top of page

Professional Learning

REGISTER HERE

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 NOW!

REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 7 AND CLOSES JUNE 11, 2025.

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.

FREE ELL COURSES

​

ENL-CP26: ENL Community of Practice: Fall Session

This popular community of practice will support ANY teacher and/or paraprofessional who instructs/supports multilingual learners of English. Teachers will choose an ENL-related book for reflection and biweekly sharing. This year's program will be entirely asynchronous online, but timely responses to participant interaction is essential.

9/22-12/12/25, (up to 15 hours, FREE), Katie Leven

 

ELL-23 Growing Language and Literacy Book Study

In this book study, teachers will read and reflect upon one Growing Language and Literacy text by Andrea Honigsfeld (you may choose grades K-6 or 7-12 option). With practical, research-based strategies to support Multilingual learners at all five levels of proficiency, participants will appreciate the positive mindset underlying culturally sustaining pedagogy, scaffolding, and peer interaction. Participants will explore real classroom examples and choose steps to improve instruction to better support MLEs develop academic language and literacy across content areas. 7/7-7/25/25 (15 ELL CTLE hours, FREE), Katie Leven

​

IN-PERSON PROGRAMS

​

F25-02: Niagara Falls National Heritage Area Summer Professional Development

Join us for a FREE 3-day professional development experience offered by the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area. Empower your teaching with immersive tours around Niagara Falls, including the Freedom Conversation Tour, Suspension Bridge and Mural Tour, Cataract House Site Tour, Prophet Isaiah’s Second Coming House, and the Bad A** Women of Niagara Tour. Explore historical perspectives and gain valuable classroom resources. Participants will meet at the NF Heritage Center (825 Depot Avenue West) and leave for tours from here. 7/15-7/17/25, 9am-2pm; 15 CTLE hours available for full attendance or 5 hours per day. FREE, Roberta Faery

 

F25-03 AI for Educators

Come to the O/N BOCES Conference Center to get an overview of AI in Education and some amazing AI tools like: Magic School, Canva's Magic Studio, and even inside Padlet.  We will also discuss prompting and school & district planning for these tools. 7/22/25, 9am-12pm, 3 CTLE hours, FREE, Matt Mariglia

 

F25-04 Teaching at a One Room Schoolhouse

Go back in time and learn how to teach lessons from the 1800's in a One Room Schoolhouse.  This course will take place on site at the Wilson One Room Schoolhouse located at the Wilson Historical Society.  You will learn how to teach lessons from the 1800's.  You will use quill pens, slates, copy books, learn about pioneer lunches and games.  Then you will be able to bring your students on a field trip to the Schoolhouse so they can experience life as a pioneer child.  8/5/25, 8am-2pm (lunch provided), 6 CTLE hours, FREE.  Nancy Simmons

​

ONLINE COURSES - NO BOOK REQUIRED

​

O25-04 Importance of Grit in Education (K-12)

Grit has been discussed as the single most predictor of success, so it is about time we focus on it. This class will give you an overview of what grit is, analyze how much of it you have, help students and educators understand its importance, create activities and mindsets that install grit into the classroom. All of which will lead to successful students.

7/23-8/8/25, (15 hours, $50), Peter Herman

 

O25-05 Brain Breaks for Elementary School Classrooms (K-5)

Brain breaks can improve focus, social skills, learning, self-regulation, cognitive function, and overall being. They help children feel more relaxed.  Teachers will learn from three Brain Break talks/presentations (TED Talks and Edutopia) and explore 120 Brain breaks (movement, mindful, physical activities, games). They will select 24 breaks to be utilized in the classroom and learn about other teachers’ breaks.

10/8-10/29/25, (15 hours, $50), Jennifer Kibler

 

O25-06 Let’s Get A Better Understanding of Chronic Absenteeism (K-12)

Chronic absenteeism is a major factor in poor academic achievement and dropping out of school. It has been a problem in many schools for years and has continued to grow over the past few years.  More students simply refuse to go to school each day, largely related to deteriorated mental health, motivation, and social anxieties.  During this course we will explore what educators can do to improve attendance.

11/5-11/20/25, (15 hours, $50), Kathy Halter

​

ONLINE COLLABORATIVE BOOK STUDIES

​

SUMMER PROGRAMS - REGISTRATION CLOSES JUNE 11

​

B25-15 Adaptable (K-12)

This course, focusing on AJ Juliani’s book, Adaptable, will help educators navigate teaching in a post-pandemic world. As education continues to evolve, this course offers a framework for building a flexible curriculum. Educators will discover strategies to engage and empower diverse learners while adapting instruction in effective, meaningful ways that foster continuous growth for both teachers and students.

7/7-7/20/25, (15 hours, $45), Catherine Loncar

 

B25-16 The Post-Covid School (Grace under Pressure) (K-12)

Each school year brings forth challenges and problems that no educator can ever fully be prepared for. However, the issues that presented itself in 2020, due to COVID, was unlike anything anyone had ever seen. This book explores the impact of these challenges and what schools had to encounter and how we move forward. This book examines virtually all facets of how schools were impacted and continue to deal with the changes. 7/7-7/21/25, (15 hours, $45), Jason Danielewicz

 

B25-17 Next-Gen Teaching: AI Strategies for Modern Educators (K-12)

This course, based on the book by Chris LaFata, explores the transformative role of AI in education, addressing ethical concerns and practical applications for teachers. Participants will examine strategies for AI-assisted grading, preventing student misuse, and leveraging AI to enhance lesson planning and feedback. The book emphasizes that AI won’t replace teachers but can make their work more efficient and engaging. Through guided discussions, educators will learn to harness AI as a tool to support student learning while maintaining academic integrity. 7/14-8/3/25, (15 hours, $45), Tina Oddy

 

B25-18 Just Tell Them (K-12)

Using Google Classroom and the text Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Teaching by Zach Groshell, this book study will have participants explore essential techniques for showing, telling, demonstrating, modeling, and presenting to support daily instruction in their classrooms. This text will help educators gain a deeper understanding of "breaking it down" to discover how a direct and explicit approach to teaching can significantly impact students' learning and their success. 7/14-8/4/25, (15 hours, $45), Kari Ernst

 

B25-19 Social Rules for Kids (Top 100 Social Rules Kids Need to Succeed) (K-12)

Looking for ways to help students improve social interactions in an every changing world?  Using Google Classroom and the book by Susan Diamond, teachers will dive into the most important social cues we can teach our children to be successful at school, home, and the world!

7/14-7/25/25, (15 hours, $45), Erin Kozerski

 

B25-20 The Writing Rope (K-12)

The Writing Rope, by Sedita, is an essential resource for educators seeking to enhance their instructional practices in teaching writing. By emphasizing explicit instruction and providing a clear framework for understanding the intricacies of writing development, this book aims to improve both teacher and student achievement in literacy.

7/14-8/14/25, (12 hours, $36), Dr. Amylynn Benjamin

 

B25-21 The AI Playbook: Time Saving Tools for Teachers K-12)

Busy educators need tools that support their planning and provide them with more time with students. While Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising solution, it can only help if we’re willing to learn how to use it in ways that improve upon what we already do well. The book by Hargrave, Fisher and Frey, will empower teachers to explore AI’s potential and discover practical ways to implement it to enhance their planning and instruction. 7/21-8/8/25, (15 hours, FREE), Cheryl Herman

​

B25-22 Design Thinking for Educators: Five Roles and Mindsets That Ignite Positive Change (K-12)

This asynchronous three-week PD course guides school leaders through the five roles of design thinking—opportunity seeker, experience architect, rule breaker, producer, and storyteller. Using the book by Alyssa Gallagher, participants will explore innovative leadership strategies, reimagine school systems, and create actionable plans to ignite positive change in their schools. 7/21-8/4/25, (15 hours, $45), Thomas Penale

 

B25-23 I Wish My Teacher Knew (K-12)

This course is designed for educators seeking to enhance their understanding of student needs, relationships, and the power of inquiry in the classroom. Based on Kyle Schwartz's book, participants will explore the chapters and engage in reflective assignments that promote dialogue, empathy, and actionable change within their educational environments. 7/21-8/11/25, (15 hours, $45), Mackenna Daly


​

ONLINE COLLABORATIVE BOOK STUDIES (CONT)

​​

B25-24 Rerouting: Resilience Tools and Tactics (K-12)

The book by Duncan Kirkwood, is a guide in offering actionable strategies on how to build resilience, overcome setbacks and focus on personal and professional goals. The author offers resources, tools and strategies in an easy and engaging read for everyone! Kirkwood is one of the top youth speakers and was born and raised right here in Buffalo!

7/28-8/11/25, (15 hours, $45), Amy Girard

 

B25-25 Using Technology in a Differentiated Classroom (K-12)

To successfully differentiate instruction, you need the right mindset, a strong skill set, and effective tools. In this book, Kilbane and Milman explain how to pair differentiation and quality instructional design with educational technology to ensure every learning experience is engaging, effective, efficient, and equitable. An array of digital tools will be discussed regarding adapting lessons, differentiating by content, and designing more accurate assessments. 8/4-8/19/25, (15 hours, $45), Jessica Bruno

​

B25-26 The Anxious Generation (Part 2) (K-12)

Part 2 of this online book study on John Haidt's "The Anxious Generation" offers a deep dive into the complexities children face in today's world. Participants will examine how phone use affects boys and girls differently and reflect on societal norms. The course also explores the spiritual aspects of technology and strategies for building collective action. Additional topics include analyzing policy recommendations, the changing roles of governments and tech companies, and effective school strategies for holistic education, with a focus on the role of parents. *Completion of Part 1 Required 8/4-8/25/25, (15 hours, $45), Michael Bollinger

 

B25-27 7 Keys to a Positive Learning Environment in Your Classroom (K-12)

This course focuses on creating a positive classroom environment by applying seven key strategies to improve instruction, assessment, and student relationships. Teachers will gain practical insights, including real-world stories and strategies, to define and implement differentiation and enrichment. By mastering these keys, educators can establish clear expectations, enhance learning, and support all students in reaching their full potential, regardless of their support needs. Based on the book by Tom Hierck. 8/11-9/1/25, (15 hours, $45), Lori Hurtgam

 

Fall Programs – Registration closes September 10

 

B25-28 Lessons From Great Teachers to Teachers Who Want to Be Great 

Discover the key traits that make great teachers truly exceptional. Based on extensive research and real-world insights, this workshop explores passion, strong teacher-student relationships, and a sense of calling. Learn from top educators, refine your teaching strategies, and gain inspiration to elevate your impact in the classroom. Based on the book by Dale Ripley.

9/29-10/20/25, (15 hours, $45), Kyle Hurtgam

 

B25-29 The InterACTIVE Class in a World of AI (K-12)

This book study explores how educators can harness AI to spark creativity and engage students in meaningful learning experiences. The engaging book, by Joe and Kristin Merrill, provides practical strategies, real-life examples, and over 40 ready-to-use lesson plans to empower students as creators. Participants will discover ways to cultivate a classroom environment where imagination thrives while navigating the challenges and opportunities AI presents.

10/6-10/24/25, (15 hours, FREE), Cheryl Herman

 

B25-30 Employing Creative Problem Solving To The Classroom (K-12)

This study, based on the book by Firestein, will introduce the creative problem-solving process and allow participants to find tools that they can use in their daily lives to better their output, while sparking creativity and innovation with students.

10/6-11/9/25, (9 hours, $27), John Szablewski

 

B25-31 Unearthing Joy: A Guide to Culturally and Historically Responsive Curriculum and Instruction (K-12)

Unearthing Joy by Gholdy Muhammad guides educators in creating culturally and historically responsive curricula that center joy, identity, and belonging. Building on her previous work, Muhammad offers a framework for fostering critical thinking, creativity, and self-empowerment by connecting academic content to students’ lived experiences. This book equips teachers with tools to design inclusive, justice-oriented lessons that honor diverse cultures and histories, promoting both intellectual and emotional growth.

10/13-11/2/25, (15 hours, $45), Rachel Smith

 

B25-32 Teaching for Lifelong Learning: How to Prepare Students for a Changing World (K-12)

This book by Elliott Seif, explores a variety of ways to adapt teaching to develop students into curious explorers and independent thinkers. Through the study, you will discover a lifelong learning approach to education as well as key goals for educational success. Explore many practical ways to improve instruction, assessment, and curriculum that will empower students to not only thrive in the classroom today but also deftly navigate an uncertain and changing world. 10/13-10/24/25, (15 hours, $45), Karen Pax

​

B25-33 The Classroom of Choice (K-12)

In the NEW edition of the Classroom of Choice, Jonathan Erwin expands upon his pivotal tenets of student motivation and shows how to apply choice theory to create safer and more connected, empowered, and joyful environments for all learners.  He includes updated research and activities to reflect diverse student populations. He also focuses on developing and leveraging students’ intrinsic motivation, which is grounded in universal human needs. 10/20-11/5/25, (15 hours, $45), Maura Bruno

 

B25-34 Teaching from the Inside Out (K-12)

What if the path to more grounded, resilient, and connected teaching started not with strategies or curriculum—but with ourselves? This book study invites educators to explore their inner world through No Bad Parts by Dr. Richard Schwartz and the Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach. Participants will reflect on the different "parts" of themselves and uncover how each part has a reason for showing up—and something valuable to teach us. Educators will gain practical tools to reduce burnout, build emotional resilience, and cultivate a compassionate mindset for themselves and their students. 10/20-11/06/25, (15 hours, $45), Melissa Elliott

 

B25-35 Five Paths of Student Engagement: Blazing the Trail to Learning and Success (K-12)

Join Dennis Shirley and Andy Hargreaves as they take you on a profound educational quest through exciting and challenging terrain. Five Paths of Student Engagement is a breakthrough book that will open your eyes, heart, and mind and empower you to implement practices that lead directly to your students' well-being, learning, and success.

10/27-11/21/25, (15 hours, $45), Audrey Stafford

 

B25-36 Language Essentials for Teachers (K-5)

We will use the book, Speech to Print by Moats, to gain the foundation of language essentials that educators need to deliver successful structured literacy instruction. 10/27-12/12/25, (15 hours, $45), Amy Damasiewicz

 

B25-37 Teaching with the Heart in Mind (K-12)

This book by Lorea Martinez, is a comprehensive roadmap for educators, emphasizing the profound impact of emotions, relationships, and resilience on learning outcomes. This essential guide is specifically designed to support students in a post-pandemic world, where addressing their social and emotional needs is paramount.  By embracing the principles of social-emotional learning, you'll empower your students to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially, laying the foundation for a more compassionate and equitable future. 11/3-11/17/2025, (15 hours, $45), Summer Chapman

 

B25-38 The Identity-Conscious Educator Building Habits and Skills for a More Inclusive School (K-12)

The book by Lisa Talusan, builds awareness and understanding of five identity categories: race, social class, gender, sexual orientation, and disability. Participants will develop skills in engaging in meaningful interactions with students and peers. They will discover how identity affects both personal and professional lives, build knowledge of five different identity categories and experiences and then act for positive change and learn practical strategies, and activities for having difficult conversations and creating more inclusive communities.

11/3-11/21/25, (15 hours, $45), Kelly Zimmerman

​

GOOGLE BOOTCAMP

​

Elevate your game by mastering both basic and advanced features of the most popular Google apps. During these online asynchronous sessions, you will discover and practice strategies and tips to enhance your instruction, fostering a more collaborative and creative learning environment for your students. Join us for one or more of the following sessions. 3 CTLE hours and $15 each, Aneeta Shepardson

 

  • G25-06: Google Docs – 9/15-9/26

  • G25-07: Google Forms – 9/29-10/10

  • G25-08: Google Slides – 10/14-10/24

  • G25-09: Google Sheets – 10/27-11/7

  • G25-10: Google Classroom – 11/10-11/21

  • G25-11: Google Sites - 11/24-12/5

  • G25-12: Organize with Drive, Email & Calendar - 12/8-12/18

​

​

bottom of page