PD Day 2024 was hosted on November 2, 2024 by River Valley Home Educators at Grafton Baptist Church, which is a classic old church on a hill with a beautiful view and surroundings. We were greeted at the door by two smiling youth volunteers.  There were amazing scones and some fruit for a snack with crockpot hot chocolate to sip on and tea and coffee options. Everyone enjoyed chatting until things got going. 

Carolyn Clark was the keynote speaker and did two sessions. She is a retired homeschool mom with lots to share. Two of the speakers for the day were moms who were finished their homeschool journeys, which was especially encouraging because they are coming from a place of “yes, it’s possible, we’ve been there and done that.” Another speaker was a retired educator with various different types of experience.

Carolyn said it was out of her comfort zone to speak to adults rather than children, but she did an excellent job and the object lessons she added were a great touch….we’re never too old for those.  The topic was how we need to make the most of every opportunity because the days are evil and that we should ask for wisdom, seek wisdom, and apply wisdom.  The second session went into the practical application side of that and made us consider our purpose, our priorities, and our plan.

Ruth Meed did a breakout session on Time Management/Personal Self Management. She was a wealth of great information. She shared some great tips on how to help our kids (and ourselves) develop sustained attention and she knew a lot about special education tools as well. Her comical delivery of very great info was enjoyed.

Kate Waller did a breakout session on Hands-On Learning and it was very practical and well done. One attendee commented that Kate gave her ideas for her teens that she was immediately able to implement.

Break times had more scones and a nice relaxed time to chat and meet new people. Before the last session they did some minute-to-win-it games which got everyone laughing and was a nice addition to the day. It was something a little different before focusing on another session.

Lunch was amazing! Actually, all the food was. Everything was delicious especially the baked goods.  

Thank you River Valley Home Educators for doing such a wonderful job on this event!