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Author Stephen Chigar listens to discussion at the event.

Just before the current school year began in most Colorado districts, more than 250 teachers from around the state learned tips from Stephen Chiger, author of Love and Literacy, on engaging students and helping them become better thinkers. The event at Adams 12 Conference Center focused on improving student-centered discourse, which Chiger defines as conversation that changes what and how we think. 

The event grew out of CDE’s work supporting educators in the Transformation Network, a partnership between the state, districts and schools that have priority improvement or turnaround ratings in the state’s accountability system. 

After the pandemic, the Transformation Network opened its professional learning events to all educators in the state. “If we're hosting an event, why not pack the house, and why not start to spread some of these practices?” said Nicole Monet, director of CDE’s Office of Intensive Supports.

Schools can apply to join the Transformation Network through the EASI grant, and those accepted work closely with a member of the team who are all “former school and district leaders who have experience in schools that are high poverty, schools that have high multilingual learners and have had proven success,” Monet said. They also receive $180,000 over three years to fund their efforts to accelerate student achievement. 

CDE’s Transformation Network will host many more virtual and in-person professional learning events open to all school leaders during the 2024-25 school year. Click here for more information on these events and registration links. 

See and share photos and videos from the event on Flickr.