Elementary educators have always had a special place in my heart, probably because I cannot fathom spending eight hours a day working with small children. As a former secondary teacher, managing the needs of 22 itty-bitties is way beyond my understanding! Maybe that’s why I felt the need in 2011 to implement a new, annual learning opportunity for PreK-5 educators: the Tots and Technology Conference.
What Makes the Tots Conference Different
Focused around the concept that teaching and learning with younger students should look different, to some degree, than for tweens, teens, and adults, the Tots conference is a more intimate event that our annual Convention & Exposition. Two full days of sessions are offered, along with a half-day of pre-conference, hands-on workshops that really dive into the content. Time is scheduled for networking with job-alike groups for growth and enrichment, and sharing, a big elementary skill, is required. Because it is held in “resort” locations, there is a greater sense of fun and adventure during the conference, helped along by the many games and activities scheduled for attendees.
The Content
Because all of the presentations and workshops are designed specifically for elementary educators, the content is much more instantly useable. There’s no need to worry about how to modify it to fit a younger grade level. And the presenters are practicing elementary teachers, administrators, and campus technology specialists. There’s no other conference that focuses so strongly on the needs of young learners or their teachers.
Helping Districts Save Money
To help school districts to minimize travel costs, the conference is offered in two different locations in the state each year: Galveston and Arlington. Breakfast and lunch are included with registration both days, along with an afternoon snack. And each attendee gets a fabulous t-shirt onsite. And all of this, plus a complimentary year of TCEA membership with all of the benefits that includes, is just $239 if you register by March 31.
Year after year, attendees at this conference have said that they find it the best professional development they have ever experienced. Talk with your team about attending and discover how you can innovate teaching and learning for our youngest students.
