The Johnson County Teacher Retreat at Camp Ondessonk

In the heart of the picturesque Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois lies Camp Ondessonk, where the serenity of nature combines with the warmth of human connection. This year, this idyllic setting hosted the Johnson County Teacher Retreat, which brings educators and administrators from various regional schools together. The retreat aims to enhance the skills of these dedicated professionals, foster a sense of community, and provide a platform for exchanging valuable resources.

Purpose of the Teacher’s Retreat

The Johnson County Teacher Retreat is a vital annual gathering. Its primary purpose is to facilitate a collaborative environment where educators and administrators in Johnson County schools can engage in professional development, enhance their teaching skills, and forge stronger bonds within the local educational community. The retreat serves as a refreshing and rejuvenating experience, offering a diverse array of informative and engaging sessions.

One of the notable features of the retreat is its emphasis on outdoor education and ecopsychology. These themes encourage educators to incorporate the natural world into their teaching practices, fostering a deeper connection between students and the environment. The benefits of outdoor education are well-documented, and the retreat allows teachers to explore these concepts and gain practical insights.

Schools and Districts Represented

The Teacher Retreat welcomes over 80 educators and administrators from various schools and districts in Johnson County. Some of the participating schools and districts include:

• New Simpson Hill School
• Vienna Grade School
• Vienna High School
• Buncomb School
• Cypress School

The diversity of represented schools and districts ensures a rich exchange of ideas and experiences, making the retreat a melting pot of educational knowledge and practices.

Activities at Camp Ondessonk

Camp Ondessonk, with its sprawling natural surroundings and well-equipped facilities, provides an ideal backdrop for the Teacher Retreat’s activities. Educators engage in various sessions and outdoor activities designed to promote professional development and team-building. Some of the activities include:

Ecopsychology Sessions: These sessions explore the connection between psychology and the natural world, helping teachers understand how to incorporate outdoor experiences into their curriculum. The goal is to inspire students to appreciate and care for the environment.

Team-building: Team-building sessions, led by experienced facilitators, encourage participant collaboration and cooperation. These activities are not only enjoyable but also translate into more effective teamwork in the classroom.

Stop the Bleed Training: Teachers must be equipped with essential life-saving skills in emergencies. The “Stop the Bleed” training empowers educators to respond effectively in critical situations.

Camp Activities: The retreat offers the opportunity to partake in traditional camp activities, such as archery, climbing wall, and boating. These activities are fun and provide teachers with a fresh perspective on experiential learning.

The Johnson County Teacher Retreat at Camp Ondessonk is a testament to the dedication and commitment of educators in the region. It’s a platform that empowers teachers to enhance their skills, embrace outdoor education, and foster stronger bonds within the educational community. With the serene backdrop of Camp Ondessonk, this retreat promises to continue positively impacting Johnson County schools, ultimately benefiting the students and the entire community.

Click here to learn more about the Facilities and event Meeting Spaces at Camp Ondessonk.