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 DECEMBER 9 AND CLOSES JANUARY 16, 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-CP25: ENL Community of Practice: Moving Beyond for MLL

This Community of Practice will allow us to move beyond our current practices and really dive deeply into ways to enhance our instruction, create meaningful social-emotional learning experiences for any academic language learner!

9/24/24 & 2/11/25 in-person @ Conf Center, 4:15-5:15pm; remaining hours are asynchronous, 9/17-4/30/25, (up to 30 hours), Katie Leven

 

ELL-22 Robust Vocabulary- Level 2

This course focuses on developing academic vocabulary across all subject areas (especially focusing on “specials”) for English language learners through productive skills involving productive skills (speaking and writing) based on content area vocabulary. You will choose to make/modify materials that apply to your content area(s) and emphasize reading, writing, speaking, listening to develop academic vocabulary for MLEs and all other learners. (Level 1 is not a prerequisite, but may be helpful.) 5/7-5/28/25, (15 ELL CTLE hours, FREE), Katie Leven

​

ONLINE COURSES - NO BOOK REQUIRED

​

O25-01 RISE for Educators/Kripalu/Mindfulness (K-12)

RISE for Educators is a six-hour CTLE approved course that follows the basic principles of the RISE (Resilience, Integration, Self-Awareness, Engagement) program for Riding the Wave through the 3Cs (calm, clarity, connections). Participants will learn techniques for centering, breathing, mindfulness, and chair yoga as well as the science behind mindfulness and its importance in navigating the stress of everyday life. The instructors (Darla & Jeff) are certified Kripalu RISE facilitators.

SYNCHRONOUS ZOOM Sessions: 1/6, 1/13, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, & 2/24/25, 4-5PM (6 hours, $30), Darla Schultz-Bubar

 

O25-02 Elevate Your Practice: Actionable Tips from Cult of Pedagogy (K-12)

Discover new ways to energize your teaching in this asynchronous course based on the Cult of Pedagogy podcast! Each podcast episode gives creative ideas, quick tips, and resources on topics such as classroom management, tech integration, lesson planning, and student engagement. Each week we will listen to the podcast, complete interactive reflections and exercises designed to spark new ideas and offer practical strategies you can apply immediately in your classroom. Perfect for educators looking for quick, effective, and easy ways to level up their practice! 3/5-3/26/25, (15 hours, $50), Melissa Elliott

 

O25-03 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 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. Upon completion of the workshop participants will have a better understanding of using podcasting in the classroom and many tips and tricks for becoming the educator we all want to be!

4/30-5/14/25, (15 hours, $75), Kathy Halter

​

ONLINE COLLABORATIVE BOOK STUDIES

​

B25-01 The Inclusive Mindset (K-12)

Diversity and Inclusion doesn't have to be hard, complicated, and full of shame/guilt to be effective in our lives! What if we are inspired to focus on how to have meaningful progress instead of focusing on the things we are not doing well? Diversity and Inclusion is not just something you have to do, but rather who you chose to be! In his book, Justin Jones-Fosu takes a vulnerable approach to tackle tough topics in compassionate ways, all while inspiring deep reflection. If you want to learn, grow, and make meaningful change, this course is for you, no matter where you are on the journey.

1/13-1/27/25, (15 hours, $45), Summer Chapman

 

B25-02 The Anxious Generation (Part 1) (K-12)

In Part 1, participants will explore the first half of Jonathan Haidt's NY Times bestseller, focusing on the challenges facing today's youth. They will examine the metaphor of growing up on Mars, societal barriers to healthy development, and the role of play-based upbringing versus phone-centric culture. Participants will analyze the gendered impact of social media on adolescents, gaining a deeper understanding of issues shaping this anxious generation. Part 2 will be offered over the summer.

1/13-2/3/25, (15 hours, $45), Mike Bollinger

 

B25-03 Lessons of the Pandemic: Disruption, Innovation, and What Schools Need to Move Forward (K-12)

This book, by David Marshall, concisely outlines the current crisis in schools in the core areas of student learning, student and teacher mental health, and teacher burnout. In-depth descriptions of the disruptions caused by prolonged school closures and remote instruction. Key findings, concrete examples, and teachers’ own voices about what they need to succeed, the book provides clear recommendations for moving schools forward effectively and sustainably.

1/20-2/4/25, (15 hours, $45), Jason Danielewicz

 

B25-04 LEARN: A 5-Step Framework For Designing Culturally Meaningful Practices (K-12)

Using the book by Dwayne D Williams and Google classroom, this course will dive into the best practices of culturally responsive teaching and why it is so important. Teachers will investigate how to implement these practices using lesson plan frameworks and teacher friendly tools.

1/27-2/7/25, (15 hours, $45), Erin Kozerski

 

B25-05 Building Grit (K-12)

Samuel Thomas Davies sums up this book succinctly in three sentences: 1. The secret to outstanding achievement is not talent but grit: a special blend of passion and persistence. 2. Grit is about having passion and perseverance for long-term goals. 3. Gritty people are able to maintain their determination and motivation over long periods despite experiences with failure and adversity. Do you want to learn the secret to success? Then, this book is a must read! Our book study will include Angela Duckworth's most vital points, TED Talks and other videos, and much needed reflection time to grapple her suggested deliberate practice to find your own grit. Free PDF version of book is available.

2/3-3/7/25, (15 hours, $45), Lisa Fletcher

​

B25-06 ChatGPT for Teachers: AI In the Classroom (K-12)

Discover how AI can revolutionize your teaching practice with ChatGPT for Teachers, by Pacifico Zanzara. The course will equip educators with the tools and strategies to harness the power of AI for lesson planning, student engagement, and feedback. Whether you're new to AI or looking to refine your skills, this course offers hands-on activities, real-world examples, and ethical considerations to ensure a balanced, innovative approach to AI in education.

2/17-3/17/25, (15 hours, $45), Tom Penale

​

B25-07 Promoting Student Attention: How to Understand, Assess, and Create Conditions For Attention (K-12)

This book, by psychologist and educator Robin Wisniewski, addresses the common question, “Why can't my students pay attention?” The research-based findings are not about “fixing" students facing distractions – digital or otherwise, but look at inattention in new ways and suggests adopting proven, attention-promoting strategies that are learner-centered, respectful, and effective.

2/24-3/10/25, (15 hours, $45), Jessica Bruno

Tranquil Tuesdays for Teachers:

Join us for a free wellness series focused on inmproving your mental and physical health an well-being. Sessions are held at the O/N BOCES Conference Center from 4-5:30pm. Complete details can be found here.

ONLINE COLLABORATIVE BOOK STUDIES (CONT)

​​

B25-08 What Can I Take Off Your Plate? A Structural and Sustainable Approach to Countering Teacher Burnout (K-12 Administrators and Teacher Leaders)

This online workshop offers leaders actionable strategies to address teacher burnout through systemic solutions, not "self-care." Learn how to reduce initiative fatigue, give teachers more time, foster work-life balance, and create a supportive, motivating work environment. Veteran educators Handley and Donnelly provide practical steps to alleviate staff frustration, boost morale, and retain teachers by offering real, sustainable support that focuses on the factors leaders can control.

3/3-3/24/25, (15 hours, $45), Kyle Hurtgam

 

B25-09 Understanding Your Instructional Power: Curriculum and Language Decisions to Support Each Student (K-12)

How can you better use the power you have as an educator to foster student empowerment and move away from practices that may oppress and devalue students? TanjiReed Marshall’s Power Principle reveals itself through various elements, including language use, “hidden curriculum,” and classroom culture. She identifies four levels of curricular autonomy and four dimensions of instructional power. Reflection exercises throughout this study will guide readers through a deep analysis of their personal and professional histories and ideologies.

3/10-3/26/25, (15 hours, $45), Maura Bruno

 

B25-10 EdTech Essentials in the Age of AI (K-12)

Participants will participate in an online book study based on the book, EdTech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in the Age of AI, by Monica Burns. Throughout the study, participants will explore the 12 essential elements of creating relevant learning experiences that deepen student learning and connect them to the world. Emphasis will be placed on AI tools that enrich learning.

3/10-4/1/25, (15 hours, FREE), Cheryl Herman

 

B25-11 Make Teaching Sustainable: Six Shifts that Teachers Want and Students Need (K-12)

This course offers practical strategies to reduce teacher burnout while enhancing student-centered learning. The book outlines six key shifts, including flexibility, humanity, and empowerment. By aligning teaching practices with what teachers and students truly need, it provides a pathway to more meaningful, manageable, and sustainable teaching. Ideal for educators seeking an approach that will balance personal well-being with professional growth.

3/17-4/6/25, (15 hours, $45), Rachel Smith

 

B25-12 Integrating AI in the Classroom: Innovative Methods for Efficient Teaching (K-12)

This study explores the book by JH Madron, providing educators with practical strategies to streamline lesson planning, grading, and administrative tasks using AI. Participants will learn how to leverage AI tools to save time, reduce stress, and enhance student engagement. With step-by-step guidance and real-world examples, this course will help both tech-savvy and beginner teachers implement AI effectively. By automating routine tasks, participants can focus more on creating dynamic learning experiences, personalizing instruction, and fostering a student-centered classroom environment.

4/28-5/18/25, (15 hours, $45), Tina Oddy

 

B25-13 Powerful Student Care: Honoring Each Learner as Distinctive and Irreplaceable (K-12)

If we want to really understand our students so that we can optimize instruction for them, we must think of each individual student as distinctive and irreplaceable. From this core principle springs the radically humane framework for meaningful teaching that is the subject of this book. Authors Chandler and Budge, developed this one-of-a-kind system for catering to the unique life circumstances of every child to help all teachers grow in their practice—and all students to flourish.

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

​

NEW B25-14 EdTech Essentials in the Age of AI (K-12)

Participants will participate in an online book study based on the book, EdTech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in the Age of AI, by Monica Burns. Throughout the study, participants will explore the 12 essential elements of creating relevant learning experiences that deepen student learning and connect them to the world. Emphasis will be placed on AI tools that enrich learning. 4/30-5/23/25, (15 hours, FREE), Cheryl Herman

​

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

 

  • G25-01: Google Docs – 1/22-1/28

  • G25-02: Google Forms – 1/29-2/4

  • G25-03: Google Slides – 2/5-2/11

  • G25-04: Google Sheets – 2/26-3/4

  • G25-05: Going Further with Google Classroom – 3/5-3/11

​

PD in your PJs - Tech Time After-Hours!

​

​

​

​

 

Level up your teaching game from the comfort of home! Join your colleagues for quick, power-packed 1-hour online sessions covering exciting tech topics. Discover time-saving tips and tricks to transform your practice and energize your classroom! All courses are FREE and offered on Wednesday evenings from 7-8pm via Zoom and provide 1 CTLE hour.

 

  • T25-01: Key Insights on Using AI in the Classroom: Welcome to the first course in our PD in Your PJs series! In this session, we’ll cover the essentials of AI, focusing on its potential to enhance teaching and learning. This is just the start—throughout the series, you’ll dive deeper into tech tools and AI innovations designed to boost student engagement and improve educational outcomes. *Pre-requisite, 1/15/25, Marshall Hall (make-up date if needed 1/16/25)

  • T25-02: Canva for Education - Unlocking Creativity in the Classroom - Discover how Canva for Education can revolutionize your classroom! From eye-catching presentations to interactive assignments and personalized resources, Canva makes designing and sharing materials simple, accessible, and perfect for educators of all skill levels. 1/22/25, Heather Bitka

  • T25-03: Getting Started with MagicSchool.AI for Teachers - Get up to speed with MagicSchool.AI! This session will show you how to master the basics and seamlessly integrate the tool into your teaching, ensuring you're confident and ready to use it with your students. 2/5/25, Heather Bitka

  • T25-04: The Power of Canva's Magic Studio - Dive into Canva’s Magic Studio, where AI-powered tools can help you create stunning designs in minutes. Canva’s Magic Studio uses artificial intelligence to simplify and enhance the design process, offering features like automatic content generation, image enhancement, and design recommendations. 2/12/25 Heather Bitka

  • T25-05: Padlet - Discover how Padlet, a free real-time collaboration tool, can transform your teaching! This easy-to-use platform saves planning time while helping you create standards-based units with links, images, documents, and more. Plus, explore Padlet’s AI-powered “Make” feature for ready-to-use templates! 2/26/25, Lisa Fletcher

  • T23-06 ChatGPT - ChatGPT is a powerful tool to streamline your workload and spark creativity in the classroom. This training will show you how to use it as your personal teaching assistant, saving time, enhancing lessons, and supporting students in innovative ways. 3/5/25, Marshall Hall

  • T25-07: Edpuzzle - Edpuzzle makes any video into a lesson by adding questions you create or let AI create for you. With no experience and minimal effort, you can create unique video lessons that reach all students–engaging even the most challenging. 3/12/25, Lisa Fletcher

PJS.png

NYSTC Statewide Offerings

Free programs from the NYS Teacher Center Organization can be found on their website. ​

bottom of page