members had about teaching. Mr. Burnett answered questions related to moving out of PA to teach, how to handle interviews, and how reciprocity worked with our certification. You can hear and see pictures from our tote bag painting event by going to the Leadership and Development tab, or by clicking here.