Millcreek teachers report classroom takeaways after Pennsylvania conference

Teachers and administrators from the Millcreek Township School District told the board April 27 that a recent Pennsylvania middle‑level education conference gave them practical strategies to support students.

"It strengthened my ability to implement school‑based research practices that support Millcreek Township School District's goals in student achievement and instructional improvement," said Matthew Sunberg, an eighth‑grade teacher at Wan Creek Middle School, thanking the board for funding the trip to Philadelphia. Sunberg listed sessions on inclusion, classroom technology and leadership that he said he will adapt for his classroom.

Fallon Myers, a teacher at Westlake Middle School, said a session on Tourette's syndrome helped her better personalize accommodations for a current student and suggested the district explore middle‑level EF Tours to expand student travel opportunities.

Katie Giles, a seventh‑grade science teacher at JS Wilson, highlighted Remake Learning Day and community partnerships—such as environmental literacy programs and Sphero science kits—that she said could support hands‑on science learning. Giles said she and colleagues plan to observe a Remake Learning Day event on the 14th and pursue grant funding to bring similar programming to Millcreek.

Dr. Atwood, principal at JS Wilson, and sixth‑grade teacher Missy Hall described informal collaboration among buildings during the trip, saying the time allowed teachers from different schools and content areas to share ideas and discuss grant opportunities. "We were able to talk, share ideas, experiences, and perspectives on teaching," Dr. Atwood said.

The board did not take action on the presentations; presenters expressed appreciation for district support of professional development as they outlined plans to bring conference strategies back to their classrooms and departments.