EdCafe prepares for real-world learning conference

EdCafe, a grassroots professional learning organization based in Springfield, will host a mini-conference July 17 focused on real-world learning and preparing students for success in the workforce.

The seven-hour event starts at 9 a.m. at the Efactory, 405 N. Jefferson Ave., and sessions are available in person or online.

Haylee Anderson, who started EdCafe with an event in summer 2021, said at least 60 people have signed up and there is room for more.

She said EdCafe initially provided short professional development sessions, primarily for educators, that brought together teachers and others from area districts.

“It gained traction and word of mouth. This is the fifth summer and for the last four summers, we’ve been doing one-hour sessions one day of the week throughout the month of July,” Anderson said. “This is the first summer that we’ve tried the full conference. We are trying something new.”

The cost is $10 to participate virtually and $15 to attend in person with lunch included.

Anderson assembled the EdCafe team including Sue Smith, Amy Patillo and Cynthia Collins in collaboration with the University of Missouri’s eMints program, Missouri State University, Missouri Works Initiative, the University of Missouri Extension in Greene County and the city of Springfield’s Workforce Development and Economic Vitality Department.

Anderson said EdCafe partnered with school districts in Springfield, Ash Grove, Clever, Nixa and Republic along with the Greater Ozarks Cooperating School Districts and the Success-Ready Students Network.

The event includes keynote speakers, breakout sessions, panels, workshops and roundtables highlighting the following:

● Real-world learning and career-connected education

● Apprenticeships as a workforce training model

● Innovative hiring practices and talent pipelines

● Entrepreneurship, agriculture, healthcare and emerging career options

● Workforce trends and future skills needed

Jeanette Westfall, a longtime educator, will provide the opening keynote about why real-world learning matters. State Rep. Betsy Fogle, D-Springfield, will deliver the closing keynote on workforce innovation and student success.