Learning Forward Oklahoma to host first ever BASE Camp

In response to the teaching shortage and education crisis within the state of Oklahoma, Learning Forward Oklahoma (LFOK) is hosting a week-long training session known as BASE Camp to better equip those who have undergone emergency and alternative certification. BASE Camp, which stands for Building And Supporting Educators, will take place July 8-12 from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Norman High School, located at 911 West Main Street in Norman, Oklahoma. There is limited availability, so early registration is strongly encouraged. A host site is in the process of being secured in the northeast side of the state.

BASE Camp, launching summer 2019, targets and supports prospective and new teachers, especially those who are non-traditionally certified. LFOK provides this support in three phases: (1) BASE Camp: a face-to-face intensive learning week; (2) Exploration: a PLC experience providing reflection exercises and support touch points; and (3) Expedition: a face-to-face and virtual support throughout a semester. 

“Our goal is to improve educator practice and student results. We do not offer a ‘one shot’ approach to professional improvement but a model and practice based upon continuous and decisive improvement of individuals, schools and school systems,” said Suzie Smith, president of LFOK. “We are dedicated to the primary vehicle available to schools to strengthen and reinforce the performance of the professional education in each school or school system. We are here to wrap our arms around you – to help you.”

LFOK is an affiliate of the national organization, Learning Forward, whose goal is to promote effective, research-based and result-oriented professional learning practices that, when properly embedded in a school or school district culture, will produce improved student learning as well as improved educator performance and satisfaction.

The individuals behind LFOK are made up of a group of educators who are passionate about professional learning and improving Oklahoma education. These educators joined together to establish the Oklahoma-based professional learning organization. What may be most impressive is that all Oklahoma’s board members are completely volunteer-based and have donated more than two years of their time to see this project be successful.

“Given the importance of student results and professional educator performance and satisfaction, LFOK seeks to serv aspiring teachers who are untested and desire to be trained,” said board member and education consultant Bill Coyle. “Our responsibility is clear and is shared by all who have devoted their lives to improving education in the state of Oklahoma by impacting every student every day. We are at a critical junction in our beloved state of rough and ready independent individuals. We must act, and we must join together.”

Watch for more information and enrollment information in March 2019. To learn more, visit https://ok.learningforward.org or email learningforwardok@gmail.com.