You're invited to

the global press briefing of Connections that Matter by SMART Technologies.

Thursday, October 28th
11:30am ET - Kick off

Join to hear from the SMART Executive Team on the importance of Connections that Matter, for a dynamic global discussion from thought leaders around the globe, and to experience stories from schools around the globe on what Connections that Matter look like today.

The schedule:

11:30am ET:
Opening remarks from Jeff Lowe, SMART Technologies

11:35am ET:
Global Panel Discussion: A Global Look at Student Wellbeing

Innovation and Interconnectedness

Research tells us that strong connections between students and caring adults play a critical role in their academic and social emotional development. But, often, the global dialogue around education centers on curriculum and assessment -- and can overlook the noncognitive aspects of the classroom.

Join us for a discussion with experts, policymakers, and school leaders about the power of connection in supporting students’ wellbeing and academic recovery in the wake of the pandemic’s unprecedented disruption.

Moderator:
Sarah Cunnane, Learnit

Panelists:
Andreas Schleicher, OECD
Dr. Erin Baumgartner, HERC
Mervi Korhonen, City of Helsinki
Tej Samani, Performance Learning

12:15pm ET:
School Showcase - Connections In and Beyond the Classroom

Celebrating Connections that Matter In and Beyond the Classroom

Join Journalist Greg Toppo to explore Connection that Matter In and Beyond the Classroom with school leaders, including:

Dr. Shervita West-Jordan, Brandeis Elementary in Jefferson County, KY
Michael Meechin, NeoCity Academy in Florida
Dr. Mike Nelson, Calgary Board of Education
Ola Brorson at Thoren Framtid in Sweden
Tara Jones, Eaton Primary & GLUU

All attendees must be registered to attend. Register for your virtual seat now:

Global Panel Discussion

Global Panel Discussion: A Global Look at Student Wellbeing

Join us for a discussion with experts, policymakers, and school leaders about the power of connection in supporting students’ wellbeing and academic recovery in the wake of the pandemic’s unprecedented disruption.

Moderator

Sarah Cunnane, Content Director, Learnit

Panelists:

Andreas Schleicher, OECD
Dr. Erin Baumgartner, Associate Director, HERC
Mervi Korhonen, Head of Unit, City of Helsinki
Tej Samani, Performance Learning

School Showcase

School Showcase - Connections In and Beyond the Classroom

Join Journalist Greg Toppo to explore Connection that Matter In and Beyond the Classroom with school leaders, including:

Dr. Mike Nelson, Education Director Area 5 and Teaching & Learning with Technology, Calgary Board of Education
Dr. Shervita West-Jordan, Principal, Albert S. Brandeis Elementary School
Michael Meechin, Founding Principal, NeoCity Academy
Ola Brorson, English Teacher and IT Coach, Thoren Framtid
Tara Jones, Eaton Primary & GLUU

I think it [the pandemic] has shown how detrimental not having those connections can be. You don't realize how crucial the connection is until you don't have it anymore.

An eighth grade teacher in Oregon

The pandemic has taught me that even through a screen, you can connect with your students and have them connect with each other as well. It just takes a bit more effort.

A third grade teacher from New Jersey in a recent SMART survey

We were made for meaningful connections. Across oceans and cultures we've captured those connections that matter most to our community of learners and educators.