Pennsylvania Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Pennsylvania ASCD Virtual Book Club:  

Pennsylvania ASCD's new virtual book club is a great way to try a new type of professional learning that you might not have thought of doing outside of your school, all from the comfort and safety of your home. Trying something new is always better with friends, so get in touch with some colleagues who are either PASCD members or non-members, and invite them to join as well. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with other educators, add new strategies to your teaching toolbox, and collaborate with experts in the field. 

Upcoming Virtual Book Club Events:

Not Light, But Fire: How to Lead Meaningful Race Conversations in the Classroom
Matthew R. Kay, Author
Dennis Williams, Principal

Join us for an afternoon of inspiration as Matthew Kay and Dennis Williams discuss the importance of setting the groundwork for great conversations around race.

When it comes to leading tough conversations, Hollywood has taught many of us to always swing for the fences. Yet this all-or-nothing approach to tough conversations, especially race conversations, just as often leads to catastrophe as it does to success. In this interactive keynote, Matthew Kay will present a counter vision to home-run-or-nothing thinking and work with fellow teachers to design curriculum build for regular, predictable successes.

Sign up as a team or individual for this interactive experience that will engage the concepts of Matthews' book.

Upcoming Dates and Times:

• April 20, 2021 @ 4:00pm
• May 18, 2021 @ 4:00pm 

Cost:

• FREE for PASCD Members
• $65 for Non-Members **
• **All non-members who register will receive a one-year free membership to Pennsylvania ASCD with their registration.

Click here to download the flyer for this virtual book club event.

About Matthew Kay:

Matthew R. Kay is a proud product of Philadelphia’s public schools and a founding teacher at Science Leadership Academy (SLA). He is a graduate of West Chester University and holds a Masters in Educational Leadership with a Principals’ Certificate from California University of Pennsylvania.

At SLA, he teaches an innovative inquiry-driven, project-based curriculum. He is also the Founder and Executive Director of Philly Slam League (PSL), a non-profit organization that shows young people the power of their voices through weekly spoken word competitions. The PSL is the only season-long, school-based slam poetry league in the United States.

He deeply believes in the importance of earnest and mindful classroom conversations about race. Furthermore, he believes that any teacher who is willing to put in the hard work of reflection can, through the practice of discrete skills, become a better discussion leader. Driven by these convictions, he is passionate about designing professional development that teachers find valuable.

Matthew lives in Philadelphia with his wife, Cait, and his daughter, Adia Sherrill.

About Dennis Williams:

Dennis Williams, Jr. is currently serving his 15th year as the Principal of his alma mater, Hatboro-Horsham High School. He holds a degree in History and Secondary Education from Muhlenberg College and received his Master's degree from Gratz College. Dennis also received his certificate in Educational Administration at Gwynedd Mercy College and his Superintendent level certification from Arcadia University.

He has a wide range of knowledge and experience in education including teaching Social Studies, serving as a member of the Student Assistance Program, assistant varsity football coach, head varsity throwing coach for the track team, prom advisor, teacher mentor, and more. Dennis is passionate about providing quality educational experiences to his students and staff and enjoys spending time with his daughter, Maya. 

SAVE THE DATES:

Discussion Group:

A Study of Conversation Personal Authenticity April 20, 2021 at 4:00pm

Discussion Group:

How Can We Have These Conversations Reflection, Listening, and Cultural Competence May 18, 2021 at 4:00pm