Area students in seventh through 12th grades are invited to attend the 11th annual Missouri Educators for Tomorrow’s Schools (MoETS) Conference Oct. 30 at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP).

Hosted by the Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) Program, the conference will begin with check-in at 9 a.m. in room 112 of Melton Hall, 129 Garfield Ave. The event will end at 1 p.m. Lunch will be provided.

The conference is open to students who are interested in becoming teachers, according to ReBena Atkinson, instructor and director of the AAT Program.

“This event was created to empower learners and future educators through hands-on experiences and local inspiration,” Atkinson said. “It is our community’s step toward solving the teacher shortage and shaping a brighter future for our schools.”

What you’ll do

Those who attend will participate in a mini professional development day. They will choose between several high-interest breakout sessions presented by teachers from across the region.

Students will participate in breakout sessions that address Social Emotional Learning and Activities to use in classrooms, how to set the scene and bring drama into the classroom, how to bring music into the classroom, and understanding the influence of a great coach.

“Last year, fifteen school districts and 100 students attended,” Atkinson said. This year, she anticipates a similar headcount.

For more information about the conference, contact Atkinson at 417-255-7904 or email ReBenaAtkinson@MissouriState.edu.