"My eyes have been opened to different views, and yet my deepest commitments to and beliefs about children have been validated." —Empowering Teachers participant

The Empowering Teachers Program was established in 1989 as a forum for continuing education and support for teachers, administrators and other professionals working with children in early childhood and public elementary school settings. The program has served as a resource and network for more than 250 beginning and experienced professionals from 25 school districts in Westchester and adjacent counties in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey.

Membership involves a two-year commitment: participation in weeklong annual institutes each summer and monthly after-school follow-up sessions during the subsequent academic years. Meeting together in small groups, participants examine the challenges facing children, families and schools in today's society, while exploring opportunities for meaningful classroom practices. Benefits of the program include:

• Hands-on workshops
• Dialogue with guest faculty
• Participation in College-sponsored lectures and conferences in child development and education
• Sharing of experiences
• Ongoing supportive collegial relationships

For one week each July, we hold a Summer Institute centered on a current educational topic. Sarah Lawrence faculty and distinguished guest presenters facilitate the exploration of each year's central theme. The Summer Institute typically opens with a keynote address, the Thomas H. Wright Lecture.

For more information, please visit the 2008 Summer Institute page, contact the Child Development Institute at (914) 395-2630, or e-mail cdi@slc.edu.