From Point to Purpose: Advancing Rural Education Through Partnerships with UWSP

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Description

UW-Stevens Point’s School of Education maintains a truly symbiotic relationship with rural school districts, not only due to our location in the state, but also because we value the service rural schools provide to their communities. In this session we’ll share how we work with rural districts throughout the state through student-centered programing, development opportunities, and field experience partnerships, including initiatives we’re hoping to expand into additional schools. We also hope to solicit feedback from district representatives about how we can better serve rural districts and address the challenges they are currently facing.

PRESENTER: Dr. Perry Cook - Professor of Science Education at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point

Dr. Perry Cook is a Professor of Science Education at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, where he has taught since 1994. He currently serves as the Director of the Harju Center for Opportunities in Education and has served as the Program Coordinator for the Elementary Methods Block Program for the past 25 years. Dr. Cook’s research focuses on learner motivation and the impact of COVID-19 on education. He co-leads the WInSTEP program, promoting student environmental research, and has advised several education-focused student organizations. A dedicated educator and leader, Dr. Cook is committed to preparing future teachers and providing opportunities, especially for diverse and first-generation students in rural communities.

PRESENTER: Jesse Mossholder - Associate Lecturer, School of Education, UW–Stevens Point,

Jesse Mossholder is an Associate Lecturer in the School of Education at UW–Stevens Point, where he teaches courses in classroom management, trauma-informed practices, and elementary social studies methods. A former K–12 teacher and first-generation college graduate, Jesse draws on personal experiences to support and mentor future educators. He leads the Full STEAM Ahead summer camp for elementary and middle school students, advises the Aspiring Educators student group, and helped design UWSP’s Trauma & Resilience graduate certificate. His research explores mental health literacy in teacher preparation and the role of SEL in STEM education. Jesse is currently pursuing his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership.