The JES workshops featured a variety of dynamic and tailored sessions designed to spark innovation and enthusiasm among educators. Highlights included:

• Teaching Like a Champion: Proven strategies to inspire and engage students.
• Establishing Rules and Consequences: Crafting a classroom environment where every student can thrive.
• EQ vs. IQ: Why It Matters: Exploring the crucial role of emotional intelligence in education.
• Secrets to a Well-Run Classroom: Expert tips for maintaining an organized and productive learning space.
• Flip the Script: From Chaos to Calm: A targeted session focused on setting up children with ADHD for success, transforming classroom chaos into calm.

From intense three-hour deep dives to engaging one-hour power sessions, each workshop was packed with interactive and practical learning. Participants left glowing with enthusiasm. As one educator put it, “It was personal, relatable, and the presenter was well-informed,” while another commented, “I enjoyed the open discussions and the participants' input.” The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 87% of survey respondents strongly agreeing that the overall teaching session was of high quality.

JES staff training early childhood educators in local Jewish preschools

JES recognizes educators’ commitment to and desire for professional growth. Research consistently shows that ongoing teacher development significantly boosts student achievement and supports new educators, fostering long-term retention and a thriving teaching community.  JES offers many opportunities, both in small group cohorts and larger workshops, to empower educators with the skills and confidence they need to excel in the classroom and make a lasting impact on their students' lives.

This year, JES offered workshops specifically for new teachers, forming the foundation of a New Teacher Cohort. This program meets monthly, offering continuous training and support for educators in their first or second year. Registration for this year’s cohort is still open for those newer teachers looking to join a compelling community that fosters collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth as they embark on their teaching journeys.

JES staff training early childhood educators in local Jewish preschools

Professional development isn’t just about acquiring new skills; it’s about nurturing a growth mindset. This mindset emphasizes that abilities and talents can evolve with dedication and effort. By investing in high quality professional development opportunities for the school community, JES demonstrates a commitment to enhancing teaching quality and supporting educators to reach their goals.

For those interested in arranging a customized professional development workshop tailored to your specific needs, the expert staff at Jewish Educational Services is here to help. They offer a range of relevant topics and can provide continuing education credits for early childhood educators. To arrange a workshop, please reach out to Faye Friedman at ffriedman@jesbaltimore.org.

Here’s to celebrating this dedication to excellence and growth. Let’s gear up for a fantastic school year filled with learning, inspiration, and achievement!