UKIAH – “Teachers on Teaching: Accessing Knowledge and Delivering Instruction; Best Practices for the 21st Century,” a one-day conference for local and regional educators, will be presented at the Mendocino College campus in Ukiah on Saturday, March 17.

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

“The Foundation Skills Teaching and Learning Community of Mendocino College is hosting this important local event to bring educators together to share ideas, build collaboration, and learn about current practices and projects in our 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. “This year we have collaborated with Dominican University to offer Continuing Education Units for participants. It may also meet 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 three previous annual conferences presented for local teachers at the community college in Ukiah, topics for this year’s sessions include Wiki teaching tools, writing in the math class, using Google Docs to develop student writing, lessons from coaching for the classroom, and the changing nature of academic reading and writing.

A morning panel will explore technology in education with a range of local educators representing primary school 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,” says conference co-chair Virginia Guleff, Dean of Instruction for the college in Ukiah.

“Based on past years’ 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.

If participants choose to register for units through Dominican University, there is an additional cost.

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