Frontline Education

1. 2024-25 Virtual World Language Support Network and PLC

Program: World Languages

Dates: 9/26/2024 to 5/15/2025

The 2024-25 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 2024-25 PLC will focus on: - Collaborative work with the North Country World Language PLC - AI in the World Language classroom: the what, why and how with focus on: - Resources for teachers, and - Learning activities for students - Comprehensible Input (CI), Acquisition Driven Instruction (ADI) and the updated standards - Continued implementation of the updated NYS World Language Standards with focus on: - Creation of / requirements for the updated Checkpoint A Assessment - Finding and using authentic resources to improve language learning at all levels, and - Embedding authentic resources into CI curriculums and CI-structured classrooms The PLC will meet for 15 hours total from September 2024-May 2025, with 3 meetings being joint meetings with the North Country World Language PLC. All meetings will be virtual via Google Meet.

2. CONTINUING OUR SEARCH FOR TEXTS THAT CHANGE READERS: A YEAR-LONG STUDY GROUP OF NEW AND NOTEWORTHY FICTION (2024-2025) Cario-Durham (formally Greenville) (ACARC)

Program: Albany City Area Reading Council (ACARC)

Dates: 9/30/2024 to 6/9/2025

We need our colleagues to help solve the many problems that come to bear upon our libraries & classrooms. Many of the students we teach depend primarily upon educators & the school system for nourishment - physical, cognitive, emotional, intellectual, and literary. There is nothing more rewarding than to see a student become an avid reader. It is a daunting task to keep up with new books and to continue helping students find THE book - that one particular book that changes the student from reluctant to read to willing to read, and from willing to read to wanting to read. The difficulty of finding that "right” book is that the "right” is a moment in time - temporary and individual. Teachers must have a huge repertoire of book knowledge to be able to match readers with books that are potentially game changes for the reader. * A booklist will be provided on our first meeting, books are available at school and public libraries. **This program is open to all educators. 18 hours in person, 12 hours preparation required outside synchronous meeting times. A virtual option will be available each meeting. ***Course fee: $100; Reading Council enrollment fee: $30 (paid online); The applicable course fee and Reading Council enrollment fee will be due at the first meeting date

3. CONTINUING OUR SEARCH FOR TEXTS THAT CHANGE READERS: A YEAR-LONG STUDY GROUP OF NEW AND NOTEWORTHY FICTION (2024-2025) Albany (ACARC)

Program: Albany City Area Reading Council (ACARC)

Dates: 10/9/2024 to 6/4/2025

We need our colleagues to help solve the many problems that come to bear upon our libraries & classrooms. Many of the students we teach depend primarily upon educators & the school system for nourishment - physical, cognitive, emotional, intellectual, and literary. There is nothing more rewarding than to see a student become an avid reader. It is a daunting task to keep up with new books and to continue helping students find THE book - that one particular book that changes the student from reluctant to read to willing to read, and from willing to read to wanting to read. The difficulty of finding that "right” book is that the "right” is a moment in time - temporary and individual. Teachers must have a huge repertoire of book knowledge to be able to match readers with books that are potentially game changes for the reader. *A booklist will be provided on our first meeting, books are available at school and public libraries. **This program is open to all educators. 18 hours in person, 12 hours preparation required outside synchronous meeting times. A virtual option will be available each meeting. ***Course fee: $100; Reading Council enrollment fee: $30 (paid online); The applicable course fee and Reading Council enrollment fee will be due at the first meeting date

4. 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

5. Considerations for Designing Comprehensive Literacy Instruction for Multilingual Learners (ACARC) ** Rescheduled for March 20, 2025

Program: Albany City Area Reading Council (ACARC)

Dates: 3/20/2025

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

6. Book Study The Heart of Fiction by Kate Roberts

Program: English Language Arts

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

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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.

7. 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!

8. New Mentor Training July 2025 - online and asynchronous

Program: Mentoring

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

Dates: 7/1/2025 to 7/22/2025

Closed

"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.

9. 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.

10. EVERYDAY TEACHING ACTIVITIES FOR SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Program: Professional Strategies

Audience: All Educators

Dates: 7/13/2025 to 8/16/2025

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This 5 week asynchronous book study will guide you in understanding the components of social, emotional learning (SEL) and character development (SECD). You will discover innovative techniques to integrate the 5 social emotional learning competencies - self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship management and responsible decision with strategies in the domains of: Self- and Social Awareness, Empathy and Perspective Taking, Self-regulation and Communication, Relationship Skills and Social Problem Solving for tapping into the newly revised NY SEL Learning Benchmarks. You will learn the basic steps for how to develop the relevant skills that form an SEL approach to learning while also strengthening your class climate for students to demonstrate empathy, respectful communication, self-control, improved relationships and reduce conflict. Participants will leave with a deepened awareness for shifting to a proactive stance for building behavioral reflection and self-monitoring opportunities into a problem-solving framework. Through this work you will discover how SEL can provide the foundation for sustaining a culturally responsive, safe and positive classroom environment that nurtures and affirms a strong sense of identity and purpose for learning. Participants will need to obtain a copy of the book, Nurturing Students' Character- Everyday Teaching Activities for Social-Emotional Learning, Jeffrey S. Kress and Maurice J. Elias.

11. Summer/Fall Mentor: AN INSTITUTE IN PRACTICAL EDUCATIONAL SCIENCE: July 2025 - Dec 2025

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: Open only to those accepted into the IPES program for the 25-26 school year.

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 11/3/2025

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This option gives participants an opportunity to hone their skills in assessment design, identifying practical learning goals, designing rubrics, and providing professional development through supervision and evaluation of the work of the incoming cohort. Participants will mentor a group of up to two members of the next IPES cohort in developing their practical capacities as educational scientists by supporting them in meeting milestones, providing written feedback on milestone submissions, and serving as observers and evaluators of reliability studies.

Mentors will support teachers during the summer workshop from July 14th through the 18th. Mentors will supervise and evaluate a maximum of two new IPES teachers over the course of the school year.

12. Summer/Fall 25 - BUILDING AND VALIDATING NGSS/NYSSLS CLASSROOM ASSESSMENTS: AN INSTITUTE IN PRACTICAL EDUCATIONAL SCIENCE: July 2025 - December 2025

Program: Math, Science & Technology

Audience: Open only to those accepted into the IPES program for the 25-26 school year.

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 11/3/2025

Starting Soon

Participation begins with a 5 day workshop from July 14th through the 18th, 2025. During that time, workshop facilitators will introduce participants to the principles and techniques of Practical Educational Science. Each participant will prepare and test the first draft of an assessment kit for one NYSSLS performance expectation. Each assessment kit will include a set of learning goals with associated rubrics in a rating guide, an assessment task, and a teacher guide. Participants are also encouraged to complete a community-building milestone by hosting up to three meetings with colleagues in their district, focused on the principles of Practical Educational Science.

Following the July 2025 workshop, participating teachers will collaborate to iteratively administer, score, evaluate and refine their assessment kits. Each kit will include learning goals, rubrics with help text, the assessment activity, and teacher instructions. Works in progress and final products will be posted on NGSSRubrics.org.

Participating teachers will administer their assessments to one or more of their classes. The quality of assessment information will be enhanced through collaborative reliability studies with peers and Institute staff at monthly meetings. Assessment, evaluation and refinement of assessment kits will continue over the course of the academic year.

Participating teachers will attend monthly meetings where they will share assessment results, conduct inter-rater reliability and validity studies, and evaluate each others' progress in developing and validating assessment kits.

13. DASA Certification Training (Non-CTLE) - July

Program: Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Regional Catalog

Dates: 7/16/2025

Starting Soon

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)

14. Cultivating Awareness and Resilience in Education (CARE) for Teachers Retreat CTLE Registration

Program: Professional Strategies

Audience: All school-based educators

Dates: 7/17/2025 to 7/20/2025

Starting Soon

CARE is a unique evidence-based program designed to help educators reduce stress and enliven their work by promoting awareness, presence, compassion, reflection, and inspiration - the inner resources needed to help students flourish, socially, emotionally, and academically.

Previous participants include PK-20 teachers, leaders, support staff, teacher educators and coaches, out-of-school time providers, and more. If you support learning for the next generation, this retreat is for you.

CARE is a program of CREATE (Creating Resilience for Educators, Administrators and Teachers). CARE was developed at the Garrison Institute (see here for more information)

This innovative in-person training for educators from July 17 to July 20 will introduce an evidence-based set of practical skills, to support wellbeing. These skills will help reduce stress, improve mental concentration and emotional awareness, and facilitate responsiveness.

You will be able to apply these in your work so you can consistently be the caring, compassionate educator you are. These skills include body awareness, movement, deep listening, emotion-awareness training, and much more.

This is a co-sponsored program. Enrolling in this course will provide you with documentation of up to 25.75 Continuing Teacher and Leader (CTLE) hours. Please note you must also register for the site fees via the Garrison institute as follows:

Fee Schedule (All rates inclusive of program, materials, meals and lodging option of your choice (with the exception of the commuter rate which does not include lodging):

Single Room (per person rate): $990.

Double Room (per person rate): $940.

Commuter Option (staying offsite): $860.

Register for Garrison Institute here: https://www.garrisoninstitute.org/event/cultivating-awareness-and-resilience-in-education-2025/

15. 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

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.

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

Program: Professional Strategies

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

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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.

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

Program: Professional Strategies

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

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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.

18. Leveraging AI Tools for Google Workspace

Program: Math, Science & Technology

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

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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.

19. 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.

20. 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)

21. 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.

22. Empowering Educators: Integrating AI Tools in the Classroom

Program: Math, Science & Technology

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

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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.

23. 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)

24. 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.

25. 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!

26. National Board Certification - MOC Maintenance of 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 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.

27. 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.

28. 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.

29. Experience the Magic with Magic School AI

Program: Math, Science & Technology

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

Closed

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)

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.

31. 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.

32. 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.

33. Students Taking Action Together - 5 Teaching Techniques to Cultivate Social Emotional Learning, Civic Engagement, and a Healthy Democracy.

Program: Professional Strategies

Dates: 10/19/2025 to 12/20/2025

New

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.

34. 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.

35. 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.

36. 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.

37. 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.

38. 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.

39. The Magic Continues - Intermediate Magic School AI

Program: Math, Science & Technology

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

Closed

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

40. 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.

41. 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.

42. 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.

43. 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.

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Catalog: Greater Capital Region Teacher Center (Web Registr

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