There's a place in the mountains where you can go to revolutionize the way you teach.
There's a place in the mountains where you can go to revolutionize the way you teach.
From Summer 2021: We were honored to be a part of the first Hot Springs Teacher Institute with the Wilma Dykeman Legacy. Using lessons the English teachers created and published from a project-based learning unit in a book called Teaching Appalachia, Erin Long, and Julie Young led the institute July 25 - 30 for English and history teachers.
Teachers from Madison County, across NC, SC, and TN attended the week-long institute, enjoying the beauty of Hot Springs and the hospitality of the Lassiter family. Attendees learned about Appalachia in morning sessions with Erin and Julie, heard from guest speakers like Terry Roberts, Jim Stokely, Joe Penland, and Rob Amberg.
Some of the afternoon place-based outings included a French Broad Adventures rafting trip, a bonfire with storytelling and local music by MECHS teacher Scott Whitney along with Hilary Dirlam, a nature walk with Pete Dixon, a tour of the Hot Springs Resort and Spa historic property, and more. Teachers wrapped up the week sharing their place-based unit they plan to teach this year and received their certificates from Jennifer Caldwell, MECHS Principal. The Wilma Dykeman Legacy and Institute Committee hope to offer more disciplines next summer.
What an amazing week sharing our unique and lovely place that is Madison County.