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Southeast Missouri State University is paving the way in educational innovation, enhancing both teacher training and student learning experiences through a robust array of programs. From coding workshops tailored for young learners to comprehensive professional development for educators, SEMO’s commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment is evident. With the SEMO Educators Advantage program, the university is not just preparing future educators; it’s actively uplifting the entire educational community.
Partnerships that elevate education
In recent years, SEMO has forged valuable partnerships with local school districts to broaden educational opportunities for teachers across southeast Missouri. The Educators Advantage program stands out by offering exclusive benefits, including reduced tuition for online graduate programs. This initiative helps educators pursue advanced degrees with greater affordability and flexibility. Additionally, participating districts benefit from a variety of University-hosted events, workshops focused on educational technology, and tailored support designed to meet their unique needs.
Professional development at SEMO
Regularly, SEMO hosts professional learning events such as the Ed Tech Academy, IgnitED, and the AI Summit. These gatherings draw P-12 educators from the region, eager to engage in hands-on sessions that explore the latest educational trends and techniques. Jana Gerard, a coordinator for the College of Education, Health and Human Studies, emphasizes the importance of practical application: “Teachers leave with ideas and tools they can implement in their classrooms the very next day.” Her presentations delve into topics like artificial intelligence in education, digital literacy, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), equipping educators with the necessary skills to thrive in an ever-evolving educational landscape.
EDvolution Center: A hub for innovation
The EDvolution Center, a cornerstone of SEMO’s educational outreach, serves as a dynamic space for innovation in teaching and learning. Open to all SEMO students, faculty, staff, and community educators, the Center focuses on providing access to resources that enhance creativity and technology in the classroom. Since its opening in 2019, it has attracted over 28,000 visitors, including thousands of P-12 students and educators. “We provide access to coding kits, STEAM tools, and making materials,” Gerard notes, emphasizing the Center’s mission to lower barriers and empower educators.
Engaging students through hands-on workshops
SEMO’s commitment to education also extends directly to students, with engaging summer workshops that introduce elementary school students to coding and engineering concepts. Utilizing age-appropriate tools like Snap Circuits, LEGO, and Squishy Circuits, these workshops ignite a passion for STEM subjects through interactive, hands-on experiences. Such initiatives not only make learning fun but also cultivate a new generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers.
Supporting the next generation of educators
Beyond workshops and professional development, SEMO is dedicated to supporting aspiring educators through programs like the Substitute Teacher Seminars. These seminars equip individuals with the necessary training to become certified by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The next seminar is scheduled for August 5-7, providing yet another opportunity for those looking to make a positive impact in the classroom.
As SEMO continues to expand its educational programs and partnerships, the focus remains clear: to equip today’s educators—and tomorrow’s—with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to succeed. Through innovative initiatives and a commitment to community engagement, SEMO is shaping the future of education in the region.