In a vibrant gathering at the Alisal Union School District board meeting, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as Edie Porter, the director of curriculum and instruction, took the stage to share the highlights of the recent Great Alisal Teaching Conference (GATC). The event, held on February 3, saw an impressive turnout of over 375 certificated staff members and administrators, marking a record attendance for the conference.

Porter, co-chair of the Professional Development Committee, expressed her joy in presenting the results of a day filled with dynamic professional development, themed "Rise of the Content Jedi." This year’s conference not only surpassed previous attendance records but also showcased the collaborative efforts of the committee, which included a partnership between the Alisal Teachers Association (ATA) and the central office.

Clementina Pantoja, a kindergarten teacher at Fremont Elementary and co-chair of the ATA, joined Porter on stage, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming environment for educators. The conference was a culmination of year-long planning, reflecting the dedication of the committee members and the support from various departments, including food services and IT.

Porter took a moment to acknowledge the contributions of the California School Employees Association (CSEA) members, stating, “Without you all, the great Alisal teaching conference would not be possible.” She expressed deep gratitude to all involved, including George Lopez, who contributed creatively to the event by designing a trailer that was showcased during the meeting.

As the meeting progressed, the board members and community attendees celebrated the success of the GATC, which had previously earned the prestigious Golden Bell Award in 2023. The evening concluded with a sense of pride and accomplishment, as the district continues to foster a culture of collaboration and professional growth among its educators.