The summits were facilitated by experts in the fields of teacher state standards, new certification requirements, characteristics of high performing urban classrooms, and achievement gap issues. Central service personnel in the area of teaching and learning, outstanding classroom teachers, community leaders, and an internationally renowned scholar led the professional development activities of teachers and students.
Lateral capacity, sustainability, and collaboration for lasting school improvement are the common elements that characterize the events. Teacher efficacy is the focus. MMABSE made the professional development of teachers our priority. We paid attention to the concerns of teachers first, but we realized that we needed to join with others – parents and students alike – to create opportunities for learning for all children. The Youth Summit, for example, focused on student self efficacy, motivation, and professional preparation. Forty of the 80 students in attendance participated in the Town Hall Forums with Dr. William H. “Bill” Cosby in August 2005. We brought them together again to build on the momentum begun with them and plan to support them through high school and post secondary education. In addition, the Summit identified resource contact information for longitudinal communication with MMABSE and the presenters.
We brought teachers together to collaborate: discuss their concerns, articulate the issues, establish support networks, acquire new knowledge and strategies, build relationships, reflect on their practices, and commit to new ways of behaving in classrooms. Collaboration is important because teaching is a lonely job. The professional development of teachers is critical for closing the achievement gap. The MMABSE events aimed at empowering teachers to lead confidently, expertly, and effectively in order to create learning environments that make all students successful learners. Student improvement will not occur if teachers do not receive professional development designed to address their concerns and needs.
The NEA Foundation - supported projects were unique in that they each had a different and diverse audience. We targeted parents and students as well as teachers. We used various media outlets for promotional purposes. We received broad community and district support. For example, the Milwaukee Access Television Association, a community-based independent station, is broadcasting free of charge repeated showings of the Education Summit. Principals and teachers in attendance suggested that the entire district receive an opportunity to hear the keynote speaker and student essay winners. In addition, the school district published the airing dates on its web site and in its weekly bulletin to all administrators and district personnel. No NEA grant funds went directly or indirectly to media, churches, or businesses that promoted the four events. All funds were used to defray expenses exclusively and solely related to services, materials, and site facilities.
The five NEA Foundation - supported projects allowed MMABSE to focus on content and substance. Possibilities became reality.
The work that went into the planning was amazing and breathtaking. In the span of five months, MMABSE sponsored four events. Never in the history of Alliance has this been done. Our commitment to closing the achievement gap is real. Our resolve is passionate. Our pledge is to act. The City of Milwaukee and its school district needs leadership. MMABSE is providing it. Through the generous grant of the National Education Association Foundation, MMABSE helped to insure that student performance continues to advance. For that, we are truly grateful and indebted to the Foundation. We sincerely express our sincerest appreciation for your leadership and vision. We have a shared purpose.
