Example Proposal /  WiRSA Conference

SESSION TITLE

"Soaring Our Way with STEAM: A PreK-12 Experience" - Southern Door

DESCRIPTION
This session will share PreK-12 experiences which foster skill development for new and innovative career pathways for students and empower adults in a rural community. Examples of hands-on, relevant project-based learning which fosters 21st-century skills of communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity will be highlighted. Ideas for community engagement, school-business partnerships, and grant writing will show how the district garnered the resources necessary to establish elementary, middle, and high school Fab Labs. Learn how networking, curriculum writing, and professional development play a key role in the district’s success.

PRESENTER(S)
Chris Peterson, Superintendent
Brenda Shimon, Middle School Principal/Curriculum Director
Jessica Meacham, Elementary STEAM Teacher/CTE Coordinator.

BIO(S)
Chris Peterson is the new superintendent at Southern Door, succeeding Patti Vickman, who retired at the end of the 2020-21 school year. Chris is an advocate for ensuring that students have a variety of post-secondary options that inspire them to reach their potential through hands-on learning experiences. 

Brenda Shimon is the Middle School Principal/Curriculum Director. Having served in a variety of teaching and leadership roles, Brenda oversees the district’s STEAM curriculum and Fab Lab courses. Jessica Meacham is the Elementary STEAM Teacher/CTE Coordinator. 

Jessica provides leadership to all CTE teachers and has been instrumental in securing grants and resources to develop the PreK-12 program.

Please include pictures of presenters with their names next to the picture.

Many conferences have break-out sessions with little opportunity to follow up on the presented material. We have 20 minutes between each session. If you need more discussion time, we have an open room (Rooms 1-4-5-6) available to you for further discussion.