This micro-credential explores the foundations of AI in education. You'll learn about different AI applications, responsible AI use, and integrating AI tools into the classroom. Discover how AI can personalize learning, support educators, and revolutionize education!
1. Enroll in the course on Frontline
2. Click this link
3. Register for an account or sign in if already registered
4. Start learning!
5. Course must be finished by May 20, 2025

Beginning July 1, 2025, all New York State school districts with a high school are required to appoint at least one ex officio student board member. These students will sit at the Board of Education table during public meetings, offering valuable input and representing the voices of their peers. To help students prepare, Genesee Valley BOCES has created a 1-hour virtual training course designed specifically for student board members across the region/state.

CTLE credit is not awarded to students. However, a district leader must register on Frontline in order to access the course materials and support students locally. Once the materials have been received, there is no need to register again for future use.

Round 3 For Waitlist participants of Round 2 Only The Anxious Generation Book Study The Anxious Generation Book Study Due to the overwhelming response we have added a second section for this Book Study that will run from April 20- June 1. The Anxious Generation delves into a generation-defining investigation into the collapse of youth mental health in the era of smartphones, social media, and big tech- and outlines a plan for a healthier, freer childhood. After more than a decade of stability or improvement, the mental health of adolescents plunged in the early 2010s. Rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide rose sharply, more than doubling on many measures. In The Anxious Generation, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt lays out the facts about the epidemic of teen mental illness and investigates the nature of childhood, including why children need play and independent exploration to mature into competent, thriving adults. Haidt shows how the "play-based childhood” was wiped out by the arrival of the "phone-based childhood” in the early 2010s. He presents more than a dozen mechanisms by which this "great rewiring of childhood” has interfered with children's social and neurological development, covering everything from sleep deprivation to attention fragmentation, addiction, loneliness, social contagion, social comparison, and perfectionism. Most importantly, Haidt issues a clear call to action. He proposes four simple rules that might set us free. He describes steps that parents, teachers, schools, tech companies, and governments can take to end the epidemic of mental illness and restore a more humane childhood.

The State Education Department requires all evaluators of teachers and principals to be certified through an appropriate training process. Lead evaluators are those who conduct summative annual professional performance reviews (APPR) of teachers. Each district must certify that these lead evaluators have been trained in the minimum requirements as outlined in the APPR regulations. The components of this APPR re-certification training are based on the four-day Lead Evaluator Certificate Training. This asynchronous session is meant to serve as an opportunity for lead evaluators to annually revisit the major components of that training and renew certification, which will allow continued evaluation of teachers. This session is meant to be viewed in collaboration with an administrative team within your building or district, but it may be viewed by independent administrators as well.

Participants will receive information to access the asynchronous materials prior to the session date. Participants must complete the webcast by the last date of the cohort month.

Beginning July 1, 2025, all New York State school districts with a high school are required to appoint at least one ex officio student board member. These students will sit at the Board of Education table during public meetings, offering valuable input and representing the voices of their peers. To help students prepare, Genesee Valley BOCES has created a 1-hour virtual training course designed specifically for student board members across the region/state.

CTLE credit is not awarded to students. However, a district leader must register on Frontline in order to access the course materials and support students locally. Once the materials have been received, there is no need for district staff to register again for future use.

The State Education Department requires all evaluators of teachers and principals to be certified through an appropriate training process. Lead evaluators are those who conduct summative annual professional performance reviews (APPR) of teachers. Each district must certify that these lead evaluators have been trained in the minimum requirements as outlined in the APPR regulations. The components of this APPR re-certification training are based on the four-day Lead Evaluator Certificate Training. This asynchronous session is meant to serve as an opportunity for lead evaluators to annually revisit the major components of that training and renew certification, which will allow continued evaluation of teachers. This session is meant to be viewed in collaboration with an administrative team within your building or district, but it may be viewed by independent administrators as well.

Participants will receive information to access the asynchronous materials prior to the session date. Participants must complete the webcast by the last date of the cohort month.

Beginning July 1, 2025, all New York State school districts with a high school are required to appoint at least one ex officio student board member. These students will sit at the Board of Education table during public meetings, offering valuable input and representing the voices of their peers. To help students prepare, Genesee Valley BOCES has created a 1-hour virtual training course designed specifically for student board members across the region/state.

CTLE credit is not awarded to students. However, a district leader must register on Frontline in order to access the course materials and support students locally. Once the materials have been received, there is no need for district staff to register again for future use.

Step confidently into your new teacher leadership role with this engaging, self-paced professional learning experience. Designed specifically for classroom teachers transitioning into formal or informal leadership positions on their prospective grade level/department teams. In the three hours, participants will explore essential leadership competencies to help them guide professional learning communities, build collaborative cultures, and drive data-informed decisions that improve student outcomes.

This is a one-time training, and doesn't need to be completed each year.

The registration window is 7/7/25 - 9/12/25.

Materials will be sent to registered participants on 9/15/25.

Evidence of course completion is due no later than 5/1/26.

Meet with other school social workers in the region for professional development, case reviews, peer support/mentorship and networking. Drop in format, come to as many sessions as you can.

Science assessments in New York State have undergone significant changes with the adoption of the New York State P-12 Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS). This two-day professional learning session provides an in-depth overview of these changes and examines how state assessments align with the three-dimensional Performance Expectations outlined in the NYSSLS. Participants will engage in a scaffolded process to develop their own three-dimensional assessment clusters. In addition to individual assessment development, they will collaborate in grade-band teams to co-create a shared bank of assessment clusters that can be accessed and adapted for use in their classrooms. By the end of the session, participants will have a deeper understanding of three-dimensional assessments, practical tools for implementation, and a collection of ready-to-use assessment clusters to measure student learning and success.

This one day training is designed for Administrators, team leaders, key teachers, and new staff that haven't had time to take the full five day TIG training, or are looking for a refresher. An overview of trauma, grief, chronic illness, suicide prevention & intervention, threat assessment, crisis communication and a focus on strategic planning during critical incidents. Lunch included.

"Every child has the right to read. The question is not whether they can learn, but whether they are given the instruction that allows them to do so." - Nonie Lesaux

Exciting new insights into the Science of Reading are transforming the way literacy is taught. This session will unpack key findings and their implications for classroom instruction. Explore the critical components of reading development, from phonemic awareness to fluency, and discover how evidence-based practices can accelerate student success. Engage in discussion and reflection while gaining practical strategies to align instruction with the latest research and support all learners in becoming skilled, confident readers.

Review essential elements of your school's suicide prevention & intervention plans. Please obtain your district's current policy to review and ask questions about. Discussion of how to safely conduct Suicide Prevention Month (September) activities at your school. One hour Zoom discussion.

Regional CSE Chairperson Meetings are to provide special education leaders in the Genesee Valley BOCES area with updates from the Office of Special Education, NYSED, and regional networks. Time will also be given up to guest speakers, professional learning, and collaborative projects.

Explore the essential components of evidence-based mathematics instruction through the lens of high-leverage content and practices. This session will help educators deepen their understanding of the strands of mathematical proficiency and how to teach them effectively. Participants will engage in practical strategies for eliciting student thinking, facilitating productive discussions, and aligning instruction to foundational math concepts. Perfect for K-12 teachers seeking to strengthen core instructional practice.

Focus Briefs: Brief 1, Brief 3, Brief 4

Many students struggle to retain and apply new learning because instruction lacks clarity, structure, or intentional scaffolding. Without explicit teaching, misconceptions persist, engagement declines, and learning gaps widen. Explicit instruction is a powerful, research-based approach that enhances learning by providing clear, structured, and intentional teaching. This session explores key components of explicit instruction, including modeling, guided practice, and scaffolding, to ensure deep content understanding. Through interactive discussions and practical examples across subject areas, participants will discover how to design and implement explicit instruction strategies that improve engagement, retention, and mastery. Gain practical strategies to enhance clarity and impact in instructional practice.

As the 250th anniversary of the nation's Declaration of Independence approaches, the vision of the founders for an engaged and collaborative society is brought to mind. Today, the need for quality civic education is more important than ever due to the rising political polarization. The Civics Coalition aims to bridge these divides by uniting educators who are dedicated to building understanding, trust, and empathy within classrooms and communities. By joining the Civics Coalition, participants become part of a network of passionate educators committed to implementing bridging practices that encourage constructive conversations and collaborative problem-solving. The coalition offers monthly meetings where educators receive valuable resources, knowledge, and opportunities to engage in meaningful professional dialogues. These sessions are designed to reinvigorate teachers, preparing them to navigate the challenges of civic education and model informed, active citizenship for students. Partnering with esteemed organizations such as iCivics, DemocracyReady NY, and the Listen First Project, the Civics Coalition provides unparalleled support and expertise. Together, this coalition cultivates a culture of civic readiness and resilience, preparing the next generation to engage thoughtfully and effectively in a democratic society. Join this effort to make a tangible difference in the lives of students and the future of the nation.

Full TIG Training will give an overview of the important considerations for administrators, counselors and staff when responding to critical incidents in their school community. Attendees will become aware of best practices and trauma informed care, and how to best utilize and support your district's TIG team during a crisis. Topics include grief & loss at school -trauma -suicide risk & intervention in youth and adolescents -chronic & acute illness -school violence: intervention & prevention -managing media and communication during incidents , with an emphasis on a team approach to strategic planning in the first hours after an incident. *Please confirm with your TIG Coordinator before signing up

What should students learn about AI and when? Join us for an in-depth exploration of an AI Scope & Sequence designed to guide PK-12 educators in teaching AI concepts across three key perspectives: computer science, information fluency, and media literacy. Discover priority topics, including AI's evolution and real-world applications, its technical foundations, ethical considerations, and responsible use. Engage in discussions on best practices for integrating AI education while ensuring student privacy and safety. Walk away with practical strategies and ideas to prepare students for an AI-driven future.

Join School Improvement for an engaging learning session designed for regional stakeholders to explore the New York State Education Department's NY Inspires Plan and the proposed changes to graduation measures. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the potential shifts outlined in the plan and their implications for schools and districts. This session is particularly valuable for educators and leaders who are beginning to build awareness of NYSED's vision for the future of graduation requirements.

A Zoom link will be sent to registered participants the day before the scheduled session.

"Help - My students can't write!” Although this is an American sentiment expressed all too frequently, there has been little to address the decades of statistics that support the perspective… until now! TWR, also known as the Hochman Method, presents a self-contained ecosystem of explicit writing approaches. Such approaches include: sentence-level strategies, single and multiple-paragraph outlines (SPO, Transition Outline, & MPO), and summary techniques, as well as note-taking and annotation frameworks. TWR is not a program or curriculum; it is, however, a collection of explicit instructional methods poised to address the longstanding deficiency of writing skills still plaguing schools today. In Part 1, participants can expect to learn and understand six (6) guiding principles, as well as a selection from the ten (10) sentence-level strategies all connected to relevant research in writing. In Part 2, participants will continue to investigate single and multi-paragraph outline structures, as well as annotating techniques, infusing sentence-level work, and planning extended written responses.

Registered participants will receive a copy of the text The Writing Revolution 2.0 for extended use.

It is highly recommended to register with a colleague who is horizontally or vertically aligned, as there are interleaved discussion periods to consider applying the content to your curriculum and instruction.

Classrooms today are carrying more than ever before. More emotions, more stress, and more pressure to meet complex needs with limited support. What used to work may no longer feel effective, and many educators are left wondering: Where do we go from here? This full-day session will provide a foundational introduction to trauma and chronic stress, including what they are, how they show up in schools, and how they impact learning, behavior, and relationships. Building on that foundation of common language, we'll explore a practical framework grounded in four key principles of trauma-informed and equity-centered practice. Participants will learn strategies that nurture student well-being, strengthen classroom communities, and support the needs of students, families, and staff. Through real-life examples, reflection, and ready-to-use tools, we'll focus on how to create learning environments that are both structured and supportive, where every student (and adult) can thrive.

The Genesee Valley BOCES ASBO group supports the professional growth of members, provides resources, and creates a regional collaboration network for the Business Officials in the Genesee Valley BOCES region.

September Topic of Focus: Regionalization Dashboard

Description: Heather Schuessler, Coordinator of Instructional Data at EduTech will present an overview of the Regionalization Dashboard to assist School Business Officials to see regional trends and other information which can affect budgeting and long term planning.

Join us for this asynchronous professional development course as we explore the AI Scope and Sequence developed by the School Library Systems Association of New York. Designed specifically for school librarians, this course focuses on how to teach about artificial intelligence, not just with it, across all K-12 grade bands. Each week, participants will engage with curated resources aligned to the document's four major strands: Why AI (its role in our lives and world), How AI Works (technical foundations), AI in Society (ethics, privacy, workforce, and global impact), and AI in Practice (responsible, inclusive, and creative use). Deepen your own understanding of AI through readings and media, then collaborate in discussion forums to share reflections, resources, and implementation strategies. The culminating goal of the course is to co-create and share fully developed, classroom-ready lesson plans that align with one or more strands of the scope and sequence and can be used by other librarians. This course will take place asynchronously on Schoology, with weekly modules and collaborative discussion prompts. Whether you're new to AI or already experimenting with AI instruction, this course will support you in bringing this important topic to life in your school community.

HSAR is an intensive, full-day (6 hour) workshop designed to strengthen school-based suicide prevention and intervention efforts. This training enhances skills and protocols for effectively supporting students at risk for suicide by focusing on: -Developing practical skills in risk assessment and safety planning. -Implementing standardized procedures to ensure a consistent response. -Fostering collaboration among school mental health professionals, administrators, community providers, students, and families to create a comprehensive support system. -Enhancing suicide intervention documentation to improve accountability and follow-up care. Who Should Attend: School-based health and mental health professionals, pupil services staff, school safety personnel, administrators, and special education leaders. Trainer: Samantha Coleman, Center for Suicide Prevention of NYS

The "TIG Primary Contact" a person from your district that may be the point of contact in a critical incident. These meetings are designed to bring ongoing support and training, and learn from other districts. Meetings will include table top exercises, debriefing critical incidents and providing guidance on supporting your TIG team.

Beginning July 1, 2025, all New York State school districts with a high school are required to appoint at least one ex officio student board member. These students will sit at the Board of Education table during public meetings, offering valuable input and representing the voices of their peers. To help students prepare, Genesee Valley BOCES has created a 1-hour virtual training course designed specifically for student board members across the region/state.

CTLE credit is not awarded to students. However, a district leader must register on Frontline in order to access the course materials and support students locally. Once the materials have been received, there is no need for district staff to register again for future use.

Learn/Review best trauma informed practices for those milestone moments - including yearbooks, graduations & other special events. Great for yearbook, graduation and class advisors to attend, even if they haven't been TIG trained! One hour Zoom discussion.

This cohort is designed for educators that are working in a STEAM-related position, interested in moving into such a position, or interested in integrating EdTech and other STEAM activities and resources into their regular classroom/library. The Cohort will be introduced to a variety of EdTech and STEAM tools and resources. Options for integrating STEAM activities into a variety of curricular areas will be explored, with additional emphasis on building collaborative relationships with other teachers for planning STEAM activities including how to build a STEAM culture in your school building. Lunch will be provided.

The Genesee Valley BOCES Administrative Curriculum Council convenes regularly throughout the academic year to foster a collaborative network of instructional leaders across the region. These meetings serve as a vital forum for sharing timely updates from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and various internal departments, while also supporting the ongoing professional growth of participants. The Council's work emphasizes alignment, informed decision-making, and the strategic implementation of best practices to support high-quality instruction across districts. The Council meetings also serve as an initiating activity for various CoSer 526 activities, and regular attendance is encouraged.

The Mathematics 5-8 Cohort provides mathematics teachers the opportunity to connect with other grades 4-8 math teachers. The cohort structure offers NYSED/regional updates and collaborative opportunities. The goal of the cohort is to learn best practices, understand why they work, and see how they apply in the classroom. Participants will collaborate with colleagues to implement these best practices and reflect on their implementation. The cohort also enables teachers to share personal implementation experiences and reflections with the larger group.

TBD

Program, service, & regional updates; questions and sharing.

Teachers across New York State face mounting pressures that impact their performance, morale, and overall well-being. Chronic burnout, compassion fatigue, and difficulty maintaining work-life balance are widespread among educators. Join us for a month-long, four-part interactive workshop series designed to support educator mental health, build resilience, and promote practical strategies for work-life harmony. Led by Jen Schwytzer, LCSW, this series provides evidence-informed tools that empower educators to navigate stress, prevent burnout, and sustain their passion for teaching.

This one day conference is an informative and supportive gathering for leaders of Gay-Straight Alliance or other LGBTQ+ clubs in our region. In today's world, GSA advisors face unprecedented challenges, from navigating shifting political landscapes to ensuring the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ students in their schools. Embracing such a role and being there for your students every day can be overwhelming at times, which is why GLOW OUT! and their partners at GLYS want to provide you with a full day of programmatic, emotional, and social support for the school year ahead. In addition to GSA basics (legal protections, local and national resources, ways to structure your club, etc.) we will also have time to share triumphs and challenges, plan collaborative events for the year ahead, develop innovative strategies for advocacy and support, and become a stronger community together. Lunch Included.

Regional CSE Chairperson Meetings are to provide special education leaders in the Genesee Valley BOCES area with updates from the Office of Special Education, NYSED, and regional networks. Time will also be given up to guest speakers, professional learning, and collaborative projects.

Music Teacher In-Service. A more detailed agenda to follow.

The U.S. History & Government Cohort will provide a dynamic space for grades 7-8 and 11 social studies teachers to build a vibrant professional community. Educators will have the opportunity to engage with peers, exchange best practices, and stay informed about key developments in social studies education. This cohort offers updates from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and regional education authorities while creating opportunities for collaboration among educators. For the 2025-2026 academic year, our focus will be on the value of historical thinking, engaging with local resources to create performance/project-based learning experiences in the community, and exploring a variety of social studies topics. Through this work, participants will refine instructional strategies, strengthen content expertise, and integrate authentic, inquiry-based approaches that connect students to history in meaningful ways while helping prepare educators for the potential shifts in the NY Inspires Plan.

Teachers across New York State face mounting pressures that impact their performance, morale, and overall well-being. Chronic burnout, compassion fatigue, and difficulty maintaining work-life balance are widespread among educators. Join us for a month-long, four-part interactive workshop series designed to support educator mental health, build resilience, and promote practical strategies for work-life harmony. Led by Jen Schwytzer, LCSW, this series provides evidence-informed tools that empower educators to navigate stress, prevent burnout, and sustain their passion for teaching.

Our first speaker in this series is Chris Suozzi, Executive VP of Business & Workforce Development. Chris will provide information about the growing manufacturing businesses in Genesee County and how he helps to attract, retain, and grow businesses. He will also share what the area workforce is currently made up of and what will be needed in the the next five to ten years.

Biographical Sketch:

Mike Wiernicki is an experienced mathematics educator with over 30 years of teaching and coaching expertise. He has taught mathematics across elementary, middle, and high school levels, as well as at the collegiate level as an adjunct professor for pre-service teachers at Mercer University. Mike earned a Master's Degree from West Georgia College in 2002 and a Specialist Degree from the University of Georgia in 2019. Currently, he serves as a consultant, collaborating with schools and districts to enhance mathematics instruction. Mike is a seasoned presenter who has shared his expertise at local, state, regional, and national conventions.

Session Description:

This professional learning session offers participants an opportunity to deepen their understanding of numeracy and fluency through a research-based lens. Participants will engage in meaningful discussions to define fluency, explore instructional strategies, and pedagogical approaches that support numeracy development. The session will provide an in-depth examination of the strategy stages and their progression within the structure of the Georgia Numeracy Project. Attendees will also learn how to assess numeracy and fluency with fidelity using the Georgia Numeracy Project Assessments, including the GloSS and IKAN screeners, to evaluate student strategy stages and number knowledge. To enhance implementation, participants will receive access to a dedicated web page containing resources and handouts tailored to the professional learning content.

There will also be two virtual Question & Answer opportunities (11/5 & 12/3) following the in-person learning on October 15th.

Strong, collaborative relationships with families are essential to student success, but conversations about academic progress, behavior, and social-emotional development can sometimes be challenging. This full-day professional learning session provides educators with practical strategies and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) tools to engage in effective conversations with confidence, empathy, and clarity. Participants will explore how SEL-based strategies enhance communication, build trust, and strengthen partnerships that support student growth and well-being. The session will also highlight culturally responsive communication techniques to ensure all families feel valued, heard, and included in their child's education. By the end of this session, educators will have the skills and confidence to establish open, respectful communication that promotes collaboration, problem-solving, and student engagement, creating a positive learning environment where students thrive.

For decades, professional learning on vocabulary instruction has been an exercise of throwing strategies "against the wall” and seeing what sticks! Historically, what has been missing, has been the connection, or link, between the myriad strategies available. This vocabulary session is unique in that it provides that nexus in the form of Hennessy's (2021) Instructional Road Map for Vocabulary. This blueprint, "which is an evidence-based framework for designing and delivering instruction, provides necessary direction… [which] call[s] for an educator to use multiple strategies and activities before, during, and after comprehension instruction” (Hennessy, p. 62). Please join us to learn this explicit approach and also build confidence in how to best sequence additional strategies you already know for the most robust approach to vocabulary instruction your class has seen yet!

We all need that group that brings us joy, so why not join other teachers looking for the same? Our group will meet monthly to discuss the chapters from Onward: Cultivating Emotional Resilience in Educators by Jossey Bass. We will have the opportunity to share the strategies and ideas resonating with us and how we are implementing them in our daily lives. During our time together we collaborate with other teachers focusing on the same areas and work to build a toolbox of ideas! Join us for an emotional resiliency journey. FREE BOOKS TO THE FIRST 25 Registered for the course PRIOR TO SEPTEMBER 11, 2025. YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF OUR CONSORTIA TO RECEIVE THE FREE BOOK.

An interactive event requiring each attendee to bring a piece of sensory enhancement equipment (audio, visual, tactile, olfactory enhanced) for the purpose of developing a game incorporating this equipment. Teachers will invent 2 new games for sensory enhancement using a combination of the equipment. -Invent a new game -Collaborate with local PE teachers -Learn about sensory integration -Exposure to new equipment

The Labor Relations Department will host its annual Superintendent's Hearing Training for component districts on October 20, 2025. This professional learning event will address the legal requirements for both short- and long-term suspensions, strategies for successfully proving a case at a hearing, considerations for determining appropriate penalties, and updates on recent Commissioner's decisions.

The training will explore a range of topics, including the types of necessary evidence in cases involving drugs, threats, disruption, endangerment, and injury. Participants will also examine best practices for preparing witnesses, understand the risks associated with cases involving social media posts and artificial intelligence, and consider unique factors when student witnesses are involved. Additional discussions will address the nexus between off-campus conduct and school discipline, circumstances in which waiver agreements should be considered, and the six factors used to determine penalties. Attendees will learn what types of cases and penalties may be deemed to "shock the conscience,” as well as the importance of conducting an annual review of the district's Code of Conduct.

This training offers newer administrators valuable insights into best practices, while providing seasoned administrators with critical updates on changes in the field. Following the session, participants are invited to enjoy lunch together.

The Global History & Geography Cohort for grades 6, 9 and 10 teachers creates a vibrant community where educators can engage with peers in their field. This cohort offers updates from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and regional education authorities while providing opportunities for collaboration among educators. For the 2025-2026 academic year, our focus will be on the value of historical thinking, engaging with local resources to create performance-/project-based learning experiences in the community, and exploring a variety of social studies topics. Through this work, participants will refine instructional strategies, strengthen content expertise, and integrate authentic, inquiry-based approaches that connect students to history in a meaningful way while helping prepare educators for the potential shifts in the NY Inspires Plan.

Teachers across New York State face mounting pressures that impact their performance, morale, and overall well-being. Chronic burnout, compassion fatigue, and difficulty maintaining work-life balance are widespread among educators. Join us for a month-long, four-part interactive workshop series designed to support educator mental health, build resilience, and promote practical strategies for work-life harmony. Led by Jen Schwytzer, LCSW, this series provides evidence-informed tools that empower educators to navigate stress, prevent burnout, and sustain their passion for teaching.

The Science 5-8 Cohort provides intermediate-level science teachers the opportunity to connect with other 5-8 science teachers. The cohort structure offers NYSED/regional updates and collaborative opportunities. The goal of the cohort is to learn best practices, understand why they work, and see how these practices apply in the classroom. Participants will collaborate with colleagues to implement these best practices and reflect on their implementation. The cohort also enables teachers to share personal implementation experiences and reflections with the larger group. The focus will be on integrating the Crosscutting Concepts, Disciplinary Core Ideas, and Science and Engineering Practices into instruction, ensuring a three-dimensional learning experience for students that aligns with the New York State P-12 Science Learning Standards.

The Algebra I Cohort provides mathematics teachers the opportunity to connect with other Algebra I educators. This cohort offers NYSED/regional updates and collaborative learning experiences focused on Algebra I instruction. Participants will explore best practices specific to Algebra I, understand the research behind them, and discuss how they can be effectively implemented in the classroom. Teachers will collaborate with colleagues to refine instructional strategies, reflect on their implementation, and share insights with the larger group.

Join School Improvement for an engaging learning session designed for regional stakeholders to explore the New York State Education Department's NY Inspires Plan and the proposed changes to graduation measures. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the potential shifts outlined in the plan and their implications for schools and districts. This session is particularly valuable for educators and leaders who are beginning to build awareness of NYSED's vision for the future of graduation requirements.

A Zoom link will be sent to registered participants the day before the scheduled session.

Save the date. Agenda coming soon.

This cohort will focus on supporting K-12 English as New Language (ENL) teachers in the Genesee Valley region. The cohort will give teachers the opportunity to engage in learning and networking with other ENL professionals around best practices in ELL education. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in learning focused on topics that will be determined by the participants and the needs of the region. Lunch is on your own.

Teachers across New York State face mounting pressures that impact their performance, morale, and overall well-being. Chronic burnout, compassion fatigue, and difficulty maintaining work-life balance are widespread among educators. Join us for a month-long, four-part interactive workshop series designed to support educator mental health, build resilience, and promote practical strategies for work-life harmony. Led by Jen Schwytzer, LCSW, this series provides evidence-informed tools that empower educators to navigate stress, prevent burnout, and sustain their passion for teaching.

Join the SLS team on a limo-bus tour of some local libraries to see how their spaces are designed and utilized and to get ideas on what might work for your school. We are planning visits to school libraries at all grade levels, a STEM space, and a university library. Plus, we'll engage in PD conversations on the bus as we drive. The day will start and end at GV BOCES in LeRoy with tentative visits planned at Avon CSD, SUNY Geneseo, and York CSD. We'll include a stop for lunch (on your own).

The Science 9-12 Cohort provides secondary science teachers the opportunity to connect with other secondary science teachers. The cohort structure offers NYSED/regional updates and collaborative opportunities. The goal of the cohort is to learn best practices, understand why they work, and see how these practices apply in the classroom. Participants will collaborate with colleagues to implement these best practices and reflect on their implementation. The cohort also enables teachers to share personal implementation experiences and reflections with the larger group. The focus will be on integrating the Crosscutting Concepts, Disciplinary Core Ideas, and Science and Engineering Practices into instruction, ensuring a three-dimensional learning experience for students that aligns with the New York State P-12 Science Learning Standards.

The Special Education Consultant Teacher & Integrated Co-Teacher Cohort provides inclusion teachers the opportunity to connect with other special educators outside their home district. The cohort structure offers NYSED/regional updates and collaborative opportunities. The goal of the cohort is to learn evidence-based best practices, understand why they work, and explore the best ways to implement them in the classroom.

2025-2026 Theme: Supporting Students with Disabilities Instructionally in the Least Restrictive Environment

There is a separate cohort for Special Class Teachers.

Instructional coaching is an effective strategy for personal and teacher growth, increased student achievement, and individualized professional learning. In this cohort, participants will collaborate with other coaches in the region to focus on improving their practice, sharing effective coaching strategies, and engaging in collegial dialogue regarding the implementation of the cohort model. Participants can expect to collaborate and problem-solve, as well as explore the characteristics of highly effective coaches. Coaches will discuss high-impact teaching strategies and learn how to engage in cycles of improvement.

The Genesee Valley BOCES ASBO group supports the professional growth of members, provides resources, and creates a regional collaboration network for the Business Officials in the Genesee Valley BOCES region.

Topic of Focus: Data Privacy for Business Officials

Description: Rachelle Reid, Coordinator of Data Governance at EduTech, will present an overview of data privacy requirements under New York's Education Law 2(d) and their specific implications for School Business Officials.

Beginning July 1, 2025, all New York State school districts with a high school are required to appoint at least one ex officio student board member. These students will sit at the Board of Education table during public meetings, offering valuable input and representing the voices of their peers. To help students prepare, Genesee Valley BOCES has created a 1-hour virtual training course designed specifically for student board members across the region/state.

CTLE credit is not awarded to students. However, a district leader must register on Frontline in order to access the course materials and support students locally. Once the materials have been received, there is no need for district staff to register again for future use.

"Every child has the right to read. The question is not whether they can learn, but whether they are given the instruction that allows them to do so." - Nonie Lesaux

Exciting new insights into the Science of Reading are transforming the way literacy is taught. This session will unpack key findings and their implications for classroom instruction. Explore the critical components of reading development, from phonemic awareness to fluency, and discover how evidence-based practices can accelerate student success. Engage in discussion and reflection while gaining practical strategies to align instruction with the latest research and support all learners in becoming skilled, confident readers.

The Special Education Special Class Cohort provides inclusion teachers the opportunity to connect with other special educators outside their home district. The cohort structure offers NYSED/regional updates and collaborative opportunities. The goal of the cohort is to learn evidence-based best practices, understand why they work, and explore the best ways to implement them in the classroom.

2025-2026 Theme: Developing Local Special Class Curriculum

There is a separate cohort for Consultant Teachers/Integrated Co-Teachers.

The Genesee Valley BOCES Administrative Curriculum Council Work Group convenes three times throughout the academic year. This regional work group sessions are designed as a collaborative, working session where instructional leaders can engage in focused time to design, build, and refine tools, materials, and resources aligned to their district goals. Unlike formal professional learning sessions, this format prioritizes application over presentation-allowing participants to work alongside colleagues in a supportive setting that encourages sharing, feedback, and iterative thinking. Focus topics will be shared once they are developed.

Data is more than just numbers-it tells the story of student learning, progress, and areas in need of support. This full-day professional learning session empowers educators to go beyond raw data and use meaningful analysis to guide decision-making and improve instruction. Participants will explore key components of data-driven instruction, including best practices for leveraging formative and summative assessments to differentiate instruction, implement targeted interventions, and foster an inclusive learning environment. Through analysis and collaborative discussions, educators will learn how to translate raw data into actionable insights that enhance instructional responsiveness, promote equity, and meet students' diverse needs. By the end of the session, participants will have the tools and confidence to integrate data effectively into their teaching practices, refine instructional strategies, and create equitable learning opportunities that drive continuous student growth and achievement.

The English Language Arts (ELA) Cohort provides teachers the opportunity to connect with other ELA teachers to learn instructional models and practices. The cohort structure offers NYSED/regional updates as well as collaborative opportunities to explore research-based approaches. The goal of the cohort is to first learn effective practices and why they work, practice their implementation, and reflect on the implementation trial. The cohort framework allows teachers to share personal insights throughout the implementation and supports reflection within the larger group.

Regional CSE Chairperson Meetings are to provide special education leaders in the Genesee Valley BOCES area with updates from the Office of Special Education, NYSED, and regional networks. Time will also be given up to guest speakers, professional learning, and collaborative projects.

Save the Date! Agenda coming soon!

Mr. Riccominie guide us to learn practical methods to intensify instructional activities and foster collaboration through a vertical teaming approach, promoting alignment within and across grade levels.” Math interventionists will be able to "turnkey” the training to their districts and support teachers through embedded coaching and collegial conversations.

will share what Liberty Pumps does and who makes up there workforce. Learn about this growing company and the potential future it has for our graduating students and skills they will need. At the end of the presentation we will discuss how we might reach our students to better prepare them for their future careers.

The English Language Arts (ELA) Cohort provides teachers the opportunity to connect with other ELA teachers to learn instructional models and practices. The cohort structure offers NYSED/regional updates as well as collaborative opportunities to explore research-based approaches. The goal of the cohort is to first learn effective practices and why they work, practice their implementation, and reflect on the implementation trial. The cohort framework allows teachers to share personal insights throughout the implementation and supports reflection within the larger group.

Knowing when and how to activate a TIG response is one of the most common questions. Many situations are upsetting, but it is unclear what level of response is needed. Using a continuum of care model will help clarify difficult situations, and help your TIG team feel confident in your strategic planning. One hour Zoom discussion.

The Ag Cohort is intended to provide professional learning for Ag educators. It is an opportunity to collaborate on important issues and topics affecting their practice. Participants will discuss best practices for advancing Ag education programs in districts through classroom instruction, Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), and Future Farmers of America (FFA). The cohort will collaborate with representative members from organizations such as Future Farmers of America (FFA), Career & Technical Education (CTE), and Agri-businesses in our GV BOCES region. Tours of local Agri-businesses will be scheduled as part of the professional learning day.

Registered participants will receive updates on locations and tours throughout the school year.

Lunch is included.

The Genesee Valley BOCES ASBO group supports the professional growth of members, provides resources, and creates a regional collaboration network for the Business Officials in the Genesee Valley BOCES region.

Topic of Focus: Purchasing

Description: Representative(s) from Educational Data Services, Inc.(Ed-Data) will present on cooperative bidding and purchasing within New York State regulations.

Beginning July 1, 2025, all New York State school districts with a high school are required to appoint at least one ex officio student board member. These students will sit at the Board of Education table during public meetings, offering valuable input and representing the voices of their peers. To help students prepare, Genesee Valley BOCES has created a 1-hour virtual training course designed specifically for student board members across the region/state.

CTLE credit is not awarded to students. However, a district leader must register on Frontline in order to access the course materials and support students locally. Once the materials have been received, there is no need for district staff to register again for future use.

Why do some students struggle to connect mathematical concepts across different contexts, even after repeated practice? Research shows that hands-on learning with manipulatives deepens understanding and strengthens problem-solving skills by making abstract concepts tangible. However, manipulatives are often underused or treated as surface-level tools, rather than drivers of deep mathematical thinking. This interactive session will explore how to effectively integrate manipulatives into math instruction to enhance conceptual learning across grade levels. Through hands-on activities and research-based strategies, participants will discover how to move beyond rote procedures to meaningful, inquiry-driven learning. Gain practical techniques for creating dynamic, student-centered math experiences that promote engagement, discourse, and deeper comprehension.

Registration includes lunch and a class set of math manipulatives.

The Holocaust Educator Network is a free professional learning opportunity made possible through a generous donation from Temple Emanu-El of Batavia, NY. The network is committed to building a collaborative community of educators in the Genesee region, dedicated to promoting accurate and impactful Holocaust scholarship in schools. Our mission is to honor the memory of the Holocaust, empower students with historical understanding, and inspire them to become engaged citizens who stand against hate and work toward a more just and compassionate world. To support this mission, the Holocaust Educator Network offers annual professional development opportunities for educators and administrators, focusing on the effective integration of Holocaust education into the classroom. In line with the 2022 New York State mandate, school districts are required to ensure Holocaust education is accurately represented in curricula. This initiative helps educators meet this requirement while also aligning with Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) principles, emphasizing the human and ethical dimensions of Holocaust education. To facilitate this work, the School Improvement Team, in partnership with various organizations, will organize three full-day sessions each year, each centered on a specific Holocaust-related theme. These sessions are designed to equip educators with the knowledge, resources, and instructional strategies necessary to bring these critical lessons back to their schools and classrooms.

TBD

Program, service, & regional updates; questions and sharing.

will share what Liberty Pumps does and who makes up there workforce. Learn about this growing company and the potential future it has for our graduating students and skills they will need. At the end of the presentation we will discuss how we might reach our students to better prepare them for their future careers.

Regional CSE Chairperson Meetings are to provide special education leaders in the Genesee Valley BOCES area with updates from the Office of Special Education, NYSED, and regional networks. Time will also be given up to guest speakers, professional learning, and collaborative projects.

The Genesee Valley BOCES Administrative Curriculum Council convenes regularly throughout the academic year to foster a collaborative network of instructional leaders across the region. These meetings serve as a vital forum for sharing timely updates from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and various internal departments, while also supporting the ongoing professional growth of participants. The Council's work emphasizes alignment, informed decision-making, and the strategic implementation of best practices to support high-quality instruction across districts. The Council meetings also serve as an initiating activity for various CoSer 526 activities, and regular attendance is encouraged.

The Genesee Valley BOCES ASBO group supports the professional growth of members, provides resources, and creates a regional collaboration network for the Business Officials in the Genesee Valley BOCES region.

Topic of Focus: Classroom Temperatures

Description: Derek Ellingsworth from J.W.Danforth will present considerations districts need to be aware of as they contemplate the notion of capital projects related to the Classroom temperature mandate.

Effective feedback goes beyond corrections and grades-it has the potential to transform student learning by fostering a growth mindset, deepening understanding, and empowering students to take ownership of their progress. This full-day professional learning session equips educators with research-based strategies for providing timely, specific, and actionable feedback that enhances student engagement and achievement. Participants will learn how to craft targeted feedback aligned with learning goals and tailored to the diverse needs of students. The session will also focus on building a classroom culture where students actively engage with feedback, reflect on their progress, and apply insights to their learning. Additionally, educators will explore the role of feedback in performance-based learning and assessment (PBLA) and its connection to initiatives such as NY Inspires. By the end of the session, participants will have practical techniques to transform feedback from a one-way evaluation into meaningful, goal-oriented conversations that inspire self-reflection, encourage academic growth, and support student success.

Rethink what it means to support all learners in mathematics. This session confronts common myths about math learning, explores strategies for using formative assessment, and highlights the power of multiple representations in deepening conceptual understanding. Educators will walk away with tools to build student confidence, identity, and engagement while advancing math proficiency.

Focus Briefs: Brief 2, Brief 5, Brief 6

Beginning July 1, 2025, all New York State school districts with a high school are required to appoint at least one ex officio student board member. These students will sit at the Board of Education table during public meetings, offering valuable input and representing the voices of their peers. To help students prepare, Genesee Valley BOCES has created a 1-hour virtual training course designed specifically for student board members across the region/state.

CTLE credit is not awarded to students. However, a district leader must register on Frontline in order to access the course materials and support students locally. Once the materials have been received, there is no need for district staff to register again for future use.

Regional CSE Chairperson Meetings are to provide special education leaders in the Genesee Valley BOCES area with updates from the Office of Special Education, NYSED, and regional networks. Time will also be given up to guest speakers, professional learning, and collaborative projects.

The Genesee Valley BOCES Administrative Curriculum Council Work Group convenes three times throughout the academic year. This regional work group sessions are designed as a collaborative, working session where instructional leaders can engage in focused time to design, build, and refine tools, materials, and resources aligned to their district goals. Unlike formal professional learning sessions, this format prioritizes application over presentation-allowing participants to work alongside colleagues in a supportive setting that encourages sharing, feedback, and iterative thinking. Focus topics will be shared once they are developed.

Help your students get a leg up in the workforce by taking the ACT WorkKeys assessments. Learn about this assessment and the amazing opportunities it will provide you students not only in Genesee County but across the nation. This assessment will provide students with a badging credential with either a bronze, silver, gold, or platinum rating that will help them find and get a leg up in the job search. Join this session to find out more!

We all need that group that brings us happiness, so why not join other teachers looking for the same? Our group will meet monthly to discuss the chapters from Happiness Advantage How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life by Shawn Achor. We will have the opportunity to share the strategies and ideas resonating with us and how we are implementing them in our daily lives. During our time together we collaborate with other teachers focusing on the same areas and work to build a toolbox of ideas! Join us for a happiness journey. FREE BOOKS TO THE FIRST 25 Registered for the course PRIOR TO SEPTEMBER 11, 2025. YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF OUR CONSORTIA TO RECEIVE THE FREE BOOK.

Being a TIG responder at another school is an important role. Learn best practices, skills and tips for responding, including a brief review of defusing and debriefing steps, so you can feel confident when you get the call for support. One hour Zoom discussion.

This cohort is designed for educators that are working in a STEAM-related position, interested in moving into such a position, or interested in integrating EdTech and other STEAM activities and resources into their regular classroom/library. The Cohort will be introduced to a variety of EdTech and STEAM tools and resources. Options for integrating STEAM activities into a variety of curricular areas will be explored, with additional emphasis on building collaborative relationships with other teachers for planning STEAM activities including how to build a STEAM culture in your school building. Lunch will be provided.

Save the date, agenda coming soon!

Save the date, agenda coming soon!

The Algebra II Cohort provides mathematics teachers the opportunity to connect with other Algebra II educators. This cohort offers NYSED/regional updates and collaborative learning experiences focused on Algebra II instruction. Participants will explore best practices specific to Algebra II, understand the research behind them, and discuss how they can be effectively implemented in the classroom. Teachers will collaborate with colleagues to refine instructional strategies, reflect on their implementation, and share insights with the larger group.

Group Crisis Intervention skills are the foundation of an effective crisis response. For people who have already completed the two day CISM training, take advantage of this opportunity to review the material with Deb Salamone, ICISF Faculty. Review will include Crisis Management Briefing, Defusing and Debriefing processes.

The Genesee Valley BOCES ASBO group supports the professional growth of members, provides resources, and creates a regional collaboration network for the Business Officials in the Genesee Valley BOCES region.

EduTech Updates

Description: Kelli Eckdahl, Director of Edutech, will provide an overview of the new SAA Portal and other services available to component districts.

Beginning July 1, 2025, all New York State school districts with a high school are required to appoint at least one ex officio student board member. These students will sit at the Board of Education table during public meetings, offering valuable input and representing the voices of their peers. To help students prepare, Genesee Valley BOCES has created a 1-hour virtual training course designed specifically for student board members across the region/state.

CTLE credit is not awarded to students. However, a district leader must register on Frontline in order to access the course materials and support students locally. Once the materials have been received, there is no need for district staff to register again for future use.

Designed for instructional leaders, coaches, and administrators, this session emphasizes how to lead and support high-quality mathematics instruction across a system. Participants will learn how to critically analyze curriculum materials, build structures for professional learning, and cultivate a shared vision of excellent, equitable math instruction. This session will support leadership moves that promote sustainable change in math outcomes.

Focus Briefs: Brief 5, Brief 7, Brief 8

The well-being and professional growth of educators are vital to fostering enriching and supportive learning environments. This professional development session emphasizes the critical role of social-emotional learning (SEL) for educators, focusing on building emotional resilience, nurturing positive relationships, and strengthening a supportive teaching community. Participants will explore practical approaches to enhance self-awareness, manage stress, cultivate empathy, and improve communication skills. These skills will enable educators to create a collaborative culture that promotes both well-being and professional growth. By the end of the session, participants will have the tools and confidence to integrate SEL into their daily practices, fostering a supportive and effective educational environment for themselves and their students, ultimately leading to improved learning outcomes and school success.

TBD

Program, service, & regional updates; questions and sharing.