Woodhaven-Brownstown School District teachers traded their classrooms for collaboration and creativity at Ed Camp 2025, the district’s annual professional development event that transforms learning into an interactive, personalized experience.
By hosting more than 50 dynamic sessions, including teacher-led workshops and wellness activities, the event empowered educators to choose their learning paths while fostering connections and innovative strategies across the district. Held at Woodhaven High School, this participant-driven model continues to redefine professional development.
This is the third consecutive year the professional development day has been in this format, where staff can choose the sessions they would like to attend based on their interests.
“WBSD staff are empowered to not only lead sessions but also participate in a wide variety of sessions that align with the district’s Strategic Plan,” said Joshua Satterfield, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum. “We understand all are in a different place in their professional development journey, and this format allows them to select exactly what they need to continue to improve their practice.”
WBSD is grateful for the time and talent of those who participated in leading groups of their peers as facilitators. Ed Camp would not be possible without the talented, dedicated staff who have shared their expertise with others.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of our staff who stepped up as presenters at Ed Camp 2025,” said Superintendent Mark Greathead. “Your leadership and willingness to share your expertise embody the spirit of collaboration and continuous improvement that drives our district forward. Additionally, thank you to everyone who actively participated in these sessions, demonstrating a commitment to your own professional growth and the success of our students. Together, we are shaping an extraordinary future for our community.”
With over 50 different sessions and topics to choose from, there was something from A-Z (Artificial Intelligence to Zumba - Brain Breaks in the Classroom). Some of the choices included: AI Tools for Secondary Teachers; Tier Two Instructional Strategies, Science of Reading in the Secondary Classroom; Canva for Beginners; Easy Parent Communication: Tips & Discussion; Importance of Crawling for Development and many more.
Many staff were pleased with the morning spent learning from their peers, and time in the afternoon at their buildings for more intimate learning from their professional learning communities, PLCs.
“It is always great to see what colleagues are doing in their classroom. It provides a time to think about how various ideas can be implemented in our classrooms. The time provided to learn some best practices that the "BEST" teachers are doing is awesome!” one staff member said.
Another praised the presenters for their knowledge of a particular subject matter.
“I attended the AAC session and I learned a lot of new information,” said one teacher. “The presenters were very knowledgeable in this area and they also gave resources to take back to the classroom.”
In between sessions, staff was able to visit the Wellness Expo, coordinated by the WBSD Wellness Committee. The committee invited local vendors whose businesses support its three pillars - physical, financial and social/emotional wellness - to participate in the district’s day of learning. Vendors showcased their businesses, thereby strengthening the connection between community and schools.
Thank you to the vendors who were present: Advantage One Credit Union, Be Well Nutrition, Bearclaw Coffee Co., Beyond Juicery and Eatery, The Big Salad, Community Focus Credit Union, Cycle Trip & Beyond Studio, Mighty Warrior Crossfit / MW 24, Rev'd Up Fun, Siegel Chiropractic, Smiles For Life, Sodexo Food Services, Tropical Smoothie Cafe and Your Money Line.
Staff who visited each of the vendor stations were put into a drawing for Amazon and Target gift cards, which were donated by MESSA. Congratulations to Laina Schumaker, Tim Baran, and Gina Gaglio who won the prizes.
