Five Liberty Elementary Educators Selected to Attend Ron Clark Academy
Five teachers from the Sioux City Community School District’s Liberty Elementary School have been selected to attend the Ron Clark Academy, which is the Academy that inspired Liberty’s innovative “house” system.
Liberty Elementary places students in one of five “houses” during the first week of school. Once placed, a student remains in his or her assigned house throughout the duration of elementary school. Being a member of a house builds a unique comradery and sense of teamwork. These lessons align with one of the Ron Clark Academy core principles: to foster an atmosphere where students, parents, staff, and community members work together to create a family environment for our learners.
Having educators attend the Ron Clark Academy is instrumental to helping Liberty continue to teach in a way that promotes creativity, innovation, wonder, joy and an overall passion for learning – another core principle of the Academy.
Teachers selected from Liberty Elementary to attend the Academy this year include Deb Wilcox (Kindergarten), Brandie Mitchell (1st Grade), Stephanie Felts (4th Grade), Elizabeth Tjeerdsma (Reading/Math Interventionist), and Amy Cole (ESL). In order to be considered, teachers were required to fill out an application with some basic questions about how they would use this great experience upon their return.
“The goal is to have a broad representation across the building. All teachers selected have demonstrated a growth mindset, must be open to new ideas, and be willing to share the information gained with other staff members,” said Stacie Henderson, Principal at Liberty Elementary.
The Ron Clark Academy provides educators with professional development workshops and the tools they need to increase student engagement and create a classroom culture that leads to success. Lessons from the academy will help educators deliver high quality education through advanced rigor, engaging teaching methods, and a passionate climate and culture.