Catalog: Rockland/Westchester Teachers' Center Institute

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1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Online: Increasing Student Engagement Through Project Based Learning (4/26/23-6/8/23)

Location: Online Only (Online, )

Dates: 4/26/2023 to 6/8/2023

As educators, we want our students to be successful in the chaotic world outside of our classroom. To develop the skills necessary to succeed in a workplace environment, it is important that we focus on instilling and honing those skills now so that students can thrive after their schooling years. But how do we do this? Through PBL, or Project Based Learning. PBL weaves the 4C's (cooperation, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity) with curriculum to guide students through a journey of exploration and discovery in a format that is timely, relevant, and appropriately challenging. Participants of this course will explore the rationale behind PBL, the correlation between PBL and motivation and engagement, different ways of implementing PBL, and specific research based practices to successfully carry out PBL in your own classroom. If you are ready to transform your classroom teaching and level up this school year for yourself and your students, then this course is for you! This course is an asynchronous course delivered via Google Classroom. A rockteach email address will be provided to participants in this course.

The research-based strategies and skills utilized in this course will enable educators and parents to help students build effective relationships, and work through life's challenges in constructive and ethical ways.Through these efforts they will be able to will enhance school climate, make a difference in the lives of their students, change the fabric of their classroom communities and impact systemic change in their districts.

The 15 hour online course will enable participants:

-to internalize and role-model the behaviors and attitudes they expect of their students

-educate, involve and gain the support of all constituencies

-in creating a school culture that focuses on developing emotionally intelligent student leaders

Participants will be provided with the opportunity for an independent inquiry, learning in cooperation with others, and reflective practice. By participating in these activities, participants will enhance professional dialogue and effectively blend different, innovative, and practical strategies for implementation. As a result, participants will design a toolbox of research-based strategies that will serve as resources for integration into the fabric of their school community.

Social Work CEUs provided by Rockland BOCES - $25 fee paid directly to Rockland BOCES.This course will be delivered via google classroom. Registrants will be provided a Rockteach email address to participate. Dates listed are start and end dates. The course is available 24/7.
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This fun and engaging 15 hour online course offered by a Google Certified Educator is designed to provide information and examples of various Google tools available to enhance the learning experiences of different learners. Participants will explore Google Earth, Google Docs (collaborative presentations, spreadsheets, documents and forms) Google Apps and Google SketchUp. Examples of how these tools can be integrated with different subject areas that are aligned to national and NYS standards will be shared. To complete this course, participants will create online collaborative materials, mini project and develop a plan to implement Google tools into their curriculum to promote learning in a 21st century environment. Participation in discussions, sharing of ideas and feedback is important, enlightening and promotes professional growth. Grade Level K-12. Course is available 24/7 from the start date to end date.

7. Online: Yogapalooza: Teaching Kids Yoga and Mindfulness with Confidence (4/26/23- 6/8/23)

Location: Online Only (Online, )

Dates: 4/26/2023 to 6/8/2023


This 15 hour course, which includes implementation and practice, will provide the tools to bring engaging kids yoga and mindfulness content into your classroom. Even if you can't touch your toes or don't have a yoga mat, you can be skilled and confident sharing yoga with children. With hours of engaging videos, colorful handouts, accompanying classroom favorites for kids yoga, mindfulness activities and the information on development, safe yoga pose techniques and class planning, this is a complete online training for early childhood teachers who want to incorporate the benefits of yoga and mindfulness into their classroom.

If you're concerned about the emotional toll this world is having on your students (and yourself) this is a magic wand to create calm. This course is self-paced. Instructor Bari Koral is an internationally recognized kids yogi and recording artist with over 20 years of experience working with young children and thousands of educators. Dates listed are the start and end date. The course is available 24/7

8. Strategies for Teaching ELLs (4/26/23-6/8/23)

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 4/26/2023 to 6/8/2023

This 15 hour course, which will run through Google Classroom, is designed to prepare educators to teach English Language students using a variety of strategies. This course will include learning how to evaluate authentic ENL materials based on guidelines such as: culturally responsiveness, age-appropriateness, linguistic accessibility, diverse adaptations and learning English Language strategy games that increase language acquisition. Participants will explore the benefits of these ENL strategy games and learn how to adapt and integrate them into their personal teaching or classroom lessons. In addition, participants will explore strategies that include technology tools and strategies to enhance English articulation and comprehension, the importance of vocabulary instruction, and how the use of music increases second language acquisition for English language learners. While there are suggested timelines for work completion, this course does NOT require any synchronous sessions so you may plan your course completion time accordingly. All work is due by the end of the last day of the course.

9. 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.
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.

12. Digital Tools to Differentiate Teaching (6/15/23 - 7/27/23)

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 6/15/2023 to 7/27/2023

No two students come to class with the same academic abilities, experiences, and needs. However, all students are expected to master the same concepts, principles, skills and standards. "Digital Tools to Differentiate Teaching” is designed to acquaint educators with innovative digital tools to aid in the differentiation of instruction, ensuring academic success for all students. Teachers will learn to enhance curriculum with audio, visual, and interactive learning experiences so that all children can achieve success, regardless of their skills, interests, learning styles and readiness. Teachers will preview and practice a variety of free digital tools, determine which resources are most appropriate for select students, and master the skills necessary to integrate those digital resources into standards-based curriculum. By the conclusion of the course teachers will be able to design or upgrade a unit of study with digital tools to address the learning needs of their students. This 15 hour online course will be delivered by Google Classroom. Participants will be assigned a rockteach email address to participate.

13. Helping to Prevent the Summer Slide for ENL Students (6/15/23-7/27/23)

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 6/15/2023 to 7/27/2023

During this experience, participants will explore a variety of ways to help prevent the Summer Slide for ENL Students. Participants will explore tools and tips for helping to keep ENL students connected over the summer and will learn how to utilize E-Books to boost language learning. Participants will also learn how to work with Newcomers and how to prepare students and families for the new school year. While there are suggested timelines for work completion, this course does NOT require any synchronous sessions so that you may plan your course completion time accordingly. All work is due by the end of the last day of the course.This 15 hour online course will run through Google Classroom.

14. Online: Emotional Intelligence, Reflective Practice and the Theory of Self- First (6/15/23 - 7/27/23)

Location: Online (online, ny) - Online

Audience: All

Dates: 6/15/2023 to 7/27/2023

Location: Online

This online course will allow participants the opportunity to develop skills that will enable them to identify, use, understand and manage their emotions and the emotions of others. By developing these competencies participants will:



• reach new heights in being responsible decision makers




• utilize multiple points of view




• be creative problem solvers who make sound, ethical and effective decisions




• explore research-based skills and competencies that have a positive impact on their professional and personal lives.

The skills, competencies, and strategies utilized throughout the coursework are research-based and are aligned with the MSCEIT (Mayer, Salovey, Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test Yale University) and the CASEL (Collaborative for Academic Social and Emotional Learning) Competencies. Throughout this coursework, we will continue to address the SEL needs of our students.

This course will be delivered through Google Classroom. A rockteach email address will be assigned to each participant.
Social Work CEUs provided by Rockland BOCES - $25 fee paid directly to Rockland BOCES.

15. 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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

19. 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.

20. 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.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. 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.

25. 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.

26. 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.

28. 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.

29. 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

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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.

30. 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.

31. 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.

32. 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.

33. 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.

34. 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.

35. 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.

37. Be A Game Changer: Live To Lead (7/12 - 8/24/23)

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 7/12/2023 to 8/24/2023

This 15 hour online course will provide participants with the opportunity to develop, coordinate and integrate the power of being the change they want to see in the world into their daily lives. This expertise will enable them to grow professionally and personally and internalize the importance of being a life-long learner. As society changes we need to reflect on the changes and make adaptations that enable us to continue to grow, learn, and achieve in a collaborative manner.
The skills, competencies, and strategies utilized throughout the coursework are research-based and are aligned with the MSCEIT (Mayer, Salovey, Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test - Yale University) and the CASEL (Collaborative for Academic Social and Emotional Learning) Competencies.
This course will be delivered in Google Classroom and be available 24/7.
In this 15 hour asynchronous book study, participants will be taking a deep dive into the book by Angela J. Hanscom. The book was written by a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, who will discuss the importance of outdoor activities for fine motor skills, gross motor skills and sensory development in children. Participants will be completing journal entries, interactive discussions, and will create an action plan to bring children outside for natural sensory experiences.

Course dates listed are the start and end date of this 15 hour asynchronous course.

Participants in this course will be provided a rockteach email address to participate in the course, which will be delivered in Google Classroom.

Required Text: Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident and Capable Children by Angela J. Hanscom

Participants must secure a a copy of book or ebook prior to the start of the 15 hour course.

39. Engaging ENL Students in a New School Year (7/12/23 - 8/23/23)

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 7/12/2023 to 8/23/2023

During this experience, participants will explore a variety of strategies to engage ENL students in learning at the beginning of the school year, whether hybrid or in person learning. Participants will learn to utilize tools such as Gamification, Wait Time, virtual field trips, coding and electric graphic organizers. While there are suggested timelines for work completion, this course does NOT require any synchronous sessions so that you may plan your course completion time accordingly. All work is due by the end of the last day of the course.This 15 hour online course will run through Google Classroom.

40. Enhancing Reading Comprehension with Digital Resources (7/12/23 - 8/23/23)

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 7/12/2023 to 8/23/2023

Have you ever read a book... a short story... a poem and been able to see the characters, know the place, or empathize with the protagonist? Many students haven't had such a memorable reading moment. Many of today's students prefer digital media to literature. To motivate students to read, teachers can connect reading with the digital resources students use every day. There is a wealth of digital resources to connect kids with books. This course provides teachers with the resources to merge digital media and literature and consequently, to enhance reading comprehension skills. This 15 hour online course will be delivered by Google Classroom. Participants will be assigned a rockteach email address to participate.

41. Online: Digital Literacy Skills for Online Research (7/12/23-8/23/23)

Location: Online (online, ny)

Dates: 7/12/2023 to 8/23/2023

Digital literacy is the ability to effectively find, use and share information in digital form. This 15 hour asynchronous online course will help educators to use better search strategies to get relevant information, and show them how to vet website credibility on the open web. In addition, protecting online information, maintaining privacy and giving proper credit will be covered. Participants will navigate free and paid content, and learn about tools to help students become educated consumers of digital content. Public library cards are needed to research databases (normally paid content). Although much of the course will be directed toward secondary level instruction, participants can adapt what they learn for younger students.

42. Online: Yogapalooza: Teaching Kids Yoga and Mindfulness with Confidence (7/12/23- 8/23/23)

Location: Online Only (Online, )

Dates: 7/12/2023 to 8/23/2023


This 15 hour course, which includes implementation and practice, will provide the tools to bring engaging kids yoga and mindfulness content into your classroom. Even if you can't touch your toes or don't have a yoga mat, you can be skilled and confident sharing yoga with children. With hours of engaging videos, colorful handouts, accompanying classroom favorites for kids yoga, mindfulness activities and the information on development, safe yoga pose techniques and class planning, this is a complete online training for early childhood teachers who want to incorporate the benefits of yoga and mindfulness into their classroom.

If you're concerned about the emotional toll this world is having on your students (and yourself) this is a magic wand to create calm. This course is self-paced. Instructor Bari Koral is an internationally recognized kids yogi and recording artist with over 20 years of experience working with young children and thousands of educators. Dates listed are the start and end date. The course is available 24/7
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.

44. 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.

47. 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.

48. 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.

49. 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.

51. 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.

53. 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.

54. 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.

55. 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.

57. 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.

59. 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.