According to Wikipedia, etymologically, the word education is derived from educare (Latin) “bring up”, which is related to educere “bring out”, “bring forth what is within”, “bring out potential” and ducere, “to lead.”

When you love what you do it shows, regardless of whether you’re introducing a new participant to the sensation of sliding or guiding a seasoned expert to the best snow on the mountain. Engaged instructors capture the interest of their guest and cleverly weave an experiential blend of instruction that recognizes age, ability, mental state, motivation, physical condition, learning style, equipment choice and personal goals.

Trainers have the equally complex job of tailoring the education they deliver to instructors so that it meets the demands of the evolving snowsport guest. They also make it their goal to help you be your very best by building your confidence and providing feedback to help you develop. Most of us would agree that a great clinic is a mix of relevant content, participatory activities that give us some practical experience. It’s engaging and our clinician seemed to truly value our success.

To help address the complexities of our job and the diversity in our membership, this season we are launching the following events and resources:

• Ignite your curiosity and check-out the event schedule for cross over events that combine Nordic and Alpine skiing as well as an introduction to making the most of local cross country centers.

• Join fellow instructors at one of our new “Alumni Club” events and stay connected with like-minded folks from across the division.

• Take your skills up a notch at our Professional Development Camp specifically designed for level 3’s and resort trainers.

• Consider updating your library with National’s release of several new manuals and the revised National Standards for all disciplines.

• Visit the Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month website [skiandsnowboardmonth. org] and encourage your resort to take advantage of the free media toolbox that helps promote snowsports to the public.

• Stay tuned for the next phase of the More Fun Starts Here Campaign as divisions across the country hop onboard with Eastern’s Push for Public Awareness campaign. For more information go to: http://www.psia-e.org/eastern-division-push-forpublic- awareness/

Snowboard Rentals will be available on-site. Click here to register.

You can still sign up for our Spring Convention at Mammoth, April 17-19
EXAMS will be held in Mammoth April 20-22

Mammoth got new snow this week and conditions for conventions are looking to be great.

We are looking forward to great skiing, camaraderie, helpful clinics and most importantly lots of fun! Don’t forget to sign up for our night events:

• Friday we will Kick-Off the nightlife at Lakanuki in “The Village” at Mammoth. Ugly Sweater Contest, Laura Lindley Photography booth. Lakanuki provides a plentiful buffet of delicious food, and the discounts on drinks are the best in the area.
• Saturday will be 50’s theme at Mammoth Rock ‘n Bowl. Great food and fun.

Our website will remain the latest source of information:  Spring Convention/ Spring Snowboard Camp

Squaw Valley, April 17-19

This year’s Spring Convention offers fun entertainment events, great camaraderie and many exciting Alpine, Nordic, Adaptive, Children’s and Senior clinics as well as our first Spring Snowboard Camp. 

Be sure to find out more details about these events! 
Spring Convention/ Spring Snowboard Camp

Squaw Valley Ski and Snowboard School was awarded the 2014 “DEDICATION TO EDUCATION” AWARD at the annual PSIA/AASI-W Member School Symposium, Nov. 18 at Mammoth. The award was accepted by Dee Byrne on behalf of the staff at Squaw Valley.

The Dedication to Education Award recognizes a resort staff that:

• Creates a culture that says “we recognize excellence” in how we train our staff and support improving the quality of our instructors.

• Strives to retain a certified staff from season to season.

• Promotes and encourages their staff to obtain further education in order to give   top notch instruction to guests.

• Increases retention of instructors through recognition of their expertise and commitment to quality instruction.

• Facilitates teamwork and camaraderie among their staff.