While many students were enjoying their summer break, a special group of educators in Houston took the opportunity to further their professional development at the University of Houston Honors College’s Common Ground Teachers Institute.
For over three decades, this unique program has provided local teachers with a week-long intensive experience to recharge, reignite their passion for learning, and gain new perspectives to bring back to their classrooms.
The Common Ground Institute focuses on investing in educators’ growth and empowering them to inspire and challenge their students. Former Houston ISD teacher, Candace Booker, who took a break from teaching after six years, found the program to be a valuable space for rejuvenation and reconnection with her purpose.
“My sister wanted to attend meaningful trainings… that’s sort of how I did some research and found the Common Ground Institute,” Booker says. “It’s great talking to other teachers to see how they approach curriculum and lesson plans, as well as student engagement.”
Dr. Calandra Calton-Abdullah, an ELA and Visual Arts teacher with nearly two decades of experience, also finds value in attending the Common Ground Teachers Institute. “Teaching ninth grade English allows me to work with students early and watch them matriculate through high school, which is an incredible experience.”
This year’s institute focuses on the themes of home, identity, and scandal through literature. Participants will engage in discussions, writing exercises, and projects led by UH faculty to foster critical thinking and empathy in their students.
“Teaching is very hard work,” said Max Rayneard, coordinator of the Common Ground Teachers Institute. “It’s easy to lose sight of the passion that initially drew us to the profession. This program is dedicated to reigniting that spark.”