Professional development is essential for teacher success, so much so the Illinois State Board of Education requires 120 clock hours each five-year renewal cycle. Although conventional workshops are a requisite and are often fulfilling, there is a progressive genre of professional development emerging: EdCamps.

An EdCamp is a free, democratic, participant-driven workshop for K-12 educators worldwide. They are non-commercial, and are conducted with a vendor-free presence. Kaneland District 302 will be hosting its first #EdCamp302 on from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7 with registration through EventBrite.

Kaneland Director of Educational Services Dr. Sarah Mumm explained that it is a great opportunity to learn from others while receiving seven of the 24 required clock hours per year. “Registration is now open. The event includes free breakfast, lunch and raffle prizes — and a free Google ChromeBook giveaway.

Here is an excellent video explaining the process:

For more information on licensure requirements, please review this pdf.

For more information on state-approved professional development providers, please review this updated pdf.

This article was written by Ellen Kamps of the Kane County Regional Office of Education. For more information, visit the Kane County ROE website.