Hundreds of participants—presenters, educators, and leaders—from Lutheran and Christian schools, visited CUW’s campus for this one-day event featuring 60+ workshops.
The Concordia Summit for Educators and Leaders, has returned due to “popular demand,” according to Dr. Jim Pingel, dean of the School of Education and founder of the event that was held on August 8. The Summit was comprised of over 450 educators and leaders from Lutheran and Christian daycares, grade schools, and high schools from Wisconsin and Illinois.
New tools, new ideas, new experiences
CUW’s School of Education professors were extremely excited to serve their brothers and sisters in Christ by offering their expertise and encouragement at the Summit.
The day started with a worship service in the Chapel of Christ Triumphant followed by three breakout sessions, 60+ workshop choices, four Lunch & Learn options, and a networking event for fellowship. The topics covered in the workshops were diverse with over 20 CUW School of Education professors leading them. Click here to view the itinerary.
Pingel hosted a morning session called, “The Leadership Kitchen: Key Ingredients and Supplies for the Church Worker (So You Can Cook).” The workshop offered practical insights and strategies for educators and leaders to utilize in times of challenges (or opportunities), in which they may glorify God and flourish in the ministry. There were around 20 attendees providing an intimate yet enthusiastic environment. “We managed to laugh a little together too. All in all—a wonderful session with some dedicated church workers,” says Pingel.
New this year, educator and speaker Trisha DePasquale from Florida, felt honored to be at CUW. She comes from a family of Lutheran educators and pastors, and currently teaches at a Lutheran school in south Florida. Her workshop entitled “Passport Adventures and American Adventures” is about global awareness for early childhood and lower elementary grades. “Teaching children about the world is my passion,” says DePasquale. She shared tips and resources on how to help kids pretend they’re exploring the world right from their classrooms.
“God gave us this beautiful world that is meant to be explored. Teaching kids about His creation is a key part in bringing global awareness to them.” DePasquale offered ideas and strategies to transform students into “world travelers.” There were free resources for attendees to download and fun giveaways.
“It was an incredible experience sharing teaching ideas with those that attended my sessions,” says DePasquale. “Seeing adults using their imaginations by pretending to ride camels in Egypt and floating in the Dead Sea were moments I will not forget!”
Everything turned out well according to Pingel. “It was so fun to nurture, encourage, and challenge attendees in their leadership journey and personal growth.”
The day concluded with fellowship held afterward at the Mequon Highland House.
This event is sponsored by CUW School of Education and LCMS South Wisconsin District.
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. Our Education programs focus on optimizing your abilities to serve students, schools, and the community through education. We develop well-rounded educational professionals that can teach and lead in rural and urban communities. With a Christian-centered focus, relevant curriculum, and engaging faculty you can play a meaningful role in the world of education. For more information, click the link below.