On Wednesday of this week, my colleagues and I wrapped up our final Power2Achieve training in Iowa. It was an intensive few weeks of training preparation and delivery with our field research schools, each site with its unique student population, needs, and delivery strategies.
At each training we revisited the core concepts of the program and introduced the NEW Power2Achieve approach which they helped shape through their dedication, hard work and feedback during their first year as pilot schools.
During our last day of training at Oskaloosa High School, I posed the question to the staff: “Why are we doing this program?” The teachers completed a self study to answer this question. Next, they shared their answers in small groups at their tables, then I asked if they would share some of their comments to the larger group.
A wonderful women sitting in the center of the room was first to raise her hand and said with 110% certainty, “The kids deserve it!”
This passionate opening comment led to a flurry of amazing reasons why the Power2Achieve program and the competencies it reaches are so important to teach our young people today. It was a very gratifying moment to hear the many reasons why these dedicated teachers are working so hard to help their students succeed.
As I said in my opening, it was an intensive and overwhelming few of weeks of coordination and preparation from our team to be ready to deliver the workshops. However, even more overwhelming was the positive response and reception to the evolution of the Power2Achieve program for the upcoming year from all of our schools. We are so proud of our Iowa Educators for their commitment to their students, the teaching profession and the Power2Achieve program. Our Iowa Power2Achieve schools are ready!
A big thanks to the staff and administrators at Creston, Ogden, Oskaloosa and Urbandale High Schools. I hope you have a great year…You deserve it!
