Join Colonial Williamsburg Education staff and a Newport News Public Schools elementary teacher to explore bite-sized, high-impact inquiry strategies that bring primary sources to life in elementary social studies and literacy. Discover new, practical instructional approaches that engage young learners in questioning, observation, and evidence-based thinking without requiring a full lesson overhaul. Participants will explore adaptable primary sources and walk away with ready-to-use strategies that can be implemented immediately in any classroom. Whether you have five minutes or a full class period, these techniques are designed to deepen student thinking and participation.
This session would benefit educators who teach 3rd-5th grade social studies.
In this session, participants will explore practical strategies for creating a structured, predictable preschool classroom that supports both learning and behavior. Educators will learn how to design clear routines, teach procedures effectively, and build consistency throughout the day. The workshop will highlight developmentally appropriate approaches that balance structure with flexibility and play. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas and tools to create a calm, organized environment where young learners can thrive.
This session would help educators in the Preschool program.
I have been a preschool teacher in Newport News since 2002 in both the general education and special education world. I have been using Seesaw for almost a decade and have found some really fun ways to use it in my classroom to make my teaching and my students learning more effortless... Read More →
This session explores how clear, consistent communication can transform relationships between schools and families. Participants will examine practical strategies for creating transparent, two-way communication that builds trust and supports student success. Through real-world examples and reflective discussion, educators will consider how to move beyond one-way messaging toward meaningful connection. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas and templates to strengthen communication and ensure all families feel informed, valued, and engaged.
This session would benefit educators who teach upper elementary through 9th grade.
Running effective math small groups doesn't have to rely on guesswork or a gut feeling. In this highly practical session, you will learn how to design, plan, and execute targeted math small groups that meet students exactly where they are. We will explore a sustainable routine for using the previous day's classroom data to form dynamic, precise groups that maximize your instructional time. Only thing to bring is something to take notes with and ideas.
This session will benefit K-5 teachers who teach math this included special educators and instructional aids. This session would benefit new teachers with less than 3 years of experience.
