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1. Greenburgh CSD New Teacher Institute September 11, 2025-June 2, 2026 (EWTC)

Location: Woodlands HS/MS (Hartsdale, NY) - Innovation Lab

Audience: GCSD New Teachers

Dates: 9/11/2025 to 6/2/2026

Location: Innovation Lab

THIS CLASS IS ONLY OPEN TO NEW TEACHERS IN THE GREENBURGH CSD. All sessions will be held from 3:30 - 5:30PM at the Woodlands MS/HS Innovation Lab. The DATES are as follows: September 11, 2025 October 16, 2025 November 6, 2025 December 11, 2025 January 8, 2026 February 12, 2026 March 5, 2026 April 9, 2026 May 7, 2026 June 2, 2026 ***1.5 additional hours will be spent on assignments outside of our sessions. In order to receive the 1 in-service credit from EWTC you MUST attend ALL sessions and complete all assignments.

2. Google Suite "Master Class": The Hub -Accessibility, AI, & Integration, Thursday, May 21, 2026 from 3:30-4:30pm (EWTC)

Audience: Teachers, TA's

Dates: 5/21/2026

Location: Springhurst Elementary School

Starting Soon

This Professional Development workshop, which is only open to Dobbs Ferry teachers, teaching assistants and office staff, will equip you with the tools needed to become proficient in Google Workshop for Education, transitioning staff basic users to power users. The final session explores the cutting edge of educational technology by focusing on accessibility and efficiency. Participants will learn to use the "Read & Write" extension to support diverse learners and explore how the Gemini AI can assist in drafting lesson plans, parent communications, and high-level questioning. The session concludes with the creation of a "Gemini-Powered Lesson Bundle," complete with a custom QR code for easy student and staff access. All participants must bring a working, charged laptop.

3. EDPD 5130.01/Mastering the Teacher Evaluation Process: Effective to Highly Effective Teaching

Location: North Rockland High School (North Rockland HS, )

Dates: 5/28/2026 to 7/23/2026

In the words of Charlotte Danielson, "Teaching is complex work. It's a thinking person's job.” As a result of this course, participants will address and apply the themes of: equitable learning, high expectations, cultural competence, meeting the needs of all learners and student assumption of responsibility. Participants will identify highly effective practices around Danielson's "Framework for Teaching.” We will observe lessons to evaluate the four core areas of: Planning and Preparation, Classroom Environment, Instruction and Professional Responsibilities. To become highly effective in the teacher evaluation process, participants will develop teaching strategies to help their students to take ownership of their own learning. Based upon Robert Marzano's The Art and Science of Teaching, participants will design instructional strategies that help students to think more logically, effectively and independently. During input sessions, participants will learn to incorporate a variety of research-based strategies into their lessons. These strategies include: providing and communicating learning goals, using assessments, conducting "deep thinking” lessons, using engagement strategies, implementing rules and procedures, and building relationships. Required Readings: "Enhancing Professional Practice: A Framework for Teaching", by Danielson, Charlotte (2007) ASCD: Alexandria, VA.; "The New Art and Science of Teaching", by Marzano, Robert (2017) Solution Tree Bloomington, Indiana. If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information.

4. EDPD 5040.01 Responding to Literature with Power

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 6/1/2026 to 7/24/2026

In this course, students will understand how to construct, teach, and enhance writing responses to texts. They will learn how to implement a yearlong framework that will move students from simple responses to multi paragraph essays. Students will learn how to adapt their lessons to reach all learners. Finally, they will use the lessons taught to create a framework that is relevant to their particular students. Required Texts: "Better Learning Through Structured Teaching: A Framework for the Gradual Release of Responsibility", 2nd Edition Paperback, by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, 2013, Alexandria, VA ASCD; "Notice & Note Strategies for Close Reading", by Kylene Beers and Robert E Probst, 2013, New Hampshire, Heinemann. If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information. Course runs asynchronously from Jan. 22 - Mar. 28. Only start and end dates are listed. Note: Official graduate transcripts will not be available until the official end of the college semester.

5. EDPD 5017.01 Responding to Nonfiction with Power

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 6/1/2026 to 7/27/2026

This course will help participants teach nonfiction reading skills and strategies. They will use these strategies to help their students respond powerfully and creatively to nonfiction through written responses, arguments, discussions, research essays, and presentations. Students will learn how to adapt their lessons to reach all learners. Finally, they will use the lessons taught to create a framework that is relevant to their particular students. Required Texts: "Disrupting Thinking Why How We Read Matters. Scholastic", by Beers, Kylene, and Robert E. Probst, 2017; "Reading Nonfiction Notice & Note: Strategies for Close Reading", by Beers, G., and Robert Probst, 2013, Heinemann; "Nonfiction Matters: Reading, Writing, and Research in Grades 3-8. Stenhouse Publishers", by Harvey, S., 1998; "5 Kinds of Nonfiction: Enriching Reading and Writing Instruction with Children's Books", by Stewart, Melissa, and Marlene Correia, 2021, Stenhouse Publishers; "The Knowledge Gap: The hidden cause of America's broken education system-- and how to fix it", by Wexler, N., 2020, Avery, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC. *If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment on Service Hub. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information. Note: Official graduate transcripts will not be available until the official end of the college semester.

6. EDPD 5026.01 Foundations of Sensory Integration and Sensory Processing Disorders

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 6/2/2026 to 7/28/2026

This foundational course provides an in-depth exploration of the neurological and developmental underpinnings of sensory integration and sensory processing. Students will examine how the brain receives, organizes, and interprets sensory information and how these processes influence learning, attention, motor coordination, and behavior. Emphasis is placed on identifying typical versus atypical sensory processing patterns and understanding their impact on participation and performance across school, home, and community settings. Through evidence-based readings, case studies, and applied learning activities, students will analyze the sensory systems, explore sensory modulation and regulation, and connect theory to real-world applications. The course prepares educators, therapists, and related professionals to recognize sensory processing differences and to begin designing environments and supports that promote engagement, regulation, and success for all learners including those with autism spectrum disorder and related developmental conditions.*If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment on Service Hub. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information. Note: Official graduate transcripts will not be available until the official end of the college semester.

7. EDPD 5145.01 Enhancing Teaching with AI

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 6/3/2026 to 7/29/2026

Participants will engage in readings, discussions, case studies, and hands-on explorations of AI-powered tools. By incorporating historical and contemporary research, educators will analyze AI's potential to disrupt or reinforce systemic inequities and develop actionable strategies for equitable AI integration. A midterm assessment in Week 4 will allow educators to apply their learning by designing AI-infused lesson plans, while the final assessment will require participants to develop a comprehensive AI integration strategy for their classrooms. Through reflection, collaboration, and practical application, this course equips educators with the knowledge and skills to harness AI for meaningful, inclusive, and ethical teaching. If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information. Note: Official graduate transcripts will not be available until the official end of the college semester.

8. EDPD 5029.01 The Power of Book Clubs: Building Communities of Readers

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 6/4/2026 to 7/30/2026

This course is designed for educators seeking to implement, refine, or reimagine book clubs in their classrooms. Participants will explore both the theory and practice of student-led reading groups, with an emphasis on fostering deep comprehension, critical thinking, and authentic student voice. Teachers will investigate best practices for text selection, group facilitation, assessment, and equity in book club design. By the end of the course, educators will be equipped with the tools to create inclusive, engaging, and sustainable book club experiences that elevate student learning and build a strong community of readers. *If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment on Service Hub. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information. Note: Official graduate transcripts will not be available until the official end of the college semester.

9. Professional Development Mentor Program, Monday, June 29, 2026 from 9:00am - 3:30pm (EWTC)

Location: TBA (TBA, NY) - ZOOM

Audience: Teachers in Grades PreK-12

Dates: 6/29/2026 to 2/22/2027

Location: ZOOM

New

Whether you are currently a mentor teacher or would like to serve in this role in the future, this year-long program will provide you with the knowledge and expertise needed to become a skilled mentor. We will examine attitudes, skills, and components of a successful program and focus on teacher development, including how to guide, support, and nurture novice teachers. This Free course is only open to teachers from the Edith Winthrop Teacher Center of Westchester. In addition to the June 29th synchronous (Zoom) session (9:00-3:30), there will be two follow up synchronous (Zoom) meetings (4:00-6:00). The dates of the two follow up sessions will be determined at our first session on June 29th - one date will be in the October and the other in the February.There will also be an additional 5 hours of asynchronous course work. You must be present for all synchronous sessions and complete the 5 hours of asynchronous coursework in order to receive the full credit for this course.

10. Hybrid: Book Study: Unmasking AI: My Mission to Protect What is Human in a World of Machines, July 1 - July 28, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators or support staff who work with students in grades preK-12

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 7/28/2026

Location: Greenburgh CSD location TBD

New

Participants in this hybrid course will dive into the world of AI, especially looking at some of the potential risks and harms of AI. Participants will also explore the new AI Scope and Sequence for PreK-12. There will be 3 mandatory Zoom sessions on Tuesdays, July 7, 14, 21 from 10 am to 12 pm to discuss the book. Participants will be asked to complete online assignments after each session. Your camera must be on and you must be present on-screen at all times during the Zoom sessions. Participation in the Zoom sessions, including responding to prompts in the chat, is required to receive full credit for the course. Participants must purchase the book Unmasking AI: My Mission to Protect What is Human in a World of Machines by Joy Buolamwini before the commencement of the class. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

11. Online Book Study: Making MTSS Work For All, July 1 - July 28, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Grades K-12 Educators

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 7/28/2026

Location: Asynchronous

In this online book study, participants will examine the dynamics of a multi-tiered system of supports, become familiar with the framework and learn how to support students at all tiers through research based interventions. Based on the book, The Road to Success with MTSS: A Ten-Step Process for Schools by Tom Hierck and Chris Weber, and additional resources, participants will embrace MTSS's multifaceted approach which includes addressing academic, social- emotional and behavioral needs. Teachers, support staff and therapists will all learn how to support students in many domains through case studies, while reflecting on their own current practices in MTSS.PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

12. Online: Discussions and Questioning to Build Deep Thinking, July 1 - July 28, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators K-12

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 7/28/2026

Location: Online

This course may be taken for graduate or inservice credit. Since the two options are listed separately, please be sure to register accordingly. In this online INSERVICE course, participants will explore how to facilitate classroom discussions through engaging conversations, the role of teachers as coaches during this process and how best to provide a supportive classroom environment when integrating higher order questioning techniques. When we closely examine the value of student participation in small group discussions, we find that students are able to connect with each other's thoughts and opinions and are able to engage in higher level critical thinking. Critical thinking involves logical thinking and reasoning including the following skills: comparison, classification, sequencing, cause/effect, patterning, webbing, analogies, deductive and inductive reasoning, forecasting, planning, hypothesizing, and critiquing. We will examine the link between critical thinking skills and questioning techniques by taking an in depth look at Bloom's Taxonomy and the quote, "Maslow before Bloom.” At the end of the course, you will have the tools needed to transfer responsibility from yourself to your students to speak purposefully, think outside of the box and lead an effective and engaging classroom discussion. Participants will need to purchase the following required text to participate in this course - Walsh, J. A., & Sattes, B. D. (2015). Questioning for Classroom Discussion: Purposeful speaking, engaged listening, deep thinking. Alexandria, VA: ASCD. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

13. Online: Strategies for Reflective Teaching with 21st Century Technology, July 1 - July 28, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators in grades K - 12

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 7/28/2026

Location: Asynchronous/Online

This online course will equip K-12 educators with innovative strategies to improve their teaching practices through systematic self-reflection and integration of artificial intelligence (AI)/technology tools. Participants will explore methods for effective reflective journaling, utilize data and student feedback, and harness AI to enhance lesson planning and classroom management. Educators will engage in peer observations, technology-enhanced reflection, and develop actionable plans to refine their instructional approach. By the end of this course, educators will be adept at using reflection and technology to foster a more effective and fulfilling teaching experience. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

14. Online: Tech Bytes: Digital Resources to Make Your Lessons Pop, July 1 - July 14, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Teachers K-12

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 7/14/2026

Location: Online

Digital resources can increase students' motivation, classroom engagement and can be used with a wide variety of learners. In this online course, we will explore digital literacy resources, virtual field trips, interactive museums, and digital tools to enhance classroom instruction. Students will have access to these resources at any time and can set their own pace when working through activities. Teachers, with these digital (paperless) resources in their toolbox, can enhance their lesson plans while, at the same time, give students a chance to be creative and more actively engaged in the classroom. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

15. ONLINE: Empowering Educators with Magic School AI, July 1 - July 14, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: PreK-12 Teachers

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 7/14/2026

Location: Online

This online course is designed to provide PreK-12 teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills to seamlessly incorporate Magic School AI into their daily teaching practices. The course will cover how to use AI for lesson planning, assessment creation, differentiation strategies, and classroom management. Throughout the course, teachers will have opportunities for practical application, analyze realistic classroom situations, and create AI-integrated resources that are ready for immediate use. By the completion of the course, participants will be confident in their ability to leverage the diverse features of Magic School AI to improve their classroom instruction. By the end of this course, participants will be able to apply features in Magic School AI to enhance their teaching. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

16. Online: Ignite Learning with Strategies for Student Success, July 1 - July 28, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Grades K-12

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 7/28/2026

Location: Asynchronous/Online

Strategies for Student Success is a dynamic professional learning course designed to reignite educators' passion and equip them with practical, research-based strategies that spark engagement and improve student outcomes. Participants will explore high-impact instructional practices, inclusive strategies, formative assessment, and purposeful technology integration-with an introduction to ethical, classroom-ready AI tools that support planning, personalization, and feedback. Through reflection, collaboration, and hands-on application, educators will develop an Ignite Learning Action Plan that outlines strategies and digital resources you will use to sustain meaningful, student-centered learning. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

17. EDPD 5045.01/ Making MTSS Work For All (WTCI)

Location: Online (online, ny) - Asynchronous

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 8/7/2026

Location: Asynchronous

In this graduate level online book study, participants will examine the dynamics of a multi-tiered system of supports, become familiar with the framework and learn how to support students at all tiers through research based interventions. Based on the book, The Road to Success with MTSS: A Ten-Step Process for Schools by Tom Hierck and Chris Weber, and additional resources, participants will embrace MTSS's multifaceted approach which includes addressing academic, social- emotional and behavioral needs. Teachers, support staff and therapists will all learn how to support students in many domains through case studies, while reflecting on their own current practices in MTSS. Kindly Note that participants should acquire the book before the commencement of the class. Since this class is for grad credit level credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information.

18. EDPD 5050.01/Discussions and Questioning to Build Deep Thinking (WTCI)

Location: Online (online, ny) - Asynchronous

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 8/7/2026

Location: Asynchronous

In this online GRADUATE course, participants will explore how to facilitate classroom discussions through engaging conversations, the role of teachers as coaches during this process and how best to provide a supportive classroom environment when integrating higher order questioning techniques. When we closely examine the value of student participation in small group discussions, we find that students are able to connect with each other's thoughts and opinions and are able to engage in higher level critical thinking. Critical thinking involves logical thinking and reasoning including the following skills: comparison, classification, sequencing, cause/effect, patterning, webbing, analogies, deductive and inductive reasoning, forecasting, planning, hypothesizing, and critiquing. We will examine the link between critical thinking skills and questioning techniques by taking an in depth look at Bloom's Taxonomy and the quote, "Maslow before Bloom.” At the end of the course, you will have the tools needed to transfer responsibility from yourself to your students to speak purposefully, think outside of the box and lead an effective and engaging classroom discussion. Required Text: "Questioning for Classroom Discussion: Purposeful Speaking, Engaged Listening, Deep Thinking", by J. A. Walsh & B. D. Sattes, 2015, Alexandria, VA: ASCD. If you are taking for graduate credit and are not a student of Manhattanville, please contact Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for info on creating your account.

19. EDPD 5018.01 Using Technology to Engage and Inspire Diverse Learners (Differentiating with Technology)

Location: North Rockland High School (North Rockland HS, )

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 8/5/2026

Technology can increase teachers' capacity to support the learning of individual students with wide differences in their abilities to see, hear, speak, move, read, write, understand English, attend, organize, engage and remember. To do this efﬁciently and effectively technology should be carefully selected, purposeful planned and thoughtful implemented. Not all technology is useful for all students. Required Texts: "Integrating Technology in the Classroom: Tools to meet the needs of every student”, by Hamilton, Boni. (2018) (2nd Ed.) Washington DC: International Society of Technology in Education; "How to Differentiate Instruction in Academically Diverse Classrooms”, by Tomlinson, Carol Ann, (2017), Alexandria, VA, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. *If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment on Service Hub. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information. Note: Official graduate transcripts will not be available until the official end of the college semester.

20. EDPD 5032.01 Exploring the Path to K- 12 Leadership in New York- 1 credit course

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 7/1/2026 to 7/15/2026

This exploratory course is designed for educators interested in pursuing administrative certification in New York State. Participants will gain an overview of the roles and responsibilities of K-12 administrators, examine state requirements for certification, and explore the skills and dispositions needed to lead effectively. Through readings, case studies, discussions, and reflective activities, participants will assess their own readiness for leadership and identify next steps in their professional journey. *If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment on Service Hub. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information. Note: Official graduate transcripts will not be available until the official end of the college semester.

21. EDPD 5027.01 Intellectual Citizenship: Fostering Academic Excellence and Civic Readiness

Location: North Rockland High School (North Rockland HS, )

Dates: 7/6/2026 to 8/3/2026

Participants will analyze the critical link between high-rigor instructional practices and the development of civic-minded students-Intellectual Citizens. Drawing heavily on the WICOR (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, Reading) framework developed by AVID (Advanced via Individual Determination), participants will develop a toolbox of strategies and mindsets to cultivate the academic and civic habits of effective intellectual citizens, such as: listening with understanding and empathy, thinking flexibly and thinking interdependently. The course moves beyond traditional civics to focus on how students use high-level academic skills (Close Reading, Focused Note-Taking, Socratic Seminar) to become informed and active participants in local, national, and global communities. *If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment on Service Hub. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information. Note: Official graduate transcripts will not be available until the official end of the college semester.

22. EDPD 5028.01 The Teacher as Advocate: Leveraging Communication for Systemic Family Partnership

Location: Richard P. Connor Elementary School (Richard P. Connor ES, )

Dates: 7/9/2026 to 9/11/2026

This course moves beyond individual parent-teacher communication to focus on the teacher's role in systemic family advocacy and collaborative problem-solving. Grounded in Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CRSE) principles, participants will learn to use intentional, equity-centered communication to break down institutional barriers and facilitate improved student outcomes. Through analysis, collaboration, and protocol development, participants will create communication systems that promote belonging, clarity, and transparency for all families. If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information.

23. Hybrid: Book Study: Recent Children's Literature Award Winners 2026, August 3-16, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators or support staff who work with students in grades preK-12

Dates: 8/3/2026 to 8/16/2026

Location: Greenburgh Public Library 300 Tarrytown Rd.

New

Participants in this hybrid course will be asked to read and discuss various pieces of youth literature that are recent American Library Association (ALA) award winners. We will explore the Jane Addams Peace Awards and the Walter Awards from We Need Diverse Books. Throughout the class, we will discuss the various literature pieces and identify ways to incorporate these titles into classrooms or curricula. Participants will explore picture books, non-fiction texts, middle grade novels, and graphic novels. Please ensure you have access to these resources through your school, public, or virtual libraries. By the end of this course, you will have developed strategies for effectively integrating these books into your curriculum. There will be TWO MANDATORY IN-PERSON MEETINGS on Wednesday, August 5 and Thursday, August 6 from 10:00am - 2:30pm at the Greenburgh Public Library. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

24. Online: Kick off the Year with New Strategies, Improved Lesson Plans and Technology, August 3 - August 30, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Grades K-12

Dates: 8/3/2026 to 8/30/2026

Location: Online Only

Starting out a new school is always an exciting time " full of promise, new ideas and innovative strategies. In this online course, we will explore effective planning and organization strategies for the new school year. We will look at a variety of websites that can assist you in setting up, planning and transforming your classroom into places where differentiated, social emotional learning can take place. Parent and community involvement and technology integration are all essential components for setting the tone for the school year and will also be explored. At the end of this course, you will have the tools you need to begin the new school year with new and innovate ideas to enhance student learning. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

25. Online: Supporting Multilingual Learners: Instructional Strategies Across the Curriculum, August 3 - August 30, 2026 (WTCI)

Dates: 8/3/2026 to 8/30/2026

Location: Asynchronous

Multilingual learners bring valuable linguistic and cultural assets to the classroom. However, educators across all subject areas must be equipped with effective instructional strategies that support language development while maintaining rigorous academic expectations. This course explores practical approaches for supporting multilingual learners across content areas. Participants will examine strategies for scaffolding academic language, designing accessible learning tasks, and building inclusive classroom environments that support both language development and academic success. Through readings, case studies, collaborative discussions, and instructional planning activities, educators will explore methods for supporting multilingual learners in mathematics, science, social studies, and literacy instruction. Participants will also examine ways to strengthen partnerships with multilingual families and incorporate culturally responsive instructional practices that affirm students' identities and experiences. These strategies support multilingual learners in accessing rigorous academic content, participating confidently in classroom discussions, and demonstrating their understanding through meaningful academic tasks. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

26. Online: The Key to Conversation, Comprehension, and Assessment, August 3 - August 30, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: All Educators

Dates: 8/3/2026 to 8/30/2026

Location: Online

This course, which is a compilation of teaching strategies, comprehension techniques, and assessment practices, will introduce participants to learning through intentional lesson planning. We will begin the course by learning how to build conversations and create a safe environment where students are able to take risks and contribute to classroom conversations. In order to build comprehension, we will look at the course objectives and decide what we want the students to take away from the experience. We will explore the use of classroom questioning (and follow up) strategies, fiction and non- fiction book talks and design curriculum wide hands-on activities to improve student participation and comprehension. Exploring a variety of assessment strategies is a key part of the process. By implementing a backward design lesson plan, teachers can focus on the goals they hope to achieve, making their classroom time more intentional and their lesson plans more effective in the production of the desired result. The strategies and tools explored in this class can be applied to any curriculum and will enhance your current classroom tools. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

27. Online: The Magic of AI and Problem Based Learning (PBL), August 3 - August 30, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators in grades K - 12

Dates: 8/3/2026 to 8/30/2026

Location: Asynchronous/Online

Course participants will learn how to use Magic School AI to create PBL lessons that are meaningful to our students. We will discover how AI can revolutionize teaching and learning, specifically in creating PBL lessons that are aligned with our students' needs. We will explore AI principles, learn strategies for incorporating these technologies into the classroom, and master techniques for enhancing student engagement and critical thinking. As we dive into Project-Based Learning with AI integration, we will be able to foster collaboration and real-world problem-solving skills among students. At the end of this course, educators will have a PBL lesson tailored to the needs of their students which can be implemented into their current learning environments. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

28. Online: Student Engagement and Brain-Boosting Strategies, August 3 - August 30, 2026 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators in grades K - 12

Dates: 8/3/2026 to 8/30/2026

Location: Asynchronous/Online

Engage your students in meaningful learning experiences with practical, research-based strategies to boost memory retention and active participation. In this course, participants will explore effective methods for increasing student engagement through active learning techniques, motivation strategies, and classroom design. You will acquire hands-on experience with tools and activities that promote student-centered learning, track engagement, and foster a supportive environment. By the end of the course, you'll have a number of strategies to enhance student interaction and retention in your classroom. This class is perfect for educators looking to create dynamic, impactful lessons for their students. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

29. EDPD 5013.01 - Digital Tools to Support Meaningful Learning

Location: North Rockland High School (North Rockland HS, )

Dates: 8/3/2026 to 8/15/2026

Educators and support staff will become experts on using digital tools to communicate, create, collaborate and assess students. Participants will gain an understanding of Internet tools to create online resources, screencasting, assessments, online portfolios, communication options for students and parents, and how to maximize the learning environment to reach students through different learning mediums. No textbook is required for this course. Critical reading of assigned articles and supplementary materials are embedded throughout the course. If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must register with Manhattanville through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more information.

30. EDPD 5018.01 Using Technology to Engage and Inspire Diverse Learners (Differentiating with Technology)

Location: North Rockland High School (North Rockland HS, )

Dates: 9/8/2026 to 11/10/2026

31. EDPD 5021.01 - Response to Intervention (RTI): How to Ensure Success with Effective Instruction and Intervention

Location: North Rockland High School (North Rockland HS, )

Dates: 9/9/2026 to 11/4/2026

As a result of this course, participants will develop skills and strategies to reach struggling learners. This course will cover important aspects of Response to Intervention models. Participants will develop methods of evaluating students and pinpointing areas of academic difficulties. Students will utilize "Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports” (Blackburn & Witzel/2018) to identify struggling students and provide interventions before the application of special education services. Then, participants will develop a positive "mindset” to unlock the potential of all learners. (Dweck/2006) Further, participants will develop strategies to explicitly guide student learning through a systematic approach. Participants will develop a "tool box” of interventions that are responsive to the needs of all students, but particularly the needs of struggling students. In the words of Fisher and Frey/2010, "Teaching every child is hard work. With that hard work, though, comes a group of learners who are prepared to participate in society. This learning occurs in the classrooms of well-prepared teachers who are undaunted by student learning variations because they believe that each child is an individual and that individuals exhibit differences in growth due to many factors, including carefully selected instructional interventions.” This course will have a direct impact upon student learning. Teachers will walk away with a process of intervention that will make them more purposeful and effective. Required Readings: "Rigor in the RTI and MTSS Classroom", by Blackburn, B. & Witzel, B./2018; "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success", by Dweck, Carol/2006. If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville University through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more instructions.

32. EDPD 5010.01 - Cultivating Habits of Mind: Transforming Teacher and Student Mindsets to Improve Learning

Location: North Rockland High School (North Rockland HS, )

Dates: 9/10/2026 to 11/6/2026

Based upon the works of authors Arthur Costa and Bena Kallick, participants will learn and apply instructional practices to cultivate the "habits of mind” needed to be a successful student and citizen. These practices will assist teachers in not only teaching academic material but also instruct students in matters pertaining to social skills. The Habits of Mind include: persisting, managing impulsivity, listening with understanding and empathy, thinking flexibly, questioning and problem posing, gathering data through all senses, taking reasonable risks, finding humor, thinking interdependently and remaining open to continuous learning. In line with an educator's mission to educate the whole child, participants will develop strategies to develop these habits of mind. This topic is pertinent in all aspects of education; all educators have a shared responsibility to build powerful, life-long "habits of mind” with and for our students. Required Readings: "Learning and leading with habits of mind: 16 characteristics for success", by Costa, A. and Kallic k, B., 2008 Alexandria, VA: ASCD. If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville University through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for instructions.

33. EDPD 5020.01 - The Power of Formative Assessment

Location: North Rockland High School (North Rockland HS, )

Dates: 9/14/2026 to 11/23/2026

As a result of this course, participants will develop skills and strategies to formatively assess student learning. "Anyone who has ever played or coached a team sport understands the basic idea that ongoing assessment and adjustment are the keys to improved performance.” (McTighe, 2007). In this course, participants will engage in the process of ongoing assessment, feedback, reflection, revision and instruction. Participants will develop what Charlotte Danielson (2006) calls a "Habit of Mind” in which student assessments guide teacher instruction. The book Checking for Understanding by Douglas Fisher and Nancy Frey will be the guiding text. Course expectations include taking ideas from individual research, small group online discussions and whole group sessions to put ideas into action. Participants will be able to make an immediate impact upon their teacher and the learning outcomes for students in their classes. Required Readings: "The Power of Assessment for Learning: Twenty Years of Research and Practice in UK and US Classrooms", by Christine Ann Harrison & Margaret Heritage (2021) 1st Edition; "Checking for Understanding", by Fisher, D. and Frey, N. (2007); "Results Now", by Schmoker, Mike (2006). If you are taking this course for Graduate Credit, participants must also register with Manhattanville University through Instant Enrollment. Email Colleen Gill at cgill@rockteach.org for more instructions.

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