TL;DR:
- Connect broadly: Engage with the entire RCA staff for diverse insights and networking opportunities, beyond just the founders.
- Bond with students: Interact with RCA students, share experiences, and join in-house activities for a deeper connection.
- Embrace the culture: Explore Atlanta’s culture, participate in RCA events, and prioritize being fully present during the visit for a meaningful experience.
This summer, I had the pleasure of attending the two-day RCA EXP at the renowned Ron Clark Academy (RCA) in Atlanta, Georgia. Having admired Ron Clark’s educational philosophy since my days at Michigan State University, this visit was a dream come true. Join me as I share my top five tips for anyone considering a visit to this exceptional institution.
From each conversation, I gained new strategies and classroom partnership ideas and expanded my professional network while also honing my personal branding and public speaking skills. Click To TweetTip #1: Connect with the entire staff at RCA.
Every staff member at RCA adds a unique perspective to the academy’s excellence. While Ron Clark and Kim Bearden are remarkable educators and leaders, engaging with the entire RCA team provides valuable insights into teaching, learning, culture, and climate. From each conversation, I gained new strategies and classroom partnership ideas and expanded my professional network while also honing my personal branding and public speaking skills.
Cheryl Graff with RCA staff member, Dustin Ecker.
Cheryl Graff with RCA staff member, Kirk Brown.
Cheryl Graff with RCA staff member, Yolanda Boyd.
Cheryl Graff with RCA staff member, Carrie-Jo Wallace.
Cheryl Graff with RCA staff member, Susan Barnes.
Tip #2: Bond with RCA students.
Interacting with the students was a highlight of my RCA experience. We bonded over lunch, discussing the best U.S. pizza city, and sat in classrooms together engaging in captivating lessons. Their pro tips for exploring Atlanta and becoming Slide Certified at RCA added to the excitement. Joining the house system on day two of the RCA Experience further deepened my connection with the students, as we learned cheers and enjoyed friendly competitions against the other RCA houses.
Tip #3: Engage with RCA parents and alumni.
RCA’s success stems from dedicated staff, students, and involved parents. Throughout the event, I connected with parents and alumni, learning about their unique experiences and the school’s welcoming environment.
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Tip #4: Embrace the culture of Atlanta and The Ron Clark Academy.
Take the time to explore Atlanta’s vibrant culture and attractions before the RCA Experience begins. I arrived early to experience museums and local cuisine, enhancing my RCA visit. Attend day-to-day sessions and embrace networking opportunities, like the inclusive “Tacky Prom” event, showcasing RCA’s community spirit.
Cheryl Graff at the National College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, Georgia creating an original video using the College Game Day green screen.
Cheryl Graff at the National Center For Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta, Georgia.
Cheryl Graff at World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, Georgia.
Cheryl Graff at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia.
Cheryl Graff in the Midtown neighborhood located in Atlanta, Georgia.
Cheryl Graff at Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta, Georgia.
Cheryl Graff with RCA Co-founder and Teacher, Ron Clark at the Tacky Prom event.
Tip #5: Experience the journey, not just the photos.
Though RCA offers picturesque spots for photos, prioritize being fully present during live lessons and workshops. Engaging with staff and educators enriched my experience. Definitely capture a-ha moments and happy interactions with RCA staff and students, but focus on immersing yourself in the RCA experience.
In conclusion, attending RCA marked the end of my six years of teaching and the beginning of my seventh with renewed passion. I’m immensely grateful to my administration team for granting me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If you have the chance to visit RCA, seize it! The connections you’ll make and the inspiration you’ll find in the field of education are truly invaluable.
Cheryl Graff pictured with Executive Director, Teacher, and Co-founder of RCA, Kim Bearden.
Cheryl Graff in front of the entrance to Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia.
Cheryl Graff pictured with RCA Co-founder and Teacher, Ron Clark.
Cheryl Graff pictured with RCA Co-founder and Teacher, Ron Clark.
About Cheryl Graff
Cheryl Graff is a Special Education Teacher in Chicago, IL. She is a Google Certified Trainer, a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, an ISTE Certified Educator, and an ambassador for Wakelet, Book Creator, Pear Deck, Nearpod, Buncee, Kahoot, and Microsoft Flip. Recently, Cheryl was featured as an outstanding remote learning educator in the Kaufmann Foundation’s publication titled 2020 Uncommon Voices. She is one of ten teachers in the United States to receive the 2021 Robert G. Porters Scholarship from the American Federation of Teachers for her outstanding community and union involvement. Additionally, Cheryl is a recognized musical theater and opera singer throughout the Chicago area.
