Awsaj Academy on Saturday hosted its third Annual Conference, which focused on ’Teaching Students with Learning Challenges’.
The conference was sponsored by Oryx GTL and was held in collaboration with Qatar University’s National Center for Educator Development.
The conference targeted educators from Independent schools in Qatar who work with students with learning challenges. Dr Chris Borgmeier, the keynote speaker from Portland State University, Oregon, discussed the critical need for a positive school and classroom climate in order to maximise learning and support for all students. He presented research and strategies for implementing School-Wide Positive Behaviour Intervention and Supports (SWPBIS) and the need for schools to implement its principles in a way that conforms to the local culture and context of the school and community.
Dr Borgmeier said: “I want to congratulate Awsaj Academy on its successful implementation of SWPBIS to support Qatari students. I look forward to working with Awsaj Academy to help many other Qatari schools implement this outstanding programme.”
Leading the ‘Inclusion Practices that Supports All Students’ session, Joshua L. Fritts, Head of Teaching and Learning at Awsaj Academy, emphasised that, “Awsaj Teaching and Learning Center is committed to the success of all children. To do this, we not only focus on each individual child’s needs within the classroom, but also strive to improve the instruction that is provided through high-quality and meaningful professional development.”
Awsaj Academy’s director, Dr Ralph Pruitt, stressed the importance of the strong partnership with conference sponsor Oryx GTL and its value in promoting the academic growth of both students and educators through the funding of various academy activities and projects.
Over 200 delegates attended the conference, representing more than 40 schools across Doha.
The Peninsula
