FAQ

What should I expect from the Challenging Teachers Institute?

Nothing less than a life changing experience!  Here is what past participants have said about the Challenging Teachers Institute:

"I've always felt called to be a teacher, but this week has really renewed my strength.  I now have a lot more information to take back with me, and a renewed passion for my kids."
"This is different from any workshop I've ever attended.  You don't just sit and listen.  You learn from active experiences..."
"The Institute is a must for any administrator..."

The Institute's dynamic, high impact week of dialogue, discovery and reinvention will allow you to develop the knowledge and skills needed to create optimal learning experiences for young children.  You will explore the most current and up-to-date research and information on early childhood best practices in a fully equipped resource library, along with experiencing exciting art and actor studios.  Working together, you will be involved in powerful learning groups and networks and will have many opportunities to explore content areas of your own interest.  You will be able to guide your own learning experiences at the Challenging Teachers Institute.

Do I get to choose what I study?

At the institute you will have the opportunity to experience facilitator and student directed learning.  The facilitators will bring specific content to your groups and in addition you will have an opportunity to identify and study an area of interest that will have the biggest impact on your classroom practices and your life as an educator.

Will I get credit for attending the Institute?

 Upon successful completion of the Challenging Teachers Institute, participants receive three Continuing Education Units (CEU) or Professional Learning Units (PLU).

Where is the Challenging Teachers Institute located?

The Institute will be held at Simpsonwood Conference and Retreat Center, 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Norcross, GA 30092.  You may also visit www.simpsonwood.org to view the Conference Center facilities.

Am I expected to stay for the whole week?

Yes!  Participants receive the full benefit of the Institute and credit for participation when they arrive on Sunday evening and stay through lunch on Friday. Late registrations will not be accepted after Monday at noon.  We guarantee you’ll be glad you stayed with us for the entire week.

Are there evening events?

Yes! Plan on spending each night with us.  Your overnight accommodations for the week are included in the registration fee.  In the evening, you can recharge by taking a walk through the trails, catching up on a good book or attending one of our fabulous special events ranging from African Drummer performances to participating in the Challenging Games Night.

Are all my expenses paid for?

Yes! All of your room, meals and material expenses are included in the registration fee.

Do I need to bring "dress-up" clothes?

No! Everything at Simpsonwood is casual. Just bring comfortable clothes and walking shoes or sneakers, and a swimsuit if you would like to swim in your free time.  Remember to bring an umbrella too in case it rains.  Just a reminder:  the temperature in the individual meeting rooms can change with the use of air conditioning.  Even though it is hot outside we encourage everyone to bring a sweater, or to dress in layers for your personal comfort