On Saturday, May 4th, 2019, Dr. Adele Bruni Ashley and Dr. Erika Kitzmiller organized the second annual conference, ‘Teaching in Trying Times’, a one-day event inviting primary, secondary, and college-level educators and policymakers from around the country to share both theoretical and practical approaches to political and civic education in these trying times. The day included a keynote by Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz (“Teaching Towards Love in Trying Times”), three workshop sessions, and a concluding panel of teachers and secondary students. 80 participants attended the conference, and at the end, many approached Dr. Bruni and Dr. Kitzmiller of the day to say that they wanted to help spread the word of the conference in the coming years. More information of last year’s conference can be found by visiting this link. The conference is sponsored by the Center for Professional Education of Teachers in partnership with the Arts & Humanities Department at TC. Below are some messages from participants:
I was truly moved by the conversations we had and the presenters from today. I wanted to share a poem that I wrote in Jennifer Howard's Love as Pedagogy workshop with you. The poem is titled, "Love Armor," and was inspired by the Teaching in Trying Times Conference, Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz's Keynote, and both Jennifer Howard's writing and workshop session. I feel like this poem encompasses all that I took away from today's conference. Thank you for emailing to let me know about this event. I will definitely be back next year! I hope we can continue to keep these conversations going.
Conference Participant (TC Alum)
I wanted to send a brief note of thanks for putting on and hosting the conference yesterday. I have spent the last day deep in thought about some of the points raised in my workshops, and hope what I learned and will continue to reflect on can be tools in my classroom toolbox.
Conference Participant (TC Alum)
Thank you so much for creating such an impactful conference. I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to present and am thankful that I received such valuable feedback through this experience. The chance to connect with so many caring educators and professionals was magnificent, as well. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to grow and develop in more ways than one. Sincerely and looking forward to next year...
Workshop Presenter
I was able to attend one session today, met some wonderful people and re-established a few connections. It was an excellent experience on many levels. If I can help you in the future please let me know.
Workshop Presenter