Two Hawthorne High School teachers recently attended a two-day workshop, sponsored by Montclair State University Network for Educational Renewal, in Ridgewood, New Jersey.  English teacher, Kali Spoelstra, and Media Arts teacher John Di Lonardo learned strategies and techniques that help create a fun environment while promoting critical thinking skills in the classroom.

In the 6-hour workshop, teachers learned how to challenge students in different and interesting ways.  “The workshop taught participants how to maintain a brain-challenging classroom that will provoke higher-end questioning.  Not just yes, no or simple answers,” said Di Lonardo. Di Lonardo is a member of Montclair State University Network for Educational Renewal and is the coordinator for the Hawthorne School District.

The different activities both teachers participated in at the workshop were the kind that make a person think—using puzzles, for example. “I would recommend this workshop for other teachers, especially teachers in elementary and middle school. I walked away with a lot of insight and good ideas,” said Spoelstra.

As a member school in Montclair State University Network for Educational Renewal, Hawthorne teachers have the opportunity to attend workshops throughout the year to enhance their professional development, giving students the best education possible.