What I Wish I Knew Before Attending GYTO with Kristin Mitchell
This is part of a short blog series we’re launching to highlight what it’s like to attend Get Your Teach On for the first time, especially from a perspective of someone going by themselves.
We reached out a few past attendees who attended the conference by themselves to find out what their experience was like and to see what tips they have for educators attending for the first time. The responses below come directly from Ms. Mitchell, who attended the conference by herself. We’re now proud to have her as a member of our incredible Magic Squad team!
What are the top three things you wish you knew before attending GYTO?
I’m not leaving without at least 1 new teacher friend
Everyone who is presenting are/were teachers just like we are. It’s okay if my classroom doesn’t look exactly like how they’re talking about. There is always room to grow!
Come with a content area you want to improve on so that you are able to ask specific questions when that content area is presented
What would you have missed had you not attended?
I would have missed being able to make connections with other educators. I know that might not sound like a huge deal, but it was so helpful to compare with teachers from other states how their students were succeeding or struggling with the same standards that my students were.
Stepping outside of your comfort zone is a good thing. You will challenge yourself in new ways. What should people not be afraid to do?
BE OUTGOING! I’m usually the person who will sit and observe before I decided if I’m going to participate; especially when I’m alone. Going to GYTO is like going to a family reunion. Don’t be afraid to talk to people you don’t know and everyone is there to learn and have fun!
Some people say, “I am more of an introvert rather than extrovert.” What are your tips for making connections?
I usually get to my room basically right when it opens. When someone or a group comes and sits at my table, I will immediately introduce myself. Just the basic: “Hi, I’m ____!” That way they know that I’m friendly and if they want to start a conversation with me later, they know they can.
What are your tips to be able to soak it all in rather than get overwhelmed?
I just listen and participate. A lot of people try to write everything down and when I tried that it was extremely overwhelming. When I just listened and soaked up the information by participating, it was easier for me to decide if that particular lesson would work in my classroom. I suggest just jotting down quick notes to remind you of something you heard or did, rather than write down everything.
When attending the conference, you don’t have to say yes to every strategy and concept that you see. You only need to say yes to the things that matter most for you and your students. What are some things you still use today from GYTO?
Call backs to get students’ attention
Content songs
How to make a read aloud effective
Make book studies engaging
Communication tips with how to make connections with students
What is your top piece of advice for someone attending the conference for the first time?
To be fully present! GYTO goes by quicker than you can say Get Your Teach On.
After attending GYTO, what are a few things you’re most likely to do? Don’t hold back! These answers can be silly or funny!
Want to redo your entire classroom after seeing how AMAZING each themed room is
Imagine Mrs. King, Mr. King and the other presenters in your classroom giving you imaginary support when you use a strategy you learned at GYTO
Start planning for the next GTYO conference so you don’t have FOMO
On behalf of everyone at Get Your Teach On, I would like to thank Kristina for taking the time to answer our questions about her experience at Get Your Teach On. We hope this is useful as you plan your trip and I look forward to seeing YOU at an upcoming confeence!
-Hope