Catalina Artunduaga, Learning Center Director & Maria Paula Camargo, Associate Learning Center Director
Colegio Nueva Granada proudly hosted its third annual Learning Center Symposium. This three-day event that took place on November 1, 2 and 3, included a pre-conference session for new participants followed by a two-day symposium for returning and new participants. The theme this year was “Diving into Partnerships and Relationships to Ensure Success”. CNG hosted over 60 educators from schools around Colombia as well as from other countries in Central and South America (Guatemala, Argentina, Dominican Republic, Panamá and Brazil).
During three intensive days, educators attended interactive sessions that allowed them to continue advancing their school’s inclusive education programs and research-based practices. For the first time, the symposium featured deep-dive peer-lead collaborative sessions in multiple areas of interest.
For the second time, the symposium featured international speakers Dr. Kevin Feldman and Dr. Ed Ellis, who delivered keynote presentations about critical pedagogy and high-impact intervention strategies. Topics for the deep-dive sessions led by CNG staff included co-teaching, supporting second language learners, matching interventions to assessments, using design thinking for social skills, and mindful classrooms, among others. Participants were also able to attend Q&A sessions with the Learning Center Director and Associate Director.
Feedback from attendees at the end of the Symposium was very positive. Participants found the presentations to be engaging. and the topics relevant to their needs. The deep-dive format and the breakout sessions allowed educators to choose to attend sessions that matched their interests and maximize their time. The possibility of meeting other educators and sharing experiences is always a big highlight of the event, and some participants suggested more integration activities in future events.
The Learning Center Symposium has become an unequalled event for inclusive education programs in the region. It is an opportunity for educators to learn from CNG’s experience, to share and learn with others, and to take back new and innovative ideas to their own schools.