by Friendswood ISD Communication Department
On Friday, November 1, Friendswood ISD (FISD) hosted its first-ever teacher-led Elementary Student-Centered Instructional Conference, which fosters collaboration, inspiration, and practical learning among FISD’s elementary educators.
This innovative conference aligns with FISD’s commitment to creating spaces where teachers can “Fall in Love with Learning” by sharing their expertise with colleagues across the district.
FISD teachers attended their choices of approximately 40 unique, peer-led sessions tailored to enhance student engagement, creative teaching strategies, and instructional support, all in the spirit of empowering educators to learn from one another.
The conference included sessions that catered to a wide range of interests and instructional needs, highlighting the wealth of knowledge and creativity within FISD.
For instance, Cline MIS Jennifer van der Smissen’s session, “Engage and Excite with AI,” introduced educators to practical uses of artificial intelligence in the classroom, encouraging tech-forward approaches.
In “The ART of Relaxing,” Bales Art Teacher Melanie Moreno blended artistry and mindfulness to support relaxation techniques that teachers can use personally and with their students.
Beyond individual sessions, the conference represented a larger movement within FISD to cultivate a collaborative learning community, allowing teachers to grow professionally and bring refreshed energy and ideas into their classrooms.
FISD was proud to support its educators with this dedicated professional learning and peer-to-peer engagement day.