How can we go about converting top down approaches to professional learning to more relevant and engaging teacher centered sessions? What is the EdCamp model and how can it help structure professional learning opportunities to support teachers working with diverse groups of learnings? How can establishing relationships with community organizations help  schools better serve their students and staff? We discuss these questions and much more with Betsy Pegler, Administrator of Special Programs in the Rio School District in Southern California.

Pegler began teaching in 2007 in a neighboring district; one she had attended as a school-age child. She taught sixth, fifth, first, second, and fourth grade. By 2012, she was an administrator for expanded learning, after school programs, and supplemental educational services. Pegler also began her affiliation with Computer Using Educators (CUE, Inc) at this time and continues to serve as Director-at-Large for Gold Coast CUE, Ventura County CUE affiliate, as well as planning committee member for EdCampRio, EdCampVC, and Skoolcade, where she collaborates with local educational leaders and learners to inspire and share inspiring educational practices. She soon promoted to Assistant Principal and then transitioned to LA County as Principal in Canyon Country, Sulphur Springs Union School District, serving a richly diverse population.

“I always found Rio to be a place of exciting creativity, collaboration, and connections to learners and leaders within and beyond the community.” Pegler found a way to transition “home” with a position in the Rio School District. The past few years with Rio have connected Pegler with a very different model of learning, collaborative and flexible professional development, and rich community connections expanding beyond city, county, state and country perimeters.

Pegler holds a Bachelor of Arts in multiple subjects and Master of Arts in educational leadership from CSU Channel Islands. A Ventura County resident, Pegler is grateful to serve her hometown community and continue to champion for what needs to thrive in schools and communities.

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