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PSMLA News - 09/06/16

PSMLA News Update

Read below for information about the PSMLA Fall Conference, a PSMLA membership deal, the MEAD Scholarship, a survey and job openings.

PSMLA Fall Conference – October 13-15, 2016

Have you registered yet for the PSMLA Fall Conference?  Come join us at the Ambassador Banquet and Conference Center in Erie and earn hours toward Act 48. This year’s theme is Languages: The Flagship to Opportunities. The conference begins on Thursday with a Pre-Conference Workshop:  “Using Integrated Performance Assessment (IPA) to Improve Instruction and Learning” conducted by Dr. Bonnie Adair-Hauck. Many sessions are planned for Friday and Saturday on a variety of topics, from pedagogy, technology, assessment, classroom activities, and much more for educators from Kindergarten through Post-Secondary. There is something for everyone, including sessions in the target language. New this year: Retirees may attend the conference at the presenter rate. The Schedule of Sessions is on the website. There is also an Optional Winery Tour planned for Friday after the conference.  Advance registration is necessary for the winery tour. Be sure to register for the conference prior to September 16, 2016 to take advantage of lower Early-bird rates.  Book your hotel room before September 12, 2016 to use the PSMLA Code for a reduced rate.  Visit the new PSMLA website at psmla.org to learn more and to register for the conference and the optional winery tour.

PSMLA Election Reminder

Shortly after midnight September 1, 2016, you should have received a ballot via email from Election Buddy.  Voting is done by clicking the link in the email.  Choose three of the four candidates.  Balloting ends at midnight on September 15, 2016. You must have a valid email address on the PSMLA website in order to vote. Please check your email and make sure you have received the ballot. If you haven't received it in your inbox and don't see it in your spam/junk file, please email our webmaster at: webmaster@psmla.org

Special Membership Deal

PSMLA is offering a special membership deal for both new and current members. Renew your membership or join now with a three-year membership for just $95. The normal rate is $50 for one year, so this is a significant savings. The opportunity to take advantage of this offer is currently open and will expire on January 31, 2017. It does not matter when your current membership expires. You can renew your membership now for the next three years at the special $95 rate. Please visit the PSMLA website at psmla.org to learn more about PSMLA and the numerous benefits of membership.

Sans, Inc./Mead Leadership Program

Educators of all languages at all levels are encouraged to apply to this program, designed to identify potential leaders in education and to support the development of their potential. Scholarship recipients will participate in the upcoming Northeast Conference in a program designed by NECTFL to foster leadership for the profession which includes registration for the conference, lodging, and invitations to special conference events.  Applications must be submitted through PSMLA by December 1st. See details at http://www.psmla.net/mead-leadership

Survey from PSMLA Member Devon Browne

Greetings, word language colleague!

I hope this email finds you enjoying a great beginning of the school year. I'm writing to ask a favor: I'm preparing a presentation on supporting LGBTQIA+ students in world language classes. As a colleague who has perhaps worked with queer and trans students, would you please consider sharing your thoughts on the linked survey? I know you're busy. Brief answers are totally fine and expected!!!  All responses are anonymous. Please consider passing this along to world language colleagues in other schools! Here is the link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XRKKYL8

Thank you in advance!

Job Openings

The Agnes Irwin School seeks an experienced, dynamic, and creative part-time (80%) Lower School Spanish Teacher for the 2016-2017 academic year.  Candidates should have proficiency in the language, and first-hand experience living and/or studying in a Spanish-speaking country. They should enjoy working in an academic environment with colleagues who value collaboration, as well as independence, in teaching and learning. Candidates must apply for this position by using the following link to an online application: http://www.schoolspring.com/job?2709738 The Agnes Irwin School is actively recruiting candidates in accordance with diversity plans, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


The Board of Education of the Jim Thorpe Area School District is accepting applications for a Spanish Language Teacher. Interested individuals may submit an application with full resume and letters of reference to the Office of the Superintendent, 410 Center Avenue, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229. Questions please call 570-325-3691, or email the high school principal, Mr. Thomas Lesisko, at tlesisko@jtasd.org.


Loyalsock Township School District anticipates having a Spanish teaching position. Applicants must possess valid certification in Spanish. Vast content knowledge and a strong background in standards-based education, instructional design and delivery, assessment techniques, and classroom management required. Apply online at www.loyalsocklancers.org. The application deadline is September 16, 2016.