Professional Development Experiences

Challenge Success: "The best part of the presentation we gave to other students and teachers was showing the history of Challenge Success. I feel we can inspire other schools." – Jordan, 7th grader and Challenge Success Team student member

PBL: “Attending the PBL World Conference helped increase our confidence in being able to carry out our respective projects in our classes and elevating the experience of our students. In addition, we also enjoyed meeting new educators and establishing connections! It was a great experience to learn and grow from.” – D. Smith, Jahvin Cosey, Mariko Nisce, and Sara Greenspan, Dawson faculty 

ISM: “Spending the week collaborating, learning, and networking with lower school directors from around the country was a unique and fulfilling experience!” – Amanda Murray-Musgrave, Director of Lower School 

NWAIS: “We were both filled with anticipation as we prepared to deliver our first joint presentation at the NWAIS Fall Conference. The audience, comprised mainly of heads of school and DEI directors, displayed remarkable engagement and a deep curiosity about our DEI Ambassador model. They demonstrated a genuine interest in our DEI journey by asking many great questions, highlighting their genuine interest in the DEI work Dawson is doing. The overall experience left us grateful for the opportunity and motivated to continue our DEI efforts. We have already connected with one of our participants and look forward to connecting with many more. We also walked away with strategies on belonging from the other presenters that we could implement upon our return." – Faculty Isis Lopez & Ivette Garcia-Gonzalez

Chile: “My biggest takeaway from the experience is how important it is to see educators working with students in their environments to fully understand the context, barriers, and possible opportunities. Relationship building takes time, and spending time with educators in their respective settings leads to deep connections and cultural understanding. Such visits are leading to future collaborations, cultural exchanges, and shared resources.” – Dr. Nicole Zito, Dean of Teaching and Learning

NAEYC: “Attending the NAEYC Professional Leadership Institute and presenting at the NAEYC National Conference gave me opportunities to connect with leaders and innovators in the Early Childhood field. Breakout sessions on advancing Early Childhood educational technology, outdoor play experiences, and supporting Early Childhood educators provided me with resources and tools I could implement immediately at Dawson.” – Krista Jacobsen, Director of Early Childhood & Admissions

PoCC: “I was honored to attend the NAIS People of Color Conference. It was very educational and empowering. It was an event filled with joy, great energy, and love. I’m thankful for the new connections made with such incredible people in education who are passionate about their jobs.” – Maria Mercado, Admissions & Early Childhood Program Coordinator

Read: The Need for Professional Development: Dawson Educators as Forever Students.