State Board Of Education Launches Series To Discuss Effective Teaching And Leadership

~ Workshops featuring state and national experts provide opportunity to interact and discuss variety of topics ~

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida State Board of Education is proud to announce the creation of the “What’s Working in Effective Teaching and Leadership” series this fall in partnership with the Florida Department of Education.  Through the “What’s Working” series, the Board will host five regional meetings during the months of September and October where educators from across the state will share their ideas and concerns on important educational topics. During the meetings, teachers, school administrators, school district personnel and other stakeholders will be able to openly discuss critical issues affecting them such as instructional practices, leadership, professional development and teacher quality.

“Providing a forum for our stakeholders to share their ideas and concerns is absolutely vital as we continue to develop and implement successful education reform strategies,” said Education Commissioner Dr. Eric J. Smith. “I applaud the State Board of Education for its commitment to remain open and transparent in these discussions, and encourage everyone to participate, contribute and help direct the many exciting ideas and initiatives in education that will ultimately impact all of our communities for generations to come.”

Prior to each meeting, the Department will make an online form available for interested stakeholders to submit their questions for discussion. During the moderated discussion, the questions will be addressed and attendees will also have an opportunity to provide feedback and comments regarding education in the state.

The What’s Working workshops will be hosted in communities throughout the state and a national or state expert will facilitate each discussion. Gulf Coast Community College in Panama City, Fla., will host the first scheduled meeting on Sept. 13, where featured guest speaker Dr. George Noell will offer his comments on value-added measures in education.

The workshop schedule is as follows:

Sept. 13, 2010 – Panama City, Fla.
Topic: Value-Added Measures in Education

Sept. 28, 2010 – Jacksonville, Fla.
Topic: Florida Education Association’s Vision and Strategies to Support Teachers

Oct. 6, 2010 – Tampa, Fla.
Topic: Teacher Evaluations and Support for Effective Instruction

Oct. 7, 2010 – Miami, Fla.
Topic: How to Turnaround Low Performing Schools

October 2010 – Orlando, Fla.
Topic: Preparing Outstanding School Leaders

Each workshop will take place from 4- 6 p.m. Additional details regarding each individual workshop, its topic, featured speaker and other information can be found by visiting www.fldoe.org/whatworks.