As a relatively new teacher, having something that I look forward to every year, fuels my fire. When I was first introduced to OCTELA, I had no idea what to expect and absorbed everything, like a sponge. The opportunities that have risen from that first experience drive my teaching practices now. So here I am again, sitting in sessions, meeting authors, talking with teacher friends, old and new, and revitalizing.
The sessions started out with a bang again this year. I learned how to silence my raging mind and what to do for my kids to do the same. I’ve heard from Carine McCandless and how the events of her past, as well as her brothers, can help students to look at life differently. My booklist has gained some diverse selections and I can’t wait to delve into them.
Loren Long was very intriguing and the way he became an illustrator is truly fascinating. He found out he was colorblind when he was in high school, but he didn’t let that stop him from creating some of the best illustrations for children’s books. He taught us that if you have a passion and a dream, don’t let anyone tell you, you can’t do it. Prove them wrong.
I think one of my favorite things about going to this conference is hearing from authors I know nothing about. It puts people on my radar that otherwise would stay completely off grid. Mindy McGinnis was spectacular and I’m so glad that she is now in my sights. Already on chapter two of Not a Drop to Drink. She’s such a down to earth human being and had us all in tears we were laughing so hard. Her books, however, are dark and barely have any humor which is intriguing.
As I sit here still processing everything I learned over the last two days, I can’t help but get excited for the possibility of next year’s speakers and know that I’ll actually start doing more research before hand.
Love from the girl who has added about 10 new books to the top of her must read list, subscribed to new podcasts and feeling revitalized after a weekend “at home.” #teachlove
No comments:
Post a Comment