As teachers, we all have some lessons that work and others that are works in progress. We’d all love to know what works in other teachers’ classroom so that we could “borrow” their strategies. The annual Best Practices Conference will showcase the most successful lesson plans in Western Arkansas. You are personally invited to submit your best lesson(s) for presentation at the conference. Those who attend will leave with a file drawer’s worth of great ideas that have been proven to work. Those who present will engage in a new level of professional growth. Research shows that we learn best not when we are listening or watching, but when we are teaching. By becoming a panelist, you will be deepening your content knowledge and your professional and pedagogical skills.

So...what will the conference be like? The conference will begin the morning of August 8, with a keynote speaker. After the speaker, participants will attend sessions made up of 4-6 topical panels. Each panel will feature 3-4 panelist presenting on a topic of interest. The panelists will provide copies of their best lesson plans and explain how to implement the plans. After the panelists present, participants will engage in a moderated discussion of the panelists’ strategies.

Not sure if you are ready to present? Don’t worry! Panelists may attend a FREE workshop in June that will help you shape your lesson plan into a panel presentation. You don’t need to be an expert in public speaking to do this! All you need is a strong lesson plan and the desire to grow professionally. As a panelist, your registration fee is waived and the ERZ will provide your lunch. Also, you will receive professional development credit if you attend the June workshop, and you will receive DOUBLE professional development credit for the conference. Also, all submissions will be published in the conference proceedings.

How do I submit a proposal? Fill out the Proposal Submission and submit it by mail, email, or fax to the ERZ office by January 31. Panelists will be notified in March. For more information, please contact the ERZ office at (479) 788-7250. Completed forms may be faxed to (479)788-7255. Electronic forms may be emailed to pcasey@uafortsmith.edu.

Proposal Submission Form