UConn ECE Welcomes 290 Newly Certified Instructors: Celebrating Continued Growth

Posted on by

By Stefanie Malinoski

This spring, UConn Early College Experience marked a significant milestone by certifying 290 new instructors. Many existing instructors with UConn ECE chose to expand their certification to include new courses. Of those, 224 were brand new partners to UConn ECE and participated in New Instructor Orientation. These 224 teachers represented new certification in 242 courses. Orientation served as an energizing introduction to their roles as Instructors with UConn ECE.

The day-long orientation offered a comprehensive overview of the ECE program, led by Executive Director, Chris Todd and staff. Key sessions covered instructor responsibilities, student registration processes, engagement strategies, and the importance of aligning with NACEP (National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships) standards.

Mid-morning, instructors chose from three focused breakout sessions:

• UConn Instructional Resources:
Ery Caswell, Student Success and Engagement Librarian, showcased the breadth of UConn’s library offerings, while Educational Technologies expert Jordan Vinikoor provided a hands-on introduction to Blackboard Ultra, the university’s learning management platform.

• ECE Program Operations:
Carissa Rutkauskas and Todd Blodgett provided essential information on data reporting, syllabus submission, credit transferability, and grading procedures.

• Student Enrichment Opportunities:
Jessica Dunn and Bobbi-Jo Wathen highlighted the wide range of enrichment opportunities available through UConn ECE and Pre-College Summer; both programs designed to provide high school students with college-level experiences while still a high school student.

In the afternoon, discipline-specific breakout sessions gave instructors the opportunity to meet with their Faculty Coordinators and network with fellow newcomers, fostering collaboration and community. Over 40 of our UConn ECE Faculty Coordinators participated in this event. Supporting these connections is key to ensuring Instructors feel supported and ready to deliver UConn courses in their high schools this fall.

As the academic year draws to a close, the UConn ECE program is celebrating the success of its growing instructor network while staying focused on creating enriching opportunities for teachers and students across Connecticut.