Bridge Busters

Official Description: The session presenter will model and actively engage attendees in a highly effective student-centered learning methodology through a hands-on STEM activity. Attendees will experience various integrated research-based learning strategies - including experiential & inquiry processes, resource-based education, differentiated instruction, and Arc of Achievement culmination ideas - which are proven to increase academic outcomes and appeal to “reluctant” learners. Participants will leave the session having completed the STEM activity, have a better understanding of a student-centered learning process ideal for math & science “achievement-gap” participants, and will discuss effective methods for measuring & assessing outcomes which align to Washington State math & science standards.

Layman's Description: You will build and break model bridges, in a fun, engaging and supportive space! In this workshop you will literally fail. Well, your bridge will fail; I garauntee you will succeed as a learner. Trust me and trust the process! Also, there will be prizes!!

DO Conference Hype: Our session closely relates to both Pacific Northwest and national after school youth development motivations. According to the National Center for Education Statistics and the Nation Science Foundation, our 21st CCLC target populations, especially our students of color, are grossly misrepresented in the STEM-based professional fields. The challenge of creating access and opportunity, and truly engaging our young people in equitable spaces and learning opportunities, is fundamental to the afterschool field. This workshop will help bridge the gap between student interest and learning, and bust any preconceived notions and fixed mindsets around academic short-comings. Yes, that pun was low-hanging fruit, but it was ripe for the picking.

Presenter: Hi, my name is Brent Cummings and I am in the midst of a long career in afterschool education. For the past 17 years, I have been fortunate enough to engage our young people, their families, and our community through 21st CCLC programs. Over that time period, I have fulfilled the role of Site Coordinator, Program Director, and national Afterschool Ambassador. Most recently, as Walla Walla Public Schools’ Director of Accelerated Learning and Support, I have shaped and implemented many of our district’s America Recovery Plan initiatives - including the oversight and implementation of our ESSER III - Afterschool Supplemental Funding. Through these various roles, I have learned a few things that work for me and I am excited to work together with you to explore those concepts, methodologies, and programs. If you already knew all these details about me, then you are either a spy or you read the workshop description page for The “ME” in TEAM. One thing you might not know yet, is that my passion for a good game of pickleball almost rivals my passion for facilitating high quality afterschool programs. If I was to give you advice on both simultaneously, this is what I would say: 1) Be patient; Smile and laugh often; 3) Consistency matters; and 4) Stretch! You have begun to learn, Grasshopper.