PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR EDUCATORS

We believe that educators are our future.

At Outward Bound we know, first hand, the deep impact that teachers and educators have on their students. 

In our Educator Professional Development Programs, we aim to bring the magic of the Outward Bound teaching and learning strategies to the teachers who are on the front lines in classrooms around the US. We partner with educators from public and independent secondary schools, colleges and universities, and community-serving nonprofits to help amplify students’ life-changing challenge and discovery experiences.  

In partnership with NOAM Institute, Outward Bound created the Domains Of Thriving framework to emphasize four Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) growth categories—Courage, Belonging, Reflection and Physical Engagement—that are essential for success. By incorporating this student-centered framework within their existing curricula and classroom management strategies, educators can further enrich their teaching practice.

THE THRIVING CLASSROOM

The Thriving Classroom is a Professional Development Series for Educators facilitated by Hurricane Island Outward Bound School. The experience is delivered via live, interactive online sessions with small six-session series that focus on Creating the Supportive Environment and Engaging the Whole Learner.

Sample sessions

SERIES 1: CREATING THE SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

• Introducing the Thriving Classroom
• Facilitating Belonging: Exploring the power of connection
• Understanding Belonging: Relationships that promote social, emotional, and academic growth
• The Science of Structure: Designing a supportive environment
• Implementing Structure: Practices for success
• What’s next? Creating your supportive environment

SERIES 2: ENGAGING THE WHOLE LEARNER

• Introducing the Thriving Classroom
• The Social-Emotional Toolkit: Games and activities for a thriving classroom of connection
• All Learning is Social and Emotional: Practices for the classroom
• Questioning Strategies for Engagement and Learning
• Promoting Discussion for a Thriving Classroom
• What’s next? Engaging the learners in your classroom

Participants will receive a Certificate for Contact Hours (18) upon completion. Limit of 2 participants per school / district.

The Outward Bound Professional Learning Lab (“The Learning Lab”) is a collaborative effort of the Outward Bound USA system and is directed by Outward Bound USA. The purpose of The Learning Lab is to continuously improve the student experience by evaluating program delivery and student outcomes and enhancing professional learning opportunities.

To express interest in The Thriving Classroom, please complete the form below, or contact Andrew Spofford, Director of Educational Partnerships at (207)706-5065, or [email protected].