Events and Workshops

A Roadmap for the AAC Journey (Canvas Course)

**ONGOING REGISTRATION - Closes 5/15/2023** Are you working with a nonspeaking child for the first time? Do you have a student using AAC inconsistently or in ineffective ways? You might be wondering where to begin, or where to go from here! In this asynchronous self-paced session, participants will begin to explore, build, and refine practical knowledge of the best practices in alternative and augmentative communication (AAC). Participants will explore relevant evidence based practice, resources, tools, and strategies to become better communication partners and facilitators of meaningful and functional communication. Participants will be given a certificate of completion at the end of the course. Coursework must be completed by 6/2/2023.

Digging into the 8 Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs): Students as “Social Do-ers” in the Post Pandemic Classroom - Session 4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges for students and educators alike. Social interactions that used to be normal in a classroom have become a challenge for even the veteran educator. This workshop series repositions the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs) at the forefront of instructional design to reconnect students in the science classroom as “social do-ers.” Each workshop is a standalone (register for each session individually) and will focus on the SEP described in the subtitle. Teachers, coaches, and administrators will walk away with newly designed instructional plans to implement in the classroom. Sessions include: 1.Asking Questions & Defining Problems; 2. Developing and Using Models; 3. Planning and Carrying out Investigations; 4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data; 5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking; 6. Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions; 7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence; and 8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

Autism Toolbox

Participants and/or teams in this workshop will learn strategies to support students on the autism spectrum in all environments of the school. Teachers, paraprofessionals and related service providers will leave with a toolbox of strategies to support inclusivity in the general education classroom and special education settings that they can bring back to their classrooms the very next day.

Green STEP: BPI Building Science Principles

OPEN TO CT STUDENTS – GRADES 9-12 & RECENT HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES - Earning the Building Science Principles (BSP) Certificate of Knowledge is your first step into the world of energy efficient home performance. You will learn some of the widely-used industry terminology related to building science. Building science demonstrates how various components of a home interact to affect the home’s overall performance. Understanding the relationships between the building envelope, heating, A/C, insulation, mechanical ventilation, lighting, appliances and other systems of the home will enable you to assist yourself and others. Learn how these systems affect the comfort, health and safety of occupants and durability of the home. Discover why improving the energy efficiency of the home should be the first step toward solar, geothermal, or other renewable energy improvements.• Requirements: Completion of virtual coursework and lectures. Students must receive a passing score of 70% on their examination to be certified. The course schedule is: four 2-hour virtual sessions, one 3-hour exam block (2/16) and one session (2/21) reserved as a make-up date if needed. Zoom link will be sent two days prior to the first class. https://www.bpi.org/certificate.

Coaches Council

Instructional Coaches in the CREC region are invited to attend bi-monthly council meetings to share best practices and engage in new thinking about coaching. Topics will be determined based on participant interests. No cost to attend this workshop.

Digging into the 8 Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs): Students as “Social Do-ers” in the Post Pandemic Classroom - Session 5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges for students and educators alike. Social interactions that used to be normal in a classroom have become a challenge for even the veteran educator. This workshop series repositions the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs) at the forefront of instructional design to reconnect students in the science classroom as “social do-ers.” Each workshop is a standalone (register for each session individually) and will focus on the SEP described in the subtitle. Teachers, coaches, and administrators will walk away with newly designed instructional plans to implement in the classroom. Sessions include: 1.Asking Questions & Defining Problems; 2. Developing and Using Models; 3. Planning and Carrying out Investigations; 4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data; 5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking; 6. Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions; 7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence; and 8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Test Math Preparation Class

CREC is now offering 2-hour test preparation classes for individuals who need to take the ETS ParaPro Assessment. As an official testing site, we are committed to providing services that will help you prepare for, and ultimately pass the test.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

AARC and AARC TVI Open House Informational Session

The AARC program is a comprehensive program geared toward general education teachers who would like a special education cross endorsement (165) added to their certification. The AARC Teachers of the Blind and Visually Impaired (TVI) program is a comprehensive program geared towards special educators who hold a current 065 or 165 certifications. Qualifications: • Current special education teaching certificate ( TVI certification program) • Must be a certified teacher in an approved area for AARC program (e.g. elementary education, mathematics) • Have three years teaching experience (substitute experience will be considered)•Have a desire to work with students with disabilities.

Language Arts Council

CREC’s Language Arts Council provides Language Arts teachers opportunities to share best practices and engage in new thinking about literacy instruction. Kindergarten to grade 12 Language Arts educators including teachers, literacy coaches, literacy coordinators, directors and department heads are encouraged to attend the quarterly meetings. Input from participants regarding topic selections will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend this event.

Social Studies Council

Social Studies teachers and district coordinators are invited to attend council meetings to share best practices, engage in new thinking about Social Studies instruction, and proactively respond to the instructional shifts demanded by the Connecticut Elementary and Secondary Social Studies Frameworks, Connecticut Core Standards, the SAT and Smarter Balanced Assessments. In addition, input from participants regarding additional topic selections will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

Digging into the 8 Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs): Students as “Social Do-ers” in the Post Pandemic Classroom - Session 6. Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges for students and educators alike. Social interactions that used to be normal in a classroom have become a challenge for even the veteran educator. This workshop series repositions the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs) at the forefront of instructional design to reconnect students in the science classroom as “social do-ers.” Each workshop is a standalone (register for each session individually) and will focus on the SEP described in the subtitle. Teachers, coaches, and administrators will walk away with newly designed instructional plans to implement in the classroom. Sessions include: 1.Asking Questions & Defining Problems; 2. Developing and Using Models; 3. Planning and Carrying out Investigations; 4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data; 5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking; 6. Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions; 7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence; and 8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information.

Open Choice Leadership for Equity Institute

These sessions are designed for administrators and educators who work with students enrolled in their suburban school districts. This interactive professional learning opportunity is a half-day format that takes place once a month via Zoom and is designed for a team representing either a school district or a school.• Learn strategies to productively push back against critical race theory accusations, book banning campaigns and more.• Learn the role institutional racism, white fragility, white privilege, color blindness and redlining play in supporting a structural racism framework within education.• Hear one school leader’s description of the implementation of culturally responsive practices and racially equitable policies in her school, the analysis done, tools used, and the outcomes six years later.• Hear students and their advisors describe student-led equity efforts within their schools, along with the growth and development of those efforts over a five-year span.• Hear parents from Hartford who send their children to suburban school districts describe their experiences and how educator actions and/or inactions increased trust or mistrust. Q & A opportunity.•Share with other school district educators' effective strategies and potential approaches to addressing ongoing challenges.

Early Childhood Directors Council

Early Childhood Directors of community programs in CREC districts meet bi-monthly throughout the year. The mission of the Early Childhood Directors Council is to improve leadership and practice through opportunities to network with colleagues, share solutions around problems of practice, and build professional capacity. The Council meets from 9:30-10:30 and is followed by an optional book study from 10:30-11:00. Topics and book selections are developed by the group. No cost to attend.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

Green STEP: Healthy Housing Principles

OPEN TO CT STUDENTS – GRADES 9-12 & RECENT HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES - Pre-Requisite: Students must have completed all coursework and received a passing score of 70% on their BPI Building Science Principles exam to enroll in this course. Have you ever entered a home and known right away that something wasn't right? There was a stale quality to the air, or a musty odor. In some cases, the air quality may have been so poor that it made your eyes sting, or you could feel it in your throat. We instinctively know to leave these environments as quickly as possible, but what about that home's occupants? •Earning the Healthy Housing Principles (HHP) Certificate of Knowledge proves your knowledge of how the different components of a home interact to affect occupant health. Homeowners and renters are a part of the house as a system and a recipient of the downstream effects of how they follow these eight principles: Keep it clean, Keep it Dry, Keep it Pest- Free, Keep it Contaminate Free, Keep it Safe, Keep it Ventilated., Keep it Comfortable and Keep it Maintained. Requirements: +Pre-Requisite: Students must complete all coursework and have received a passing score of 70% on their BPI Building Science Principles exam to enroll in this course. +Completion of virtual coursework and lectures. Students must receive a passing score of 70% on their examination to be certified. The course schedule is: four 2-hour virtual sessions, one 3-hour exam block (3/9) and one session (3/14) reserved as a make-up date if needed. Zoom link will be sent two days prior to the first class. https://www.bpi.org/healthy-housing-principles. NOTE: NEW CLASS DATES! STAY TUNED.

Assistive Technology Consortium - Workshop 3: Topic to be determined

Assistive Technology consortium workshops are scheduled four times a year and cover a variety of topics.

Science Council

Science educators, coaches and administrators are invited to attend council meetings to share best practices, engage in new thinking about science education, and continue to proactively respond to the demands of the Next Generation Science Standards. No cost to attend!

Social & Emotional Learning / Mindfulness Council

This council will focus on current trends, research, and interventions related to Social and Emotional Learning. Participants will be able to network with staff from other districts, access resources, and learn the most current developments in the field. We will also engage in Mindfulness and yoga practices and will share expertise, valuable resources, and activities that can be used in any setting. No cost to attend.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Test Math Preparation Class

CREC is now offering 2-hour test preparation classes for individuals who need to take the ETS ParaPro Assessment. As an official testing site, we are committed to providing services that will help you prepare for, and ultimately pass the test.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

Digging into the 8 Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs): Students as “Social Do-ers” in the Post Pandemic Classroom - 7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges for students and educators alike. Social interactions that used to be normal in a classroom have become a challenge for even the veteran educator. This workshop series repositions the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs) at the forefront of instructional design to reconnect students in the science classroom as “social do-ers.” Each workshop is a standalone (register for each session individually) and will focus on the SEP described in the subtitle. Teachers, coaches, and administrators will walk away with newly designed instructional plans to implement in the classroom. Sessions include: 1.Asking Questions & Defining Problems; 2. Developing and Using Models; 3. Planning and Carrying out Investigations; 4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data; 5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking; 6. Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions; 7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence; and 8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information.

Digging into the 8 Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs): Students as “Social Do-ers” in the Post Pandemic Classroom - 8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges for students and educators alike. Social interactions that used to be normal in a classroom have become a challenge for even the veteran educator. This workshop series repositions the Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs) at the forefront of instructional design to reconnect students in the science classroom as “social do-ers.” Each workshop is a standalone (register for each session individually) and will focus on the SEP described in the subtitle. Teachers, coaches, and administrators will walk away with newly designed instructional plans to implement in the classroom. Sessions include: 1.Asking Questions & Defining Problems; 2. Developing and Using Models; 3. Planning and Carrying out Investigations; 4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data; 5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking; 6. Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions; 7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence; and 8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

Implementation: Charting the LifeCourse/Person Centered Planning

This workshop is a follow up the the Introduction: Charting the LifeCourse series. Participants will become more well versed in the implementation of Charting the LifeCourse using real examples. Participants must have participated in the introduction course to enroll.

Early Childhood Education Council

Early Childhood Educators in CREC districts meet bi-monthly during the school year. The mission of the Early Childhood Educators Council is to embrace collaboration, improve teaching and learning, and promote excellence and equity in early childhood education through opportunities to network with colleagues, share solutions around problems of practice, and build professional capacity.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

Wilson Reading Training

This workshop provides an overview of the Wilson Reading System.

IM 3–5 Math Spring Module: Planning with a Focus on Mathematical Progressions

How does understanding the progression of mathematical ideas in a unit support us in planning and teaching lessons across the unit? In this session, teachers will learn a process to help them understand the mathematical progression of ideas in an upcoming unit through the use of unit narratives and assessments. They will use these understandings to support them in planning with the mathematical goal in mind.

IM K–2 Math Spring Module: Planning with a Focus on Mathematical Progressions

How does understanding the progression of mathematical ideas in a unit support us in planning and teaching lessons across the unit? In this session, teachers will learn a process to help them understand the mathematical progression of ideas in an upcoming unit through the use of unit narratives and assessments. They will use these understandings to support them in planning with the mathematical goal in mind.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that Paraeducators serve in an instruction capacity: 1) Have an associate of arts degree. 2) Have completed two years of college. 3) Have demonstrated, through an academic assessment, the knowledge and ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing, and mathematics.

Bridge to Kindergarten Series: Playful Math

This workshop will explore the various ways early childhood teachers can integrate play-based math experiences throughout the day. The focus will be on sharing engaging strategies for incorporating the program’s goals in developmentally appropriate ways. Intended audience: Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers.

Science Council

Science educators, coaches and administrators are invited to attend council meetings to share best practices, engage in new thinking about science education, and continue to proactively respond to the demands of the Next Generation Science Standards. No cost to attend!

Igniting Change - CT RESC Alliance (Spring)

The Spring 2023 Igniting Change conference is an opportunity to engage with nationally-recognized experts and other educational leaders on the equity-centered topics of: Grading Reform, Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, Inclusive School Culture, and Equity-Centered Leadership. Nationally-recognized keynote speakers include Lorena German and Thomas Gusky. Participants are not required to have attended any previous Igniting Change activities. Breakfast and lunch will be served.

Regional Transition Network: Transition Talks

This session is intended to be a networking opportunity for teachers and transition coordinators to ask questions, network and learn from one another about topics related to transition. Come to this "Transition Talk" with questions, your best practices to share, or just come and learn something new to take back to your classroom or program.

English Language Learners Council (Title III)

English Learner district coordinators and educators in the CREC region are invited to attend meetings to share best practices and emerging research on improving outcomes for EL students. Members will engage in new thinking about instructional practices and collaborate to proactively respond to EL needs in their district. No cost to attend.

Coaches Council

Instructional Coaches in the CREC region are invited to attend bi-monthly council meetings to share best practices and engage in new thinking about coaching. Topics will be determined based on participant interests. No cost to attend this workshop.

Early Childhood Directors Council

Early Childhood Directors of community programs in CREC districts meet bi-monthly throughout the year. The mission of the Early Childhood Directors Council is to improve leadership and practice through opportunities to network with colleagues, share solutions around problems of practice, and build professional capacity. The Council meets from 9:30-10:30 and is followed by an optional book study from 10:30-11:00. Topics and book selections are developed by the group. No cost to attend.

Assistive Technology Consortium - Workshop 4: Topic to be determined

Assistive Technology consortium workshops are scheduled four times a year and cover a variety of topics.

Implementation: Charting the LifeCourse/Person Centered Planning

This workshop is a follow up the the Introduction: Charting the LifeCourse series. Participants will become more well versed in the implementation of Charting the LifeCourse using real examples. Participants must have participated in the introduction course to enroll.

Spring TEAM District Facilitator Zoom Meeting

TEAM District Facilitator Meetings occur twice each school year and provide program updates. The mission of the TEAM Program is to promote excellence, equity, and high achievement for Connecticut students by engaging teachers in the purposeful exploration of professional practice through guided support and personal reflection.

TEAM Mentor Initial Support Training

This training for prospective mentors and cooperating teachers is available for individuals selected by the district (or volunteered) to serve in one of these roles. Following sessions, there will be an additional time for follow up offered for more in-depth work on the modules or the process chosen by your districts. The training prepares participants to lead beginning teachers through the TEAM module process and a successful completion of the five mentoring modules. In addition, participants are prepared to support a student teacher while developing effective coaching strategies to assist both beginning and student teachers. Participants must attend all sessions. At the end of the training, participants qualify to work with either a new teacher or a student teacher. Pre work is required. The instructor will send information to participants prior to the session. No cost to attend this event.

Language Arts Council

CREC’s Language Arts Council provides Language Arts teachers opportunities to share best practices and engage in new thinking about literacy instruction. Kindergarten to grade 12 Language Arts educators including teachers, literacy coaches, literacy coordinators, directors and department heads are encouraged to attend the quarterly meetings. Input from participants regarding topic selections will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend this event.

Social Studies Council

Social Studies teachers and district coordinators are invited to attend council meetings to share best practices, engage in new thinking about Social Studies instruction, and proactively respond to the instructional shifts demanded by the Connecticut Elementary and Secondary Social Studies Frameworks, Connecticut Core Standards, the SAT and Smarter Balanced Assessments. In addition, input from participants regarding additional topic selections will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend.

English Language Learners Council (Title III)

English Learner district coordinators and educators in the CREC region are invited to attend meetings to share best practices and emerging research on improving outcomes for EL students. Members will engage in new thinking about instructional practices and collaborate to proactively respond to EL needs in their district. No cost to attend.

Social & Emotional Learning / Mindfulness Council

This council will focus on current trends, research, and interventions related to Social and Emotional Learning. Participants will be able to network with staff from other districts, access resources, and learn the most current developments in the field. We will also engage in Mindfulness and yoga practices and will share expertise, valuable resources, and activities that can be used in any setting. No cost to attend.

Early Childhood Education Council

Early Childhood educators (Pre-K) in CREC districts meet bi-monthly during the school year. The mission of the Early Childhood Educators Council is to improve teaching and learning through opportunities to network with colleagues, share solutions around problems of practice, and build professional capacity. The Council meets from 1:00-2:00 and is followed by an optional book study from 2:00-2:30. Topics and book selections are developed by the group. No cost to attend.

IM 3-5 Math: Teach and Learn

What is a problem based curriculum and how do I implement it in my classroom? In this session, teachers will explore the design structure of the IM curriculum and lesson plan with a Certified IM Facilitator. They will experience a lesson, practice and rehearse content and language routines, explore various supports, understand assessment materials and begin to use student thinking as a vehicle for productive planning. After this training, teachers will be ready to begin using the IM K–5 Curriculum effectively in their classrooms.

IM K-2 Math: Teach and Learn

What is a problem based curriculum and how do I implement it in my classroom? In this session, teachers will explore the design structure of the IM curriculum and lesson plan with a Certified IM Facilitator. They will experience a lesson, practice and rehearse content and language routines, explore various supports, understand assessment materials and begin to use student thinking as a vehicle for productive planning. After this training, teachers will be ready to begin using the IM K–5 Curriculum effectively in their classrooms.

Teach and Learn with Illustrative Mathematics 6-12

How can educators implement IM Math, a problem-based curriculum, building towards a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics? The purpose of this implementation series is to get educators ready to teach and learn within problem-based classrooms where student thinking is front and center. This series gives educators first-hand experience with and confidence in using the IM Math curriculum.

Coaches Council

Instructional Coaches in the CREC region are invited to attend bi-monthly council meetings to share best practices and engage in new thinking about coaching. Topics will be determined based on participant interests. No cost to attend this workshop.

Science Council

Science educators, coaches and administrators are invited to attend council meetings to share best practices, engage in new thinking about science education, and continue to proactively respond to the demands of the Next Generation Science Standards. No cost to attend!

Early Childhood Directors Council

Early Childhood Directors of community programs in CREC districts meet bi-monthly throughout the year. The mission of the Early Childhood Directors Council is to improve leadership and practice through opportunities to network with colleagues, share solutions around problems of practice, and build professional capacity. The Council meets from 9:30-10:30 and is followed by an optional book study from 10:30-11:00. Topics and book selections are developed by the group. No cost to attend.