Educators consider Federalist, Anti-Federalist writings at weekend retreat

(May 3, 2021)
Educators consider Federalist, Anti-Federalist writings at weekend retreat

Participants in the center's latest professional development retreat held at Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Eleven Kentucky educators spent three days studying Federalist and Anti-Federalist writings as part of the McConnell Center's latest professional development programming.

Susan Laehn, PhD, a political science professor at Iowa State University, led the seminar discussions, which focused on selections from the McConnell Center’s latest publication, Reflection and Choice: The Federalists, Anti-Federalists, and the Debate that Defined America.

Natalie Smith, the center's civic education coordinator, directed the April 16 to April 18 retreat held at Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Slade, Ky.

The center’s weekend retreats are open to any Kentucky educator wishing to read and consider great texts, network with fellow teachers and enjoy a weekend of focused study and discussion on topics related to U.S. history, politics, and culture. Programming is free, and lodging and all materials are provided to selected participants.

“The McConnell Center completes every activity I have attended in a very professional and informative style. I always walk away feeling much more intelligent and gracious for the generous opportunities the McConnell Center affords me,” one participant said following the conference.

The following participants earned six hours of professional development credit at the weekend retreat:

  • Jennifer Barlow, Burgin Independent School (grades 9-12)
  • James Botts, West Jessamine High School (grades 9-12)
  • Angela Burton, West Jessamine Middle School (grade 8)
  • Dale Dodson, Pulaski County High School (grades 10-12)
  • Laureen Laumeyer, Bullitt County Public Schools (grades K-5)
  • Cara Lawson, Lloyd Memorial High School (grades 9 & 11)
  • Debra Napier, Rosspoint Elementary & Middle School (grades 7-8)
  • Janet Sivis O’Connell, West Jessamine High School (grades 9-12)
  • Debi Strubler, Meade County Public Schools (grades 4-6; retired)
  • Adam Webster, Logan County High School (grades 10-11)
  • Carson Zibart, Logan County High School (grade 11)