Summer Institute for Authentic Learning and Leadership

Seven years ago, Belpre City Schools formally adopted its Portrait of a Graduate. Learn about Belpre's innovative professional development program that built educator capacity to create authentic educational units for all learners and create alignment within the system. Find out how that success led to the passage of the district's first capital improvement bond in sixty years, and get a sneak peak at what a building designed for 21st century teaching and learning can look like. 

Step into a learning experience that is truly out of this world, where community, creativity, and authentic learning come together in the Hastings Middle School Farmers Market. In this session, you will explore how a fully student-driven marketplace was designed, planned, and operated by sixth graders who took on real-world roles across planning, marketing, and finance teams.

While one group of students led the organization of the market itself, the remaining sixth graders launched their own small businesses designing, producing, and marketing original products to sell at their vendor booths. Others engineered and built interactive Kids Corner booths to engage younger visitors and families in meaningful, hands-on fun.

Rooted in our science curriculum, this project transforms learning beyond the classroom as students explain the scientific and agricultural principles behind their products directly to market patrons. The experience is further enriched by three stages of student performers, creating a vibrant community event that highlights student talent and school spirit.
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Throughout the process, students develop essential life-long skills, including problem-solving, communication, leadership, collaboration, and civic responsibility. This session will also highlight student and teacher reflections, sharing what worked, how challenges were overcome, and how each year’s iteration leads to deeper learning and growth.

We are excited to share how this entirely student-driven initiative connects to our school garden, student passions, and authentic career exploration. Participants will be invited to reflect, interact, and envision how they might cultivate similar meaningful, real-world learning experiences in their own schools and classrooms.