With so much to worry about, an overload of work for many, and deepening inequities as this crisis develops, it is ever more important to reach out, connect, and gain strength together. So, in the spirit of VTLFF, let me start with a few moments from my week, connecting through joy!
A Zoom conversation, split evenly between youth and adults, sharing ideas for how to reimagine the Power2 Conference in ways that strengthen community, inspire and contribute to a greater good.
Another group Zoom conversation sharing resources, surfacing ideas for collaborating "across sectors" to support the front lines of this crisis.
Hiking up and skiing down Bromley Mountain with my son just after sunrise, in a foot of new snow.
Getting emails and calls from you, the network, about needs, worries, ideas and stories of learning and acting towards equity, sustainability and joy.
This week, like the past several weeks, I am reaching out with resources and inspiration curated from links and stories shared by many of you this week. I hope something in here will give you a boost in some way.
As an example, today at noon there was an online micro-conference hosted by Emily Rinkema and Stan Williams - A New Normal: Assessment & Distance Learning. (The discussion and chat were recorded and available for asynchronous viewing.)
Please continue to reach out with ideas, resources and needs. You are important, valued, and making a difference!
Learning Resources
COVID-19 Racial Equity & Social Justice Resourcesfrom Racial Equity Tools
Using Zoom Breakouts: Virtual PD from Susan Hennessey and the Tarrant Institute
VT Afterschool's Resource Library for Youth-serving program professionals, youth and families
Distance Learning Resources curated by James Nagle, St. Michael's professor and VTLFF partner
Amazing Educational Resources - a massive online resource database for homeschooling and distance learning
And check out @upforlearningvt on Twitter - a great partner in the network and source of information and inspiration!
Community and Health Resources - How to Help:
Regional Mutual Aid and Related Resources "for folks who are able to help others or in need of help." Curated by the Peace and Justice Center
A Collaborative Community Guide To Covid-19 Resources - A curated, crowd-sourced Vermont resource list
Connection and Inspiration
A High School Learner's Revelations on Adapting Learning
Unleashed Media - an independent project created by Burr and Burton Academy senior Michael DeRita
Young Writers Project Tiny Writes: A Social Distancing Journal - sad, funny, uplifting, real