Summer education conference kicks off Monday
Engage-OK On the Road, a mobile version of the state Education Department’s annual summer conference, kicks off Monday morning at Yukon High School.
The education conference offers free teacher training and collaboration. It continues Tuesday at Union High School in Tulsa, Wednesday at Enid High School and Thursday at Weatherford High School.
After a four-day break, the conference resumes July 18 at Durant High School, July 19 at Ada High School and July 20 at the fifth- and sixthgrade center in Cache.
Before 2016, the summer conference took place over three days in Oklahoma City. State funding cuts prompted the format change. Officials say it’s a costeffective way for the agency to support and collaborate with the state’s education community.
“Last year was a huge success, with standing room only at many sites,” said Deana Silk, the department’s deputy director of communications. “We are expecting the same this year.”
Between 1,500 and 1,800 teachers, administrators and parents are expected to attend the conference Monday in Yukon, Silk said.
“We want to make it convenient for those we are serving by keeping travel costs down and allowing districts to send as many employees as possible,” she said.
New to this year’s conference is a panel discussion about what students wish their teachers knew.
Also Monday, the 12 finalists for Oklahoma’s next Teacher of the Year will be announced after opening remarks by state schools Superintendent Joy Hofmeister, who will take the stage about 8 a.m.
The 2018 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year will be announced Sept. 19 during a ceremony at State Fair Park in Oklahoma City.
The summer education conference is free, but registration is required. Go to www.eventbrite. com and search for “EngageOK.”