Summer study experience

Faculty professional growth at Poly
Each year, Poly teachers have an opportunity to apply for a grant award to travel internationally during the summer as part of the school’s faculty professional growth program. In July 2012, Upper School French teacher Armelle Webster attended the Battle Conference in Normandy, France, where she immersed herself in Norman medieval history and culture.

The Battle Conference focuses on the politics, art, religion, and architecture of the 11th and 12th centuries. “Because the new AP French class is now based on real material—knowledge of history, art, and current issues in Francophone society—the trip to France was an important opportunity to refresh my memory and understanding,” Webster noted. “Since my students at Poly are aware that I spend my summers doing research, traveling, and reading, I think it sends a powerful message that learning is a lifelong endeavor and that passion for a subject is limitless.”

Faculty enrichment projects like this help keep Poly teachers on the forefront of their disciplines, thanks to generous philanthropic support from Poly endowment donors. Webster agrees, adding, “I am very grateful to the school for helping me experience such a rich and memorable time in Normandy.”
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