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"I Can Do It" training helps new teachers succeed

Yet another education resource from KNEA!

"I Can Do It" is a fast-paced, intensive seminar in classroom management for early career educators as well as career teachers who want to be rejuvenated, teachers who may have concerns with some areas of classroom management or who just want a refresher. The 6-hour seminar helps prepare teachers for the year. More importantly, it helps keep good teachers in the classroom. Research shows that the profession loses one-third of new teachers by the third year. Programs like "I Can Do It" help new teachers succeed and stay in the profession.

The seminar helps teachers start the school year on a positive note, and it reinforces previous learnings from undergraduate preparation programs, like the importance of classroom rules and the need for consistent discipline.  It also focuses on instructional strategies that work with diverse learners.

Go Slow to Go Fast

The overarching philosophy behind ICDI is "Go slow to go fast, meaning take the time to do it right in the beginning and to build the skills and routines the students need.  Teachers should not be afraid to take the time they need to develop a positive learning environment. Once students have those basics, then you can really move through the curriculum," said Peg Dunlap, director of Instructional Advocacy. Many ICDI graduates use the "go slow" mantra in everything they do.

Not an in-service indoctrination

 "We model cooperative learning and different teaching styles, we do a lot of small group work, and we introduce teachers to the colleagues they'll be working with at school," Dunlap said.

The program works well because it includes teachers of all levels.  Early career educators are invited as well as career teachers.

Want to know more?
Contact Peg Dunlap in KNEA's Instructional Advocacy Office.