Events and Workshops

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

ENROLLMENT ONLY VIA CREDIT/DEBIT CARD not accepting any other form of payment.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.

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

ENROLLMENT ONLY VIA CREDIT/DEBIT CARD not accepting any other form of payment.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.

Cortical Vision Impairment - Overview Course

ONGOING REGISTRATION - Closes 12/31/2023 - If you have recently started working with a student with Cortical / Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI), this course is perfect for you! The course is designed to provide foundational information surrounding the condition of cortical/cerebral visual impairment, its causes, associated medical conditions, and the educational impacts of this brain-based visual impairment. The content within this course pulls from multiple practitioners and researchers currently active in the field of CVI to allow for an inclusive and growing understanding of current promising practices and research-based methodology. After your enrollment is confirmed, you will be sent access to the course. Must be completed by 5/15/2024.

eesmarts - Energizing Science for Grade K/1

Educators are introduced to activities designed for younger students to answer the questions: How does sunlight affect the earth? What causes day and night? What causes sound? How are images created with light and varying materials? Links to some e-books will be provided.

eesmarts - Energizing Science for Grade 2

Educators are introduced to activities designed to answer the questions: How do heating and cooling affect the states of matter and can plants grow without sunlight and water? Links to some e-books will be provided.

eesmarts - Project Learning Tree (PLT) for Grades 3-5

Participants are presented with activities designed to connect children to nature and increase young people’s awareness and knowledge about their environment. The lessons develop students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The hands-on explorations are suitable for use in formal classrooms and informal settings, and several are particularly suited to exploring urban environments. Participants will receive a copy of the updated PLT Explore Your Environment: K-8 Activity Guide, which includes NGSS aligned lessons on topics such as: trees and forests, wildlife, water, air, energy, waste, climate change, invasive species, community planning, and more. The activities encompass the economic, ecological, and social aspects of environmental issues. https://www.plt.org/curriculum/k-8-activity-guide-explore-your-environment/

eesmarts - Middle School Digital Energy Escape Room and Choose Your Own Science Adventures

This workshop features two interactive experiences developed to enhance the eesmarts curriculum or as a stand-alone to support NGSS. In the Escape Room, clues must be gathered and puzzles solved using science knowledge to successfully complete the challenge. The focus of the content in this particular activity involves the transformation of energy and its impact on the environment. In the Choose Your Own Adventure participants have the opportunity to meaningfully engage in design challenges and are provided complete data sets for a variety of tested variables that are accessed through the choices they make throughout the adventure. The examples offered showcase the efficiency of wind turbine blade designs, the strength of a variety of electromagnets, and how different surfaces on earth (arctic, desert, ocean, etc.) are impacted by the Greenhouse Effect. These two formats provoke high student interest and engagement due to their game-like nature. The use of technology lends itself very well to both in-person and remote learning. NGSS PE’s Addressed: MS-PS2-3; MS-PS3-1; MS-PS3-4; MS-PS4-2; MS-LS1-6; MS-ESS3-

eesmarts - Middle School/High School Climate Change for Grades 6-12

Educators will be introduced to activities involving Earth's natural cycles including the carbon cycle and how Earth's climate has changed over time. They will look at evidence from the past through the study of proxies such as foraminifera, ice core data, and cherry tree blossoms. Other topics include the Albedo Effect, and phenology. Educators will also consider the impact of humans on the environment and what can be done to lessen harmful effects.

Adolescent Workshop: Montessori Erdkinder for Optimal Developmental Outcome: Human and Planetary Wellness

Montessori Training Center Northeast (MTCNE) is offering the Adolescent Workshop: Montessori Erdkinder for Optimal Developmental Outcome: Human and Planetary Wellness. The five-day workshop will explore how to derive explicit studies from project-based work in a dynamic adolescent community, where moral and social development, community contribution, and living in harmony with one another and with nature are vital life experiences. This workshop is in person and will cover natural diversity, tranquility, and agricultural life of Millstream Farm, a bucolic 30-acre property in New Hartford, CT that serves as the prepared environment for adolescents aged 12-15 at the Montessori School of Greater Hartford. The farm, with its historic barn, forests, fields, gardens, waterways, and farm animals is a place where practical work and educational studies synergize for meaningful, interdisciplinary knowledge and wellbeing. Farm to table lunch will be provided each day. ***Sign up for this workshop and receive a $250 credit towards Adolescent course tuition starting online February 2024.

New Administrator Support Series (Summer)

Have a new administrator joining your district? Are you a new (1-3 year) administrator looking for support and job-embedded learning and feedback? This new series is for you. Research, strategies, and application are an integral part of all workshops. All participants will have a one-hour overview of leadership frameworks to help level-set their growth trajectory over the series. Participants have the opportunity to choose a focus from the other leadership domains or choice to attend multiple sessions of interest. Customize your growth and professional learning into the new school year!

Introduction to the Math Workshop Classroom

This workshop offers an overview on how to initiate, support and sustain math workshop in the elementary classroom. This workshop is an introduction to math workshop. Participants should have no prior training of math workshop and are looking for practical first steps to begin implementation. Participants will learn how to support content and differentiation to meet the needs of diverse learners using the workshop model. We will address different structures, routines and rituals, and connect to state standards in the workshop model.

Next Steps in the Math Workshop Classroom

This workshop offers current teachers utilizing a Math Workshop model in their elementary classroom (K-5) the opportunity to explore common areas of concerns during math workshop. We will explore organization, increasing the rigor of math stations, student accountability in workstations, and teacher led small group instruction.

Supporting Multilingual Learners (ELs) in the General Education Classroom

This workshop will build the capacity of general education teachers to understand and support the multilingual learners (ELs) in thier classrooms. Teachers who attend this workshop may be looking for ways to support ML/EL students in all content areas of the regular education classroom. The session will give educators various ways to build their “bag of tricks” while learning about how multilingual learners learn and develop language.

Creating a Culture for Writing for Multilingual Learners (ELs)

Writing can be intimidating for any student; that anxiety is heightened in Multilingual Learners (ELs). Participants in this workshop will learn how to create a safe place for writing as well as many instructional strategies for engaging Multilingual Learners in the writing process.

Supporting Newcomer and Beginner Multilingual Learners (ELs)

Supporting multilingual learners with little to no English is especially challenging. Participants will explore ways that educators can effectively support these students with strategies and linguisitc supports in any educational setting.

Teachers Academy 2023 - Year 1 Certified Staff

FOR CREC STAFF ONLY: All teachers entering their first year at CREC are required to attend Teachers Academy. Sessions will encourage meaningful, collegial conversations, inspire collaborative problem solving and innovative thinking, and result in resources for immediate classroom application. Session Schedule here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jrVXNAwWaKG6eOeRNgnNNRFZ4ld5po-5zBA4WUDZXDI/edit?usp=sharing

Teachers Academy 2023 - Years 2/3+

FOR CREC STAFF ONLY: All CREC teachers are welcome to attend this annual event! Sessions will encourage meaningful collegial conversations; inspire collaborative problem solving and innovative thinking; and result in resources for immediate classroom application. Year 2/3 teachers are asked to register here for synchronous sessions that are outlined in the Teachers Academy catalog.

New to Instructional Coaching? Starting the Year off Right

This series of trainings is for new instructional coaches who have been in their role for less than two years. Over the course of four sessions, you will identify the skills and techniques required to transition from teacher to instructional coach, explore different coaching models, learn about coaching cycles, discuss adult learning theory, and reflect on strategies to be successful in the role.

Coaching Reboot: Setting the Stage for All Year

This professional learning series is for veteran Instructional Coaches who have been in their role for 4 or more years. Participants will have the opportunity to explore different coaching models, identify successful models of coaching cycles, and fine tune strategies for working with adult learners.

A Roadmap for the AAC Journey (Canvas Course)

**ONGOING REGISTRATION - Closes 12/31/2023** 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 6/28/2024

Small Group Instruction for Multilingual Learners (ELs) (Canvas Course)

**ONGOING REGISTRATION - Closes 12/31/2023** In order to support multilingual learner’s English development, we need to effectively plan and structure small group instruction to best meet their needs and foster language development. To do this, we need to know what our students are able to do and what their next steps in development are. In this course, participants will conduct an in-depth analysis of their students’ language capabilities and development and use this information to plan and structure effective, focused instruction. This course covers all topics needed to understand MLs/ELs language development, making it appropriate for new ML/EL educators or those with little knowledge about working with these students. It is also highly beneficial for more experienced ML/EL educators in that it provides a process and structure to delve deep into students’ language profiles and design effective, focused small group instruction. Coursework must be completed by 6/1/2024.

IM 6-12 Coaching Problem-Based Teaching and Learning Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs

This 8-part series was designed to provide coaches with a deeper understanding of the structures and beliefs along with the core components and practices embedded in the IM 6–12 Math curriculum, supplemental materials, and professional learningfor teachers. Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs; Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom; Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking; Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students; Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning; Part 6: facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources; Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning; Part 8: Putting It All Together. NOTE: Participants register for individual sessions.

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.

Universal Design for Learning and NGSS

The Next Generation Science Standards are deemed “standards for all.” As course and lesson designers, how do we create learning opportunities in science classrooms to embody the inclusive philosophy and nature of the standards? Understanding and implementing Universal Design for Learning principles into the learning design process will bring the accessibility to lessons as the standards intend.

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.

TEAM District Facilitator Meeting - Fall 2023

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.

Rethinking Morning Routines in the Classroom: How to implement a "soft start" in K-3.

Educators will define what a soft start is and compare it to traditional morning work routines. They will discover how this quality practice can directly increase student engagement, collaboration, and independence in the classroom. Educators will also examine research related to the topic to support conversations around implementation.

Understanding Artificial Intelligence: A Workshop for Educators

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the world as we know it, from the way we work and communicate to the products and services we use every day. As an educator, it's essential to understand AI and its impact on education and society, both now and in the future.This workshop is designed to provide educators with a comprehensive overview of AI and its applications. Through interactive activities and engaging discussions, participants will learn about the basics of AI. The workshop will also cover the ethical implications of AI, such as bias and privacy concerns, and explore ways to address these issues in the classroom.

Igniting Change - CT RESC Alliance (Fall 2023)

The Fall 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 Cornelius Minor and Dr. Bettina L. Love. Breakfast and lunch will be served.

Professional Learning Community: Strategies for Multilingual Learners (ELs) Series

Join a professional learning community that will explore a variety of ways to support Multilingual Learners (ELs) and foster language development in a six-session series! This PLC will meet virtually once a month for an hour and a half to delve deep into a language support strategy topic. Participants will have the opportunity to implement the strategy in practice in between sessions. As part of the PLC, they will network and collaborate with each other as they reflect on and fine-tune strategy implementation. PLC Schedule: September 28- Student Talk and Interaction; October 26- Vocabulary; November 30- Translanguaging; January 25- Facilitating Comprehension; February 29- Check for Understanding; March 28- Build and Activate Background Knowledge

IM 6-8 Focus on Vertical Alignment: Ratio and Proportion

How might teachers leverage the coherence of IM 6–12 Math in order to enhance access to grade-level mathematics for students? The purpose of this session is to uncover and explore the development of topics, mathematical diagrams, and representations in the curriculum for ratios and proportional relationships.

Bridge to Kindergarten Series: Social Emotional Learning in the PK/K Classroom

In this session, participants will discuss social emotional learning in Pre-K and Kindergarten. Specific attention will be given to tools and techniques for supporting children's SEL in Pre-K, Kindergarten, and beyond, including the use of the Pyramid Model to support SEL development. Intended audience: Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers.

New Administrator Support Series (Fall)

Have a new administrator joining your district? Are you a new (1-3 year) administrator looking for support and job-embedded learning and feedback? This new series is for you. Research, strategies, and application are an integral part of all workshops. All participants will have a one-hour overview of leadership frameworks to help level-set their growth trajectory over the series. Participants have the opportunity to choose a focus from the other leadership domains or choice to attend multiple sessions of interest. Customize your growth and professional learning into the new school year!

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. Council will meet from 9-11 and an optional book club from 11-11:30. No cost to attend this workshop.

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.

Humanities Council

The CREC Resource Group provides Kindergarten to grade 12 Language Arts and Social Studies educators, district leaders, instructional coaches, department heads and coordinators the opportunity to come together to share best practices and exchange ideas around ELA and Social Studies. Input from participants regarding topic selection will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend.

Math Council

CREC’s Mathematics Council provides new thinking about mathematics instruction for K-12 math teachers, coaches, and district leaders in an open forum type setting. Agenda topics are determined by district participants in order to serve the group’s needs. No cost to attend.

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!

TEAM Initial Reviewer Training

Successful completion of the TEAM Initial Reviewer Training will enable participants to review TEAM reflection papers and projects to determine if there is sufficient evidence to successfully meet the TEAM module criteria. The training will consist of 3 two-hour facilitated online sessions and pre-work for each session. IMPORTANT REGISTRATION INFORMATION: In order to successfully complete the training, participants must complete all pre-work and session activities in the order of presentation. That means that if participants are unable to complete any of the pre-work or sessions, they will have to finish the training by registering for and attending the missed sessions and completing the pre-work at another training. Therefore, it is important that participants only register for a training where they know that they will be able to attend each of the three sessions and complete the pre-work. No cost to attend this event.

Using Loose Parts and Open Ended Materials to Increase Cognition and Engagement of Young Students

Loose parts are open ended materials that are easily accesible to teachers, students and families. These materials lead to the hands on engagement of students and help increase skills in cognitive domains. In this workshop, participants will learn the history and background of loose parts, discover how they can be used to teach domains such as math and science, gain an understanding of how loose parts relate to educational standards, and start to design lessons using loose parts.

Social & Emotional Learning 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.

IM 6-12 Coaching Problem-Based Teaching and Learning Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom

This 8-part series was designed to provide coaches with a deeper understanding of the structures and beliefs along with the core components and practices embedded in the IM 6–12 Math curriculum, supplemental materials, and professional learningfor teachers. Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs; Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom; Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking; Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students; Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning; Part 6: facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources; Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning; Part 8: Putting It All Together. NOTE: Participants register for individual sessions.

What Am I Seeing? Developmentally Appropriate Practice for School Administrators

This session will support school administrators with understanding DAP through the lens of the CT Rubric for Effective Teaching (or other observation tool). Throughout the session, we will draw lines between the CCT, the CCSS, the CT ELDS, and the CT DOTS to identify high quality teaching and learning practices.

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.

IM K-2 Leveraging the Problem-Based Lesson Structure

Now that teachers have had some experience teaching with IM, how can they deepen their understanding of the problem-based lesson structure, their role in student learning, and bringing activities to life with students? This session will address common challenges and concerns in IM implementation.

IM 3-5 Leveraging the Problem-Based Lesson Structure

Now that teachers have had some experience teaching with IM, how can they deepen their understanding of the problem-based lesson structure, their role in student learning, and bringing activities to life with students? This session will address common challenges and concerns in IM implementation.

Knowledge and Skills for Teachers Supervising the Work of Paraeducators

This session is designed for classroom teacher and paraeducator teams to assist in building their knowledge on working effectively as a educational team supporting students with or without IEPs.

IM 6-12 Coaching Problem-Based Teaching and Learning Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking

This 8-part series was designed to provide coaches with a deeper understanding of the structures and beliefs along with the core components and practices embedded in the IM 6–12 Math curriculum, supplemental materials, and professional learningfor teachers. Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs; Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom; Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking; Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students; Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning; Part 6: facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources; Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning; Part 8: Putting It All Together. NOTE: Participants register for individual sessions.

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. Council will meet from 9-11 and an optional book club from 11-11:30. No cost to attend this workshop.

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.

Humanities Council

The CREC Resource Group provides Kindergarten to grade 12 Language Arts and Social Studies educators, district leaders, instructional coaches, department heads and coordinators the opportunity to come together to share best practices and exchange ideas around ELA and Social Studies. Input from participants regarding topic selection will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend.

Math Council

CREC’s Mathematics Council provides new thinking about mathematics instruction for K-12 math teachers, coaches, and district leaders in an open forum type setting. Agenda topics are determined by district participants in order to serve the group’s needs. No cost to attend.

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!

Bridge to Kindergarten Series: UDL in the Pre-K/K Classroom

This workshop will discuss the various ways Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers can incorporate universal design for learning (UDL) principles in activities and interactions to support children’s active engagement. Specific attention will be given to creating learning environments and experiences that support all learners. Intended audience: Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers.

An A-Z Introduction to Secondary Transition

This synchronous and asynchronous, hybrid course is designed for special education teams that are new to transition planning or would enjoy a refresher of what is required in Secondary Transition Planning in CT. It will include a full day of synchronous learning on the transition process, transition assessment, writing Post -School Outcome Goal statements, writing annual transition goals/objectives, and Person-Centered Planning. This professional learning opportunity will also include asynchronous learning activates that will be based on areas of personal interest with follow-up feedback from the presenter.

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.

Tell Me Who You Are Book Club

This book group welcomes all people who are interested in understanding foundational concepts related to race and equity while also personalizing topics of culture and identity. In addition to the use of photos and personal stories within the text, the sessions will provide a context for readers to develop a deep understanding of and empathy for the lived experiences of individuals from a variety of racial, ethinic, and cultural backgrounds. Within each session, facilitators will work with participants to bring to life the shared stories to personalize the experiences and challenges that many people in our society are confronted with. Recommended Prerequisite: Open minded attitude. Required: “Tell Me Who You Are”, (Winona Guo and Priya Vulchi ) (purchased on own).

Social & Emotional Learning 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.

Supporting Newcomer and Beginner Multilingual Learners (ELs)

Supporting multilingual learners with little to no English is especially challenging. Participants will explore ways that educators can effectively support these students with strategies and linguisitc supports in any educational setting.

A Roadmap for the AAC Journey (Canvas Course)

**ONGOING REGISTRATION - Closes 5/15/2024** 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 6/28/2024

Creating a Culture for Writing for Multilingual Learners (ELs)

Writing can be intimidating for any student; that anxiety is heightened in Multilingual Learners (ELs). Participants in this workshop will learn how to create a safe place for writing as well as many instructional strategies for engaging Multilingual Learners in the writing process.

The Anti-Racism Handbook Book Club

This book group welcomes all people who are interested in understanding foundational concepts while cultivating an antiracist mindset that can be used to make sustainable changes within their communities. Through the sessions, participants will use this workbook-style text to explore complex topics of racial injustice and empower individuals with strategies and skills for confronting racism in personal, professional, and community spaces. Recommended Prerequisite: Open minded attitude. Required: The Anti-Racism Handbook:Practical Tools to Shift Your Mindset and Uproot Racism in Your Life and Community (The Social Justice Handbook Series) - by Edith G. Arrington and Thema Bryant-Davis (purchase on own).

IM 6-12 Focus on Vertical Alignment: Expressions and Equations

How might teachers leverage the coherence of IM 6–12 Math in order to enhance access to grade-level mathematics for students? The purpose of this session is to uncover and explore the development of topics, mathematical diagrams, and representations for expressions and equations in the curriculum.

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.

IM 6-12 Coaching Problem-Based Teaching and Learning Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students

This 8-part series was designed to provide coaches with a deeper understanding of the structures and beliefs along with the core components and practices embedded in the IM 6–12 Math curriculum, supplemental materials, and professional learningfor teachers. Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs; Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom; Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking; Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students; Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning; Part 6: facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources; Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning; Part 8: Putting It All Together. NOTE: Participants register for individual sessions.

TEAM Initial Reviewer Training

Successful completion of the TEAM Initial Reviewer Training will enable participants to review TEAM reflection papers and projects to determine if there is sufficient evidence to successfully meet the TEAM module criteria. The training will consist of 3 two-hour facilitated online sessions and pre-work for each session. IMPORTANT REGISTRATION INFORMATION: In order to successfully complete the training, participants must complete all pre-work and session activities in the order of presentation. That means that if participants are unable to complete any of the pre-work or sessions, they will have to finish the training by registering for and attending the missed sessions and completing the pre-work at another training. Therefore, it is important that participants only register for a training where they know that they will be able to attend each of the three sessions and complete the pre-work. No cost to attend this event.

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. Council will meet from 9-11 and an optional book club from 11-11:30. No cost to attend this workshop.

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.

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!

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.

IM 6-12 Coaching Problem-Based Teaching and Learning Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning

This 8-part series was designed to provide coaches with a deeper understanding of the structures and beliefs along with the core components and practices embedded in the IM 6–12 Math curriculum, supplemental materials, and professional learningfor teachers. Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs; Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom; Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking; Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students; Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning; Part 6: facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources; Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning; Part 8: Putting It All Together. NOTE: Participants register for individual sessions.

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.

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.

IM 6-12 Coaching Problem-Based Teaching and Learning Part 6: Facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources

This 8-part series was designed to provide coaches with a deeper understanding of the structures and beliefs along with the core components and practices embedded in the IM 6–12 Math curriculum, supplemental materials, and professional learningfor teachers. Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs; Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom; Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking; Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students; Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning; Part 6: facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources; Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning; Part 8: Putting It All Together. NOTE: Participants register for individual sessions.

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. Council will meet from 9-11 and an optional book club from 11-11:30. No cost to attend this workshop.

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.

Humanities Council

The CREC Resource Group provides Kindergarten to grade 12 Language Arts and Social Studies educators, district leaders, instructional coaches, department heads and coordinators the opportunity to come together to share best practices and exchange ideas around ELA and Social Studies. Input from participants regarding topic selection will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend.

Math Council

CREC’s Mathematics Council provides new thinking about mathematics instruction for K-12 math teachers, coaches, and district leaders in an open forum type setting. Agenda topics are determined by district participants in order to serve the group’s needs. No cost to attend.

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!

IM 6-12 Coaching Problem-Based Teaching and Learning Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning

This 8-part series was designed to provide coaches with a deeper understanding of the structures and beliefs along with the core components and practices embedded in the IM 6–12 Math curriculum, supplemental materials, and professional learningfor teachers. Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs; Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom; Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking; Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students; Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning; Part 6: facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources; Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning; Part 8: Putting It All Together. NOTE: Participants register for individual sessions.

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.

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.

IM 6-12 Coaching Problem-Based Teaching and Learning Part 8: Putting It All Together

This 8-part series was designed to provide coaches with a deeper understanding of the structures and beliefs along with the core components and practices embedded in the IM 6–12 Math curriculum, supplemental materials, and professional learningfor teachers. Part 1: Examining Structures and Beliefs; Part 2: Observing in a Problem-Based Classroom; Part 3: Valuing Student Thinking; Part 4: Enhancing Access and Challenge for All Students; Part 5: Coaching with Universal Design for Learning; Part 6: facilitating Instructional Decision-Making with IM Resources; Part 7: Leveraging Vertical Alignment for Planning; Part 8: Putting It All Together. NOTE: Participants register for individual sessions.

TEAM District Facilitator Meeting - Spring 2024

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.

Humanities Council

The CREC Resource Group provides Kindergarten to grade 12 Language Arts and Social Studies educators, district leaders, instructional coaches, department heads and coordinators the opportunity to come together to share best practices and exchange ideas around ELA and Social Studies. Input from participants regarding topic selection will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. 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. Council will meet from 9-11 and an optional book club from 11-11:30. No cost to attend this workshop.

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.

Math Council

CREC’s Mathematics Council provides new thinking about mathematics instruction for K-12 math teachers, coaches, and district leaders in an open forum type setting. Agenda topics are determined by district participants in order to serve the group’s needs. No cost to attend.

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!