Catalog: Greater Capital Region Teacher Center (Web Registr

Search Options

Search Results (1 - 71 of 71)

1. Interactive and Inspiring Afternoon with Torrey Maldonado (ACARC)

Program: Albany City Area Reading Council (ACARC)

Dates: 10/17/2024

ACARC is thrilled to have Torrey Maldonado speak at our Fall hybrid event! Torrey is a middle school teacher in NYC and the best selling author of Secret Saturdays, Tight, What Lane? and Hands. In fact, Torrey's most recent book was selected as this year's Global Read Aloud choice for middle schoolers and was featured on the CBS Good Morning. Torrey writes the lives of boys and is known for writing quick rollercoaster novels. Come join us to be inspired by Torrey, as well as learn more about the Globe Read Aloud. Discover the joy of teaching reading and readers beyond the programs. Bring your colleagues to the Bethlehem Central Middle School Library or join us online to engage with Torrey virtually. In person participants will receive our ACARC tote and have the opportunity to win one of Torrey's books. Time: Registration: In-person registration 4-4:15; Event: 4:15 pm-6 pm  Fee: Fee: $10 for nonmembers; FREE for ACARC members (Annual membership: $30).  Non- members fee send to:  ACARC / Jen Steil, Bethlehem Central Middle School, 332 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar, NY 12054 To become an ACARC member, go to www.nysreading.org; Click on Membership - Regional Directors and Local Councils - Albany City Area Council Registration is required; Go to www.teachers-center.com and search for ACARC For questions, CONTACT: acarcny@gmail.com
Please note DATE CHANGE - Rescheduled for March 20, 2024. ACARC invites you to join us for an evening of learning around multilingual learners (MLLs) and the importance of providing comprehensive instruction that addresses both language and literacy development. Our presenters will lead us in identifying cultural and linguistic considerations that impact instructional planning for literacy lessons. Through interactive discussions and knowledge sharing, participants will also expand their instructional toolbox with strategies that support English language development across all modalities (reading, writing, speaking, listening) in order to support readers in becoming increasingly strategic and empowered in their literacy journey. Fee: $10 for nonmembers; FREE for ACARC members (Annual membership: $30). Non-members fee send to: ACARC / Jen Steil, Bethlehem Central Middle School, 332 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar, NY 12054 To become an ACARC member, go to www.nysreading.org; Click on Membership- Regional Directors and Local Councils - Albany City Area Council Registration is required; Go to www.teachers-center.com and search for ACARC For questions, CONTACT: acarcny@gmail.com

3. Book Study The Heart of Fiction by Kate Roberts

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 4/21/2025 to 5/26/2025

Closed
This book delves into the successful strategies used by teachers to increase proficiency in our students to read and understand on their own. The book talks about analysis of theme, craft and character.. This book study is asynchronous. Book study pacing guide: Weeks 1 and 2: Acknowledgement and Chapter 1 Weeks 3 and 4: Chapter 2 Week 5: Chapter 3-end NOTE: Participants need to obtain a copy of the book prior to the start of the course.

4. Summer Reading for Teachers: Celebrate a Year of Professional Development with ACARC!

Program: Albany City Area Reading Council (ACARC)

Dates: 5/22/2025

Get ready for an inspiring and engaging professional development experience! Dr. Cheryl Dozier and Dr. Kelly Wissman from the University at Albany, alongside Dr. Scott Storm, will return as part of our expert panel. They'll share their latest favorite children's literature, offering fresh ideas you can immediately connect to your students. Plus, they'll highlight impactful professional books and articles on literacy that will spark your creativity for the upcoming year. This is the event to help you build your summer reading stack while connecting with fellow educators. You'll leave not only with new resources but also with valuable opportunities to network, share ideas, and gain insights to elevate your teaching. Don't miss out on an evening full of inspiration, pizza, and professional growth! Cost: -Free for ACARC members and members of the Department of Literacy Teaching and Learning, UAlbany. (ACARC annual membership: $30) -$10 for nonmembers (Please send payment to Jen Steil Bethlehem Middle School 332 Kenwood Avenue Delmar NY 12054) To become an ACARC member, go to www.nysreading.org; Click on Membership- Regional Directors and Local Councils - Albany City Area Council Registration is required; Go to www.teachers-center.com and search for ACARC For questions, CONTACT: acarcny@gmail.com This event is co-sponsored by the Literacy Teaching and Learning Department, University at Albany, and the Albany City Area Reading Council. We look forward to seeing you there for an enriching evening of professional development!

5. WRITING WORKOUTS BOOK STUDY

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 7/6/2025 to 8/10/2025

Closed
Join us for an online book study on Rebecca G. Harper's new book Writing Workouts. This book provides a method for instruction that gives students the fun they want and the targeted skill practice they need. Rebecca G. Harper shows us just how to use the method systematically, so writing is tied to relevant lessons and standards. This book study will help educators learn the ways in which we can help students hone their skills in persuasive writing, argument, fiction, poetry, memoir, and more, while toggling between brief and multistep writing tasks to build stamina. We will tap into auditory, visual, kinesthetic, and digital components of crafting and think about word-, sentence-, and paragraph-level techniques. We will even learn how to help students jump the high jumps of research writing by getting good at each smaller leap. Harper's strength-training approach to writing helps students to exercise a plethora of skills to build their writing muscles and make their language come alive. Each week, we will explore new writing exercises and study how we can incorporate these quick and daily writing practices into our pre-existing lessons. We will engage in discourse and reflection on the ways in which we can utilize, implement, and customize these exercises to meet the needs of our students across the content-areas of our classrooms. NOTE Participants will need to obtain a copy of the book, Writing Workouts, prior to the start of the course.

6. Current Trends in Special Education with New York State CEC 2025

Program: Professional Strategies

Audience: special educators, related service providers, teachers

Dates: 7/22/2025 to 8/26/2025

Starting Soon
NY Council for Exceptional Children and Greater Capital Region Teacher Center are proud to offer this free blended-learning online course to help special educators navigate today's challenges. The course opens and closes with live online sessions featuring Q&A and networking opportunities. Between these meetings, participants complete self-paced learning modules for a total of 15 hours of CTLE. Topics include: - Updates in evidence-based behavioral support - Evolving Special educator and Related Service Provider responsibilities and roles - New York State IEP Guidance - New technology impacts, privacy and digital literacy - Updated Universal Design for Learning (UDL) frameworks Participants come away with deeper understanding of the current state of the profession but also skills to bring to the classroom, to their role as case managers and to their role as advocates for students with disabilities.

7. SPECIAL EDUCATION NYS CTLE CERTIFICATION EXTENSION SERIES Middle Grades 5-8

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 7/22/2025 to 8/26/2025

Wait ListNewStarting Soon
Special Educators who have an existing SWD 1-6 (for 7-8 Extension) or SWD 7-12 (for 5-6 Extension) are invited to enroll whether or not they have earned the required experience. These courses meet the NYSED criteria for extending an existing NYS Students with Disabilities Generalist certification.

The course is composed of a combination of synchronous online sessions using the Zoom platform and asynchronous assignments. Participants will complete one assignment per session that will provide evidence of individual growth and learning in the area of study. As each course progresses, assignments will be assessed by the facilitator and feedback will be provided with a goal of mastery.

To successfully complete the series, participants must demonstrate proficiency in the NYS teaching standards including knowledge of: Evidence-based inclusive practices; Typical/atypical development; Research-based assessment strategies; Shifts in IEP guidance for that grade band; Building supportive home-school connections; Skills necessary for effective professional collaboration; Instructional techniques.

The class format is structured to allow for participants to reflect on their current beliefs, practices and bias; analyze teaching standards; build skill in vetting resources; and strengthen collaborative practices. Dates: 7/22 5:30-8:30pm, 8/5 5:30-8:30pm, 8/19 5:30-8:30pm). The remaining assignments will be completed asynchronous with a course end date of 8/26.

8. YOGA AND MINDFULNESS IN THE CLASSROOM: STRATEGIES AND PRACTICES TO ENHANCE STUDENT LEARNING

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 7/23/2025 to 8/27/2025

ClosedStarting Soon
As educators we want to create the best learning environment for our students. The significant increase of SEL programs in schools has brought the conversation of student mental and emotional health to the front of the class. Educators continue to experience first hand how post-pandemic school has changed - increased class size, decreased student engagement and motivation and an increase in student educational and social-emotional intervention needs. This course will provide teachers with research-based practices and strategies that can support any classroom environment. Through the use of secular-based yoga movements, breathing techniques, and mindfulness lessons, students (and their teachers!) will begin to develop techniques, incorporate tools to enhance the learning environment and improve self-regulation. We will explore why it works, how to get started (even if you've never done yoga or mindful training), how to introduce it to your class, and practices that are best for a variety of environments and learners. This course is appropriate for all grade levels and for teachers of any subject area. Note: This is a hybrid course which will meet for one hour of online, synchronous learning (Zoom) accompanied by 2 hours of asynchronous learning through Schoology.

9. Leveraging AI Tools for Google Workspace

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 7/26/2025 to 8/30/2025

Closed
This asynchronous summer professional development course introduces educators to 10 essential AI tools that seamlessly integrate with Google Workspace to transform teaching practices and enhance student learning outcomes. Participants will explore practical applications of artificial intelligence that can streamline administrative tasks, personalize learning experiences, and foster creativity in the classroom. Participants should expect to spend 3 hrs per week over 5 weeks to earn 15 CTLE Hours.

10. WRITE NOW & WRITE ON BOOK STUDY

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 7/27/2025 to 8/31/2025

Join us for an online book study of the book Write Now & Write On, by Rebecca G. Harper. This book study is designed to help you help your students up their writing game, while making literacy applicable, beneficial, and original. According to Rebecca G. Harper: "Your students may not realize it, but they're already writers. All those informational text messages, Instagram captions, and Facebook posts have given them the skills they can use as a springboard to the formal, content-specific writing they'll need for success in school and college and throughout their careers.” In this book study, we will learn various ways to provide your students with the practice they need to become better writers. No matter what subject you teach, this book provides relevant and engaging teaching strategies that can be tailored to your specific content-area. Each week, we will explore new exercises that are similar to the writing students are already doing. We will study how we can incorporate quick and daily writing practices into our pre-existing lessons. We will learn various strategies for introducing academic vocabulary, as well as skill-boosting strategies for summarizing and using textual evidence. Best of all, we'll engage in discourse and reflection on the ways in which we can utilize, implement, and customize these strategies to meet the needs of our students across the content-areas of our classrooms. NOTE Participants will need to obtain a copy of the book, Write Now & Write On, prior to the start of the course.

11. Experience the Magic with Magic School AI

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 8/1/2025 to 8/31/2025

Wait ListNew
Welcome to the "Introduction to MagicSchool Platform for Educators" course! In this course, educators will learn how to effectively utilize the MagicSchool platform to enhance their teaching experience and streamline their daily tasks. MagicSchool is a cutting-edge AI platform designed specifically for educators, offering over 60 individual tools to support teachers in various aspects of their work. Throughout this course, educators will explore the different tools available on the MagicSchool platform, learning how to create resources, generate materials, and access valuable educational support. From lesson planning to student engagement strategies, MagicSchool offers a wide range of tools to cater to the diverse needs of educators. By the end of this course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate the MagicSchool platform confidently and leverage its capabilities to optimize their teaching practices. Join us on this exciting journey of discovering the magic of MagicSchool and revolutionize your teaching experience! (15 CTLE Hours)

12. New Mentor Training August 2025 - online and asynchronous

Program: Mentoring

Audience: Teachers, School Related Professionals, School Staff, Mentor Coordinators

Dates: 8/5/2025 to 8/26/2025

Wait List
"Mentor-mentee partnerships help beginning teachers to acclimate themselves to a new environment by shattering the walls of isolation that they often experience at the outset of their careers and, as a direct result, raise student outcomes by expanding pedagogical and interactive social skills.” - The State Education Department/ The University of the State of New York New York State Mentoring Standards This course guides veteran teachers through the analysis of the knowledge and attributes critical to teacher mentoring. Participants will practice primary mentor actions including listening, observing, monitoring and coaching while continually reflecting on their own growth as measured by the NYSED standards for mentoring. This course consists of asynchronous assignments with feedback provided by the facilitator weekly. By the end of the 15 hour experience teachers will be equipped with tools and strategies to support the growth, development and retention of new teachers.

13. Empowering Educators: Integrating AI Tools in the Classroom

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 8/10/2025 to 8/31/2025

Closed
When preparing students for the future, we have a duty to familiarize them with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, which are likely to be a part of their workplace landscape. Instead of labeling the use of AI as cheating, consider it as a tutor, peer review partner, and thought provoker for your students. The use of AI promotes critical thinking, understanding, and engagement in students, while moving away from the rote memorization and copying methods of traditional education. Many AI tools are emerging that can create educational content for teachers including assessments, presentations, video summaries, and more. By the end of this workshop, participants will not only have a solid understanding of AI in education but will also be equipped with practical skills to integrate AI tools effectively into their teaching practices. We will explore ChatGPT, Google Gemini, MagicSchool, and many other AI tools that can enhance your classroom learning experiences. Join us on this exciting journey towards reshaping the future of education through the thoughtful and purposeful integration of AI in the classroom! Participants should expect to spend 5 hrs per week on this 3 week program to earn 15 CTLE hours.
Join fellow educators for an immersive professional learning experience at the Anne Frank exhibition in New York City. This guided site visit offers teachers a unique opportunity to engage with one of history's most powerful stories while developing practical strategies for bringing these essential lessons back to their classrooms and communities. Participants will explore the exhibition together, experiencing the narrative and educational materials firsthand. Following the museum visit, we will convene for a structured debriefing session focused on translating this experience into meaningful classroom instruction, school-wide initiatives, and regional educational opportunities. The Teacher Center will provide reimbursement for: *Transportation: Train or bus tickets, or mileage reimbursement at $0.70 per mile, up to $88 *Meal allowance: Up to $26 This opportunity is designed for K-12 educators committed to fostering inclusive, historically-informed learning environments. This professional learning experience promises to enhance your teaching practice while honoring the important lessons of history and human resilience. Available exclusively to GCRTC Member School educators. https://www.teachers-center.org/member-schools

15. DASA Certification Training (Non-CTLE) - August

Program: Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Regional Catalog

Dates: 8/14/2025

Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake School District is a NYSED-approved provider. As of 3/30/20 all approved Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) Training Providers have been approved by NYSED to offer the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) Training Entirely Online due to COVID-19 precautions.Sign up anytime prior to the synchronous session date.

Objectives:

This training is in compliance with the requirements of the NYS Education Department. Participants will:
>Understand the intent components, and operational definitions present in the Dignity Act.
>Develop and enhance awareness and sensitivity to the range of experiences of the specific student populations as named in the Dignity Act.
>Understand how school climate and culture have an impact on student achievement and behavior.
>Understand bullying, harassment and discrimination, including indicators, early warning signs, prevention and intervention and how to interact with families of victims and aggressors.
>Enhance the understanding of diversity and multi-cultural environments and examine personal biases.
>Articulate the Reporting Requirements for Educators as specified in the Dignity Act.

Includes 3 hours of self-paced, online instruction (recorded PowerPoint with embedded questions) and a 3 hour live virtual meeting with the instructor. Self-paced work must be completed BEFORE the live virtual meeting.

Cost: $70. Please make checks payable to BH-BL Central School District. Please note, while you may register and participate in the course prior to payment, documentation of completion will not be submitted to NYSED until payment has been received by BH-BL.
Please print the registration confirmation off of Frontline and mail it with a check upon registration to:
Dottie Salvatore, BH-BL School District, PO Box 1389, Ballston Lake, NY 12019. (Include a copy of your registration confirmation with the check)

16. Quiet Wisdom: In-Person Summer 2025 Session

Program: Professional Strategies

Audience: All Teachers (K-12)

Dates: 8/26/2025

In this 3-hour in-person session, participants will have the opportunity to explore the practices from the virtual meditation in a live community setting. Practices to be explored include breathwork, movement meditation, silent nature immersion, compassion meditation, live sound bath, and more. Participants will also have an opportunity to practice-teach breathwork portion to fellow participants in small groups for classroom and personal application.

17. National Board Certification - Introduction and Planning Session

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 8/27/2025

The National Board Certification process was the single most important step for me in retaining my excitement about being a teacher! Join GCRTC coach Geoff Bizan for an introduction to the process and benefits of certifying. Identify free resources and networking opportunities to guide and support your growth in all domains of teaching and learning. Open to all NYS teachers considering certification - no commitment necessary!
The National Board Certification process was the single most important step for me in retaining my excitement about being a teacher! Join GCRTC coach Geoff Bizan for an introduction to the process and benefits of maintaining your current certification. Identify free resources and networking opportunities to guide and support your growth in all domains of teaching and learning. Open to all NYS teachers considering maintaining their current National Board Certification in the next few years.

19. Study Jonathan Haidt's The Anxious Generation

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 9/8/2025 to 11/3/2025

Closed
Jonathan Haidt's groundbreaking analysis reveals how social media and modern parenting have created unprecedented mental health challenges for an entire generation. As rates of anxiety, depression, and self-harm continue to rise among adolescents, understanding the root causes has never been more crucial. Join us as we begin to transform understanding into action. This 20 hour study includes discussion groups and practical applications for all participants. We'll discover: The startling connection between smartphone use and adolescent mental health decline How overprotective parenting styles contribute to decreased resilience Evidence-based solutions for parents, educators, and policymakers A comprehensive framework for restoring healthy childhood development Please NOTE: Participants must obtain a copy of The Anxious Generation prior to the start of the course.

20. Movement & Sound Meditation Circles

Program: NYS Learning Standards

Dates: 9/10/2025 to 11/19/2025

New
In this course, participants will be invited to gather in six synchronous virtual circle gatherings. When we take time to replenish ourselves and fill our own cup, we are able to serve others from the overflow. This allows us to show up to our classrooms feeling supported, sustainable, and impactful for the students we work with everyday. Circles are a return to something ancestral and intuitive. In the circle, everyone is both teacher and student. Everyone is witnessed and is witnessing. It's a space of connection where we greet new cycles again and again by integrating nuances, meeting new edges, and re-patterning. A guided movement sequence and flow will be offered at every circle, with modifications offered throughout to make the practice accessible to everybody. A live curated sound bath will be offered at the end of every circle, too. This meditation practice requires participants to rest in an extended savasana (rest pose) and to tune into the frequencies and soothing tones of the instruments playing in the soundscape. Sound bath meditations also have many benefits for our physical and emotional wellbeing. The circle will close with share-outs for integration. THEMES FOR CIRCLES *Committing to Our Roles in Moments of Uncertainty *Rethinking the Breakdown as a Breakthrough *Self-Care & Community-Care for Empowerment and Resilience *The Healing Spiral *Rituals & Routines for Grounding *Boundaries for Personal Growth & Sustainability

21. New Mentor Training Fall 2025- online and asynchronous

Program: Mentoring

Audience: Teachers, School Related Professionals, School Staff, Mentor Coordinators

Dates: 9/15/2025 to 10/13/2025

New
"Mentor-mentee partnerships help beginning teachers to acclimate themselves to a new environment by shattering the walls of isolation that they often experience at the outset of their careers and, as a direct result, raise student outcomes by expanding pedagogical and interactive social skills.” - The State Education Department/ The University of the State of New York New York State Mentoring Standards This course guides veteran teachers through the analysis of the knowledge and attributes critical to teacher mentoring. Participants will practice primary mentor actions including listening, observing, monitoring and coaching while continually reflecting on their own growth as measured by the NYSED standards for mentoring. This course consists of asynchronous assignments with feedback provided by the facilitator weekly. By the end of the 15 hour experience teachers will be equipped with tools and strategies to support the growth, development and retention of new teachers.

22. Teaching Assistant and Aides Support Series 2025: The Artificial Intelligence Playbook

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 9/18/2025 to 11/18/2025

New
This professional development series is specifically designed for Teaching Assistants and Aides who want to understand and integrate artificial intelligence tools into their daily practice. Through a guided book study of "The Artificial Intelligence Playbook" (Hargrave, Fisher & Frey, 2024), participants will explore practical AI applications regardless of their current comfort level with technology. Essential AI vocabulary and concepts Hands-on experience with various AI tools Strategies to apply AI effectively in your specific role Best practices for supporting student learning with AI assistance This blended learning experience combines independent reading, interactive workshops, and collaborative discussions, allowing you to learn at your own pace while connecting with colleagues. Prerequisites Participants must obtain their own copy of the required text before the course begins. Whether you're comfortable with AI, curious about its potential, or skeptical of its role in education, this series offers valuable insights for every perspective.

23. Teaching Writing From Content Classroom to Career, Grades 6-12

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 9/21/2025 to 10/26/2025

New
This dynamic professional development course empowers middle and high school teachers to integrate effective writing instruction across content areas, preparing students for both academic success and future careers. Based on the principles outlined in Grant, Lapp, and Thayre's work, participants will explore research-based strategies for developing students' writing skills within their specific subject areas. Participants will learn to: *Design writing assignments that meaningfully connect content knowledge with real-world applications. *Implement scaffolded writing instruction that supports diverse learners. *Integrate discipline-specific writing practices across subject areas. *Develop assessment strategies that enhance both content understanding and writing skills. *Create authentic writing experiences that prepare students for college and career readiness. Participants will need to secure a copy of Teaching Writing From Content Classroom to Career, Grades 6-12 By: Maria C. Grant, Diane Lapp, Marisol Thayre prior to the start of the course.

24. Experience the Magic with Magic School AI

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 9/22/2025 to 10/26/2025

Wait List
Welcome to the "Introduction to MagicSchool Platform for Educators" course! In this course, educators will learn how to effectively utilize the MagicSchool platform to enhance their teaching experience and streamline their daily tasks. MagicSchool is a cutting-edge AI platform designed specifically for educators, offering over 60 individual tools to support teachers in various aspects of their work. Throughout this course, educators will explore the different tools available on the MagicSchool platform, learning how to create resources, generate materials, and access valuable educational support. From lesson planning to student engagement strategies, MagicSchool offers a wide range of tools to cater to the diverse needs of educators. By the end of this course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate the MagicSchool platform confidently and leverage its capabilities to optimize their teaching practices. Join us on this exciting journey of discovering the magic of MagicSchool and revolutionize your teaching experience! (15 CTLE Hours)

25. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 9/25/2025

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is an over view. Each brief will be its own session. Attend one or attend them all.

26. Developing Mathematical Reasoning Avoiding the Trap of Algorithms By Pamela Weber Harris Book Study

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: Mathematics teachers K-12

Dates: 9/29/2025 to 11/17/2025

New
This book is a valuable resource for educators looking to reach more students by building a strong foundation of mathematical thinking in their students. By addressing common misconceptions about math and providing practical strategies for teaching real math, this book shows that everyone can use the mathematical relationships they already know to reason about new relationships. In other words, everyone can math.Everyone is capable of understanding and doing real math. This book: Highlights the important mathematical relationships, strategies, and models for students to develop Offers personal stories, reflection sections, and extensive practical exercises for easy implementation Includes real math-a lot of it-to provide teachers with examples they can put to use in their classrooms immediately. Participants need to obtain a copy of the book prior to the first session.

27. BUILDING THINKING CLASSROOMS IN ACTION

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 9/30/2025 to 12/16/2025

New
Join us for a deeper dive into Peter Liljedahl's fourteen practices outlined in his Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics text. Throughout this class we will be working through 4 Toolkits. Some of the practices we will focus on are: random grouping, non curricular thinking tasks, curricular tasks and thin-slicing. Participants will employ practices that support the curriculum in their contexts and develop teacher moves to support this pedagogy. To culminate the BTC journey, we will develop a website of resources and ideas to facilitate implementation of BTC in your classroom. Participants will leave with their own "toolkit” to accompany those outlined in the text. Prerequisite Course: Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics Book Study
What if you could have a thoughtful colleague available 24/7 to help you reflect on your teaching - one who never judges, always listens, and offers fresh perspectives on your classroom practices? Join us for this innovative exploration of AI's capacity to serve as a powerful mirror for reflection, helping us gain new insights into our teaching practices and our students' learning experiences.

What You'll Learn

Through engaging digital activities designed to fit your busy schedule, you'll develop the skills needed to craft purposeful AI prompts that generate meaningful insights into your teaching practices and students' learning. Imagine having an AI partner to help you:
• Analyze student work patterns
• Reflect on lesson effectiveness
• Examine your questioning techniques
• Understand learning progressions

Build a Professional Toolkit

The course features hands-on applications across all subject areas and grade levels. You'll create your own personalized prompt libraries (collections of AI questions tailored to your specific teaching context and subject area) that generate professional insights while maintaining a strong focus on ethical AI use, privacy considerations, and bias awareness.

Course Format

This fully asynchronous course respects your professional schedule, allowing you to engage with materials and activities when it works best for you. No set meeting times, no pressure to be online at specific hours - just meaningful professional learning that fits your life.

Ready to discover how AI can become your most valuable reflective partner? Join us in transforming how you reflect on teaching and learning.

29. Digital Drawing for Educators: Teaching with Chrome Canvas

Program: Arts

Dates: 10/6/2025 to 11/10/2025

Chrome Canvas is a free digital drawing Chrome app that makes digital drawing accessible on all different devices. Participants will explore essential tools and techniques for creating illustrations, annotating materials, and designing interactive lessons that enhance student engagement. Through hands-on activities, teachers will learn how to incorporate digital drawing across subjects, fostering creativity and visual learning in the classroom. Educators will have the skills to confidently use Chrome Canvas to create dynamic, visually rich instructional materials and have student creatively engaged.

30. DYNAMIC TEACHER 2025: THE AI REVOLUTION

Program: Professional Strategies

Audience: Educators and administrators of all levels and subjects

Dates: 10/6/2025 to 11/3/2025

New
Step into the future of education with Dynamic Teacher 2025: The AI Revolution. This fully asynchronous online course is designed to empower educators to confidently navigate and harness the power of artificial intelligence in the classroom. Developed and facilitated by the cross-curricular team of Teacher Leadership Coaches at the Greater Capital Region Teacher Center, this course provides practical strategies and critical insights for today's rapidly evolving educational landscape. Throughout this course, participants will explore:

- keeping humans at the center of teaching and learning
- fostering creativity by helping students generate ideas, think divergently, and explore new perspectives
- addressing disinformation and deep fakes, with strategies to build student media literacy and ethical reasoning in a world of synthetic content
- forging science connections that show how AI intersects with real-world phenomena and instruction
- promoting differentiation and engagement for students with disabilities, highlighting AI tools that personalize learning and support inclusion
- implementing AI: introduction to Monica Burns' "Ed Tech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in the Age of AI", translating theory into action with accessible, classroom-ready applications

Whether you're new to AI or ready to elevate your current practice, this course offers flexible, self-paced modules packed with resources, examples, and opportunities to reflect and apply your learning. Join a growing community of dynamic educators preparing students-and themselves-for a future shaped by innovation and inquiry.
This professional development course empowers K-12 art educators to design inclusive and inspiring art activities that foster student confidence and self-expression. Teachers will learn how to guide students in exploring their identities through projects like the "Reflective Practice Journal” and "Memory Abstractions,” inspired by Robert Mangold's work. The course also emphasizes the importance of cultural representation, with assignments such as the "My Favorite Recipe Illustrations, ” encouraging students to celebrate their unique backgrounds. Additionally, educators will explore how to transform routine tasks into creative challenges, such as the "Watercolor Challenge,” to inspire innovation and engagement in the classroom.

32. The Art and Sound of STEAM

Program: Arts

Dates: 10/6/2025 to 11/10/2025

New
Transform your existing art and music curriculum with purposeful STEAM connections during this hands-on professional development course. Through practical examples and collaborative exploration, you'll discover natural opportunities to incorporate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while preserving the creative core of your art and music lessons. The course will equip you with concrete strategies for accessing cross-disciplinary resources, building meaningful connections with colleagues, and developing sustainable community partnerships to enhance student learning.

You'll leave with a toolkit of practical strategies for adapting your current projects, mapping cross-disciplinary connections, and leveraging local cultural resources. This course will empower you to create rich learning experiences that both deepen students' artistic and musical engagement and skills, and strengthen their understanding of interdisciplinary concepts.

33. Quiet Wisdom: Continuing our Exploration of Contemplative Practices in Teaching- Fall 2025 Series

Program: Professional Strategies

Audience: All Teachers (K-12)

Dates: 10/7/2025 to 12/2/2025

Inspired by Quiet Wisdom: Exploring Contemplative Practices in Teaching, this all new session of Quiet Wisdom will dive deeper into some previously explored contemplative practices for educators, as well as expand our repertoire of self-care for transitions, new seasons, and holidays. Both new and past participants are encouraged to attend. Meditation, reflection and contemplation is an effective practice that assists participants in emotional regulation, nervous-system balancing, stress-management, and creative thinking. Scientists from Mass General Hospital and Harvard Medical School suggest that meditation can alter brain structures, enhancing the density of the hippocampus and effectively strengthening the parts of the brain relevant to learning, memory, self-awareness, compassion and introspection. By participating in contemplative practices in a school setting, faculty and students alike may experience a great improvement to the level of presence, positive behavior, and general well-being throughout the entire school community. In this series, Emileigh Tanner, meditation specialist, will lead participants through various contemplative practices, focusing on one technique per week. An interactive discussion will follow, led by teachers who will share the research behind the practice and facilitate a conversation on how to apply it in different classroom settings and disciplines. This new series will also allot participants the opportunity to practice implementing these techniques with guided support from Emileigh and the instructors. This course will have 7 hours of synchronous instruction, with a one-hour synchronous make-up session. There will be a total of 8 hours of asynchronous work, which is optional, but required to receive the full 15-hours.

34. Captivate Engaging and Empowering Students in a world of Digital Distractions by Marc Isseks, PhD, Book Study

Program: Professional Strategies

Audience: Mathematics teachers K-12

Dates: 10/8/2025 to 11/12/2025

New
We can no longer simply teach...we must CAPTIVATE Listen carefully. Can you hear that? It is the sound of push notifications making their way to your students' phones. Those waves have no regard for pedagogical aspirations, high-stakes assessments, or your children's future. And that is why each day, when the school bell rings, we need to fight for our instructional lives. This book shows you how. Participants need to obtain a copy of the book prior to the first session.

35. The Writing Revolution 2.0 Book Study

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 10/12/2025 to 11/16/2025

New
Join us for a professional learning experience exploring Judith C. Hochman and Natalie Wexler's groundbreaking approach to writing instruction in The Writing Revolution 2.0: Advancing Thinking Through Writing. This book study will transform how you think about teaching writing across all subject areas and grade levels. The Writing Revolution 2.0 presents a systematic, evidence-based method for teaching writing that focuses on the building blocks of effective composition. Rather than assigning writing without explicit instruction, this approach teaches students how to construct sentences, combine ideas, and organize their thoughts through specific, scaffolded techniques. The authors demonstrate how writing instruction can serve as a powerful tool for learning across disciplines, helping students not just become better writers, but better thinkers. You'll explore practical strategies that can be immediately implemented in any classroom, regardless of subject area or student age. Participants will leave with a toolkit of specific, research-based strategies for teaching writing across subjects. Practical experience implementing these techniques with guided support from colleagues. A plan for systematically improving writing instruction in your classroom or school. Evidence of how better writing instruction leads to improved thinking and learning in all subjects.

36. AI for the Google Workplace

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 10/14/2025 to 11/25/2025

New
Asynchronous Online via Google Classroom Discover the power of AI in education with this hands-on course designed specifically for K-12 teachers who use Google tools. Explore the latest AI integrations, with a focus on Gemini in Google Workspace, including its enhanced role in Google Classroom. Learn how to streamline planning, personalize instruction, and boost productivity using AI-driven features across Docs, Slides, Gmail, and more. Perfect for educators ready to bring cutting-edge tools into their daily teaching practice-on your schedule, at your pace. This course is worth 15 CTLE Hours.

37. LESSONS FROM THE JUNE HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE EXAMS: MOVING TOWARDS CLUSTER QUESTIONS

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: High School Science Teachers and Administrators

Dates: 10/15/2025 to 11/19/2025

New
We will take a deep dive into the June Biology and Earth and Space Science exams to reflect on our practice and determine how to best help our students moving forward. Using the NYSSLS Standards and Performance Level Descriptions (PLDs) we will analyze the exams and apply this knowledge to develop effective cluster-type questions.

As different schools handled the NYSSLS roll-out differently, we can learn from each other and collaborate to move forward. We will meet in person (with asynchronous work in between), to analyze our individual and collective results. We will then work together to become better at writing cluster-type questions. Tools (including AI) and strategies will be shared and there will be time to develop question sets you can use with your students.

For those who cannot make it to the in-person sessions, there will be an asynchronous option to participate and earn the CTLE credit.

38. Authentic Literacy Experiences in Early Childhood: Balancing Fundations and Heggerty- Part 2

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 10/16/2025 to 11/26/2025

New
This professional development course introduces reading and writing experiences designed to supplement your Fundations and Heggerty teaching by integrating phonics skills with authentic literacy practices, boosting engagement, and fostering a love for reading and writing in early childhood classrooms. While phonics instruction is essential, an overemphasis on phonics can lead to student frustration during independent reading and writing. When literacy engagements are meaningful, students' confidence and enjoyment of literacy increase. In part 2, we will explore 6 instructional practices that align with the NYS literacy briefs and that differ from those employed in part 1. Over the course of 6 weeks, we will explore a variety of reading and writing activities that allow students to use their phonemic awareness and phonics skills in purposeful, connected ways. From storytelling and dialogue journals to letter exchanges and classroom newsletters, these activities offer opportunities for students to express themselves, collaborate with peers, and make real-life connections to their learning. This course is designed to support teachers who want to create a balance between structured phonics instruction and authentic literacy experiences. Through practical strategies and engaging activities, you'll learn how to foster literacy environments that promote student voice, agency, and confidence. By the end, you'll be equipped with tools to bring phonics instruction to life through meaningful reading and writing practices your students can relate to and enjoy. Class sessions: Storytelling & Story Acting (October 16th); Classroom Dialogue Journals (October 23rd); Letter Exchange (October 30th); Character Interviews (November 6th); Classroom Newsletters (November 13th); CLOZE Procedures (November 20th).

39. Harnessing The Science of Learning Book Study

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 10/19/2025 to 11/24/2025

New
Are you committed to learning and growing? This book study will introduce educators to real-world school case studies and effective teaching practices while providing a clear roadmap for meaningful change. Harnessing the Science of Learning highlights how even small changes can lead to significant improvement. This practical guide bridges classroom practices, school leadership and educational research to support school improvement. The book covers key insights such as teaching, curriculum and implementation. Having the opportunity to read and discuss this book will change your teaching forever! Participants need to purchase a copy of Harnessing The Science of Learning by Nathaniel Swan prior to the start of the course.
By incorporating principles of democratic participation, we help students develop the skills to manage conflict productively, engage respectfully across differences, and persist in working toward community-based solutions. This book study is designed for teachers of all subject areas in grades 5-12. Participants will explore the five STAT - Students Taking Action Together - teaching techniques that include: Norms, Yes-No-Maybe, Respectful Debate, Audience Focused Communication, and PLAN. These strategies are intentionally designed to build students' social, emotional learning (SEL) competencies while equipping them with the tools needed to become active, engaged citizens in our democracy. As you engage with the instructional strategies, you'll see clear and purposeful connections to the five core SEL competencies. You'll learn how to establish classroom norms that foster a relationship-centered learning environment, and how to guide students through peer opinion-sharing and respectful debate using perspective-taking techniques. Students will practice assuming both pro and con positions, listening to diverse viewpoints, and developing empathy and understanding. You will identify entry points within your existing curriculum to implement STAT with techniques for selecting relevant topics, crafting controversial statements, curating appropriate background materials, forming student groups, and assigning roles. The book study includes strategies for differentiating instruction, with a focus on strength-based adaptations to support students with diverse learning needs. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and tiered-assignments will help you to plan and deliver inclusive STAT lessons. STAT strategies are highly adaptable and can be applied across disciplines including science, technology, math, ELA and even visual and performing arts. Ultimately, this process supports integration of the NYS Education Department's Portrait of a Graduate framework.

41. 2025-2026 North Country - Adirondack World Language Teachers PLC

Program: World Languages

Dates: 10/20/2025 to 5/18/2026

New
This PLC offers an opportunity for World Language teachers to come together to collaborate, support one another and dive into current topics in World Language teaching. Continuing this year will be the collaboration with the Virtual World Language PLC to expand our language educator resources. We will focus on the following topics this year: - Continue collaborative work with the Virtual World Language PLC including discussions about AI, Comprehensible Input (CI), NYS Standards and collaboration on field trips, guest speakers, etc. - Shared resources & continued implementation of the updated NYS World Language Standards with focus on: Introduction and transition of the standards to the Checkpoint B level & Continued creation of materials for the Checkpoint A level, including materials for the updated Checkpoint A exam - Discussion of assessing the updated standards; Collaborative scoring practice of assessments for speaking and writing based on updated standards and scoring rubrics. - Finding, implementing and differentiating authentic resources to improve language learning at all levels. - Promotion and Advocacy for World Language programs, plus strategies for keeping students engaged and enrolled in our programs. The PLC will meet for 15 hours total from October 2025-May 2026, with 3 meetings being joint meetings with the Virtual World Language PLC. All meetings will be virtual via Google Meet. Teachers have the option to earn up to 15 hours for this PLC (Participants will receive credit for as many as they choose to attend.)

42. EMBRACING UNCERTAINTY IN THE SCIENCE CLASSROOM

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: All science educators and administrators

Dates: 10/20/2025 to 11/24/2025

New
Science practice is about moving between a phenomenon and an explanation of how or why that phenomenon occurs. This involves a great deal of uncertainty, which scientists embrace, but our students tend to shy away from. If we want our students to engage in science and sensemaking, they need to become comfortable with uncertainty - not only in the greater science community, but in their own understanding. This uncertainty is where creativity lies, where real learning takes place.

In this completely asynchronous, online course we will collaborate to explore different types of uncertainty that arise in science and how to apply them to you teaching. We will explore strategies and tools to help build your students' resilience and make uncertainty part of the learning experience.
This course is designed to equip educators with research-backed, brain-based strategies to foster their own well-being while maintaining a positive and supportive classroom environment. The course focuses on preventing teacher burnout, enhancing teacher optimism, and supporting physical health, all grounded in the science of how the brain functions. Teachers will gain actionable tools for self-care, stress management, and creating an environment that promotes mental and emotional resilience for both themselves and their students. In this self-paced, six week course, you will explore various topics and gain strategies and tools to enhance your ability to create a supportive and healthy learning environment. The course will be broken down into the following topics and modules: *Note: The modules do not match the chapter titles. Each module will focus on psychological principles, in addition to using the author's model and action plan on building a healthy mindset and classroom. Module 1: Introduction to Brain-Based Well-Being for Educators Module 2: Building a Resilient Teacher Mindset Module 3: Brain-Based Stress Reduction Techniques Module 4: Enhancing Emotional Regulation Module 5: The Power of Social Connections Module 6: Maintaining Physical Health for Optimal Teaching Module 7: Using Neurofeedback and Technology for Well-Being Module 8: Self-Care and Boundary Setting Module 9: Recharging Creativity and Passion for Teaching Module 10: Fostering a Positive Classroom Environment Module 11: Reflection and Growth: The Importance of Continuous Learning Module 12: Conclusion: Creating a Sustainable Future in Education Each week will focus on two modules/chapters from the book and include activities designed to focus on the targeted outcomes. *NOTE: Participants should secure a copy of the book prior to the start of the course.

44. Strengthening Home-School Partnerships: Strategies for General Classroom Teachers

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 10/20/2025 to 12/8/2025

New
This 6-week, 15-hour professional learning course is designed to equip general classroom teachers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies necessary to build and sustain meaningful family engagement in K-12 classrooms. Drawing on peer-reviewed research and evidence-based practices, the course focuses on the practical, day-to-day communication, planning, and relational skills that teachers need to foster strong connections with families from diverse backgrounds. Participants will explore the foundations of family engagement, develop inclusive communication routines, and examine the role of cultural responsiveness and social-emotional collaboration in student success. Readings, videos, podcasts, and structured assignments will guide teachers through self-reflection, real-world application, and collaborative planning. By the end of the course, participants will produce a customized, year-long family engagement action plan that can be implemented in their classroom or school community, supporting ongoing partnerships that improve academic outcomes and student well-being. Key Topics Include: *Foundations and benefits of family engagement *Effective communication routines for the general classroom *Culturally responsive and equitable outreach strategies *Collaborating with families to support academic and social-emotional development *Designing classroom-based engagement events and home learning connections

45. Using MagicSchool, Canva, and ChatGPT to Create Engaging Lessons You Can Use Tomorrow

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 10/20/2025 to 12/1/2025

New
Ready to create lessons that captivate your students tomorrow? In this hands-on professional development course, you'll explore the power of MagicSchool, Canva, and ChatGPT to design engaging, effective, and time-saving classroom materials. Whether you're tech-savvy or just getting started, you'll gain practical tools, creative strategies, and inspiration to enhance your teaching. Join us and transform the way you teach - starting now!

46. History of Whaling Teacher Workshop

Program: Co-sponsored Programs

Dates: 10/22/2025

History of Whaling Teacher Workshop Hudson: A History of Whaling & Maritime Commerce, an exhibit at the Hudson Area Library (which will be online at the end of year on Hudson River Valley Heritage (https://www.hrvh.org/) offers a unique opportunity to look at our city, county, state, and national history through the lens of local history. Hudson has always been a "whaling town” in the collective imagination of people in the area and it has helped form our collective identity. When students learn about their own local history, the streets they walk on, the river they visit, they will be motivated to learn and will be able to better contextualize Social Studies concepts and facts.

Hudson was founded in 1784 as a maritime port city. The importance of Hudson's whaling and maritime past is evidenced in the street signs with a whale logo designed during urban renewal, recent hotels opened during the current tourism boom like The Wick and the Hudson Whaler, and the popularity of any whaling history program the library has offered. Hudson's whaling history has maintained a specific intense lore in people's imagination. Hudson: A History of Whaling & Maritime Commerce responds to community and visitor interest in Hudson's whaling past, through logbooks, seamen's letters, merchants' accounts, maps, maritime documents and more the community has the opportunity to learn about this history in a new, accurate and vivid way.

This exhibit was made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

47. 2025-26 Virtual World Language Support Network and PLC

Program: World Languages

Dates: 10/23/2025 to 5/14/2026

New
The 2025-26 Virtual World Language PLC will continue its tradition of collaboration and innovation in the World Language Classroom. We are also excited to continue our collaboration with the North Country World Language PLC to expand our abilities as language educators. The 2025-26 PLC will focus on: - Continue collaborative work with the North Country World Language PLC - Shared resources and discussion of field trips, guest speakers, etc. - Possible guest speaker during a collaborative PLC meeting - Shared resources and discussion of assessment of the updated standards - Continued implementation of the updated NYS World Language Standards with focus on: - Introduction and transition of the standards to the Checkpoint B level - Continued creation of materials for the Checkpoint A level, including materials for the updated Checkpoint A exam - Finding and using authentic resources to improve language learning at all levels, and - Collaborative calibration of assessment for speaking and writing, to meet updated standards - AI in the World Language classroom: teacher resources and student activities - Comprehensible Input (CI), Acquisition Driven Instruction (ADI) and the updated standards The PLC will meet for 15 hours total from September 2025-May 2026, with 3 meetings being joint meetings with the North Country World Language PLC. All meetings will be virtual via Google Meet.

48. Grading with Purpose: Mastering Standards-Referenced Grading

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 10/23/2025 to 11/20/2025

New
Wouldn't it be a perfect world if student grades accurately represented what they know and can do, and not what they don't know or how well they guessed on a multiple choice test? In an effort to reflect this idea as closely as possible, try using Standards Referenced Grading (SRG) methods to show what students know. Assignments will be graded based on their connection to the standards and students have multiple opportunities to demonstrate mastery of the standards aside from traditional tests. This session will explain how teachers can use the SRG method of assessing student learning while fitting the practice into the traditional grading system utilized by most schools. SRG allows students to take ownership of their learning and how they demonstrate what they know as they build their confidence in the standards. Students will learn to take ownership of the learning process and how they demonstrate their understanding. In this course participants will create an SRG leveled rubric, lesson plans and final unit assessments that can be used in their classroom.

49. Book Study on Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 12/1/2025

New
Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers by Grace Stevens outlines concrete strategies for educators to reignite their passion for teaching, rooted in research on Mindset and Positive Psychology from Carol Dweck, PhD; Martin Seligman, PhD; Shawn Achor; Jonathan Haidt; and Paul J. Meyer. The goal of this course is full implementation of the practical strategies outlined within this book to maximize student impact. This book study is asynchronous and will run 5 weeks with the following pacing guide: Week #1: Intro & Ch. 1, 2 & 3 (p. 1-43); Week #2: Ch. 4, 5 & 6 (p. 44-82); Week #3: Ch. 7, 8 & 9 (p.83-125); Week #4: Ch. 10, 11 & 12 (p. 126-157); Week #5: Ch. 13 (p. 158-161). Note: Participants need to obtain a copy of the book prior to the start of the course.

50. Book Study: Math Running Records in Action

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 12/1/2025

New
In this 15-hour asynchronous course, participants will explore Dr. Nicki Newton's book Math Running Records in Action (1st Edition). Participants will learn how to use Math Running Records to assess fact fluency and increase student achievement. Combining research and practicality, this book offers a framework to assess student thinking, fostering the development of confident, flexible mathematicians with strong number skills. Registrants should secure a copy of the book in advance of the start date. A Google Classroom link will be sent on or before Oct 6.

51. Phonics From A to Z (4th Edition) Book Study

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 12/1/2025

New
In this 15-hour asynchronous course, participants will explore Wiley Blevins' book Phonics from A to Z (4th Edition). This edition has been updated to include the latest in phonics and the science of reading. The book also explores topics including handwriting, phonemic awareness, sound walls, decodable texts, strategies for differentiation, and more. Teachers will learn practical ways to enhance their scopes and sequences. Registrants should secure a copy of the book before the start date. A Google Classroom link will be sent on or before 10/27.

52. RESILIENT LESSON PLANNING - FALL ‘25

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 12/8/2025

New
"Resilient Lesson Planning” is designed to empower educators with the skills and strategies needed to create flexible, equity-centered lessons that thrive across varied learning environments. Grounded in the principles of resilient pedagogy, this course helps participants design instruction that is responsive to diverse student needs, adaptable to changing circumstances, and deeply rooted in engagement and inclusivity.

Through interactive asynchronous modules, educators will explore theory-based readings, real-world examples, and hands-on activities that offer practical strategies for revising existing lesson plans and developing new ones. Multimedia resources, including videos, case studies, and planning templates, guide participants in translating theory into practice. In addition to self-paced learning, the course includes collaborative projects, discussion threads, and optional office hours, providing space for peer feedback and deeper dialogue. By the end of the course, educators will be equipped with the tools and confidence to design lessons that are not only resilient, but also meaningful and impactful in any setting.

53. Specially Designed Instruction Book Study

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 12/1/2025

New
In this 15-hour asynchronous course, participants will explore Anne M. Beninghof's book Specially Designed Instruction (1st Edition). This book will equip teachers to provide specially designed instruction to meet the needs of all learners across any classroom. The book is full of practical examples, answers to FAQs, worksheets, and tools for teachers and teams. Registrants should secure a copy of the book before the start date. A Google Classroom link will be sent on or before 6/30/25.

54. The Magic Continues - Intermediate Magic School AI

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 11/24/2025

Wait List
In this course participants will learn next-level skills to enhance student learning with Magic School AI.

55. The Need to Read Part 4: Award Winning Graphic Novels

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 12/8/2025

New
As educators, finding time to read can be difficult. But we need to, especially when it comes to the award-winning books. This self-paced course will expose participants to various awards winners and discuss how they can be shared with students. We have been asked repeatedly the past few years to do a course on graphic novels. We put together this list of graphic novels that have won various awards. We will analyze these winners, the awards they received and who are the readers for these books. Participants should read at least 3 books for each 2-week session. This course is completely asynchronous through Schoology.

56. What the Science of Reading Says about Word Recognition Book Study

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 12/1/2025

New
In this 15-hour asynchronous course, participants will explore Jennifer Jump's and Robin D. Johnson's book What the Science of Reading Says about Word Study. Participants will unlock helpful background information that will examine current research on the science of reading and topics such as phonological awareness, sight words, and fluency. Participants will also explore practical classroom tips and techniques to help students develop word recognition skills Registrants should secure a copy of the book before the start date. A Google Classroom link will be sent on or before 6/30/25.

57. COLLABORATIVE PLC FOR CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS TEACHERS

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: HS Chemistry and Physics teachers, and administrators

Dates: 10/27/2025 to 12/15/2025

New
Are you a chemistry or physics teacher looking to feel more confident and prepared for the upcoming NYSSLS aligned Regents exams? Join our Professional Learning Community (PLC) designed specifically for secondary science educators who are ready to collaborate, create, and elevate their instructional materials. In this engaging and practical workshop series, teachers will work together to develop NYSSLS aligned clusters that can be used for both student practice and assessment. Through collaborative discussions and shared planning time, participants will:

- Create meaningful clusters of questions that reflect the three dimensional learning required by the NYSSLS.
- Identify and incorporate real-world artifacts and stimuli to ground student learning in authentic science experiences.
- Write and revise questions across a range of Performance Level Descriptors (PLDs), ensuring that all learners are challenged appropriately.
- Contribute to and access a shared resource folder, allowing for continued collaboration and use of high quality instructional tools beyond the session.

This PLC is not only a chance to build materials, it's a chance to build confidence in your ability to assess and support students through this major shift in science education. Whether you're feeling uncertain or excited about the new exams, you'll leave each session with practical resources, deeper content understanding, and a strong network of peers who are tackling the same work.
Embark on a 5-week asynchronous professional development journey exploring the powerful strategies of "We Belong: 50 Strategies to Create Community and Revolutionize Classroom Management" by Laurie Barron and Patti Kinney. This course is tailored for educators committed to enhancing student belonging, engagement, and success in their classrooms. The correlation between student belonging and academic achievement is profound. Through the comprehensive framework of "We Belong," participants will unearth 50 actionable strategies designed to foster authentic relationships, establish safe learning spaces, and cultivate social-emotional competence among students. ** Please purchase the book prior to the course

59. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series: Brief 1: The Research Base for Mathematics Teaching and Learning

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 10/30/2025

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is Brief 1: The Research Base for Mathematics Teaching and Learning

60. Instruction Reimagined: Innovative Lessons for Modern Learners

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 11/2/2025 to 12/14/2025

New
Transform your classroom with Meredith Dobbs' inspiring collection of unconventional teaching strategies designed to captivate contemporary students from her newly released book "Bespoke ELA: Innovative Lessons to Spark Student Engagement." This dynamic book study explores innovative alternatives to traditional instruction methods, featuring immersive storytelling experiences, Language Learning Duels, Literary Time Travel Expeditions, and true crime inspired projects that bring learning to life. Participants will discover how to integrate technology meaningfully while creating student-centered activities with real-world applications that resonate with today's learners. Through collaborative exploration of Dobbs' teacher-tested strategies, educators across all subjects will develop practical tools for enhancing critical thinking, engagement, and authentic learning. Bonus: Access to 50 downloadable resources that can be immediately implemented in any classroom. Participants will need to secure a copy of "Bespoke ELA: Innovative Lessons to Spark Student Engagement" by Meredith Dobbs.

61. Book Study: To Read Stuff You Have to Know Stuff by Kelly Gallagher

Program: English Language Arts

Dates: 11/3/2025 to 12/8/2025

New
In his new book, Gallagher maintains that for our students to think critically, they have to know more. To know more, they have to read more. His system for building skills comes down to 4 parts: words; sentences and passages; articles and books. Course outline: Week 1: Chapters 1 and 2 Week 2: Chapter 3 Week 3: Chapter 4 Week 4: Chapter 5 Week 5: Chapter 6 NOTE: Participants need to obtain a copy of the book prior to the start of the course.

62. Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom Book Study

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Dates: 11/3/2025 to 12/14/2025

New
Join us for a study of Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom by Peter Liljedahl and Maegan Giroux. This text serves as a practical companion to the foundational Building Thinking Classrooms framework, specifically focusing on task selection and implementation to transform mathematics instruction. The book provides teachers with a curated collection of 20 non-curricular and 30 curricular tasks designed to foster deep mathematical thinking and collaboration in K-5 classrooms. Unlike traditional textbook problems, these tasks are carefully crafted to be highly engaging, promote student autonomy, and create what Liljedahl calls "the fuel for transforming classrooms into dynamic critical thinking and collaboration hubs." Teachers will find concrete guidance on how to choose appropriate tasks for their specific standards and learning goals, along with detailed implementation strategies that include task setup, facilitation techniques, and assessment approaches. The book also equips educators with the skills to create their own thinking tasks through a provided template and companion website resources, making it an essential tool for both newcomers to the Building Thinking Classrooms approach and experienced practitioners looking to deepen their task selection and design capabilities.

63. MOTIVATION MATTERS: LISTENING TO OUR STUDENTS - YEARLONG ACTION RESEARCH

Program: Professional Strategies

Audience: All educators and administrators

Dates: 11/3/2025 to 5/4/2026

New
Are you frustrated by declining attendance and low student engagement, even when you're doing everything you can to make learning meaningful and fun? You're not alone. What if the key to unlocking motivation isn't more guessing, but listening? Join this year-long professional learning opportunity focused on student motivation, engagement, and voice. Through this action research project, teachers will collect and analyze real anecdotal data directly from students to uncover what drives them, what helps them learn, what makes them want to participate, and what truly inspires them to show up.

This experience will give you the time and space to:
- Gather authentic student feedback about what motivates or demotivates them in school.
- Engage in meaningful data analysis and collaborative discussion with fellow educators who are facing the same challenges.
- Test small, student-informed shifts in your teaching practice and reflect on their impact.
- Contribute to a growing body of grassroots research that could influence school culture and engagement efforts on a larger scale.

This is a chance to center student voices, understand what matters most to them, and use that insight to inform your teaching in a way that feels relevant, responsive, and human. Let's stop guessing, and start asking! Who knows? Your findings could help reshape not only your classroom, but the future of how we connect with students everywhere.

64. ESSENTIAL METHODS FOR MANAGING DISRUPTIVE STUDENTS WITH COMPLEX TRAUMA

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 11/9/2025 to 12/13/2025

New
This five week book study of Help for Billy by Heather T. Forbes will guide you in effectively incorporating proven strategies in your classroom for trauma-impacted students who struggle with self-regulation. You will learn what the research has shown us about the effects of trauma on the brain and gain valuable new understandings for shifts you can make as teachers to support, guide and intentionally scaffold practices to tap into a student's natural desire to learn. You will compare traditional approaches to classroom management, transitions and teacher-student relationships with a new view that supports all students to learn and achieve academically. Participants are required to secure a copy of the text, Help for Billy, by the start of the course.

65. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series: Brief 2: Debunking Myths about Mathematics Teaching and Learning

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 11/20/2025

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is Brief 2: Debunking Myths about Mathematics Teaching and Learning

66. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series: Brief 3: High-Leverage Mathematical Content

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 12/18/2025

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is Brief 3: High-Leverage Mathematical Content

67. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series: Brief 4: High-Leverage Instructional Practices

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 1/29/2026

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is Brief 4: High-Leverage Instructional Practices

68. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series: Brief 5: Mathematics Assessment of and for Student Learning

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 2/26/2026

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is Brief 5: Mathematics Assessment of and for Student Learning

69. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series: Brief 6: The Role and Challenges of Using Representations

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 3/26/2026

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is Brief 6: The Role and Challenges of Using Representations

70. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series: Brief 7: Understanding, Using, and Modifying Curriculum Materials

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 4/30/2026

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is Brief 7: Understanding, Using, and Modifying Curriculum Materials

71. Math 6-8 Support Network: Numeracy Briefs Series: Brief 8: The Role of Leadership

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: k-12 Mathematics Teachers, focus will be middle school, but others are welcome

Dates: 5/14/2026

New
NYSED has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year. This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.These briefs were produced for NYSED by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. Come join us as we dive into them and explore them. This session is Brief 8: The Role of Leadership