In this online course, we will explore the issues surrounding gender identity and the use of proper pronouns. Using the correct pronouns will help students feel safe, comfortable, and respected in the classroom. We will discuss the distinction between sex and gender and how we can make positive changes in the classroom to eliminate any harassment and bullying. We will also design specific strategies, share resources and discuss how to conduct successful parent teacher conferences while respecting confidentiality. At the conclusion of this class, we will be better prepared to support an individual's gender identity and life experiences and to provide our younger generation with a safe, inclusive and non threatening classroom environment. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

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.

In this online book study, participants will examine how to identify early clues of dyslexia and look for clues in older children and adults. Participants will understand how dyslexia is diagnosed and identified, and what and how a sound multi-sensory word study program can best support dyslexics. Based on the book, Overcoming Dyslexia by Sally Shaywitz, M.D., teachers will develop an understanding of the identification and best instructional methodologies and practices of teaching students with this reading disability. Sally Shaywitz is an expert scientist and pediatrician who leads the field in dyslexia research. Through case studies and evaluations, join us as we begin to uncover the world of dyslexia. Participants will need to purchase the SECOND EDITION of the book prior to the course commencement date. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

Participants will develop a thorough understanding of instructional strategies that meet the needs of all learners. Participants will work collaboratively to develop strategies "to reach out to individual learners at their varied points of readiness, interest, and learning preference." This quote from Carol Ann Tomlinson will serve as a guiding principle of the course. Course participants will develop curriculum adaptations and instructional strategies that are responsive to the individual needs of all students. Specifically, participants will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively differentiate curriculum and instruction in the classroom. Participants will develop the "big ideas" associated with curriculum designs. Then, participants will analyze and apply methods of differentiating products (content), process (instruction), and product (assessment). Required Readings: "How to Differentiate Instruction in Academically Diverse Classrooms", by Tomlinson, Carol Ann. (2017). 3rd Edition. *Final projects and reflections due Dec. 7. If you are taking for graduate credit and do not have a non-matriculant account with the college please email jmurray@rockteach.org for more details. College registration is required.

In accordance with Article 2 Sections 10-18 of the Education Law, all applicants for Certification in NYS registered programs are required to complete six clock hours of Training in Harassment, Bullying, Cyberbullying and Discrimination in Schools: Prevention and Intervention (DASA Training). This workshop will be both asynchronous and synchronous. The first 3 hours will be provided through Google Classroom (a Google invite will be provided). You will need to join using a personal Gmail account. The asynchronous portion will consist of a self-directed module based approach that will ask candidates to review the background and some of the laws associated with the DASA, timelines and concrete concepts. The modules will include both free responses and multiple-choice quizzes to ascertain your understanding before a certificate for Part 1 can be issued. You will have four days to complete the first 3 asynchronous hours. This 3-hour session must be completed prior to Part II which is on Sunday, November 5th. Part 2, also a 3-hour time frame, will dive deeper into the strategies and reporting procedures as well as proactive mechanisms for tracking, reporting, and preventing bullying and harassment in the educational/school environment, including cyber bullying. All participants must be available on Sunday, November 5th from 10:00am - 1:00pm to participate in synchronous Part II of the workshop which will be held via Zoom.