Program: Scarsdale Teachers Institute
Audience: Scarsdale Elementary new teachers in Special Ed
Dates: 9/25/2024 to 5/20/2025
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Model lesson plans, constructive feedback on instruction, and tips on school culture and classroom management are all critical in helping new teachers be successful. In Scarsdale, a school-based mentor assists teachers new to Scarsdale with adapting to school culture and common practices in the first year. In addition, Scarsdale teachers benefit from individualized curricular guidance from K-5 district coordinators in Math, Science, and English Language Arts. As a teacher grows from novice to experienced professional in the Scarsdale schools, this Foundations course scaffolds teacher professional development and mentorship in their first years so they can take maximum advantage of the professional resources available to them throughout their careers. For Special Education teachers, many of the professional learning opportunities are built into the structures already in place. Team meetings along with workshops and coaching cycles with consultants are incorporated throughout the year. Additionally, while it is important to grow your expertise regarding curriculum knowledge and delivery of instruction, being a SPED teacher adds an additional layer. The preparation and participation in the IEP process, progress monitoring goals and implementation of differentiated instruction adds to the work you do daily with your students. Support will be provided in these areas to ensure success.
Throughout the school year, classroom teachers, mentors, and coordinators. will engage each other in an examination of instructional methods, content, curriculum, student learning and understanding to improve classroom teaching and learning. New teachers will receive support for their Special Education, Math, Science, Reading and Writing curricula from the district coordinators through regular consultations. The mentor component of the course includes after-school seminars with mentors and mentees that address district-wide best practices as well as confidential weekly meetings with the assigned mentor teacher.