Catalog: Rockland/Westchester Teachers' Center Institute

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1. GREENBURGH CSD NEW TEACHER INSTITUTE September 22, 2022 - June 8, 2023

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

Audience: All grade levels

Dates: 9/22/2022 to 6/8/2023

Location: TBD

THIS CLASS IS ONLY OPEN TO NEW TEACHERS IN THE GREENBURGH CSD DATES AND TIMES: 3:30 - 4:30PM September 22, October 13, November 10, December 8, January 12, February 9, March 23, April 20, May 11, June 8, ***5 additional hours will be spent on assignments outside of our sessions

2. Online: ELL's Meeting the Academic Needs of English Language Learners April 10 - May 19, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Teachers in Grades K - 12

Dates: 4/10/2023 to 5/19/2023

Location: Online

English language learners present special challenges for teachers in today's classrooms. A successful ELL teacher learns to balance the language learning needs of the students with the appropriate content. The knowledge and skills students gain in ELL classes positively affect their lives at school and home. As the diversity of the United States increases, so too does the need for teachers of second language learners. Participants in this course will create lesson plans that incorporate strategies to reach ELL students. This class is appropriate for all K-12 teachers. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

3. Online: Gender Identity: Myths, Truths and Equity, April 10 - May 12, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators K -12

Dates: 4/10/2023 to 5/12/2023

Location: Online

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.

4. Online: Social Emotional Learning through Children's Literature, April 10 - May 19, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Elementary Educators K-6

Dates: 4/10/2023 to 5/19/2023

Location: Online - Asynchronous

Children need social-emotional skills to thrive both in the classroom and in life. Social-emotional learning can help students gain confidence, set goals, develop meaningful relationships, and overall navigate life more effectively. In this course participants will spend time learning about the five pillars to social emotional learning and look at how to teach and support students with these foundations through literacy. Course participants will watch short videos, read articles and explore various texts to share with students on the journey to becoming more mindful and confident. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

5. Online: Creating Trauma Sensitive Schools, May 1 - June 6, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: All Educators

Dates: 5/1/2023 to 6/6/2023

Location: Online Only

Many of today's students are living with chronic trauma including homelessness, poverty, child abuse, neglect and exposure to violence in the home and in their communities. These experiences can lead to serious behavioral problems, wreak havoc on their ability to learn, and stunt academic growth. One of the problems educators face is identifying the symptoms of trauma since children don't always express their distress in a way that is easily recognizable. In this online course, we will address the root causes of trauma, specific confusing behaviors children might exhibit and discuss next steps to create a school environment where all students feel safe and can flourish - rather than fail - in and out of the classroom. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
In recent years, our students' mental health has been affected more than ever. Between the pandemic and school shootings and violence, using social-emotional strategies has become an integral part of our classrooms. This course will provide you with the support you need to provide a welcoming, safe and comfortable classroom for your students. Participants will develop a toolbox of strategies to foster feelings of safety and security as well as lessons that establish emotional connections that can be incorporated into your classroom curriculum. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

7. EDPD 5040.01/Responding to Literature with Power

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 5/31/2023 to 6/28/2023

New
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", by Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, 2nd Edition Paperback. Alexandria, VA., 2013, ASCD; "Notice & Note Strategies for Close Reading", by Kylene Beers and Robert E Probst. (2013). New Hampshire: Heinemann. If you would like to take this course for Graduate credit and do not have an account with the college, please contact jmurray@rockteach.org for info.

8. EDPD 5036.01 - Restorative Justice: Effective Classroom Management Interventions and Solutions

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

Dates: 6/1/2023 to 8/3/2023

Based upon the book Better Than Carrots or Sticks by Dominque Smith, Douglas Fisher and Nancy Frey, participants will learn and apply restorative practices for effective classroom management. These practices will assist teachers in not only teaching academic material but also instruct students in matters pertaining to social skills. In line with an educator's mission to educate the whole child, participants will develop strategies to: hold individual conferences with students to address problematic behavior, move beyond the traditional use of rewards and consequences, and ultimately build a strong classroom climate through restorative practices. Required Readings: Smith Dominique, et al., Better Than Carrots or Sticks: Restorative Practices for Positive Classroom Management. Alexandria, VA: ASCD. 2015; Frey, Nancy et al., All Learning is Social and Emotional: Helping Students Develop Essential Skills for the Classroom and Beyond. Alexandria, VA: ASCD. 2019. *Final projects and reflections due online on Aug. 3. If you want to take this for graduate credit and don't have an account with Manhattanville, please contact jmurray@rockteach.org for more information.
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, June 11th. 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, June 11th from 10:00am - 1:00pm to participate in synchronous Part II of the workshop which will be held via Zoom.

10. EDPD 5130.01 - Mastering the Teacher Evaluation Process: Effective to Highly Effective Teaching

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

Dates: 6/22/2023 to 8/4/2023

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: Danielson, Charlotte (2007). Enhancing Professional Practice: A Framework for Teaching. ASCD: Alexandria, VA.; Marzano, Robert (2017). The New Art and Science of Teaching. Solution Tree. Bloomington, Indiana. *Final projects and reflections due online on Aug. 4. If you want to take this for graduate credit and don't have an account with Manhattanville, please contact jmurray@rockteach.org for more information.

11. Online: Discussions and Questioning to Build Deep Thinking, July 1 - July 28, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators K-12

Dates: 7/1/2023 to 7/28/2023

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 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.

12. Online: Work Hard/Think Hard: Principles of Effective Teaching, July 1 - July 28, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators K-12

Dates: 7/1/2023 to 7/28/2023

Location: Online

This course may be taken for either inservice or graduate credit. Since the two options are listed separately, please be sure to register accordingly. In this online book study, participants will develop their own use of the principles of effective teaching and develop a master teacher mindset through the examination of the best-selling text Never Work Harder Than Your Students by Robyn R Jackson. We will explore how to engage students in the heavy lifting of learning through the use of units of study, lesson plans, assessments, interventions and classroom management. With a focus on the quality of learning and not the quantity of work; teachers will become better equipped to lead their students on a voyage of self-discovery and acquisition of academic knowledge. At the conclusion of the course, participants will have a unit of study, lesson plan, assessment and action plan to help them put the principles into practice immediately and effectively, challenging their students to work hard and think harder. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

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

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 7/1/2023 to 8/4/2023

In this online 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. This course will run asynchronous online from 3/6-4/24/23. Only start and end dates are listed. If you are taking for graduate credit and are not a student of Manhattanville, please contact jmurray@rockteach.org for info on creating your account.

14. EDPD 5055.01/Work Hard/Think Hard: Developing a Master Teacher Mindset (WTCI)

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 7/1/2023 to 8/4/2023

In this online course, participants will develop their own use of the principles of effective teaching and develop a master teacher mindset through the examination of the best-selling text Never Work Harder Than Your Students by Robyn R Jackson. We will explore how to engage students in the heavy lifting of learning through the use of units of study, lesson plans, assessments, interventions and classroom management. With a focus on the quality of learning and not the quantity of work; teachers will become better equipped to lead their students on a voyage of self-discovery and acquisition of academic knowledge. At the conclusion of the course, participants will have a unit of study, lesson plan, assessment and action plan to help them put the principles into practice immediately and effectively, challenging their students to work hard and think harder. Required Texts: 'Never Work Harder Than Your Students: The Journey to Great Teaching', 2nd, by Robyn Jackson, Alexandria, Va: ASCD. 2018. This course will run asynchronous online from 7/1-8/4/23. Only start and end dates are listed. If you are taking for graduate credit and are not a student of Manhattanville, please contact jmurray@rockteach.org for info on creating your account.

15. Hybrid: Interactive Writing, July 5 - July 19, 2023 (WTCI)

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 7/19/2023

Location: Online

This hybrid course is designed to provide K-2 teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively integrate interactive writing into their classroom instruction. Topics covered will include: . The benefits of interactive writing for students' literacy development . Techniques for teaching writing conventions, such as capitalization, punctuation, and spelling through the use of interactive writing . Planning and preparation for interactive writing . Differentiating interactive writing to meet the needs of diverse learners . Participants will have opportunities to practice interactive writing strategies through hands-on activities and will receive feedback on their planning Meeting dates will be on Thursday, July 6 and July 13 from 7:00-8:30pm. All other assignments are self paced. Participants MUST ATTEND ALL SYNCHRONOUS SESSIONS TO RECEIVE FULL CREDIT FOR THIS COURSE. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
This hybrid course will provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan and implement interactive read alouds in the classroom. The course will cover the following topics: . The benefits of interactive read alouds for students' literacy development . How to select high-quality, engaging texts for read alouds . Techniques for actively involving students in the read aloud process, such as predicting, questioning, and summarizing . Ways to use read alouds to support the teaching of reading comprehension strategies . Participants will have opportunities to practice these techniques through interactive activities and will receive feedback on their read aloud planning. Meeting dates will be on Monday, July 10 and July 17 from 7:00pm- 8:30pm. All other assignments are self paced. Participants MUST ATTEND ALL SYNCHRONOUS SESSIONS TO RECEIVE FULL CREDIT FOR THIS COURSE. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

17. Hybrid: Using Graphic Novels to Support Culturally Responsive Education, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: 3-8 Teachers, Library Media Specialists, Counselors, ENL Teachers, Reading Specialists

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Hybrid

Participants in this course will learn how to utilize graphic novels to implement culturally responsive education. Ongoing professional learning and support is listed as one of the principles in the New York State Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Framework. This course will provide participants with an introduction to the CR-S Framework, an exploration into best practices in using graphic novels in the classroom, and will allow participants to read and identify graphic novels that could be incorporated into their curricula and/or libraries. By the end of the class, participants will feel comfortable teaching with graphic novels, identifying high quality, engaging graphic novels, and understanding how graphic novels can support culturally responsive education. There will be 3 Mandatory synchronous Zoom sessions on Monday, July 10, Monday, July 17 and Monday July 31 from 3:30-4:30 pm. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

18. Online: Autism Spectrum Disorder, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: K-12

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online

We have all heard the expression, "on the spectrum,” but what does it mean? What implications can it have for your classroom? In this online courses, participants will review the characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder. We will examine best instructional practices and methodologies and, at the end of the class, you will have the tools you need to enhance instructional practices for your students. This course is appropriate for all teachers K-12. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
In this book study, we will have a chance to examine the minds of behaviorally challenged students and school personnel to explore why children do not respond to antiquated disciplinary techniques and zero tolerance policies. During the course of this class, you will become familiar with the current Social Emotional Learning benchmarks. You will also have an opportunity to consider the value of a trauma informed, non-punitive and unilateral approach to reduce inappropriate behavior incidents. At the conclusion of the book study, participants will be able to use communication skills and proactive tools to model behavior that inspires collaboration to build productive relationships with students. Participants in this course may pick up the required book: LOST AT SCHOOL at the Teacher Center before the commencement of the class. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

20. Online: Bringing More Formative Assessment Into Your Classroom, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: K-12 Educators

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online

A teacher's use of formative assessment techniques is essential in ensuring he or she is meeting the learning targets for a unit. Teachers need to know "who knows what” before moving on. Formative assessment is nothing new - our teachers were administering formative assessments to us when we were in school many years ago. In today's digital world, we are lucky to have so many more tools to assist us in our formative assessments. Teachers in the class will review the research on formative assessment as well as explore dozens of instructional tools that can be used for formative assessments. Teachers will leave this course with concrete and easy to use examples for embedding more formative assessments into their lessons . PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

21. Online: Building a Classroom Culture of Resilience, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: K-12 Educators

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online Only

Have you ever wondered why some students seem to be able to push through anything that life throws at them, while others shut down as soon as adversity presents itself? Have you ever thought that if you could teach students to "not give up” and to "get back up when knocked down” that you could better reach your learning targets and goals in the classroom? This course will focus on Grit, Resilience, Stress Reduction, Trauma, Learning from Failure and Mindfulness in the classroom. Educators will have the opportunity to implement research based strategies and co-construct knowledge with their peers through interactive discussions. You will develop a full understanding of what it means to be resilient and how we can integrate strategies at both the classroom and building levels. This course is appropriate for all K-12 educators. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

22. Online: Close Reading, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online

This course will explore various strategies and examples of close reading techniques. We will look at classrooms using these strategies through video and through articles using Engage NY and the Teaching Channel as resources. To prepare our students for college and career readiness, we must provide them with the tools they need to read complex texts. To be able to do this, they must be able to "close read” a passage or a text, focusing on the author's purpose, the structure and the flow of the text. We must assign text dependent questions that require students to go back into the text to think about and understand what they are reading. Since the common core standards require that students provide evidence and justification when answering complex questions on the end of year state assessments, we must give them the tools they need to be proficient in this area. We will explore the EngageNY exemplars that model this process and use them as a springboard to help formulate close reading activities for our own classrooms. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

23. Online: Digital Citizenship, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators in grades K-12

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online

This online course is designed to help educators guide their students through the protocols and potential implications of social media and technology. We will delineate appropriate ways to use technology and share strategies in the classroom. We will examine the 9 Key P's of Digital Citizenship and how to teach these strategies to students. We will create posters, share lesson plans and explore various scenarios and how to respond to each one. We will be accessing two different tool kits using the Common Sense Media website that will help shape our lessons and will share free resources for our schools and districts. We will customize this information and create a comprehensive classroom plan. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

24. Online: Gender Identity: Myths, Truths and Equity, July 5 - July 26, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators K -12

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 7/26/2023

Location: Online

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.
Our consortium members will be given priority registration and non-consortium members will be waitlisted until one week before the course commencement date. If space permits, we will then enroll waitlisted teachers based on their date of registration. In this Free 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.

26. Online: Look Who's Talking: Accountable Talk in Your Classroom, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (EWTC)

Audience: Grades K-12 Educators

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online Only

Our consortium members will be given priority registration and non-consortium members will be waitlisted until one week before the course commencement date. If space permits, we will then enroll waitlisted teachers based on their date of registration. This Free online class is designed for teachers in every setting from Grades K-12. Look Who's Talking is an introduction to Accountable Talk. Accountable Talk refers to the ways that teachers skillfully encourage their students to think deeply, articulate their reasoning, and listen with purpose. Talking with others about ideas and work is fundamental to learning and is an essential skill in the Common Core Learning Standards for every grade. But not all talk sustains learning. For classroom talk to promote learning it must be accountable--to the learning community, to accurate and appropriate knowledge, and to rigorous thinking. Accountable talk uses evidence appropriate to the discipline (e.g., proofs in mathematics, data from investigations in science, textual details in literature, documentary sources in history) and follows established norms of good reasoning. At the end of this course, teachers will be able to effectively incorporate Talk strategies into the classroom. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

27. Online: Navigating the NYS Computer Science and Digital Fluency Standards, July 5 - July 19, 2023 (EWTC)

Audience: Educators K-12

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 7/19/2023

Location: Online

New
Our consortium members will be given priority registration and non-consortium members will be waitlisted until one week before the course commencement date. If space permits, we will then enroll waitlisted teachers based on their date of registration. In this Free online course, teachers will develop an understanding of the structure and content of the NYS Computer Science and Digital Fluency Standards. They will understand the guiding principles and lenses with which the standards were developed and how that relates to student learning. Teachers will also have an opportunity to explore and reflect on ways the standards can be met and implemented into their classrooms.

28. Online: Practical Resources for the Efficient Teacher, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: All Educators

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online only

Enhancing technology is mandatory in today's classroom and provides your students with the rigor and skills they need to be successful in college and in their careers. We will explore sites that will help you plan your math lessons, motivate hard to reach students and carry out science and language arts projects across the curriculum. Sites will be selected based on your grade level and specialty areas. At the end of this course, these sites will help simplify the time spent on lesson planning, will increase student engagement, will enhance parent communication and will provide a guideline for the current standards.. We will examine sites such as GoNoodle, Figment, Remind, Storyboarding, Discovery and explore at Teacher's First resources.PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

29. Online: SEL: I Know It's Important But How Do I Fit It All In?, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (EWTC)

Audience: Educators grades K-12

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online

Our consortium members will be given priority registration and non-consortium members will be waitlisted until one week before the course commencement date. If space permits, we will then enroll waitlisted teachers based on their date of registration. Are you finding it difficult to incorporate social and emotional learning (SEL) into your content-rich classroom? This Free online course is designed to take a deep dive into social-emotional learning, the core competencies that surround it and how to embed these competencies into your academic lessons. By the end of this course, teachers will feel more confident and successful in their quest to embed the principles of social-emotional learning into their own teaching practices within any content areas. You will begin to see it not as one more thing to add to our already full plates, but rather something that enhances the content and creates a safe and engaging learning environment for all. This online course is designed for teachers in every setting/content area from Grades K-12. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

30. Online: Teaching the Exceptional Child: An Introduction to Special Education, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (EWTC)

Audience: Teachers in grades K-12

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online

New
Our consortium members will be given priority registration and non-consortium members will be waitlisted until one week before the course commencement date. If space permits, we will then enroll waitlisted teachers based on their date of registration. This course is designed for all teachers in the general education setting (K-12) who wish to gain an overview of the special education process. Teaching the Exceptional Child: An Introduction to Special Education was developed with the general education teacher in mind who is looking for an understanding of how to best support the varied learning abilities in one classroom. By the end of this course, participants will be able to navigate through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), understand their role in a Committee of Special Education (CSE) meeting, describe the history of Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), identify and dive deeply into the 13 classifications of disabilities, all while collaboratively evaluating scenarios to best educate the exceptional child. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

31. Online: Technology Generation, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI))

Audience: Classroom teachers in grades 2-12

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online Only

In this online course, we will explore the most recent advancements in technology and how they can be integrated into the classroom curriculum. We will examine Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) and create engaging learning experiences that focus on both science and social studies. We will experiment with the top math sites and develop corresponding lesson plans that will make learning concrete for our students. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

32. Online: The Key to Conversation, Comprehension, and Assessment, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: All Educators

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

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.

33. Online: Wake Them Up! - Motivating Lessons, July 5 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: K-12 Educators

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Online

We have all been there - we've prepared a great lesson, developed a "hook” to keep students engaged and ready to learn, only to see student interest fizzle out as the lesson progresses. Keeping students actively engaged in the learning process is a critical component of lesson planning. Throughout this course, we will explore strategies for "hooking” students and keeping them engaged in the learning process that can immediately be incorporated into your lesson plans. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
In this book study, participants will examine how they can build resilience and reclaim their peace in and outside of the classroom. We will take a close look at the causes of teacher burnout, as well as remedies to counteract the rigorous demands of the profession. Participants must purchase Sarah Frost's book, The Teacher's Guide to Self-Care; Build Resilience, Avoid Burnout, and Bring a Happier and Healthier You to the Classroom. We will discuss her strategies to become happier and healthier through creating Self Care Calendars, positive affirmations, meditation, and how these, and other strategies, can be applied in and out of the classroom. The Teacher's Guide to Self-Care will help you create the self-care routines you need for a sustainable career, leaving the teacher-martyr complex behind and embrace a lifestyle that includes taking care of yourself, while continuing to make a difference in the world. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

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

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

Dates: 7/5/2023 to 8/2/2023

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, purposefully planned and thoughtful implemented. Not all technology is useful for all students. Required Text: "How to Differentiate Instruction in Academically Diverse Classrooms", 3rd Edition, by Carol Ann Tomlinson. If you would like to take this course for Graduate credit and do not have an account with the college, please contact jmurray@rockteach.org for info.
In this Online course, participants will examine what exactly is "executive functioning,” how it manifests itself in student behaviors and what teaching strategies can be used to accommodate students who struggle with these skills. Executive function affects a child's ability to understand speech and process auditory information. The impact that this can have on a student is profound. How often do you have a student ask you to repeat something or have a delay in answering your questions? Their classwork, homework, test grades, comprehension, and retention all suffer when they struggle with executive functioning. A student who has trouble processing incoming information or directions will give answers that seem odd or not even related at all. Teachers in this course will dive deep into specific, immediate actions they can take to enhance their students' functioning on academic and non-academic tasks. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

37. Hybrid: Recent Children's Literature Award Winners, July 19 - August 2, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators in grades 3 - 8

Dates: 7/19/2023 to 8/2/2023

Location: Hybrid

Participants in this hybrid course will be asked to read and discuss various pieces of youth literature that are recent ALA award winners. This course will focus on the Caldecott, Geisel, Coretta Scott King Awards and Illustrator, Pura Belpre Award and Illustrator, and Newbery Award winners. We will spend time identifying ways to incorporate these titles into classrooms or curricula. We will explore picture books, non-fiction texts, middle grade novels, and graphic novels. Participants will need to have access to various books either through their school library, public library or virtual libraries. Throughout the course, we will be focusing on various literature pieces and strategies and, at the conclusion of the course, you will be able to incorporate these books into your curriculum. In addition to the six asynchronous hours, there will be 3 Mandatory In-Person Meetings at the RJ Bailey School from 10:00am - 1:00pm on Monday, July 31, Tuesday, August 1,and Wednesday, August 2. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
Our consortium members will be given priority registration and non-consortium members will be waitlisted until one week before the course commencement date. If space permits, we will then enroll waitlisted teachers based on their date of registration. In this online book study, participants will learn about the Personal & Authentic Framework which solidifies the "what” and the "how” in creating the types of learning experiences that impact a lifetime. With the learner at the center, and held together by relationships and a culture for learning, the various ways in which teachers can make learning personal and authentic can be amplified. These include: Social-Emotional Learning; Culturally Responsive; Moments of Awe; Relevant & Contextualized; Interests, Passions, & Strengths; Creation & Design; Flexible Pace & Path; and Authentic Feedback. Supports for the process include the spaces in which children learn and the tools in which they use, both of which either amplify or hinder the learner. All participants must purchase the book before the start of the course. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
Our country's diversity and demographics have changed what our classrooms look like. We all encounter students that have limited English, and we need to differentiate instruction to meet their needs. In order to meet academic success, this population needs to make linguistic gains in order to begin to master course content. Participants will work with evidence-based practices and instructional intervention strategies to improve language skills for this population.PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

40. Online: Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), August 2 - August 30, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: K-12

Dates: 8/2/2023 to 8/30/2023

Location: Online

APD is a disorder affecting a person's ability to understand speech and process auditory information. The impact that this disorder can have on a student is profound. How often do you have a student ask you to repeat something or have a delay in answering your questions? APD can have an impact on their classwork, homework, test scores, comprehension and retention. A student who has trouble processing incoming information or directions will give answers unrelated to the questions. In this online course, we will focus on what APD is, diagnosing APD, distinguishing differences between APD and other disorders, and treatment for APD. At the course conclusion, you will have strategies to modify your classroom teaching and compensatory strategies to allow students to become more successful in the classroom. This class is appropriate for all K-12 teachers. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

41. Online: Brain Based Learning and Student Engagement, August 2 - August 30, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators K-12

Dates: 8/2/2023 to 8/30/2023

Location: Online

In this online course, we will explore the human brain and examine how it works. We will discuss the most up to date theories on how students learn and how best to engage them in the classroom. We will look at how to incorporate group work and peer collaboration in the classroom to foster engagement and how to give students the opportunity to take the lead while still adhering to specific curriculum guidelines. At the end of the course, each participant will be asked to share a classroom plan that delineates specific strategies and lesson plan ideas that will put their students in the center of learning. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

42. Online: Creating Independent Problem Solvers, August 2 - August 30, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators in grades K - 12

Dates: 8/2/2023 to 8/30/2023

Location: Online Only

Fostering deeper thinking and greater understanding promotes increased engagement in the classroom. In this online course, we will examine question formulation and exploration as key parts of the problem solving process. In the real world, students will not have access to all the information they need to solve problems - they will be required to sort, decipher and gather it themselves. As class participants, you will focus on all curriculum areas and explore the best problem solving practices in math. Authentic challenges will be introduced as we look at problem solving in action and how your students can think and problem solve outside of the textbooks. With the tools you provide them, students will be able to work out solutions to complex problems that will lead to enhanced student learning and increased student engagement. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
English Language Learners (ELLs) need to have access to K-12 curriculum and be able to achieve the same level of success as their English speaking counterparts. This course prepares teachers to effectively understand ELLs' backgrounds and to differentiate their instructional approach. By providing the skills to differentiate their instruction through multiple modalities, this course gives a practical, classroom ready application of new learning to improve instructional practice. This course is appropriate for both regular and special education educators. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

44. Online: Engagement and Empathy in the Virtual Classroom, August 2 - August 30, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: Educators in K-12

Dates: 8/2/2023 to 8/30/2023

Location: Online Only

During these unprecedented times, teachers are being asked to assume the role of Virtual Educator. Since this is, for many, including teachers, students and parents a new way of teaching, it is important to have the requisite tools to effectively engage students. This course will explore how to create virtual groups to host morning meetings and how to teach online in a meaningful way. We will learn about screen overload and social and emotional learning disconnect and how teachers and parents can recognize the signs. We will look at a myriad of google classroom strategies, live zoom and google meet activities and apps that can help teachers and parents support the students. At the end of the course, participants will have numerous strategies, classroom activities and online assessment tools to effectively teach in a remote environment. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
In this course, we will unpack effective and practical executive functioning strategies that can have a positive effect on our students' school experiences. Executive functions control and regulate cognitive and social behaviors like controlling impulses, paying attention, remembering information, planning, organizing time and materials, and responding appropriately to stressful social situations. Students have the potential to develop executive functioning skills and, by exploring which functions they need, educators can offer support in a variety of different ways. We will address challenges with time management, organization, self control and consequences of impulsive behavior. Through structure, strategies, and classroom support, executive functioning can have a positive effect on student learning and personal growth. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

46. Online: Growth Mindset, August 2 - August 30, 2023 (WTCI)

Dates: 8/2/2023 to 8/30/2023

Location: Online Only

In this online course, teachers will focus on building students' growth mindset capacity. Teachers are often aware of the concepts behind mindsets but have not looked at their lessons and teaching techniques in relation to this concept. Teachers in this course will develop methods for reflecting on their current practices and materials in a manner that will assist their students in growing this essential capacity. Present research and best practices will be evaluated and strategies utilized to improve student learning outcomes in the classroom. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

47. ONLINE: Managing ADHD and LD in the Classroom, August 2 - August 30, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: K-12

Dates: 8/2/2023 to 8/30/2023

Location: Online Only

All teachers have come across a student in their class with either ADHD or a Learning Disability.This course will give teachers an opportunity to examine current research geared towards helping all teachers work effectively with students with ADHD and learning disabilities. Teachers will understand the impact of ADHD on a student's performance, the difference between male and female students with ADHD and, at the conclusion of the course, will have a number of instructional strategies to implement in their classrooms. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

48. Online: Students at the Center of Learning, August 2 - August 30, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: K-12 Educators

Dates: 8/2/2023 to 8/30/2023

Location: Online Only

Twenty first century learners must know how to be critical thinkers. We will examine ways to refocus our teaching so students can become more active learners. In turn, we can become more effective facilitators: empowering our students to find their voices and demonstrating their understanding and knowledge of the subject at hand. We will examine our current teaching styles and reflect on ways to start making changes. We will also look at our assessment tools (e.g. Flubberoo) which have some flaws, making it hard to gain information on critical thinking. Instead we will create meaningful assessments that will effectively measure student learning. At the end of this course, you will have a better understanding of the components of a student-centered classroom and the tools you need to put it into practice. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.
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.

50. Online: The Key to Conversation, Comprehension, and Assessment, August 2 - August 30, 2023 (WTCI)

Audience: All Educators

Dates: 8/2/2023 to 8/30/2023

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.
In recent years, our students' mental health has been affected more than ever. Between the pandemic and school shootings and violence, using social-emotional strategies has become an integral part of our classrooms. This course will provide you with the support you need to provide a welcoming, safe and comfortable classroom for your students. Participants will develop a toolbox of strategies to foster feelings of safety and security as well as lessons that establish emotional connections that can be incorporated into your classroom curriculum. PLEASE NOTE: The institute cannot refund a participant once the class has commenced.

52. Professional Development Mentor Program, 9:00 - 3:30 August 28, 2023 + 2 Follow-up Dates 4:00pm - 6:00pm (EWTC)

Location: TBA (TBA, NY) - Room TBD

Audience: Teachers in Grades K-12

Dates: 8/28/2023 to 3/21/2024

Location: Room TBD

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 and the Teacher Center of Central Westchester. In addition to the August 28 synchronous session (9:00-3:30), there will be two follow up synchronous meetings (4:00-6:00). The dates of the two follow up sessions will be determined at our summer session - one date will be in the Fall and the other in the Spring.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.