Class dismissed... let’s explore!

Since 2021, Dan Lynch, senior coordinator of the Arts in Education program for Erie 1 BOCES, has been flipping the script on traditional professional development. His philosophy is simple: field trips aren’t just for kids. From that vision, the Educator Hour series was born. These after-school field trips are designed for teachers to explore cultural, artistic, and historic sites across Western New York.

The goal? To build a community of innovative educators who come together to explore sites across the region and bring back new tools, insights, and connections to enhance student learning in the classroom. With nearly three dozen sites visited since its inception, Educator Hour has become a beloved, engaging professional learning model. “It’s the hottest ticket in town! As soon as the schedule of Educator Hours is posted, they’re all at capacity within a day or two,” says Lynch.

Each stop on the Educator Hour calendar offers more than just a break from the classroom. These experiences spark creativity, deepen content knowledge, and create authentic ways to connect students with real-world learning.

“It is a refreshing way to learn with colleagues,” said Faith Scott of Cleveland Hill Union Free School District.

Christina Rosch from Depew Union
Free School District added, “It inspired creative changes to my lessons and approach to education.”

Educators walk away not only with
lesson-ready ideas but with renewed energy and a sense of community. “Educator Hour is about more than visiting cool places. It’s about building a network of curious, inspired educators who bring the world back to their classrooms. When teachers feel connected and creatively energized, their students benefit tenfold,” adds Lynch.