Our most recent Superintendent’s Conference Day provided staff with a valuable opportunity for collaboration, professional growth, and program development. The morning focused on workshops, professional development, and instructional planning, including PSAT planning and scheduling, aligning strategies to explicitly teach and support verbal outcomes, reviewing DIBELS progress monitoring to guide instruction and intervention, and creating class materials across grade levels for vertical alignment. Staff collaborated in grade-level and departmental teams on targeted student strategies, curriculum planning, and data-informed instruction, including PK–6 math with the Eureka Squared program, junior high STEM unit planning, English curriculum mapping and assessment review, and special education differentiation. Social studies teams discussed the Seal of Civic Readiness, common vocabulary, and instructional practices. Morning work also included lesson and unit planning to increase engagement, connect to student interests, integrate technology, and prepare for future electives in 2026–2027, along with cleaning and organizing materials to improve program implementation.
Some faculty attended full-day off-campus programming. Our music teacher met with area colleagues through the Delaware County Music Educators Association (DCMEA) to discuss programming, while our art teachers participated in The Craftsman’s Guidebook professional development series. This four-level framework supports the creation of a standards-aligned, inclusive, and visionary arts curriculum, covering topics such as establishing a shared mission, unpacking NYS Arts Standards, implementing vertical benchmarks, culturally responsive practices, and aligning with MTSS to meet the diverse needs of all students. Participants explored tools such as “I Can” statements, Learning Progression Charts, and standards-based assessments. And our librarian also attended a conference focused on the science of reading and related instructional strategies.
The afternoon was designed for faculty and staff to connect with the community and reflect on how it relates to our school and students. Staff had the opportunity to step away from the conference room for a scenic, easy-rated hike at Kelly Hollow to enjoy nature, recharge, and connect with colleagues. Others participated in a casual “Walk About Town” through Margaretville to explore local landmarks, reflect on the school-community connection, and strengthen relationships. For those seeking a quieter afternoon, a cozy retreat in the library or a classroom provided space for professional reading, reflection, and relaxation, while the game room offered a fun, informal setting to enjoy board and card games while connecting and collaborating with colleagues.
Overall, it was a highly productive and enriching day, balancing professional learning, instructional planning, collaboration, and meaningful opportunities to connect with both the community and colleagues outside the classroom.