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Catalog: Capital Region BOCES (Web Registration)

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1. Distance Learning Practitioners Meeting (January 2025)

Program: NERIC: Special Events

Audience: Distance Learning Teachers, Classroom Facilitators and DL Coordinators

Dates: 1/24/2025

Location: Albany Rooms

As the year rushes to the end and a new beginning, it is time again to plan on gathering with your fellow Distance Learning Teachers and Classroom Facilitators in January. We are, as always, truly thankful to work with each of you in providing students opportunities otherwise unavailable to them.

We encourage you to join us at the Distance Learning Practitioners Meeting, to allow veteran DL Practitioners (teachers and classroom facilitators), those new to the DL environment, and even those simply curious about the DL network, to continue sharing experiences; your successes, common pain points, and how you are helping to grow the DL program in all of the various learning environments.

The January Distance Learning Practitioners Meeting will be an in-person event held on Friday, January 24th from 12:30pm to 2:00pm at NERIC - 900 Watervliet-Shaker Road in Albany. We will be providing lunch at 12:00pm, so be sure to arrive by noon at NERIC in Albany! A virtual option will be made available upon request.

Please register soon to hold your place.

Please email dl@neric.org by January 17th with your questions and topics of discussion you would like covered during the meeting. We will facilitate the forum discussions using the feedback received from you.

We hope to see you on January 24th. Until then, stay well.

-Eileen Drescher, Melissa Boucher, Jen Bloomingdale, Julia Motler, Mike Sylofski, & Mary Graham-Morris

NOTE: This meeting is open to DL Practitioners from districts participating in the Full Distance Learning Program.
  • Enrolled: 38/100
  • Wait: 0/10

2. Distance Learning Practitioners Meeting (June 2025)

Program: NERIC: Special Events

Audience: Distance Learning Teachers, Classroom Facilitators and DL Coordinators

Dates: 6/17/2025

Location: Albany Rooms

As the end of the year approaches like a runaway freight train, it is important to take the time to gather with your fellow Distance Learning Teachers and Classroom Facilitators in June. We continue to be grateful to be given the opportunity to work with each of you in providing student opportunities every day.

We encourage you to join us at the Distance Learning Practitioners Meeting, to allow veteran DL Practitioners (teachers and classroom facilitators), those new to the DL environment, and even those simply curious about the DL network, to continue sharing experiences; your successes, common pain points, and how you are helping to grow the DL program in all of the various learning environments.

The June Distance Learning Practitioners Meeting will be an in-person event held on Tuesday, June 17th from 12:30pm to 2:00pm at NERIC - 900 Watervliet-Shaker Road in Albany. We will be providing lunch at 12:00pm, so be sure to arrive by noon at NERIC in Albany! A virtual option will be made available upon request.

Please register soon to hold your place.

Please email dl@neric.org by June 11th with questions and topics of discussion you would like covered during the meeting. We will facilitate the forum discussions using the feedback received from you.

We hope to see you on June 17th. Until then, stay well.

-Eileen Drescher, Melissa Boucher, Jen Bloomingdale, Julia Motler, Mike Sylofski, Dan LeClaire, & Mary Graham-Morris

NOTE: This meeting is open to DL Practitioners from districts participating in the Full Distance Learning Program.
  • Enrolled: 24/100
  • Wait: 0/10

3. Canva Hacks for Teachers: Unleash Your Creativity!

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

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

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Ready to take your Canva skills to the next level? In this 5-week course, you'll explore a series of videos from Canva expert Teresa Kwant, packed with handy hacks and creative tricks designed just for teachers. You'll get to choose which videos resonate with you, diving into topics like creating eye-catching classroom materials, interactive assignments, and engaging presentations that will make your lessons pop! Each week, you'll have the chance to create your own personalized resources using the hacks you've learned, giving you practical tools you can start using right away.

This course is perfect for educators who already have a basic understanding of Canva (or who are willing to watch a few quick tutorials to catch up). Whether you're looking to spice up your lessons, design student-friendly worksheets, or create engaging presentations and games, Canva Hacks for Teachers will give you the confidence and creativity to bring your ideas to life. Let's have fun, get inspired, and transform your teaching resources with Canva!

Free for Model Schools
Others: $275
Location: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 40/20
  • Wait: 20/20

4. Empowered by EdTech: Tier 1 Strategies When You Can't Sit with Every Student Every Day

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 8/8/2025

Location: Online

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You can't sit next to every kid every day-but you can create systems that support every learner. This course explores practical Tier 1 interventions that promote access, engagement, and independence for all students, even when teacher time is limited. Participants will learn how to build inclusive classroom routines, deliver instruction that reaches a wide range of learners, and use tools like Kami, Screencastify, and Quizizz to extend their presence beyond direct instruction. Designed for general and special educators alike, this course equips teachers with scalable strategies and tech-enhanced tools to meet diverse needs at the whole-class level.

This is an Asynchronous course. All coursework will be available on July 7th and all work will be due by August 8th. 

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 37/40
  • Wait: 0/15

5. Google Forms: In and Out of the Classroom

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 8/11/2025

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This 15-hour online course introduces educators to Google Forms for classroom and personal use. Google Forms is a tool that is a part of the Google Workspace. It allows users to create easy-to-use web forms, that are linked to a Google Sheet. The course focus is on standards-based exercises that can be easily integrated and adapted for educator use across the curriculum. Topics covered may include: form creation and formatting, using templates, creating surveys, quizzes, exit tickets, sharing and collaborating, and using addons. Participants who complete all the assignments will receive a 15 hour completion certificate. Registrants will be notified by email with course access information.

Prerequisites: Must have a Google Drive/Gmail account. Prior knowledge of Google Drive is strongly recommended.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 20/20
  • Wait: 0/5

6. How to Teach a Novel for World Language Classrooms

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 8/15/2025

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Discover the tools, and strategies you need to successfully teach a novel in today's diverse World Language classroom. This practical course is designed for educators who want to make literature instruction more engaging, inclusive, and effective. Whether you're new to teaching novels or looking to refresh your approach, you'll learn how to foster deep comprehension, facilitate meaningful discussions, and differentiate instruction to meet the needs of learners. We'll use a wide variety of online learning tools mixed in with some traditional tips and tricks. You'll experience what it's like to create activities for a book of your choice. Participants will need to have access to a language learner reader (or e-reader) of their choice in whichever language they teach (if participants need ideas- they can be found/purchased from Wayside Publishing).

By the end of this course, participants will have acquired:
*Techniques for planning a unit around a whole class novel
*Ideas for making connections between literature and students' lives
*Tools for assessing understanding in creative and formative ways
*Methods for building a reading culture and cultivating critical thinking

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $275
Location: Online

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 9/25
  • Wait: 0/3

7. Inquiry Mindset

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 8/4/2025

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Why do some of our students become disconnected from their learning in school? Where does this natural curiosity go? In this book study you will learn how to empower your learners, increase engagement, and accelerate achievement! You will work on how to harness the wonderings and curiosities of your students and leverage them into powerful learning opportunities. You will learn how to adopt an inquiry approach that results in the most authentic and inspiring learning you've ever experienced! Inquiry Mindset leaves behind the do whatever you want approach to inquiry and offers a concrete roadmap you can follow to success.

It is required that participants have the book, Inquiry Mindset: Nurturing the Dreams, Wonders, and Curiosities of Our Youngest Learners by Trevor MacKenzie and Rebecca Bathurst-Hunt .

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $275
Location: Online

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 22/25
  • Wait: 0/3

8. Canva (New Session)

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 7/27/2025

Location: Online

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If you want a simple and user-friendly way to create unique images, videos, websites, booklets, multimedia presentations, and much more, Canva is the course for you! This course will help you learn how to take advantage of Canva's many unique features to use in your classroom to better engage students! Upon completion of the course, you will receive a certificate for 15 hours of participation.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 17/15
  • Wait: 2/50

9. Digital Citizenship in Action: A Book Study

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 7/27/2025

Location: Online

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Get ready to ditch the doom and gloom and inspire your students to thrive in the digital world! In this book study of Digital Citizenship in Action: Empowering Students to Engage in Online Communities (2nd edition) by Kristen Mattson, you'll explore how to shift the conversation from online dangers to digital possibilities. Forget outdated lessons that paint the internet as a scary place-this course is all about showing students the opportunities for online collaboration, creativity, and community-building. You'll get real-life classroom examples, engaging activities for all grade levels, and tips for creating a safe space where students can experiment, grow, and learn from their mistakes. If you're ready to guide your students in developing the skills to be thoughtful, engaged digital citizens, this course is for you!

We will delve into the recently published educational text Digital Citizenship in Action: Empowering Students to Engage in Online Communities (2nd edition) by Kristen Mattson. This online collaborative environment will enable you to interact with other educators, discover additional resources, and inspire you to think differently.

Participants should have access to the book Digital Citizenship in Action: Empowering Students to Engage in Online Communities (2nd edition) by Kristen Mattson.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 10/15
  • Wait: 0/15

10. Making Words Stick: A Four-Step Instructional Routine to Power Up Orthographic Mapping

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 8/4/2025

Location: Online

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In this 15-hour asynchronous course, participants will explore another book from The Science of Reading in Practice series, Making Words Stick: A Four-Step Instructional Routine to Power Up Orthographic Mapping. Participants will learn more about the process that allows readers to embed words into their long-term memory. The book explores how to connect decoding, encoding, and meaning using research-based, classroom-tested routines.

Participants will utilize various digital tools, including Canva, Padlet, and AI, to collaborate, share insights, and refine their pedagogical practices for their own learning and teaching.

Registrants should secure a copy of the book before the start date. A Google Classroom link will be sent on or before July 7, 2025.

This class will run from July 7, 2025, to August 4, 2025.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 33/40
  • Wait: 0/15

11. Reach All Readers: Using the Science of Reading to Transform Your Literacy Instruction

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 8/4/2025

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In this 15-hour asynchronous course, participants will explore the book Reach All Readers: Using the Science of Reading to Transform Your Literacy Instruction (1st Edition) by Anna Geiger. This book is full of research, evidence-based routines, activities, and practical tools for the classroom. The book is reader-friendly and includes charts and graphic information to help you visualize key concepts.

Participants will utilize various digital tools, including Canva, Padlet, and AI, to collaborate, share insights, and refine their pedagogical practices for their own learning and teaching.

Registrants should secure a copy of the book in advance of the start date. A Google Classroom link will be sent on or before July 7, 2025.

This class will run from July 7, 2025- August 4, 2025.

Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 8/30
  • Wait: 0/10

12. SchoolTool Grade Advancement [MAL]

Program: NERIC: SchoolTool

Dates: 7/7/2025

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SchoolTool
This classroom work session will consist of in-depth coverage of auto grade advancement and other enrollment tasks in SchoolTool. Topics to be covered will include enrollment start, exiting transfer students, "class of" verification, assigning projected enrollment and projected enrollment checks. Graduating seniors, promoting all other grade levels and promoting out-of-district students will also be reviewed.
  • Enrolled: 6/20
  • Wait: 0/0

13. The Empowered Teacher Toolkit

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 8/4/2025

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"There is no such thing as work-life balance - it is all life. The balance needs to be within you.” -Sadhguru, Spiritual Thought Leader

Learn from Grace Stevens, lead educator of finding balance in our busy lives. For those of us that have taught before, during, or after the pandemic, we know that our students have growing needs and so do we. More demands are put on educators, as well. How do we handle the balance that is needed to not only succeed, but be healthy in our lives as educators in our ever changing landscape? This book brings practical and easy to implement strategies for you to take control of your happiness inside and outside of the classroom.

Participants must have access to the book The Empowered Teacher Toolkit.

Model Schools: Free
Others: $275.00
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 27/20
  • Wait: 7/20

14. New Digital Citizenship: AI Scope and Sequence and the NYS CSDF Standards

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/7/2025 to 7/11/2025

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Dive into the AI Scope and Sequence developed by New York State Library Systems, gaining a clear understanding of its structure and content. Across the 3 sessions, participants will collaboratively align the AI curriculum with the New York State computer science and digital fluency standards to ensure cohesive and standards-based instruction. This exploration will empower teachers to confidently integrate AI concepts into their classrooms while fostering digital citizenship and information evaluations skills. Perfect for educators looking to update their understanding of AI and consider how to communicate about it to students. The scope and sequence is for grades K-12.

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $90
Location: Webinar Series

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 12/25
  • Wait: 0/3

15. PLC Podcast Club

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Educators

Dates: 7/8/2025 to 8/25/2025

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This series of 4 half day meetings will focus around exploration of pre-selected podcast episodes. Podcasts may include Truth for Teachers: Angela Watson and The Cult of Pedagogy: Jennifer Gonzales. The PLC Podcast Club is suitable for anyone who works with students in a K-12 school setting.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 2/40
  • Wait: 0/0

16. Claim/Evidence/Reason: Designing Opportunities for Inquiry Learning

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Elementary Educators

Dates: 7/9/2025

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In this hands-on workshop, elementary teachers will be introduced to the skills, concepts, pedagogy, and practices based on the innovative "Read.Inquire.Write" (RIW) framework, designed to promote inquiry-based learning. By establishing consistent routines across various content areas, RIW enhances students' ability to engage deeply with complex concepts, while building stamina, confidence, and proficiency in critical thinking, reading, discussion, and writing.

Join us to explore how RIW can transform your classroom into a dynamic environment where inquiry and student engagement thrive.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 1/40
  • Wait: 0/0

17. Claim/Evidence/Reason: Designing Opportunities for Inquiry Learning

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Secondary Educators

Dates: 7/10/2025

Starting Soon
In this hands-on workshop, secondary teachers will be introduced to the skills, concepts, pedagogy, and practices based on the innovative "Read.Inquire.Write" (RIW) framework, designed to promote inquiry-based learning. By establishing consistent routines across various content areas, RIW enhances students' ability to engage deeply with complex concepts, while building stamina, confidence, and proficiency in critical thinking, reading, discussion, and writing.

Join us to explore how RIW can transform your classroom into a dynamic environment where inquiry and student engagement thrive.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 5/40
  • Wait: 0/0

18. Young Adult Literature and Technology

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 8/22/2025

This online course gives educators the opportunity to read, review, and discuss literature for young adults. Books should be ones that are appropriate for the age/grade level taught. Participants will engage in online discussion with classmates related to reading in school and using technology as a tool to teach literature. The course culminates with a project that integrates technology and literature.

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $275
Location: Online

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 9/15
  • Wait: 0/3

19. "Don't Ditch that Tech!" Book Study

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 8/25/2025

Don't just use tech-use it well. In this engaging book study of Don't Ditch That Tech: Differentiated Instruction in a Digital World by Matt Miller, educators will explore how to move beyond flashy tools and find the sweet spot of meaningful tech integration. Through collaborative discussion, hands-on exploration, and practical application, participants will discover how to use technology to differentiate instruction, increase student engagement, and design powerful, learner-centered experiences. Whether you're tech-savvy or just getting started, this course will equip you with the mindset and tools to teach with purpose in today's digital world.

Participants should have access to the book Don't Ditch That Tech: Differentiated Instruction in a Digital World, by Matt Miller.

Model Schools: Free
Others: $275.00
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 12/30
  • Wait: 0/20

20. Getting Started with AI (For Educators)

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 8/11/2025

Wait List
This is an introductory course for educators looking to learn more about AI and how to leverage it in an educational setting.

The course will cover:
-An introduction to AI: What it is, its benefits, and a discussion of concerns surrounding its usage
-Crafting prompts to optimize AI outputs
-A look at how educators can use AI tools to reduce workload and streamline teaching (The course will specifically highlight Google's AI Chatbot Gemini, but other free tools will be featured as well.)

This course has 4 learning modules. During each, you will read or watch learning materials and complete a quiz to assess your understanding. At the end of the course, you will submit a performance task where you will have the opportunity to apply what you have learned.

The modules can be completed at whatever pace you feel comfortable with as long as all module quizzes are submitted by 8/10 and the performance task is turned in by 8/11.

Registrants will be notified by email on the start date of the course with course access information. If you don't receive course info by the end of the day on the course start date, please check your SPAM folder. Please note that only those who register before or on the course start date will receive welcome information.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 29/15
  • Wait: 14/15

21. Introduction to Pixlr

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 8/18/2025

Pixlr is a free online cloud-based image editing tool that runs on both the PC and Mac platforms. It's an HTML5-based app that closely resembles Photoshop. Images may be opened from your workstation or URL, as well as from Facebook, Instagram, and Google Photos. The course, focusing on Web image creation for the classroom, will include: interface navigation, selection tools and layers, manipulating your images, transforming and retouching photos, and filters. Participants who complete all the assignments, assessments and projects will receive a certificate of completion for 15 hours of participation. Registrants will be notified by email with course access information.

Prerequisites: Participants should also have access to a digital camera, smartphone or digital images for final project completion.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 6/25
  • Wait: 0/10

22. Lead Evaluators of Principals- Recertification

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Dates: 7/14/2025

This half day, in person workshop is for those who have previously attended the Certification for Lead Evaluators for Principals workshop and will focus on the evaluation process as it relates to principals.

Participants will
- Review the Standards for Educational Leadership and recommended NYS rubrics
- Brainstorm qualities that make for a highly effective principal
- Review the process and best practices for site visits
- Discuss how to support principals- best practices, rubric thoughts, and future considerations
  • Enrolled: 4/40
  • Wait: 0/0

23. Literacy in the Disciplines: A Teachers Guide for Grades 5-12 Book Study

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 8/15/2025

This book study explores why disciplinary literacies matter. It discusses ways to teach close reading of complex texts, discipline specific augmentation, communication, writing skills, and academic vocabulary. Forms are included that are reproducible and can be used in history, science, mathematics, literature, the arts, and physical education. Each participant will create a Google Slides presentation that can be used within their discipline.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 4/25
  • Wait: 0/5

24. Math Fact Fluency

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 8/25/2025

Location: Online

This book study explores "Math Fact Fluency" by Jennifer Bay-Williams and Gina King, emphasizing the core components of fluency and effective instructional techniques. Participants will use different digital tools to learn about the five fundamentals of fluency and how they help improve math skills. Those tools include Figma, podcasts, videos, Google Slides, Padlet, and more. Discussions will cover teaching and practicing foundational and derived facts through activities and games. We will also discuss assessment methods for tracking students' progress and strategies for involving families in supporting mathematical development.

Participants should have access to the book Math Fact Fluency by Jennifer Bay-Williams and Gina King.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 10/20
  • Wait: 0/15

25. Play is Serious Business! Purposeful Play: A Teacher's Guide to Igniting Deep and Joyful Learning Across the Day.... A Book Study

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 8/18/2025

Wait List
Play is serious business!

Play helps students reach standards and goals in ways that in their- seat instruction alone can't do, and not just during playtime.

In this book study, the authors Alison Porcelli, Kristine Mraz and Cheryl Tyler share ways to:
* Optimize and balance different types of play to deepen regular classroom learning
* Teach into play to foster social- emotional skills and growth mindset
* Bring the impact of play into all your lessons across the day.

**Play doesn't only happen when work is over, play is the way they work.
Join us to find research driven methods for making play an engine for rigorous learning!

Participants should have access to the book Purposeful Play: A Teacher's Guide to Igniting Deep and Joyful Learning Across the Day.

This class is best for teachers Pre-K through 3rd.

Model Schools: Free
Others: $275.00
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 31/30
  • Wait: 1/20

26. Squishy Circuits: Dynamic STEAM

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025

This engaging webinar introduces educators to Squishy Circuits, covering basic circuit concepts and the creative use of conductive and insulating dough alongside kit components. Attendees will explore practical strategies for integrating Squishy Circuits into elementary classrooms and libraries to meet the needs of diverse learners through hands-on, multimodal activities. After the first hour of instruction, participants will have an opportunity to explore ready-made resources on the Squishy Circuits website and develop a ready-to-use lesson plan to inspire inclusive, hands-on learning during the school year.

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $90
Location: Webinar

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 2/25
  • Wait: 0/3

27. The Curious Classroom

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/14/2025 to 8/11/2025

"The sky's the limit with Inquiry!” Learn from Smokey Daniels, lead educator of curiosity in the classroom, as he provides you, the educator, with a road map to success!

With students less engaged than ever before in the classrooms, how do we motivate our students to be curious and become catalysts of their own learning when it comes to our curriculum? Let Daniels lead your classroom work through his step-by-step ladder of inquiry, designed to provide you with the tools to design a classroom model that goes from focusing on "coverage” of your curriculum to self-lead student inquiry.

It is suggested participants have the book, The Curious Classroom, by Harvey "Smokey” Daniels and Book Journal.

Model Schools: Free
Others: $275.00
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 16/25
  • Wait: 0/20

28. Manageable and Meaningful Feedback

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Grade 6-12 Teachers

Dates: 7/14/2025

Feeling buried under a mountain of grading? You're not alone-and there's a better way. Manageable and Meaningful Feedback is designed for educators who want to reduce grading overload without sacrificing impact. In this energizing session, you'll learn how to streamline your grading practices, prioritize high-impact feedback, and design efficient systems that support both student growth and teacher well-being. Walk away with time-saving strategies, real-world examples, and a renewed sense of purpose around assessment.

This online staff development offering is being provided at no additional cost to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add Service.
  • Enrolled: 5/35
  • Wait: 0/0

29. Executive Functioning Skills and Impactful Teaching Strategies for Students with Disabilities

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Educators

Dates: 7/15/2025

This half day professional development session focuses on understanding and enhancing executive functioning skills-such as organization, time management, task initiation, and self-regulation-in students with special needs (SD). Participants will explore evidence-based strategies and practical tools to support students in developing these critical skills, leading to increased independence, academic success, and overall well-being. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, educators will learn how to implement impactful teaching strategies tailored to meet the unique needs of SD students, fostering an effective learning environment.

The session will provide practical techniques to promote self-regulation, cognitive flexibility, and problem-solving skills, ensuring all students can thrive in both academic and social settings.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 5/40
  • Wait: 0/0

30. Book Study: UFLI Foundations: An Explicit and Systematic Phonics Program

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/15/2025 to 8/22/2025

Location: Online

This professional development opportunity is designed to deepen teachers' understanding of explicit and systematic phonics instruction. Together, we will explore key concepts, practical strategies, and implementation techniques from the UFLI Foundations program to strengthen literacy instruction. Participants will use videos, Google Slides, Canva, and Padlet to share insights, explore resources, and exchange ideas virtually. Through these collaborative platforms, teachers will develop actionable tools and plans for effectively incorporating UFLI Foundations into their classrooms.

Participants should have access to the book UFLI Foundations: An Explicit and Systematic Phonics Program.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 24/25
  • Wait: 0/15

31. Empowering Young Writers: The 'We-Do' Approach with Modern Tech

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/15/2025 to 8/15/2025

This course provides educators with practical strategies to maximize the "We-Do" phase in writing instruction, fostering student independence through guided practice. Participants will explore interactive writing techniques, differentiate instruction based on student needs, and develop flexible approaches to support diverse learners.

Tech/AI skills this course will cover:
*Designing Collaborative Writing Activities with Padlet AI
*Enhancing Visual Literacy and Writing Skills Using Canva's AI Tools
*Personalizing Writing Instruction with Magic School AI

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 22/30
  • Wait: 0/5

32. Teacher Assistant AI

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/15/2025

Yes, Artificial Intelligence is everywhere now…even in education. But, the discussion around AI should focus on so much more than writing essays. Have you ever wanted help with planning within a new curriculum? Drafting and proofreading emails, updates and newsletters? Creating materials to meet differentiated student needs? Well…AI can help with all of those things…and more! Join me for an interactive exploration of how you can make AI your go-to assistant!

We will look into how you can leverage SchoolAI, Brisk, GoblinTools, NotebookLM, and more to maximize your time and efficiency as you plan and create for your classes.

Model Schools Districts: FREE
Others: $90.00
Course Type: Webinar

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 8/40
  • Wait: 0/3

33. NYSSLS Chemistry: It's Getting Real

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Chemistry Teachers

Dates: 7/15/2025

The NYSSLS implementation timeline for chemistry is finally here.

Join your colleagues from across the region as we dive into the New York State Science Learning Standards for Chemistry. How do these standards differ from the Core Curriculum that we know so well? For teachers new to the standards, this session is for you! Together we will find ways to integrate the science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas and crosscutting concepts into your instruction and assessments, as well as take a peek into the new NYS required investigations for chemistry.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 2/24
  • Wait: 0/0

34. Science of Reading For Secondary Teachers

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Secondary Educators, Literacy Teachers, Reading Specialists

Dates: 7/16/2025

Want to learn more about how the Science of Reading can apply in secondary classrooms? In this energizing half-day session, we'll provide an overview of the main concepts behind the Science of Reading and discuss how this understanding of how students learn to read can help struggling readers in secondary settings. Learn how to pinpoint students' literacy needs and deliver targeted, effective instruction that drives real results-to help your students grow as readers.

This staff development offering is being provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add Service.
  • Enrolled: 3/40
  • Wait: 0/0

35. NYSSLS Physics: It's Getting Real

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Physics Teachers

Dates: 7/16/2025

The NYSSLS implementation timeline for physics is finally here.

Join your colleagues from across the region as we dive into the New York State Science Learning Standards for Physics. How do these standards differ from the Core Curriculum that we know so well? For teachers new to the standards, this session is for you! Together we will find ways to integrate the science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas and crosscutting concepts into your instruction and assessments, as well as take a peek into the new NYS required investigations for physics.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 3/24
  • Wait: 0/0

36. Introduction to 3d Modeling and Printing

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/16/2025 to 7/30/2025

Participants will get the opportunity to download AutoDesk Inventor, top of the line 3d modeling software that is free for educators. You will then learn how to use the software to create models that can be 3d printed in your classroom. Each participant will have the opportunity to walk away with turn-key lessons and opportunities to immediately incorporate into their classroom.

This course now begins on 7/16.

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $225
Location: Watervliet CSD

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 1/25
  • Wait: 0/3

37. New Lead Evaluator Training

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Dates: 7/17/2025

The session is designed for NEW Lead Evaluators of Teachers in compliance with Education law 3012-d: Focus of the training:

- NYS Teaching Standards

- Professional Standards for Educational Evaluators (PSEL)

- Culturally Responsive Sustaining Education Framework (CRSE)

- State approved professional practice rubrics to anchor effective evidence collection and feedback

For more information, email: Laura McDaniel - laura.mcdaniel@neric.org

  • Enrolled: 4/50
  • Wait: 0/0

38. Project Based Learning Launch

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Educators who are new to PBL

Dates: 7/17/2025

This half-day session is designed for educators interested in exploring Project-Based Learning (PBL). Participants will receive an overview of PBL, including its principles and how it can be effectively implemented in K-12 classrooms. Attendees will also discover valuable resources and examples to support the initiation of their own PBL journey.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 4/40
  • Wait: 0/0

39. Supporting English Language Learners' Pathways to Success

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/17/2025

Unlock powerful, tech-based strategies to empower English Language Learners (and you as their teacher) on their journey to academic success! You will see the work we've done in the Schenectady City School District to leverage digital resources to help educators identify students' needs through the NYS Language Acquisition Framework and meet those needs in their planning and content delivery, while avoiding academically harmful myths and misconceptions.

1 - Learn how to leverage AI chatbot technology to help you to quickly diagnose and support student needs
2 - Explore how NotebookLM can be a powerful professional learning resource
3 - Learn how Book Creator can be used as a PD Training Tool

Model Schools Districts: FREE
Others: $90.00
Course Type: Webinar

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 6/40
  • Wait: 0/3

40. Project Based Learning in Practice

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Teachers with experience implementing PBL

Dates: 7/17/2025

Join fellow K-12 educators with experience in Project-Based Learning (PBL) as they share their successes and insights. Engage in meaningful discussions on implementation strategies, challenges, and your aspirations for PBL. Explore new resources designed to enhance and elevate both current and future PBL projects.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 2/40
  • Wait: 0/0

41. Basking in Brisk 1: Learn About (7.18)

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Audience: Administrators, teachers, support staff, related service providers

Dates: 7/18/2025

This first session of 2 sessions will delve into Brisk (from Brisk Teaching), a revolutionary Chrome extension that utilizes AI to empower educators. We will explore what Brisk can do, which includes personalizing instruction, and providing real-time feedback to optimize student learning. Gain insights into effectively integrating Brisk into your teaching practice and discover how AI can transform your classroom.

If you are interested in this session, but are unable to attend during the designated time, feel free to sign up and contact the instructor (virginia.bond@neric.org). An option to complete the session asynchronously will be provided after the LIVE session has occurred. All participants will be sent a video link to the session after the live session is complete. Information regarding accessing the webinar will be sent to all registrants for that session via email the day prior to the event.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $90.00
Location: Online via Webex

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 5/100
  • Wait: 0/5

42. DASA Training July 2025

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Individuals seeking NYS Certification

Dates: 7/18/2025

Closed
This workshop will fulfill the training requirements for the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) as required by the New York State Education Department Board of Regents. The workshop is designed for those who are seeking a New York State Certification.

New York State's Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) seeks to provide the State's public elementary and secondary school students with a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying on school property, a school bus and/or at a school function.

Date: July 18th
Time: 8:30-3:30
1 hour lunch break, lunch will be on your own
Participants paying by check can mail in advance payment or bring a check made out to Capital Region BOCES to the session.

This staff development offering is provided at no additional cost to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.

In accordance with Capital Region BOCES Board of Education Policy 6254 a 6.25% administrative assessment will be charged for all services furnished to other BOCES, school districts belonging to other BOCES, and other organizations and municipalities. In addition, an administrative assessment of 8.28% will be charged to all independent school districts and non-public schools.
  • Enrolled: 25/25
  • Wait: 0/0

43. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 3rd Grade PS: How Can We Predict Patterns of Motion?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/21/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students explore how objects can exert forces on other objects and predict an object's future motion based on observations of patterns of motion. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 1/24
  • Wait: 0/0

44. Words Matter: A Book Study with Effective Teacher Talk

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/21/2025 to 8/11/2025

Wait List
This course explores the role of language and communication in educational settings. Through research-based frameworks and practical strategies, participants will examine how the words educators use-and the way they use them-shape student identity, motivation, and learning outcomes. Participants will reflect on their own communication practices and use digital tools including Classroom Screen, Padlet and Google Applications.

Participants need access to What We Say and How We Say It Matter by Mike Anderson.

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $275
Location: Online

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 26/25
  • Wait: 1/3

45. AI for Educators: A Book Study

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/21/2025 to 8/10/2025

Location: Online

Are you ready to embark on a journey that could revolutionize your teaching methods and empower your students for the future? Do you secretly dream of having an AI sidekick named "EduBot” to help you conquer the classroom chaos? Join us as we explore the world of AI and discover how it's reshaping education through the pages of Matt Miller's book, AI for Educators. This book study will equip you with the skills and knowledge to prepare your students to thrive in a world where AI is the norm. You'll also discover how to leverage AI for time-saving benefits in your teaching. Are you ready to become a trailblazing AI-powered educator? The future begins now!

The purpose of this book study is to create a culture of learning and sharing as we delve into the recently published educational text AI for Educators by Matt Miller. This online collaborative environment will enable you to interact with other educators, discover additional resources, and inspire you to think differently. The format of this book study allows you to participate at times that are most convenient for you and your schedule.

Participants will need access to Matt Miller's book, AI for Educators.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 5/15
  • Wait: 0/15

46. Google Sheets for Educators

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/21/2025 to 8/25/2025

This 15-hour online course introduces educators to Google Sheets. The focus is on standards-based exercises that can be easily integrated and adapted for educator use across the curriculum. Topics covered may include: making the transition from Excel, using spreadsheets in the classroom and school environment, gradebooks, conditional formatting and filters, graphing data, working with live Web-based data, and using add-ons. Participants who complete all the assignments will receive a 15 hour completion certificate. Registrants will be notified by email with course access information.

Prerequisites: Must have Internet access and a personal Google Drive account. Prior knowledge of Excel is recommended.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 12/25
  • Wait: 0/5

47. Customization: The Secret Ingredient to Meeting Your Students Where They Are!

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/21/2025 to 7/28/2025

We live in a world of customization. Customized playlists, feeds, social media, and more allow us to define our lives and "live our preferences". Students growing up in this world might find our school environments jarring; they don't get to "like" their favorites, "dislike" what they want us to stop doing, and find themselves lumped into an "WE/US" that they didn't choose for themselves.

This Blended Learning course will focus on the ways that AI and other digital tools allow us new opportunities to customize the learning process for our students, allowing them some agency and preference in their learning while still delivering standards and academic content.

This course now begins on 7/21.

Model Schools Districts: FREE
Others: $150.00
Course Type: Blended

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 5/40
  • Wait: 0/3

48. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 3rd Grade ESS: How Do Weather and Climate Affect our Lives?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/21/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students learn why and how scientists measure weather. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 3/24
  • Wait: 0/0

49. Self-Pacing with the Modern Classrooms Project

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/21/2025 to 8/11/2025

Location: Online

Join us for an engaging journey into the Modern Classrooms Project instructional model, designed to empower educators to effectively meet the diverse needs of all students, including ELLs and students with IEPs/504 plans. This blended course combines live sessions with asynchronous work, allowing participants to explore the principles of blended instruction, self-paced learning, and mastery-based learning, all while leveraging educational technology to support personalized, individualized learning.

The course will start with a live session where participants will gain an overview of the Modern Classrooms Project instructional model and its transformative impact on teaching and learning. In a concluding final live session, participants will reflect on their learning experiences, share their newly developed materials, and collaboratively discuss strategies for implementation in their own classrooms.

This course is designed to provide educators with the tools and confidence to enhance their teaching practices and foster student success through the effective use of technology. Topics include:
1. Learning Management System (LMS) Proficiency: Participants will develop the ability to organize, deliver, and manage self-paced, blended learning content using a digital platform (e.g., Google Classroom, Canvas, Schoology).
2. Instructional Video Creation: Educators will learn to design and produce short, effective instructional videos using tools like Screencast and the like for students.
3. Digital Formative Assessment: Educators will use digital tools (e.g., Edpuzzle, Google Forms, Kahoot, or Quizizz) to create formative assessments that provide real-time feedback and track student mastery.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $150
Course Type: Blended

Data Privacy and Security Statement applies.

  • Enrolled: 2/40
  • Wait: 0/15

50. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 2nd Grade LS: How Can We Find the Best Place for a Plant to Grow?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/22/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students investigate what plants need to live, grow, and reproduce, and how these factors are parts of a system that work together in each plant's habitat. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 6/24
  • Wait: 0/0

51. Lead Evaluator Refresher Training

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Dates: 7/22/2025

The session is designed as a REFRESHER for veteran Lead Evaluators of Teachers in compliance with Education law 3012-d: Focus of the training:

NYS Teaching Standards

Professional Standards for Educational Evaluators (PSEL)

Culturally Responsive Sustaining Education Framework (CRSE)

State approved professional practice rubrics to anchor effective evidence collection and feedback

For more information, email: Laura McDaniel - laura.mcdaniel@neric.org

  • Enrolled: 26/60
  • Wait: 0/0

52. Unlocking Comprehension: The Science of Reading as Your Key to Student Understanding

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Grades 3-8 ELA teachers, elementary teachers, reading specialists

Dates: 7/22/2025

Reading comprehension isn't just about understanding the words on a page-it's about unlocking meaning, building connections, and understanding the deeper ideas behind a text. In this engaging session, we'll explore how the Science of Reading provides the key to effective comprehension instruction. You'll gain practical, research-based strategies to support students in analyzing text, determining the central idea, and finding relevant text details to support a claim. Designed for teachers in grades 3-8, this session will equip you with tools to open the door to deeper understanding for all learners.

This session will include a 1 hour lunch break on your own.

This staff development offering is being provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add Service.
  • Enrolled: 2/40
  • Wait: 0/0

53. Brunch with Brisk!

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/22/2025

Do you know about Brisk? It's an AI extension that you can use in Google products, websites, and YouTube videos to create resources, supports, lesson plans, quizzes, podcasts, and more! This fast-paced hour will give you a chance to "kick the tires” and check it out in various platforms to see how it will make your planning tasks easier.

Model Schools Districts: FREE
Others: $90.00
Course Type: Webinar

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 1/40
  • Wait: 0/3

54. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 2nd Grade ESS: What Can Maps Tell Us About Land And Water?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/22/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students explore the patterns of land and water on Earth and how they can represent those patterns with models, including maps. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 5/24
  • Wait: 0/0

55. Deconstructing the New Bio and ESS Regents Exams

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: High School Science Teachers

Dates: 7/22/2025

What can we learn from the first run of the NYSSLS Regents exams in science?

Do you remember when New York State first announced the new science standards? With that announcement came a timeline leading to a brand-new Regents exam aligned with those standards. After years of anticipation-and a global pandemic thrown into the mix-we've finally arrived! Whether your students have already taken the first NYSSLS Regents in Biology or Earth and Space Science, or they will for the first time next year, the missing piece science teachers have been waiting for is finally here: the exam itself. In this session, we'll work together to answer your questions.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 17/40
  • Wait: 0/0

56. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 3rd Grade LS: What Explains Similarities and Differences Between Organisms?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/23/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students explore variation of traits in individuals, patterns of life cycles, and how the environment can affect expression of traits. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 1/24
  • Wait: 0/0

57. AP Literature for New Teachers

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: New AP Literature Teachers

Dates: 7/23/2025

Designed for new AP Literature teachers, this full-day session offers comprehensive learning about the AP Literature course. The morning session will break down the exam's key components and review the skill progression outlined by the College Board. In the afternoon, the focus will shift to texts and activities that help students develop the skills necessary for success on the exam and in future college literature courses.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 0/40
  • Wait: 0/0

58. Spark Student Engagement: Innovative Teaching Strategies for Elementary Educators

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Elementary Educators

Dates: 7/23/2025

In this hands-on workshop, elementary teachers will explore creative methods to boost student engagement.

Participants will:
● Discover fun ways to spark curiosity
● Use technology to make learning interactive
● Foster a growth mindset in students
● Tailor lessons to different learning styles
● Encourage teamwork through collaborative activities

Leave with practical tools and fresh ideas to make your classroom a vibrant, engaging place to learn!

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 0/40
  • Wait: 0/0

59. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 3rd Grade ENG: How Do We Protect Animals When Their Habitat Changes?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/23/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students explore the topic of what animals need to survive and how animals are affected when their habitat changes. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 2/24
  • Wait: 0/0

60. Grading for Opportunity: Full Year Cohort (25-26)

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: District Teams

Dates: 7/24/2025 to 5/12/2026

Research shows that grading practices often favor privileged students and disadvantage those with less privilege, including students of color, those from low-income families, students receiving special education services, and English learners (Feldman, 2019).

Capital Region BOCES is pleased to offer two opportunities to explore this issue in more depth. The first is a one-day overview session. For those interested in furthering their understanding, there is also an option to continue as part of a cohort for the remainder of the academic year.

One-Day Overview - July 24, 2025
During this one-day program, you will:


• Gain an understanding of inequitable grading practices in the context of culturally responsive practices.


• Reflect upon current teacher grading and grade reporting practices to determine the degree to which students receive meaningful feedback and their knowledge and skills are accurately reported.


• Hear from teachers and leaders regarding their process toward systemic change, policy revision, professional learning and building.


• Begin to develop a plan for effective and long-term change specific to the needs of the school.

Full Year Program
If you wish to continue your learning, you can join us for four 2.5 hour sessions to learn more about equitable grading practices, explore essential elements of a successful change process, and develop a plan specific to the needs of your district. Participants will engage in guided professional learning, round table discussions and sharing of their planning and implementation steps.
  • Enrolled: 19/50
  • Wait: 0/0

61. Grading for Opportunity: One-Day Overview

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: District Teams

Dates: 7/24/2025

Research shows that grading practices often favor privileged students and disadvantage those with less privilege, including students of color, those from low-income families, students receiving special education services, and English learners (Feldman, 2019).

Capital Region BOCES is pleased to offer two opportunities to explore this issue in more depth. The first is a one-day overview session. For those interested in furthering their understanding, there is also an option to continue as part of a cohort for the remainder of the academic year.

One-Day Overview - July 24, 2025
During this one-day program, you will:

• Gain an understanding of inequitable grading practices in the context of culturally responsive practices.


• Reflect upon current teacher grading and grade reporting practices to determine the degree to which students receive meaningful feedback and their knowledge and skills are accurately reported.


• Hear from teachers and leaders regarding their process toward systemic change, policy revision, professional learning and building.


• Begin to develop a plan for effective and long-term change specific to the needs of the school.


Facilitator:
Dr. Eva L. Jones is a leader in examining systems through the lens of cultural proficiency and providing culturally responsive professional development. Her research in developing culturally responsive systems in schools informs her work with teachers and administrators and district leaders as they come to understand the impact of bias and privilege on their daily work.
  • Enrolled: 2/50
  • Wait: 0/0

62. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 2nd Grade PS: How Can We Change Solids and Liquids?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/24/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students explore how solids and liquids can change by heating, cooling, building up, carving, and taking apart. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 6/24
  • Wait: 0/0

63. AI Bots Bop-it Style: Launch it, Tweak it, Build it! (7.24)

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Audience: Administrators, teachers, support staff, related service providers

Dates: 7/24/2025

Remember it Bop-it; Bop It! Twist It! Pull It!? This hands-on session will dive into the world of AI bots and discover their transformative potential in education, via Launch it, tweak it, build it! This hands-on session will equip educator, in any role, with the knowledge and skills to effectively build and integrate bots into their daily practice, fostering engagement and personalized learning. We'll explore best practices for bot utilization, spark innovative building ideas, and provide concrete content examples to inspire your own creations. Learn to build a bot from scratch and empower your students to interact with AI in meaningful and responsible ways.
This session is available in person and online through Webex.
If you are interested in this session, but are unable to attend during the designated time, feel free to sign up and contact the instructor (virginia.bond@neric.org). An option to complete the session asynchronously will be provided after the LIVE session has occurred. All participants will be sent a video link to the session after the live session is complete. Information regarding accessing the webinar will be sent to all registrants for that session via email the day prior to the event.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $90.00
Location: In person with an online option

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 6/100
  • Wait: 0/5

64. Exploring Elementary Science

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: PK-5 Teachers

Dates: 7/24/2025

Join your elementary colleagues to exchange ideas, explore resources, and ask questions related to the science standards, state investigations, and any other topics you'd like to discuss.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 0/40
  • Wait: 0/0

65. Brunch with Kialo!

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/24/2025

In a time where misinformation, deep fakes, and confirmation biases are becoming more pervasive than ever, it is important to lean into learning that activates our critical thinking and deepens discourse without turning into arguments. Wow - that's a lot! But, guess what? Kialo-edu is a platform that can get your students moving in the right direction; explore claims and counterclaims with current, authentic topics as your students learn to justify their thinking and respond with critique AND courtesy to their peers.

Model Schools Districts: FREE
Others: $90.00
Course Type: Webinar

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 2/40
  • Wait: 0/3

66. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 2nd Grade ENG: How Do We Keep Soil From Washing Away?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/24/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students explore and collect evidence on the fast and slow ways water and wind can change the shape of land. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 6/24
  • Wait: 0/0

67. Unleash Your Inner Artist: AI Image Creation(7.24)

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Audience: Administrators, teachers, support staff, related service providers

Dates: 7/24/2025

Did you known that AI image creation is an incredible way to teach descriptive language and prompting skills to students? This interactive, hands-on workshop will equip you with the skills to transform your ideas into stunning AI-generated visuals. Through guided practice and real-time experimentation, you'll learn to craft compelling prompts and explore diverse AI platforms to bring your creative visions to life. Each participant will leave with a personalized deck showcasing their unique image ideations and ways to use with students.
This session will be using Padlet, Microsoft Co-Pilot, Gemini, Magic School, Adober Express, Canva FREE accounts only. This session is available in person ONLY.
Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $90.00
Location: In person at 900 Watervliet-Shaker Road Albany NY Room: CVES

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 2/100
  • Wait: 0/5

68. SchoolTool Elementary School Scheduling [WEB]

Program: NERIC: SchoolTool

Dates: 7/24/2025

SchoolTool
This webex will provide an A-Z overview of creating an elementary schedule. Topics will include maintenance area setup as well as Course Catalog, planning and building a Master Schedule, assigning homerooms and teams. Recommended for users in their first years of elementary scheduling as well as veteran schedules.
  • Enrolled: 12/20
  • Wait: 0/0

69. Basking in Brisk 2:Guided Creation (7.25)

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Audience: Administrators, teachers, support staff, related service providers

Dates: 7/25/2025

This second session of 2 sessions will do a deeper dive into Brisk (from Brisk Teaching), a revolutionary Chrome extension, that utilizes AI to empower educators. We'll explore how each participant can use Brisk, and create resources together that can be utilized in the new school year. Participants will be creating and sharing their creations.

If you are interested in this session, but are unable to attend during the designated time, feel free to sign up and contact the instructor (virginia.bond@neric.org). An option to complete the session asynchronously will be provided after the LIVE session has occurred. All participants will be sent a video link to the session after the live session is complete. Information regarding accessing the webinar will be sent to all registrants for that session via email the day prior to the event.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $90.00
Location: Online via Webex

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 3/100
  • Wait: 0/5

70. A Fresh Look at Phonics

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/28/2025 to 8/25/2025

Wait List
In A Fresh New Look at Phonics, Wiley Blevins explains why teaching phonics can get tricky, and then delivers a plan geared for success. You will learn to focus on the seven critical ingredients of phonics teaching that produce the greatest student learning gains- readiness skills, scope and sequence, blending, dictation, word awareness, high-frequency words, and reading connected texts. Wiley will also detail the 10 common reasons instructions fail and show teachers how to correct these missteps regarding lesson pacing, transitions, decodable texts, writing activities, assessments, and more. Participants will work with Padlet, Google Slides, and Quizlet or Flippity.

Free for Model Schools
Others: $275
Location: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 28/25
  • Wait: 4/20

71. Click, Sort, Teach: Streamlining Your Digital Life

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/28/2025 to 8/31/2025

Wait List
This practical and hands-on course is designed to help educators take control of their digital spaces. Participants will conduct a thorough audit of their existing teaching materials, implement efficient naming and filing systems, and streamline email and communication tools for greater clarity. The course also guides teachers in curating essential resources and setting up sustainable organization systems to maintain throughout the school year. By the end, educators will have a personalized, functional digital workspace that supports efficiency and reduces stress.

Free for Model Schools
Others: $275
Location: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 28/20
  • Wait: 8/20

72. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 1st Grade ENG: How Can We Send a Message Using Sound?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/28/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit. How can we send a message using sound? Using a variety of methods and media, students solve this problem. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 6/24
  • Wait: 0/0

73. Google Docs for Collaboration and Meaningful Feedback

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/28/2025 to 8/15/2025

Location: Online

Google Docs is much more than just an online version of your favorite word processor. When you learn some of the different features, you'll discover that Google Docs can be invaluable in your classroom for collaborative work. While this course will be most useful to those who are relatively new to using Google Docs, experienced users may find some new tips and tricks to make this a tool for your students and for your other collaborative work. We will also look at what sort of feedback you can provide for students to help them engage in the revision process. Feedback for students should be a collaborative effort, too! This course is designed to help you use Google Docs to create collaborative documents and to encourage the use of collaboration-friendly feedback for students.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 9/15
  • Wait: 0/10

74. Leading and Managing A Differentiated Classroom

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/28/2025 to 8/25/2025

Location: Online

One of the most powerful lessons a teacher must learn is that classroom management is not about control; it's about delivering the support and facilitating the routines that will make the classroom work for each student. In Leading and Managing a Differentiated Classroom, Tomlinson and Imbeau explore the central priorities and mindsets of differentiation and provide guidelines for making effective student-centered, academically responsive instruction a reality.

Must have access to the book Leading and Managing a Differentiated Classroom, by Tomlinson and Imbeau.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 15/25
  • Wait: 0/20

75. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 1st Grade LS: How Do Living Things Stay Safe and Grow?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/28/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students explain phenomena and solve problems related to young and adult plants and animals' survival and growth. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 6/24
  • Wait: 0/0

76. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 5th Grade PS: How Can We Identify Materials Based on Their Properties?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/29/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students learn how they can use the properties of materials to identify those materials. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 5/24
  • Wait: 0/0

77. Student Choice in Math

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: PK-12 Teachers

Dates: 7/29/2025

Explore effective strategies for integrating student choice into your math classroom! This session will begin with a collaborative discussion on using center and station models to promote student choice while incorporating movement into math instruction. Afterward, participants will break into elementary and secondary groups to collaborate with colleagues, review practical resources, and share ideas for implementing these strategies. Leave with fresh insights and actionable tools to enhance your math instruction.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 0/24
  • Wait: 0/0

78. Third Annual Collaborative Literacy Conversations Network

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Dates: 7/29/2025

Join us this summer for a regional conversation and networking event where we will discuss improving literacy outcomes for all students across the content areas. The morning is an opportunity for networking, learning, and hearing from colleagues on best practice ideas for evidence-based literacy pedagogy.
  • Enrolled: 38/60
  • Wait: 0/0

79. Wave The Wand: Bring AI Magic To Your Classroom with MagicSchool

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/29/2025 to 8/25/2025

Wait List
This is an introductory course for educators looking to learn more about MagicSchool AI and how to use it in an educational setting.

The course will cover:
*A description of how modern AI systems and an overview of MagicSchool, best practices for using MagicSchool and how to access it.
*Tips on finding the right tools to use and a look at some top MagicSchool platform features.
*Best practices for prompting AI, modifying and using generated outputs.
*Creating, configuring, and customizing MagicSchool tools for your personal usage.
*How to use MagicSchool tools with students and monitor and manage your student's usage.

This course has 5 learning modules. During each, you will watch video tutorials and complete a quiz to assess your understanding. At the end of the course, you will submit a performance task where you will have the opportunity to apply what you have learned by using MagicSchool to complete a series of tasks.

The modules can be completed at whatever pace you feel comfortable with as long as all module quizzes are submitted by 8/24 and the performance task is turned in by 8/25.

Registrants will be notified by email on the start date of the course with course access information. If you don't receive course info by the end of the day on the course start date, please check your SPAM folder. Note that only those who register before or on the course start date will receive welcome information.

Model Schools: Free
Others: $275.00
Course Type: Online Course

NERIC Data Privacy and Security Statement applies.

  • Enrolled: 17/15
  • Wait: 2/20

80. Brunch with Assistive Tech!

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/29/2025

Tech can be so many things for our students, but we need to highlight its ability to HELP in learning. This 90 minute session will walk you through a series of assistive technology approaches, including Read&Write, Orbitnote, student-facing Chatbots, and other support tools.

Model Schools Districts: FREE
Others: $90.00
Course Type: Webinar

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 3/40
  • Wait: 0/3

81. Build on What They Learned: Using Processing Activities to Enhance Direct Instruction

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Grades 6-12 Teachers

Dates: 7/29/2025

Does it sometimes feel like your students are hearing your instruction but not retaining it? Do you ever find yourself thinking "I just taught you this!” during your lessons? In Build on What They Learned, discover how to use simple, effective processing activities that deepen student understanding and boost retention after direct instruction. Walk away with easy-to-implement, classroom-ready strategies that transform "I taught it” into "they got it.”

This online staff development offering is being provided at no additional cost to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add Service.
  • Enrolled: 2/35
  • Wait: 0/0

82. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 4th Grade PS: How Does Motion Energy Change in a Collision?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 7/29/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students explore how motion energy can move and change in a collision. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 4/24
  • Wait: 0/0

83. Summer Science unConference 2.0

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Science Teachers

Dates: 7/30/2025 to 7/31/2025

Presented by STANYS, CASSA, Capital Region BOCES and NYS Master Teachers

Unconferences throw away the rule book and allow for empowered conversations, voice, choice, and autonomy in learning. An unconference is a bottom-up approach where participants drive the agenda and propose and lead sessions, dictating the schedule and content to be shared based on their interests and expertise.

Join science teachers from across the region in another great opportunity to grow our practice as we shift toward full NYSSLS implementation! Gain insights from each other in ways to integrate the cross-cutting concepts, science and engineering practices, and disciplinary core ideas seamlessly to your practice, evaluate and develop 3-dimensional assessments, and more! Together we will work to answer questions related to curriculum and instruction, NYS science investigations, assessment.
  • Enrolled: 7/50
  • Wait: 0/0

84. AI Adventures: Activating an Amazing Assistant with Gemini Gems (7.31)

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Audience: Administrators, teachers, support staff, related service providers

Dates: 7/31/2025

Become a master AI prospector! This dynamic session is your guide to spelunking the rich caverns of Gemini, where the most valuable educational resources reside: Gems. These custom AI assistants are essentially pre-configured 'mini-prompts', designed to help unearth nuggets of knowledge and personalized learning pathways. We'll delve into the vital skill of prompt engineering, showing you how to craft these mini prompt nuggets that can be customized and reused like precision tools, enabling you to design and deploy these invaluable AI assets. Prepare to dig deeper and to create your own set of AI assistants and to share with others.

If you are interested in this session, but are unable to attend during the designated time, feel free to sign up and contact the instructor (virginia.bond@neric.org). An option to complete the session asynchronously will be provided after the LIVE session has occurred. All participants will be sent a video link to the session after the live session is complete. Information regarding accessing the webinar will be sent to all registrants for that session via email the day prior to the event.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $90.00
Location: In person with an online option

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 5/100
  • Wait: 0/5

85. Google Slides 101- Engage, Create, Collaborate!

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

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

In this 10-hour asynchronous course, participants will explore how to utilize Google Slides in the classroom to enhance teaching and student engagement. Participants will learn the basics of creating presentations, collaborative projects and worksheets/assessments using Google Slides. Join this class to elevate your classroom presentations and student interaction through the power of Google Slides!

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $225
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 17/25
  • Wait: 0/5

86. Dip Your Toes Into AI: A Look at This Year's AI Trends

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 7/31/2025

Location: Webex Meeting

New
Curious about the latest viral AI tools that are taking over your feed? In this 45-minute workshop, we'll explore the playful and unexpected ways people are using AI, from turning pets into people and selfies into action figures, to animating historical moments with talking babies and turning everyday photos into printable coloring books. We'll examine what's trending, try a few tools ourselves, and discuss what these innovative uses might mean for the future of technology, creativity, and culture. No experience needed, just a sense of curiosity and humor. Watch our video!

Model Schools Districts: FREE
Others: 90.00
Course Type: Synchronous Webinar

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 1/30
  • Wait: 0/0

87. YA Book Group

Program: School Support Services: Library Media Services

Audience: School Librarians

Dates: 7/31/2025

We invite librarians and educators at the middle school and high school levels to this monthly two-hour book group. There are no prescribed titles to read ahead of time, rather this group focuses on sharing out 1-3 titles read recently by participants that others should know about for curriculum, booklists, and additions to their libraries and classrooms. All discussed titles can be viewed at the Capital Region BOCES YA Book Group on Goodreads.
  • Enrolled: 4/20
  • Wait: 0/0

88. Let Them Theory Book Study

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

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

Closed
If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with where you are, the problem isn't you. The problem is the power you give to other people. Two simple words-Let Them-will set you free. Come join us to put the power back in your hands through Padlet and a digital journal.

Participants will create reflective and independent learning spaces with Padlet and digital journals, design student-centered content using Canva for Education, and utilize Google and Padlet to support healthy communication boundaries.

It is required that participants have the book, The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins and Sawyer Robbins.

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $275
Location: Online

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 28/25
  • Wait: 3/3

89. Teaching Visual Literacy with Comics

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

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

Teaching visual literacy involves empowering students to not only see images but also to critically analyze and understand the messages they convey. This includes interpreting, comprehending, appreciating, and creating visual media, fostering critical thinking, communication, and decision-making skills. Come with us as we explore visual literacy through comics!

It is required that participants have the book, Teaching Visual Literacy Using Comic Books, Graphic Novels, Anime, Cartoons, and More to Develop Comprehension and Thinking Skills By Nancy Frey and Douglas Fisher.

Fee: Model Schools Participants - FREE
Others: $275
Location: Online

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 8/25
  • Wait: 0/3

90. Book Study: Rock Your Literacy Block- Mighty Moves to Organize Your Day and Optimize Student Learning (The Science of Reading in Practice)

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 8/1/2025 to 8/29/2025

Location: Online

Ready for the next step after 7 Mighty Moves? In this follow-up book study, we'll explore Rock Your Literacy Block and discover how to organize your day and optimize every minute of your literacy block. Designed for K-2 teachers, this study offers practical "mighty moves” to structure your instruction with purpose. With tools like Google Slides, Padlet, and Canva, you'll collaborate, reflect, and build routines that truly rock!

Participants should have access to the book Rock Your Literacy Block- Mighty Moves to Organize Your Day and Optimize Student Learning by Lindsey Kemeny.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 18/25
  • Wait: 0/15

91. Ditching Together! Exploring the best of Ditch That Textbook

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 8/1/2025 to 8/30/2025

Matt Miller inspired a generation of teachers with his best selling book Ditch That Textbook. 10 years and 5 more books later he is still going strong, inspiring us with his creative and time-saving strategies. In this class we will explore free resources on his web page, read and discuss blog posts, and watch excerpts of his talks to get informed and inspired.

Model Schools: Free
Others: $225.00
Course Type: Online Course

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 11/40
  • Wait: 0/20

92. Build an AI Toolkit of Best Practices: Master Prompts, Data Security, Ethics & Media Literacy

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Audience: Administrators, teachers, support staff, related service providers

Dates: 8/4/2025 to 8/8/2025

Ready to master the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence and navigate the future with confidence? This dynamic 5-part series is your essential guide to understanding, utilizing, and critically engaging with AI. In just one hour a day, you'll build the skills to navigate the AI landscape with confidence, from crafting powerful prompts to safeguarding your digital life and making ethical choices.
Get ready to:
Unleash the Power of Prompts: Learn to speak AI's language and get exactly what you need.
Fortify Your Digital Fortress: Discover essential data security practices for the AI era.
Master the Ethical Maze: Understand the moral compass of AI and make responsible decisions.
Become a Media Savvy Sleuth: Critically evaluate AI-generated content and spot the fakes.
Unleash Your Inner Creator: Put your new skills to the test in a hands-on creation day!

Join us and transform from an AI observer to an AI leader!

If you are interested in this session, but are unable to attend live, feel free to sign up and contact the instructor (virginia.bond@neric.org). An option to complete the session asynchronously will be provided after the LIVE session has occurred. Information regarding accessing the webinar will be sent to all registrants for that session via email the day prior to the event.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $145.00
Location: In person with an online option

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 3/100
  • Wait: 0/5

93. Creating a Welcoming Learning Environment for ELLs

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Classroom Teachers

Dates: 8/4/2025

This professional development session is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and strategies necessary to create a welcoming learning environment for English Language Learner students (ELLs). The session will focus on fostering a classroom atmosphere where all students, regardless of their cultural background or language proficiency, feel valued and supported. Participants will explore practical approaches for integrating culturally responsive teaching practices, building empathy, and promoting a sense of belonging in their classrooms.

Key topics will include:

1. Building Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity: Understanding the diverse backgrounds and experiences of ELL students and how these influence their learning.
2. Creating a Welcoming Classroom Atmosphere: Designing physical and emotional spaces where ELL students feel safe, respected, and empowered to learn. This includes using visuals and classroom norms.
3. Fostering Positive Relationships: Strategies for building trust and strong relationships with ELL students through communication, empathy, and active listening.

By the end of the session, educators will have gained practical strategies for improving communication with ENL students and creating an environment that fosters academic success and social-emotional growth for all learners. This session is geared towards classroom teachers.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 1/40
  • Wait: 0/0

94. Let's ALL Teach Computer Science!: A Book Study

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 8/4/2025 to 8/24/2025

Location: Online

The new NYS Computer Science and Digital Fluency standards are here, and they aren't just for "tech teachers.” Think computer science doesn't fit in your classroom? Think again! Whether you're teaching first graders or physics, this course will help you meet New York State's new standards without fear, frustration, or needing to speak fluent binary. In this practical and encouraging book study, you'll learn fun, flexible ways to weave computer science into any K-12 classroom using skills you already teach-like problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. Whether you're tech-savvy or tech-scared, this course offers approachable strategies (and zero judgment) to help you confidently tackle the new standards-no coding experience, robot sidekick, or tech jargon required.

The purpose of this book study is to create a culture of learning and sharing as we delve into the recently published educational text Let's ALL Teach Computer Science! by Kiki Prottsman. This online collaborative environment will enable you to interact with other educators, discover additional resources, and inspire you to think differently.

Participants should have access to the book Let's ALL Teach Computer Science! by Kiki Prottsman.

Fee: NERIC Model Schools Districts - FREE
Others: $275
Course Type: Online Course (Asynchronous)

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 9/20
  • Wait: 0/15

95. SchoolTool Elementary School Scheduling [ALB]

Program: NERIC: SchoolTool

Dates: 8/4/2025

SchoolTool
This session covers elementary scheduling as a brief overview. Thereafter schedulers will work individually at their own pace to create schedules. NERIC SchoolTool Team members will be on-hand to answer questions as needed.
  • Enrolled: 11/25
  • Wait: 0/0

96. Get to Know School AI!

Program: NERIC: Model Schools

Dates: 8/4/2025 to 8/11/2025

This course will deep dive into the SchoolAI platform, exploring the various tools and resources available (especially highlighting the student-facing chatbots called Spaces). But, this won't be "click, click” PD; come ready to take a lesson, unit, or project that you've done before (or have never tried!) and see all the ways you can use the planning assistants, customizable tools, and spaces to take your students' learning in directions you've never imagined were possible.

This course will be a blended learning experience totaling 5 hours, with a 90 minute session to kick off the learning, 2.5 hours of independent work (with instructor supports), and a final 60 minute session to show off what you've made and get your questions answered about "tweaks” to the workflow and AI prompting process.

Model Schools Districts: FREE
Others: $145.00
Course Type: Blended

Data Privacy and Security Statement: Please follow your district's data privacy and security guidelines. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your students' identities are properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. Please visit StaySafe Online for useful information. Links to sites do not imply endorsement by NERIC.

  • Enrolled: 3/40
  • Wait: 0/3

97. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 4th Grade ESS: What Is Our Evidence That We live on a Changing Earth?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 8/6/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students identify, analyze, and communicate evidence that we live on a changing planet. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 5/24
  • Wait: 0/0

98. Cognitive Coaching for Teacher Mentors: Harnessing the Power of Strategic Questioning (PK-5)

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: PK-5 Teacher Mentors

Dates: 8/6/2025

Mentoring informed by Cognitive Coaching empowers teachers to become more self-directed and adaptive learners. This approach involves a series of structured conversations between a mentor and mentee, where the mentor uses targeted questioning techniques to explore the mentee's thoughts, beliefs, and goals. The objective is to help the mentee build greater awareness, confidence, and autonomy in their teaching practice. With a more guided approach to mentoring, teachers will enhance their critical thinking skills by examining their assumptions, identifying knowledge gaps, and considering different perspectives. Mentors will find that these strategies can be effectively applied to both veteran and novice teachers alike.

This staff development offering is provided at a discounted rate to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add service.
  • Enrolled: 1/40
  • Wait: 0/0

99. SchoolTool Elementary School Scheduling [MAL]

Program: NERIC: SchoolTool

Dates: 8/6/2025

SchoolTool
This session covers elementary scheduling instruction in a A-Z structured step-by-step fashion with hands-on work time provided. Recommended for users in their first years of elementary scheduling as well as veteran schedules.
  • Enrolled: 4/25
  • Wait: 0/0

100. Constructing a Positive Classroom Culture

Program: School Support Services: Value Add

Audience: Teachers, Teaching Assistants

Dates: 8/6/2025

A positive classroom culture doesn't happen by accident-it's built with intention, consistency, and care. In Constructing a Classroom Culture, you'll learn practical, research-based strategies for building strong relationships with students, proactively preventing misbehavior, and responding effectively when challenges arise. This session will equip you with tools to create a learning environment where respect, responsibility, and connection thrive-helping you foster not just better behavior, but better learning outcomes too.

This online staff development offering is being provided at no additional cost to Capital Region BOCES districts participating in BOCES' Value Add Service.
  • Enrolled: 3/35
  • Wait: 0/0

101. Smithsonian Science Kits Workshop - 5th Grade ESS: How Can We Use the Sky to Navigate?

Program: School Support Services: General Professional Development

Audience: Current and Prospective Smithsonian/Carolina Science Kit Users

Dates: 8/6/2025

Join Heidi Aupperle to cover the basics of this Smithsonian Science Kit in which students use models and observations to collect evidence that gravity is directed to the center of a spherical Earth, and that Earth rotates once on an axis every 24 hours. Teachers will have the opportunity to view assembled experiments and observe the use of the kit, with time to ask direct questions.
  • Enrolled: 3/24
  • Wait: 0/0