A Virtual Meeting of the South Carolina Teacher Forum

The 2019-20 South Carolina Teacher Forum held its annual summer workday on Tuesday, June 16th. This year it looked a little different due to the need to socially distance, but the District Teachers of the Year met virtually to learn more about chairing their district teacher forums. 

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Rodney Robinson, the 2019 National Teacher of the Year, joined us to share the importance of knowing your personal WHY. He told us about students whom he has taught that impacted him both personally and professionally. He stated that understanding what drives us keeps us going when things get difficult and encouraged us to reflect on our motivations.

Our own Chanda Jefferson, the 2020 South Carolina Teacher of the Year, had a courageous conversation with the District Teachers of the Year. She discussed how images can trigger emotions and the importance of understanding our own frame of reference. She talked about the importance of ensuring equity and inclusion in their work moving forward. She asked that we all have the courage to talk about these difficult topics.

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The teachers learned more about what a forum is and what its purpose is. They also set goals for their own forums by beginning to construct vision boards. Two breakout sessions were offered. Each participant was able to request their sessions in advance. Options included Engaging Forum Members, Starting a Forum, Leading a Forum, Stories from Forums, Virtual Teacher Forums. 

Everyone at CERRA extends their appreciation to Chanda Jefferson for her leadership this year and to the 2020 South Carolina Honor Roll Teachers who have been there to support the District Teachers of the Year in each step of their journey. Thank you to Sue Weems, Shelley Smith, Tamara Cox, and Stephanie Haecherl for your willingness to serve and lead.