UKIAH, Calif. – “Teachers on Teaching: From Reflection to Action; Incorporating Research into Classroom Practice,” a one-day conference for local and regional educators, will be presented at the Mendocino College campus in Ukiah on Saturday, March 26.

Beginning Saturday morning with check-in at 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and ending at 4:30 p.m., the low-cost mini-conference is designed to explore a variety of topics of interest to teachers across disciplines from pre-Kindergarten through college.

“The Foundation Skills Teaching and Learning Community of Mendocino College is hosting this important event to bring educators together to share ideas, build collaboration, and learn about current practices and projects in our local community,” said conference coordinator and Mendocino College English Professor Debra Polak.

“If you are a current or prospective teacher or school counselor, this conference is for you,” Polak explained. “The conference will include seven hours of instruction and may fit the criteria for professional development ‘buy back’ days for some teachers. K-12 participants should check with their district office about potential credit. It will also qualify as a college flex activity, and we can provide proof of your attendance.”

Building on two previous annual conferences presented for local teachers at the community college in Ukiah, topics for this year’s sessions include collaborative research efforts, asking good questions of data, tensions between mandated and meaningful research, American Indian research perspectives, language learning, impacts of substance abuse on learners of all ages and classroom management.

A morning panel will explore education topics with a range of local educators representing preschool through postsecondary perspectives.

Break-out sessions will also emphasize collaborative communication among local college and kindergarten through high school educators and strengthening partnerships in the community.

“The conference is organized for a Saturday so busy local educators will have the opportunity to participate,” said conference co-chair Virginia Guleff, Dean of Instruction for the college in Ukiah.

“Based on last year’s successful format, we’re offering this year’s activities in a central location and at a low cost to help support local educators and their schools in difficult budget times. Cost for the conference is just $15 and includes a fabulous lunch,” Guleff explained.

The conference is supported by Mendocino College and Bridging Research, Information and Cultures (BRIC), a group initiative funded by the Hewlett Foundation. Pre-registration is required.

To register, or for more information, please contact the Mendocino College Foundation Skills Weblink This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call Debra Polak at 707-468-3137.