School of Education Hosts Educators from Across the Pittsburgh Region for Reimagining Higher Ed, Remake Learning Events

As hundreds of educators from across the greater Pittsburgh region settled into the PNC Theatre at Point Park University's Pittsburgh Playhouse, four talented dance majors delivered a striking performance ahead of Remake Learning's annual assembly for local educators and innovators. 

At any other venue, the dance routine could have seemed out of left field, but at Point Park, it made perfect sense as the University's School of Education became the first in Pennsylvania to launch a master's degree in Pre-K through 12 dance education last year. Two of the evening's dancers, Ayana Davis and Grace Schmader, are enrolled in the program, while dancers Hailey Gamet and Julia Dominquez are pursuing master's degrees in PreK-4 education at the University. Their high-energy performance set the tone for an evening of celebrating the innovations that make Pittsburgh's education community distinctive.

In addition to hosting the event for Remake Learning, a free peer network, Point Park also hosted an event that day for the Reimagining Higher Education PreK-12 Partnership, a collaboration focused on improving the overall experience for education students and better preparing them for their future careers. 

"Bringing these events to campus was quite an honor," said Linda Hippert, Ed.D., an associate professor of education who leveraged her network to secure Point Park as the host location. "Working in the PreK-12 field as a school superintendent and executive director of Allegheny Intermediate Unit 3 for many years prior to coming to Point Park, I had the opportunity to be part of the initial development of Remake Learning as it evolved from a small group of individuals to the globally recognized network it has become today."

In the Q&A below, explore event highlights and hear from Dr. Hippert and others in the School of Education about how the events reaffirmed their passion for education. 

Linda Hippert, Ed.D.

Associate professor of education and coordinator of the superintendent letter of eligibility program, M.Ed. in Secondary Education and M.Ed. and M.A. in Learning, Design and Technology

What did it mean to you to host these two inspiring events on Point Park’s campus? 

As a proud member of the School of Education faculty, I am always thrilled to have so many individuals from the field – many with whom I have worked with and continue to do so – come to our campus to see first-hand the cooperative, collaborative and committed professionals with whom I have the opportunity to work. Those who visited our campus had the opportunity to see the dedication to excellence that permeates our School of Education and the University.

When this opportunity arose for the School of Education, we were surrounded by support. President Chris Brussalis, Provost Michael Soto, the Pittsburgh Playhouse staff, our conference and events team, the food service team, technology and media services and other schools, supported this initiative. They all went out of their way to extend hospitality to our guests and showcase our commitment to excellence. Not only am I proud to be part of this amazing group of individuals, but I am quite proud for others to see what I so often share as the uniqueness of Point Park University.

What did you enjoy the most about each event?

I always enjoy reconnecting with friends whom I have not seen for a while, as well as interacting with those whom I see regularly, knowing that we are all committed to continually improving education in our region and beyond. Being with individuals who share a common vision is motivating and inspiring and is never taken for granted. I value each and every moment!

What makes Point Park’s School of Education a valuable partner in the region’s education community?

Undoubtedly, Point Park's School of Education is well-recognized throughout Pennsylvania as a leader in preparing teachers, principals, superintendents and other educational leaders. Our graduates hold positions in public, private and charter schools, as well as other education-related fields. Learning and collaborating with others in the region allows our voice to be heard and our contributions to be recognized. We enjoy and value the opportunity to be a partner in our region’s education community. 

Kristen Misutka, Ph.D.

Assistant professor of education and coordinator of the M.Ed. in Reading and Literacy, M.Ed. in Teaching and Leadership and Reading Specialist certificate program

What were your key takeaways from the Reimagining Higher Ed event?

For me, education has always been about developing relationships: relationships with students, families and colleagues. The Reimagining Higher Ed event reinforced this idea for me in terms of working with colleagues. We gathered in small groups to share ideas during the event. I worked with two superintendents, a professor from another university and two colleagues from Point Park during this workshop, and our discussions were positive and creative and made me excited about the future of education. The overall feeling we walked away with is that we all need to work together to solve the teacher shortage in Pennsylvania. It is all about collaboration, not competition! 

What inspired you at the Remake Learning event?

There are so many amazing people in this world who are working hard every day to improve the lives of children and their families. Everyone should have the opportunity to develop a love of learning, and Remake Learning creates those opportunities for children and their families. 

Were there any cool ideas or approaches you took away from either event that you’re excited to share with your students?

There are so many, but the discussion around AI is something that I would like to incorporate into our Technological Literacy course. The presenters made the connection to the beloved Mister Rogers Neighborhood and how Fred Rogers embraced television and used it to reach and teach millions of children. If we as an educational community take the same view of AI, we will hopefully be able to use AI to improve learning for all! 

Courtney Parrish '25

Elementary Education major with dual certification in Special Education  

What did you most enjoy about the Remake Learning event?
It was a great experience, and it was cool to meet so many people with different backgrounds, yet they all connected through a common passion for education. It was interesting to see the presentations different organizations shared, how many students they have connected with and how they have made a difference in their lives. I also appreciated seeing how widespread Remake Learning's programming is and how many places they have traveled to globally.

As an aspiring educator, what did it mean to you to have access to this type of event?
Prior to this event, I didn't know about Remake Learning Days, which is their annual learning festival that takes place at all kinds of schools and educational institutions all over the world. As a future educator, it was awesome to gain an understanding of this impactful programming and make connections with the people who have been involved. I networked with so many different people and expanded my knowledge and awareness of what is possible for my future in teaching. 

What do you love about Point Park’s School of Education?
I love the community! I have made such great connections with my classmates and professors. It is reassuring to know there are people who care about my future. The faculty and staff have also worked with me as a transfer student to ensure I am able to graduate in a timely manner. 

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