![\"Dr](\"https:\/\/ted.adventist.org\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/DSC_1941-Petrie-630.jpg\")
<\/a>The programme featured thought-provoking plenary speakers, such as Dr Kevin Petrie, former vice-chancellor and president of Avondale University, and Karen Holford, TED Women, Children, and Family Ministries director. Refreshingly, time for rest and relaxation was also scheduled, affording teachers the opportunity to enjoy unhurried conversations or leisurely walks. During her plenary sessions, Holford explored how to support the character development of children and foster healthy relationships. \u201cI tried to share how developing a character does not have to be a heavy, dreary thing, but it can be really fun,” Holford remarked. “Recognising and celebrating the children’s key character strengths can be so powerful and affirming!\u201d On the other hand, Petrie delved into the essence of strength and success from the perspective of a Christian teacher. Using a number of real-life stories, Petrie illustrated how a profound connection to Christ helps in becoming the best and most successful teachers.<\/p>\n Besides the plenaries, teachers had the opportunity to attend various workshops, covering topics ranging from “Adventist Risk Management in Education” with Melissa Oppermann to “Physical Exercise and Mental Health” by Dr Julian Melgosa. Attendees also explored subjects like “Influencing with Respect” by Nina Myrdal and “Antisocial Behaviour in Early and Teenage Years” by Ana Ivankovi\u0107, among many others.<\/p>\n On Saturday, after an insightful Sabbath School led by Ana D\u017auver, Dr Lisa Beardsley-Hardy, General Conference Education director, delivered the Sabbath sermon. She emphasising the importance of empowering young people to make a positive impact in the world. “Can we graduate students who dare to swim upstream?” Beardsley-Hardy pondered. “Counterculture begins with us, and it demands a transformation of the mind that only the Holy Spirit can bring.” She hastened to add that her words were “not a call to work harder, but an invitation to rest more,” relying on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and deep connections with one another.<\/p>\n During the Recognition Service on Saturday night, the commitment of long-serving teachers was celebrated. Teachers received pins for every five years of service in Adventist Education.<\/p>\n The ceremony highlighted the dedication of educators like Mrs Nancy H\u00e4ggblad (44 years), Mrs Grethe Trolsrud (44 years), Mrs Laura Osei (45 years), and Mrs Florence Allen, who received a standing ovation for her incredible 53 years of service. Commenting on her experience at the Convention, Allen said, \u201cI have been blessed! Being here together, meeting people from different cultures and speaking with them has been a blessing. When we leave, we shall be better teachers and educators because we are exploring together unity and growth in Jesus.\u201d<\/p>\n In his closing devotional, Daniel Duda, TED president, emphasised the crucial role of educators in shaping critical thinkers who can navigate an information-rich world. \u201cYour work is far from vain when you empower people. Empowerment is the ultimate test of education!\u201d said Duda, reminding teachers that their work holds eternal consequences.<\/p>\n Reflecting on the convention, Dr Kayle de Waal, TED Education director and event organiser, expressed how the event served as a catalyst for meaningful connections among educators. \u201cI have connected with some amazing teachers. Hearing how God is leading in their lives and how so many of them believe that they are where God wants them is inspiring.\u201d<\/p>\n Beardsley-Hardy reiterated the significance of such gatherings, describing them as \u201cessential opportunities for teachers to come together, share best practices, and find fellowship.\u201d She acknowledged the tireless efforts of teachers within the Seventh-day Adventist Church and emphasised that the convention provided an opportunity \u201cTo be refreshed and to rest. To be open to the rejuvenating forces of the Holy Spirit\u201d so that teachers may return to classrooms renewed.<\/p>\n Rating the Convention <\/strong><\/p>\n Deborah Smith, a dedicated Science Teacher at a state school, enthusiastically shared her thoughts on the convention, saying, “I’ve never been to a conference quite like this before. It’s truly lovely to have the opportunity to connect with other Adventist professionals in the education sphere, exchanging ideas and finding inspiration together.” Deborah particularly praised the fantastic workshops she attended, and being the education enthusiast she is, she humorously added, “As we often say in education, ‘What Went Well<\/em>\u2026’ and ‘Even Better If<\/em>\u2026’ Even better if would be perhaps more interactive activities in the workshops. And, since we are advocates of the Health Message, maybe some invigorating outdoor activities to complement our learning experiences.”<\/p>\n
\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/a>