Professional Development
At SPSEA, we believe that becoming a great educator goes beyond coursework—it’s about continuous growth and hands-on experience. Our chapter is dedicated to providing members with meaningful professional development opportunities that prepare us to become skilled, confident, and informed educators.
From attending state and national conferences to hosting workshops, guest speakers, and hands-on training, we actively seek opportunities to expand our teaching strategies, leadership skills, and understanding of education policy. Whether it’s networking with professionals, gaining real-world experience, or developing advocacy skills, our goal is to ensure that every member is ready to thrive in their future career.
Explore our professional development experiences below and see how we are shaping the future of education—one opportunity at a time!
SPSEA State Conference
Our chapter had an incredible experience attending the 2024 SPSEA State Conference, where we connected with fellow aspiring educators, engaged in professional development, and celebrated the achievements of our chapter. Throughout the weekend, members participated in breakout sessions focused on leadership, advocacy, and teaching strategies, networked with chapters from across Pennsylvania, and contributed to the meaningful Outreach to Teach project, giving back to a local school community. One of the proudest moments of the conference was receiving the Outstanding Chapter Event Award for our project, Literacy Under the Lights. This recognition reflects the creativity, dedication, and teamwork of our chapter members in promoting literacy and community engagement. Additionally, we are thrilled to share that four of our members were elected to leadership positions within the Midwestern Region Executive Board: Alex Cussins – Midwestern Region Vice President Zoe Moore – Midwestern Region Secretary Tony Marin – Midwestern Region PACE Director Hannah Rake – Midwestern Region House of Delegates Representative We couldn’t be prouder of their commitment to leadership and advocacy. Our chapter left the conference feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to continue making a difference in the field of education!
December House of Delegates
In December 2024, our chapter president, Hannah Rake, again represented the Midwestern region SPSEA at the PSEA House of Delegates in Philadelphia. This event brought together educators from across Pennsylvania to discuss, debate, and vote on key policies shaping public education and the profession's future. In addition to participating in the House of Delegates, Hannah also had the unique opportunity to attend a professional development session led by Holly Clark, focusing on the evolving role of AI in the classroom. This session provided valuable insight into how educators can thoughtfully integrate technology to enhance student learning and engagement. Hannah’s experience at the House of Delegates reflects our chapter’s commitment to both advocacy and continuous professional growth, ensuring our voices are part of the conversation shaping education statewide while staying informed on innovative teaching practices.
Rock Solid Conference
Our chapter had the opportunity to attend the Rock Solid Educators Conference, an engaging day of professional development designed specifically for aspiring educators in the Midwestern Region. Members participated in interactive breakout sessions, connected with peers and education professionals, and gained valuable insight into teaching strategies, leadership development, and advocacy efforts.
Cardboard Carnival
For our signature Cardboard Carnival, our chapter partnered with Jess Carbaugh and her 4th-grade class at Clarion Area Elementary to bring STEM concepts to life through creativity and hands-on learning. Together, we guided students through the engineering design process, working side-by-side to design and build fully functional carnival games made out of cardboard, each incorporating principles of simple machines. This project introduced young learners to the basics of engineering and problem-solving and fostered teamwork, innovation, and critical thinking. It gave our members valuable experience in lesson planning, mentorship, and facilitating project-based learning while creating a fun, meaningful connection between future educators and the classroom. The Cardboard Carnival continues to be one of our most impactful events, showcasing the power of collaboration and the importance of making learning both engaging and accessible!
NEA Aspiring Educator Conference
Our chapter president, Hannah Rake, proudly represented SPSEA at the NEA Aspiring Educators Conference, a national gathering of future teachers passionate about leadership, advocacy, and professional growth. The conference offered a dynamic space to connect with fellow aspiring educators from across the country, engage in workshops focused on social justice, leadership development, and classroom readiness, and learn from experienced educators and advocates. A highlight of the event was Hannah's election to the role of NEA Aspiring Educator Caucus Administrative Director, a national leadership position that reflects their commitment to elevating the voices of future educators. Through this role, they will help lead efforts to support and empower aspiring educators nationwide. By attending, Hannah gained valuable skills and insight and brought back fresh ideas and renewed energy to strengthen our chapter. Her participation highlights our chapter’s commitment to empowering future educators and making a meaningful impact in education—both locally and nationally!
NEA Representative Assembly
We are proud to share that our chapter president, Hannah Rake, had the incredible opportunity to attend the NEA Representative Assembly (RA)—the largest democratic deliberative body in the world. At the RA, educators from across the country come together to debate and vote on key issues, policies, and priorities that shape public education nationwide. By participating in this event, our president represented not only PennWest Clarion but also the voices of aspiring educators from all over PA, advocating for policies that support students, educators, and strong public schools. Attending the RA provided invaluable insight into the power of collective action and the importance of being an engaged advocate in the field of education.
NEA Leadership Summit
Our chapter is proud to have members traveling to attend the NEA Leadership Summit, a premier event dedicated to developing leadership skills, fostering advocacy, and strengthening the future of education. This summit brings together aspiring educators, experienced teachers, and national education leaders for a weekend filled with interactive workshops, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities. By attending, our members gain valuable insight into leadership, organizing, and professional development that they can bring back to our chapter and campus. The summit provides a space for future educators to learn, grow, and collaborate on ways to improve schools and communities. We are incredibly excited for our members to engage in discussions, build new connections, and bring fresh ideas back to PennWest Clarion, strengthening our commitment to student leadership and advocacy in education.
May House of Delegates
In May 2024, our chapter president, Hannah Rake, proudly represented the Midwestern Region SPSEA at the PSEA House of Delegates in Pittsburgh. The House of Delegates serves as PSEA’s governing body, where members come together to vote on important policies, elect leadership, and shape the direction of the association.
Leading with Balance
Before taking the national stage, our chapter members Shauna Gorton and Hannah Rake hosted a practice run of their session, “Leading with Balance: Prioritizing Mental Health for Sustainable Leadership.” This session focused on the importance of maintaining mental well-being while taking on leadership roles, offering practical strategies for preventing burnout and fostering a healthy, sustainable leadership journey.
EDGE Speaker
Our chapter was proud to host Dr. Chris Clayton as an EDGE Speaker, delivering an engaging session titled "Effective Classroom Management for Today’s Teacher: What Does the Research Tell Us Works?" This professional development event was tailored for both elementary and secondary educators, focusing on proven strategies to create positive, well-managed classroom environments. Dr. Clayton introduced participants to the influential work of Harry Wong on classroom procedures and Robert Marzano’s research-based classroom management strategies. Attendees were encouraged to reflect on their own teaching practices, identifying areas of strength and opportunities for growth based on Marzano’s categories. Through practical examples, resources, and real-world techniques, participants left the session with a stronger understanding of effective classroom management and actionable strategies they could implement immediately. We were thrilled to offer this valuable opportunity to our members, equipping them with tools to improve their craft and build successful classrooms!
Landing Your First Teaching Job
Our chapter had the valuable opportunity to travel to the Midwestern Region PSEA Office for a special professional development session focused on landing your first teaching job. Led by Julie Smith, our Midwestern Region UniServ Representative, the session provided practical advice and insider tips on everything from building a strong resume and crafting effective cover letters to preparing for interviews and understanding the hiring process. This session gave our members the tools and confidence they need to take the next steps in their professional journeys. We left feeling informed, prepared, and excited to put our best foot forward as future educators!