Day 2 dawned and we were raring to go again. A pleasant American custom we could get used to is the serving of breakfast prior to the conference. We are becoming quite partial to bagels and we've seen every conceivable variety. So far, the food has been fabulous everywhere we've been. There is certainly mountains of food and plenty of junk if that's what you choose, but also, a wide range of healthy options. LOTS of delicious, fresh fruit.
We were pleased to meet up again with our colleagues from the Merion District of schools. since meeting Sharon Kuznick at Roberts Elementary, she has introduced us to several other members of her District and they have kindly included us in their group. as very much "outsiders' it has been wonderful to walk into a crowded room and have friendly faces invite us to join them. Thanks Merion District! In fact, since arriving, we have managed to weazel a visit to Upper Merion Area Middle School on our way back from the conference. Thanks John and Karen - more later!
The second day of the conference commenced with a panel of experienced and successful NNPS schools and districts discussing their achievements and progress. This was a great opportunity to hear first hand experiences from schools in a range of settings. Sessions such as this certainly brings it home just what a difficult task some schools have when working with communities of very high need.
The next session for the day was conducted by Dr. Mavis Sanders; another researcher from Johns Hopkins. She presented information about challenges faced when working with communities and finding solutions. Working in smaller groups today made it possible to have extended conversations about each other's experiences. It is quite interesting how similar the challenges faced by schools are in both countries. We had started to realise by this stage, that morning tea was not a feature of conferences in the States and it took some getting used to working solidly from 8.00am - 12.00 noon. Consequently, everyone was more than ready for lunch at 12.00pm and a fabulous spread was provided: salads, rolls, hot dishes ( fish, chicken, pasta), fruit and CAKES you wouldn't believe.
The afternoon session was very much a trouble shooting session where people could raise questions and ask for advice about how to approach different issues in their schools. This resulted in a "round table" discussion of what has worked for me type conversations. Very practical and worthwhile.
Once the conference broke for the afternoon, the sun was shining in Baltimore, so we headed out to explore. Our trusty barman had recommended a visit to Fells Point: an historic area on the waterfront which was a series of narrow, cobblestoned streets lined with restaurants and bars. After walking and wandering for a few hours and several miles, Happy Hour called and we just happened to be passing a great spot for a sit down and a quiet sip. What more could the travellers ask for! We call this investigating the community context, incase anyone thought we were not focussing on the issue at hand!
Dinner found us heading to another historic district in Baltimore: Mt. Vernon. Lots of great places to eat - this time Afgani. Again, we walked from the hotel, about 30 minutes each way. I am sure I will get back a few inches shorter!
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