Empowering Emerging EdCamp Leaders

7th Grade EdCamp 2016

In December, a wonderful, spirited group of 8th grade educators organized the first ever EdCamp for students at John Adams Middle School. Although staff had participated in something similar through professional development opportunities throughout the school year, the December opportunity was the first of its kind for students. Students and staff alike commented that this was hands down the best experience of the year! With that in mind, the 7th grade team decided they'd like to try their hand at organizing an EdCamp and this time, it would be co-facilitated by student experts!

Rock Band

The day began with a pancake breakfast. It was heartwarming to see the willingness of 8th grade student volunteers interested in serving breakfast to their 7th grade peers. It was also interesting to witness the observations of those volunteers when it came to manners. At one point, 8th graders reminded some of their younger friends to say please and thank you! The 8th graders would pause before handing out a plate, anticipating the "thank you" that should follow the exchange.

After the breakfast, 8th grade student experts and teachers went to specified session locations for any needed set-up. Because this was the last day of classes before spring recess, the excitement in the air was already present but the addition of EdCamp provided even MORE of everything...excitement, energy, entertainment, etc.

Outdoor Survival 

With over a dozen sessions from which to choose, students made selections in advance. The offerings included 3D printing, Forensics, Rock Band, Space, Dance, Fitness, Firefighting & Rescue, Origami, Archery, Photography/Videography, Cooking, Acting, Mad Science, Coding, Outdoor Survival, Military, Pharmacy, and Orchestra.

JAMS students weren’t the only co-facilitators for the day’s events; Edison High School students also joined the EdCamp by offering their expertise in the Forensics sessions. Watching the collaboration between students was great; watching the excitement and confidence of the emerging leaders as they led their peers through a topic of which they felt invigorated and alive was JAMazing!