Kathy D'Amico, 6th grade teacher, Stratford, CT:
Yesterday: I had never been to an EDCAMP before and was unsure what to expect. I found a large group of educators all willing to jump into the process, some more aware of it than others, all friendly and kind. In a few minutes, I was able to catch on to how this organic gathering of educators for educators works. A common goal came out in each session I attended, “I want to be better at what I do for the students I see each day.” The choice board not known until it happens went from a blank slate to a menu of relevant presentations/discussions/revelations that not only taught but energized all who attended. I will attend more as I can and invite all to experience what I can only describe as the best professional development I have been to in years because it was about things that mattered to me.
Lee Skalkos, @totalyoutofhand -Art Teacher, Region 9 Schools, Redding, CT:
I had never been to an EdCamp before and I am so glad that I went! My first session was so helpful I learned how to make a blog and all the great reasons for doing so, and the speaker was fantastic. My second session was absolutely off the hook fabulous, he had so much energy and was so captivating I didn't want to leave! He taught us all about student body language. Breakfast was great, the refreshments and prizes were great. I just wish more people from my district would have been able to come.
Erika Sacharko, @erikasacharko -Curriculum Director, New Hartford Public Schools, New Hartford, CT:
The POWER of being in an environment of pLaY and PaSsIoN with other educational practitioners for only four hours is completely staggering. The amount of learning that took place is incredible and inspiring! I'll be using my learning from #EdCampSWCT today, tomorrow, next week, next month and next year ...