The Power of Play – Reimagining Student Learning Through Joy and Discovery

MSAA Professional Development Workshop for Administrators, Teachers, Counselors, and Department Heads for Grades Pre-K-8 

The Power of Play – Reimagining Student Learning Through Joy and Discovery

As academic demands and standardized expectations increase, students are experiencing less time for play—yet research consistently shows that play is essential for cognitive, social, and emotional development. Far from being a distraction, play is a powerful tool for deepening learning, enhancing creativity, and building critical problem-solving and collaboration skills. This workshop explores the growing body of research on the role of play in brain development, engagement, and motivation. Educators will learn how to incorporate playful learning strategies across grade levels and content areas, creating classroom environments where curiosity thrives and students take ownership of their learning.

We will also share how our school brought this concept to life through Discovery Fridays—a monthly, play-based learning initiative designed to spark student interest, build community, and foster joyful exploration. Through student-led activities, hands-on projects, and cross-disciplinary themes, Discovery Fridays have reenergized both learners and teachers, proving that play and academic rigor can go hand-in-hand.

Participants will:

·         Examine current research on the cognitive, social, and emotional benefits of incorporating play into student learning

·         Explore practical strategies for integrating playful learning into daily instruction across content areas and grade levels

·         Learn how to design engaging, student-centered activities that promote creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking

·         Participants will gain insight into the implementation and impact of "Discovery Fridays" as a model for embedding play into school culture

When: Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 8:30 am to 11:30 am

Delivery Method: In-Person Workshop

Location: The MSAA Office, 33 Forge Parkway, Franklin, MA

Presenters: Playful Learning Advocates, Edward G. Molin Upper Elementary 

PD Hours: 3 in Content Area Supportive Learning Environments

Fees: Member $150 / Non-Member $205

MSAA Contact: Ethel Kawesa, ekawesa@msaa.net 

Tara K. Rossi | Molin Upper Elementary School

Tara K. Rossi is a veteran educator and transformative school leader with over 30 years of experience across urban, rural, and suburban districts, serving students from pre-K through high school. Now in her 14th year as Principal in Newburyport, MA, Tara brings deep expertise in creating trauma-sensitive schools, cultivating trust among staff, and building joyful, resilient school cultures that support both students and educators.

Jacquie Rousseau | Molin Upper Elementary and Nock Middle School
Jacquie Rousseau, a former high school Spanish teacher, transitioned into educational technology after designing a new middle school Spanish curriculum. This early experience ignited her interest in playful, tech-driven instruction. As a Technology Integration Specialist, she has supported teachers, taught digital literacy, designed professional development, and maintained engagement during remote learning. Now, she champions Playful Learning, advocating for the mindful use of technology to ensure joy, curiosity, and meaningful connection in education.

Rachel Hellman | Edward G. Molin Upper Elementary
Rachel Hellman is a school librarian with over 15 years of experience connecting people with stories and information in both public and school libraries. She champions learning environments that prioritize creativity, exploration, and choice, passionately helping students find their voice and the perfect book

Kristen Daigle | Edward G. Molin Upper Elementary
Kristen Daigle has taught STEM for over 12 years at Edward G. Molin Upper Elementary School. Her decade in under-resourced urban schools shaped her commitment to equitable, hands-on learning. Kristen's classroom focuses on inquiry-based STEM, fostering curiosity and critical thinking through real-world challenges and collaborative projects. She helps students become creative problem solvers, ready for a 21st-century STEM workforce