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Professional Learning

The O-N Teacher Center provides many opportunities to enhance your teaching skills and improve student learning.
 

Our Center supports educators through a number of learning opportunities. We host in-person workshops, online programs, case studies, Network programs, and conferences.

We also utilize book studies and share groups to share expertise with content area teachers from across our counties. 

 

All courses are $5/hour unless otherwise noted. Book studies are now $3/hour to allow for purchase price of books. Please send cash or check, payable to O/N BOCES, to the Teacher Center, 4124 Saunders Settlement Rd, Sanborn, NY 14132 or interschool mail.

REGISTER HERE starting May 17 at 9am.

REGISTRATION FOR COURSES CLOSES January 15, 2024

To receive full credit for courses, you must be present for 90% of the instructional time. We understand that on occasion, participants may be a little late or need to leave a little early, but we appreciate if you stick to the 90% rule or as close to it as possible. Thank you.

In-Person and Online Courses 

Please be advised that even though you have a period of time to complete all the online activities, it is expected that you participate and post from the beginning to the end of the course. This will ensure a collaborative learning experience for all participants. Thank you.

IN-PERSON AND HYBRID LEARNING:

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F24-01 Strategies to Support ADD Learners (K-12)

ADD is a term commonly used to describe a neurological condition with symptoms of inattention, distractibility and poor working memory.  In this course, we will investigate the different types of ADD and ways to accommodate this particular learning style.  We will look at case studies & collaborate about assessments & strategies to support ADD students.

2/13-3/6/24, In-person sessions @ O/N BOCES Conference Center on 2/13, 2/28 and 3/4 from 4pm-6pm; all other work done asynchronously (12 hours, FREE), Rene Brock

 

F24-02 The Science of Reading Doesn't Mean "That's It"- Incorporating Phonics into Your Literacy Instruction (K-3)

Those of us whom have been in education long enough know that the pendulum of “best practices” can swing at any moment. We also know what the tried and true “best practices” really are. So, yes, current research and buzz words are all about “the science of reading.” It is real. It makes sense. However, this does not mean we need to do away with what we already know to work. We know what adult readers and writers do, and our instruction should reflect upon that. In this session, we’ll discuss the ways in which solid phonics instruction and word work can be incorporated into daily reading and writing sessions, especially if you’re currently using the TC units of study/workshop models. You will leave with a better understanding of where and how to fit in solid phonics instruction/practice in your K-3 classroom.

3/13/24, 4:30-6:30PM @ BOCES Conference Center, (2 hours, FREE), Michelle Logan

 

F24-03 Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Classroom Connections (5-12 Social Studies)

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is offering a two hour professional development opportunity for educators to learn local historical resources. The first hour will be a guided tour through the Heritage Center, where you will gain insight into the role freedom seekers and local abolitionists played in the Underground Railroad. The second hour will introduce teachers to the resources available prior to visiting the museum. This will include lesson plans built around the themes of the Heritage Center with New York State curriculum connections, as well as sharing ideas towards earning the Seal of Civic Readiness.

3/20/24, 4pm-6pm @ NF Underground Railroad Heritage Center (2 hours, FREE), Roberta Faery

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FREE ELL COURSES! (ONLINE, ASYNCHRONOUS)

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ELL-17 Tweak Reading and Writing for ELLs (K-5)

In this course, participants will review evidence-based literacy practices recommended for ELLs to tweak Reading and Writing Workshop. Remember, best practices for ELLs are really best practices for all learners!

Option 1: Review the evidence-based literacy practices from the US Department of Education Institute of Education Sciences.

1/17-1/24/24, (5 ELL CTLE Hours, FREE)

Option 2: Option 1, PLUS: Apply these practices (1 per week) to what you’re already teaching through a choice board of activities from Reading and Writing with English Learners by Valentina Gonzalez and Melinda Miller with effective strategies from Atomic Habits by James Clear. (15 hours total with both options)

1/17-3/27/24, (15 ELL hours total with BOTH options), Katie Leven

 

ELL-18 Long Term Success for Experienced Multilinguals Book Study (6-12)

In this asynchronous book study, we will read and analyze the book by Tan Huynh and Beth Skelton. Participants will explore new avenues for teaching the academic language skills required by students to process content lessons and clearly communicate discipline-specific ideas!

1/31-2/28/24, (15 ELL CTLE hours, FREE), Katie Leven

 

ELL-19 Sheltered Instruction: Teaching Content and Language to ELLs (K-12)

In this course, teachers will explore methods for teaching content and language simultaneously to ELLs. This will involve some reading, reflection questions, and creating a final project. The course will be conducted on Google Classroom. It is appropriate for teachers of any grade level who work with ELLs

3/4-3/22/24, (9 ELL CTLE hours, FREE), Nicole Sandretto

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ONLINE COURSES - NO BOOK REQUIRED

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O24-01 The Culturally Responsive Teacher (K-12)

The course will use Microsoft TEAMS. Each TEAMS assignment will include a deep dive in to current literature, peer reviewed articles and TED Talk videos. Participant will couple the readings and videos with written personal reflections guided towards creating a culturally responsive classroom environment.

1/15-2/19/24, (12 hours, $60), Dr. Amy Benjamin

 

O24-02 Promoting Optimism In The Classroom (K-12)

Attitude can make all the difference. When educators choose optimism―even in the face of the toughest challenges―they foster a school culture where students and staff feel safe, engaged, and productive, able to enjoy the healthy interactions that lead to real change. During this 15 hour workshop we will discuss, create and explore ways you can help maintain childlike optimism in your classroom. This online workshop will be posted on Google Classroom.

1/22-2/6/24 (15 hours asynchronous, $75), Kathy Halter

 

O24-03 Increasing Student Voice in Educational Settings (7-12)

In an educational setting, student voices can be heard in many different ways; in the classroom, in the school building, at the district level and beyond. In general, student voice is when students have a say in matters that affect them in their schools and their opinions are taken into consideration. There is a trend in education to increase the opportunities for student’s voices to truly be heard and their ideas incorporated.

2/26-3/15/24, (12 hours, $60), Peter Herman

 

O24-04 Simple, Effective, ELA Lessons and Resources for Every Classroom (K-12)

As a former English 9-12 teacher and current Instructional Literacy Coach for K-8, I understand that writing and reading isn't only for the ELA classroom and must be included in all subjects and special areas. I also understand that finding time to implement literacy skills development lessons in courses other than English, Reading, and Social Studies can be a daunting task. The lack of prep time, exhaustive daily course content, and management of students' behaviors leaves one drowning in paperwork and data. Through this course, you will receive the latest and greatest resources to bring writing, reading, and communication activities to life in any subject area. We will be using Google Classroom to share what works when it comes to grammar, sentence structure, parts of speech, and phonemic awareness, along with numerous online sites and applications for feedback and quick grading. No books required.

4/8-4/27/24, (10 hours, FREE), Lisa Fletcher

 

O24-05 Truth For Teachers (K-12)

“Truth For Teachers” is a great podcast series that every teacher should listen to. This workshop will allow us to listen and discuss mindset and motivation, productivity strategies, and tips and tricks that will help you to make the end of your school year as strong as you started off in September. Feel that sense of accomplishment for a job that is never done. During this online workshop, we will be discussing and posting via Google Classroom.

4/15-4/31/24, (15 hours, $75), Kathy Halter

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ONLINE COLLABORATIVE BOOK STUDIES

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B24-01 The Writing Strategies Book: Your Everything Guide to Developing Skilled Writers (K-6)

Whether you use Writing Workshop, 6+1 Traits, Daily 5's "Work on Writing," a scripted writing program, the writing exercises in your basal, or any other approach, you'll discover a treasure chest of ways to work with whole classes, small groups, or individual writers. The book by Jennifer Sarravalo is required reading. *The Center has 7 copies available for loan (first come basis).

1/15-1/29/24, (15 ELL CTLE hours, $45), Summer Chapman

 

B24-02 Unearthing Joy: A Guide to Culturally and Historically Responsive Teaching and Learning (K-12)

Through the work of Gholdy Muhammad, we will learn how to take tangible, realistic steps towards making our lessons and classrooms a more culturally responsive and welcoming space, while also leaning into our own individual skills and creativity! This short, easy to read book and our discussions will give you a starting point to build a deeper, richer classroom experience!

1/15-4/15/24, (15 hours, $45), Michelle Wing

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ONLINE COLLABORATIVE BOOK STUDIES (cont.)

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B24-03 Beyond the Surface of Restorative Practices (K-12)

The book, by Marisol Rerucha, is a powerful resource with vital tools for establishing a culture of healing and well-being. Participants will discover practical strategies and actionable techniques for implementing restorative practices with integrity and a profound understanding of their impact on fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. These strategies aim to empower participants to navigate challenges with resilience, promote meaningful connections, and contribute to the cultivation of a restorative and compassionate educational community.

1/22-2/11/24, (15 hours, $45), Tina Oddy

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B24-04 The Motivated Student: Unlocking the Enthusiasm for Learning (K-12)

Research has shown time and again that the traditional reward-punishment model does nothing to boost student achievement. In his book, Bob Sullo suggests a different approach: cultivating students’ inner drive to learn by addressing their essential psychological needs. The goal of this study is to encourage teachers to think about who their students really are and help them to develop a culture of inquiry, trust, and engagement that will release each child's enthusiasm for learning.

1/22-2/12/24, (15 hours, $45), Mike Bollinger

 

B24-05 Uprooting Instructional Inequity (K-12)

This book, by Jill Harrison Berg, guides teachers in amplifying the power of collaborative inquiry as a means for identifying, interrogating, and addressing instructional inequity. It is a practical guide for designing inquiry-based learning that digs at the roots of instructional inequity. At the center of the book is Berg’s i3PD Planning Map, which guides teachers to recognize and reform ways their instructional practice may be contributing to inequity through four parts, which will be explored in this book study. We will be using Google Classroom.

1/29-2/12/24, (15 hours, $45), Jessica Bruno

 

B24-06 Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead (K-12)

In her book, Dr. Brown challenges everything we think we know about vulnerability. Based on twelve years of research, she argues that vulnerability is not weakness but rather our clearest path to courage, engagement, and meaningful connection. Understanding these concepts can help a teacher in teaching learners and with classroom management. It's an opportunity to dig deep and get real. This book study will have discussion questions, activities, and videos to view.         *A PDF of the book will be provided for no cost

2/5-3/1/24, (15 hours, FREE), Lisa Fletcher

 

B24-07 Specially Designed Instruction: Increasing Success for Students with Disabilities (K-12)

This course will focus on creating an effective planning process that you and your team can follow to develop specially designed instruction including dozens of practical examples, worksheets, and prep tools. This course will ensure readers walk away with a thorough understanding and ready-to-use ideas. Whether you have years of experience working with students with disabilities or are new to the profession, this course provides effective strategies for every classroom.

2/5-2/26/24, (15 hours, $45), Lori Hurtgam

 

B24-08 Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants (K-12)

Braiding Sweetgrass is a call to action that combines memoir, Indigenous storytelling, and scientific writing. This online book study, using Google Classroom, will help you develop deep understandings of what we need to do to heal the world for our students, for ourselves, and the generations yet to come. The teachings gained from this book will inspire us to act with generosity, kindness, and empathy and give us resources to incorporate indigenous knowledge and histories into every grade level/content area.

2/5-3/27/24, (15 hours, $45), Melissa Elliott

 

B24-09 Joy, to the World (K-12)

In this online book study using Google classroom, educators will read the entire book by Kai Shappley and Lisa Bunker. For each chapter they will practice using the reading strategy "Vocabulary Tab Book." by "Raise The Bar Reading. This reading strategy can be used in all grade and subject areas.

2/12-3/25/24, (15 hours, $45), Anne Kent-Kwasniewski

 

B24-10 Advancing Formative Assessment in Every Classroom: A Guide for Instructional Leaders (K-12)

Formative assessment is an active, continual process in which teachers and students work together to gather evidence of learning, always keeping in mind three guiding questions: Where am I going? Where am I now? What strategy or strategies can help me get to where I need to go? In this book study, we will focus on shared learning targets, feedback that takes learning forward, student self & peer assessment, goal setting, teacher questioning, and student engagement.

2/26-3/18/24, (15 hours, $45), Kyle Hurtgam

 

B24-11 Teach Happier This School Year (K-12)

Using Google Classroom, teachers will engage in a reflective book study that will guide them in creating small changes to create a more balanced, aligned and happy classroom, and assessing the health of relationships with coworkers and students. The book by Suzanne Dailey is required reading.

2/26-3/8/24, (15 hours, $45), Erin Kozerski

 

B24-12 Reconnect: Building School Culture for Meaning, Purpose, and Belonging (K-12)

This book, by Lemov, Lewis, Williams and Frazier, delivers practical guidance and concrete advice for teachers, administrators, and community members who seek to dramatically improve the lives of children and young people by fostering a sense of belonging in schools. You will find hands-on solutions to build or rebuild students’ sense of shared work and community in an era of increasing isolation and disconnections. The authors draw on extensive experience with high-performing schools to show you how to build environments that allow young people to thrive and socialize them to become citizens who seek the well-being of those around them. You will also get: complimentary access to videos and downloadable assets via https://www.wiley.com/go/reconnect that can be used both within and outside of the classroom.

4/9- 5/17/24, (15 hours, $45), Audrey Stafford

 

B24-13 Teaching With Purpose: How to Thoughtfully Implement Evidence-Based Practices in Your Classroom (K-12)

The most effective teachers are those who are both purposeful and intentional in their daily work. Built on seven well-researched teaching principles, this resource outlines how to thoughtfully cultivate a rich learning environment conducive to the success of every student. Topics covered range from classroom management to establishing learning goals and are applicable to new and veteran teachers alike.

4/15-5/3/24, (15 hours, $45), Karen Pax

 

B24-14 Creating a Culture of Reflective Practice: Capacity Building for School Wide Success (K-12)

Reflective teachers are effective, teachers and translate into real gains for student achievement! In creating a culture of reflective practice, authors Hall, and Simeral Address, educators, across grade levels, content, areas, and district demographics to present a definitive guide to developing a culture of reflective practice in schools. Real life examples, teacher leadership activities, feedback suggestions, and research-based tools will be included. The result is a schoolwide culture that values reflection, and uses it to ensure that teachers/students reach their fullest potential. Google Classroom

4/29-5/15/24, (15 hours, $45), Maura Bruno

 

B24-15 Artificial Intelligence for Educators (K-12)

In this study, we will use the book by Matt Miller to learn what Artificial Intelligence is; what it means to education; and best practices and strategies for using AI in the classroom.

4/29-5/23/24, (15 hours, FREE), Cheryl Herman

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B24-16 Beyond Conversations About Race: A Guide for Discussions With Students, Teachers, and Communities (K-12)

Learn how to talk about race in the classroom and advocate for racial equity. Advocate for underserved communities and those who suffer under racism; take appropriate action based on challenging conversations. Ultimately the goal of the book and course is to begin to develop classrooms, schools, and districts into safe, anti-racist educational strongholds and promote positive learning experiences. Participants will use Google classroom and the book to read scenarios and discussions directly addressing challenging topics such as discomfort, violence, advocacy, bias, and responsibility.

5/6-5/25/23, (15 hours, $45), Kelly Zimmerman

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NYSTC Statewide Offerings

Free programs from the NYS Teacher Center Organization can be found on their website. More programs will be added in October.

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Far West Regional Programs:

In collaboration with the Far West Teacher Center Network, our Center offers FREE regional programs. Programs change from year to year based on funding and district needs. STAY TUNED FOR THE WINTER/SPRING CATALOG!

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