On Sept. 28, Greenwood Laboratory School at Missouri State University was bustling with more than 450 educators. 

They had gathered for the Greater Ozarks Conference’s inaugural event, “Go Collaborate.” This event was a professional development day to strengthen connection and camaraderie among educators from seven schools in the new athletic conference.  

Besides Greenwood, the other schools are Billings, Crane, Marion C. Early, New Covenant Academy, Pleasant Hope and Spokane. 

Growing together 

Jimmy Casas, a former school leader for 22 years, best-selling author, speaker and leadership coach, gave the keynote speech at the event. Casas spoke about being genuine with students, having good intentions and maintaining resolve to be a good educator. 

Missouri State President Dr. Richard Williams and College of Education Associate Dean Dr. Reesha Adamson also spoke.  

“Go Collaborate” featured over 60 breakout sessions, covering topics, such as:

• Communication with stakeholders 

• Curriculum alignment 

• Departmental collaborations 

• Diversity and cultural awareness 

• Mental health 

• Politics in education 

• Reading success plans

Greenwood’s involvement 

According to Jeni Hopkins, assistant director of Greenwood Laboratory School, the event was inspired by the desire of teachers in the conference to build community with one another.  

She was happy Missouri State was able to help make the conference’s first event possible.  

“It was inspiring to see seven schools come together to share best practices and work in partnership as educators,” Hopkins said. 

Looking ahead, the College of Education hopes to continue its mission of fostering peer relationships, growth and encouragement through the Greater Ozarks Conference. 

Learn more about Greenwood Laboratory School