APEC Center's Annual "Stay Koalafied: Spring Professional Development Day"

Welcome to Stay Koalafied: Spring Professional Development Day!

Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025

Registration and Check-in: 9:00-9:30 AM

Time: 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Location: Breed Leadership Center at Columbia College

Stay Koalafied: Spring Professional Development Day is an annual event hosted by the Alternative Pathways to Educator Certification(APEC) Center at Columbia College where educators gather to learn valuable skills for their classrooms and students. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to grow in and outside of their classrooms.

Lunch is included with your registration.

Participants will have the opportunity to hear from keynote speaker, Kathy Maness, Executive Director of the Palmetto State Teachers Association, and select TWO breakout sessions to attend from the following options:

1. CHAMP-ioning Classroom Success - Kaitlyn Evans
   This interactive session will introduce you to the CHAMPS classroom management strategy. Participants will gain an understanding of CHAMPS, explore how it supports positive behavior and engagement, and collaborate in groups to develop CHAMPS outlines for real-world classroom scenarios.
   
2. Supporting Multilingual Learners - Dr. Gretchen Whitman
   The focus of this session is to present key facts about Multilingual Learners and the type of support needed in the classroom. Participants will learn strategies for modifying language and content demands with opportunities for practice. Finally, by reading and discussing a case study, participants will better understand their role as an advocate for English Learners.
   
3. What is Trauma-Informed Education? - Karen Beaman & Jen Dollar
   What is trauma and how does this impact learning? In this session, participants will learn more about the neuroscience behind how our brains work.
   
4. The Power of Play in the Classroom - Dr. Ali Jenkins
   This session explores the critical role of play in fostering cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development in young children. Participants will examine research-based theories, discover practical strategies for integrating play into the curriculum, and learn how to align play-based learning.
   
5. Unlocking the Wonders of Science: Making Elementary Science Instruction Accessible for All Students - Keisha Pearson, Dr. Ga Kyung Jeong, and MacKenzie Hamby
   This session focuses on providing educators with practical strategies for creating inclusive science classrooms for all students, particularly those with disabilities. Historically, students with disabilities have been placed in science classes with minimal support, which can lead to frustration. Using a co-teaching model, presenters will explore elementary science standards, share strategies tailored to student needs, and equip participants with tools to foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment for all learners.
   
6. Self-Care is Not Selfish: Why Taking Care of Yourself Is So Important - Monica Addison
   In this session, participants will discover strategies to help prevent burnout, and discuss ways to establish or maintain a healthy work-life balance. Participants will also explore activities that improve physical and mental well-being. By the end of the session, participants will identify their specific needs and create a personalized self-care plan.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Columbia College, 1301 Columbia College Drive, Columbia, United States