20th NIDA English Teaching Market Conference: A Celebration of Education in Rural Poland

The picturesque town of Stare Jablonki, nestled in Poland’s scenic landscape, played host to the 20th NIDA English Teaching Market Conference, a 3-day event sponsored by the Polish-American Freedom Foundation. This conference was a beacon of dedication and passion for English education, drawing over 200 enthusiastic teachers from villages and towns with populations of 20,000 or less.

The atmosphere was charged with excitement and camaraderie as educators from all corners of rural Poland gathered to share their experiences, challenges, and innovative teaching strategies. It was an honor to meet these dedicated professionals who play a crucial role in shaping the future of their communities through education.

One of the highlights of the conference was a raffle, which awarded a lucky teacher the opportunity to attend the 33rd IATEFL Poland International Conference in Gdansk. This prestigious event will provide the winner with unparalleled access to the latest trends, resources, and networking opportunities in the field of English language teaching.

The conference also provided a platform to meet with other sponsors who are actively involved in educational projects across Poland. These collaborations are vital in fostering a supportive network that enhances the quality of education in rural areas. The exchange of ideas and resources among sponsors is set to yield significant benefits for the educational landscape in Poland.

Furthermore, IATEFL Poland, along with the US State Department’s RELO Program, are formulating plans to conduct 1-day training sessions across Poland. These sessions are designed to reach NIDA members and provide them with valuable professional development opportunities. This initiative underscores a commitment to continuous learning and support for teachers, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge needed to excel in their roles.

The 20th NIDA English Teaching Market Conference was more than just a meeting; it was a celebration of the collective efforts to enhance English education in rural Poland. The event underscored the importance of community, collaboration, and continuous professional growth in the journey towards educational excellence. As the conference concluded, attendees left with renewed inspiration and a strengthened sense of purpose, ready to implement new ideas and strategies in their classrooms. It was an honor to serve as representative alongside IATEFL Poland Secretary Joanna Leszkiewicz and spread the word about IATEFL Poland to a wider base.

Rob Howard

IATEFL Poland President