Build a Culture of Questioning to Transform Learning

Presented by Erin Mohr, Assistant Director of Elementary Education, Hamilton Southeastern Schools (IN); and April Smith, Lead Gifted and Talented Teacher for Elementary Schools, Orangeburg County School District (SC) Moderated by Teri Laliberte, Assistant Director of Professional Learning, Great Books Foundation Sponsored by The Great Books Foundation Learn more about earning a CE certificate and our accessibility features. What if the goal of your classroom instruction was to nurture a culture of questioning? Stepping away from the teacher-as-a-source-of-answers role gave our two presenters the opportunity to impact not only their students but also their collaboration with colleagues. Transform your classroom into an inquiry-rich environment where students and teachers engage in questioning to dig deeper, delve into texts, develop critical-thinking skills, and improve reading comprehension. This edWebinar will explore how structured, text-based discussion approaches can shift classroom dynamics, empowering both students and teachers to engage in meaningful dialogue, consider diverse perspectives, and explore complex ideas together. Rather than positioning the teacher as the sole source of knowledge, attendees will examine strategies that support collaborative, student-centered learning. Hear how two experienced educators have incorporated questioning and discussion-based practices into their instruction, and consider how these approaches can be adapted to support your own classroom goals. This edWebinar will be of interest to elementary and middle school teachers, school leaders, district leaders, librarians, curriculum coordinators, and literacy coaches. Erin Mohr is the Assistant Director of Elementary Education for Hamilton Southeastern Schools in Fishers, Indiana, bringing over two decades of experience in teaching, instructional coaching, professional development, and educational leadership. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Indiana University and a master’s degree in educational psychology with a concentration in gifted and talented studies from Ball State University. Committed to academic excellence for all students, Erin partners closely with principals and teachers to strengthen instructional practices and improve student outcomes. She has successfully led the implementation of Junior Great Books in 17 schools across Fishers and is especially passionate about teaming up with teachers to leverage the power of student thinking, deep questions, and evidence-based discussion. Erin and her husband, Hank, have three daughters, ages 17, 14, and 12, and two golden retrievers. She enjoys attending her daughters’ volleyball games, reading, cooking, the beach, playing golf, and being around kids! April Smith is the Lead Gifted and Talented Teacher for Elementary Schools in Orangeburg County School District. She has 26 years of teaching experience, including 25 years working with gifted and talented students. April