Educators Shine at Second Annual “OCS Stars of Education” Conference
The Second Annual “OCS Stars of Education” Conference took place on August 15, 2024, a teacher workday for all staff on the year-round and traditional academic calendars. Nearly 200 Orange County Schools staff gathered at Orange High School to attend a day of professional learning for educators, by educators.
The day started with a rousing keynote by Tyronna Hooker of Alamance County, 2011-2012 NC Teacher of the Year, and inspiring words from Superintendent Dr. Danielle Jones.
Ms. Hooker addressed her fellow educators from a depth of experience and connection with their work:
“This is still the most noble of all professions, and I'm an educator. I need each one of you to remember that child, the one who anchors you to the seat you're sitting in. They are not defined by socioeconomic status, race, gender, or creed. What you do is personal. Thank you for your time, thank you for your efforts. Thank you for the insurmountable things that you do to ensure our community is better.”
Dr. Jones urged educators to be courageous in leadership because the work means so much to every child we serve.
“Lead fearlessly have high expectations for your classrooms. I have high expectations for your classrooms. I want you to lead that way. I want you not to be afraid to tell students when they need to do better, when they need support. We are here to support you in doing that. Because if we don't do it, how do they know? Let us help you in doing that.
“So lead fearlessly. Help your peers. Listen with your heart.”
Following the opening keynotes, OCS staff went to school! Colleagues presented a full day of learning for one another with 30 topics to choose from, including:
- Infinite Campus
- Ethical use of AI
- Making math and science classrooms engaging
- Guidance for beginning teachers
- Data literacy for student support
- Making classrooms responsive and welcoming
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) learning at every level
- Travel opportunities for teachers
- And so much more!
The joy of learning together helped to energize staff from all over Orange County Schools, bringing them together from across the district for the 2024-2025 school year on both year-round and traditional calendars.
There was also a photo booth, where you can see many smiling faces and explore the learning spaces from the conference.
CLICK HERE FOR THE STARS OF EDUCATION PHOTO ALBUM
Huge thanks to sponsors who donated to make #OCSStars2024 possible, including: Capital Ford, Eno River Farm, Flower Patch, HMH (Literacy), Orange County Schools, plus The Colonial Inn and others who donated raffle prizes for staff to enjoy.