On Saturday, 1/25, about 45 educators in the area gathered at Clear Creek Elementary in Shawnee, KS, to learn how they can better meet their diverse students’ needs. Olathe NEA represented in a big way at this wonderful event! To start, our members made up nearly 25% of the participants, even though the event was open to 13 locals.

Olathe NEA participants at the RSJ Summit

The amazing Kathleen Smith, Olathe NEA Diversity Rep on Executive Board, opened the summit with an activity to promoted participants to think about their early experiences with people who were different from themselves.

Kathleen Smith opens the RSJ Summit

Jonathan Eshnaur, SPED teacher at ONW and social media extraordinaire for Olathe NEA, shared his knowledge of equity through the lens of ability.

Jonathan Eshnaur presents on SPED policy

Two Olathe NEA members, Selena Eckstrom and Dr. Tina Ellsworth, presented on Culturally Responsive Practices to a full house.

Selena Eckstrom and Dr. Tina Ellsworth present

Olathe NEA members and KNEA Board of Directors Angie Powers and Selena Eckstrom served on the planning committee, along with educators from Shawnee Mission and DeSoto.

Selena Eckstrom & Angie Powers on the planning committee

Leigh Anne Rogers, Olathe NEA Vice-President, said, “The presentation from the Attorney General’s office on Human Trafficking was very eye opening.  I found lots of information helpful as I work with my students and families in how to spot signs of trafficking in our schools.  I shared lots of it with my spouse, who is a secondary school counselor.”