CREC: Events and Workshops | Hartford, Connecticut

Open Choice Leadership for Equity Institute

Description: Six half-day sessions, an interactive professional learning opportunity, designed for administrators and educators who work with Hartford youth enrolled in their suburban school districts via the Hartford Region Open Choice program. Designed for teams of 3 – 6 from same school to attend.

CREC Magnet Schools November 3, 2020 District-wide PD Day - SECONDARY

8:30 - 11:30 - Equity and Decriminalizing Behaviors - This session will address racial equity and anti-racist practices that support decriminalizing student behaviors. We will engage in conversations about race and practice restorative strategies as part of our commitment to eliminate our school to prison pipeline.11:30- 12:30 - Lunch 12:30 - 3:30 (10 min break) Instruction - This session will connect to the district’s accelerated learning framework. The session will begin with department meetings that support connections to acceleration and be followed by an EdCamp style session in which participants choose their learning focus.

Assistive Technology for Secondary Students with SLD/Dyslexia Course

ON GOING REGISTRATION! Assistive technology can be a powerful way to help children with reading issues, however, with so many tools available, it’s not easy to know which one will work for your student. Students with dyslexia require appropriate instructional accommodations to allow them to be successful in the general education curriculum. This asynchronous online professional learning course explores assistive technology options across a variety of platforms and will demonstrate how to determine the best option for each student. This course can be completed in up to 4 hours. Participants have 2 months to complete all of the activities in the course. Participants will be given a certificate of completion at the end of the course.

TEAM Initial Support Teacher Training - CREC Magnet Schools Only

This virtual training is for prospective mentors and cooperating teachers. The training engages participants in the TEAM module process and how to guide beginning teachers through successful completion of the five mentoring modules. In addition, participants are prepared to host a student teacher while developing effective coaching strategies. Qualifications for Participation: Approval by building principal and Provisional or Professional Educator Certificate.

Open Choice Leadership for Equity Institute

Six half-day sessions, an interactive professional learning opportunity, designed for administrators and educators who work with Hartford youth enrolled in their suburban school districts via the Hartford Region Open Choice program. Designed for teams of 3 – 6 from same school to attend.

Equity Council

CREC's Equity Council provides educators in the CREC region quarterly opportunities to share policies, practices, and procedures to move toward an equitable system of education. The Council will review strategies that eliminate the predictability of outcomes for students who are racially, linguistically, economically diverse, who identify as LGBTQ, and who receive special education services. The group will review successful examples of districts from across the country that are identifying gaps in opportunities and intentionally dismantling the barriers that exist in their systems. No cost to attend event.

Social Emotional Learning Council Meeting

The council will focus on current trends, research and interventions related to Social and Emotional Learning. Members will have the opportunity to network with staff from other districts, have access to resources, and learn the most current developments in the area. 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 Para educators serving 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.

Aligning Social and Emotional Learning to Multi-Tiered Systems of Support

Social and emotional learning provides the structure and process for students to develop skills in understanding and managing emotions, setting goals, showing empathy, maintaining positive relationships and making responsible decisions. Participants will learn strategies and interventions to promote social and emotional learning based on standards.It will focus on Tier 1, 2 and 3 interventions.

Distance Learning with Google Classroom - Intermediate/Advanced

Classroom instruction has quickly become reliant on distance learning tools and resources.This virtual session will showcase the layout and features of Google Classroom along with intermediate applications that will add depth to your students’ experience and teacher productivity. We will approach learning within the platform from the teacher and student perspective to support effective instruction in and out of the school building.

Social Studies Council Meeting

CREC region 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.

MBA Learning Center Workshop

Take a Deep Dive into the MBA Learning Center! As an enhanced membership state, CT teachers have FREE access to the MBA Learning Center. This includes over 300 comprehensive learning modules (LAPs) covering content in all areas of business, marketing, and career readiness. Join us to learn how to navigate these resources, utilize the features of Canvas, and enhance your students' learning experiences.

English Language Learners Council (Title III)

English Language Learner district coordinators in the CREC region are invited to attend meetings to share best practices, emerging research on improving outcomes for EL students, and to proactively respond to the instructional shifts demanded by the Connecticut Common Core State Standards (CCSS), assessments, and the Connecticut English Language Proficiency (CELP) Standards. Members will engage in new thinking about instructional practices and collaborate to proactively respond to EL needs in their district. No cost to attend.

Library Media Specialists Council Meeting

CREC’s Library Media Specialists Council provides a unique opportunity for K-12 Library Media Specialists in the CREC region to come together to share best practices and engage in new thinking about digital literacy for the 21st century. Quarterly meetings will encourage input from participants regarding topics and speaker selections in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend event.

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 Para educators serving 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.

Language Arts Council Meeting

CREC’s Language Arts Council provides Language Arts teachers in the CREC region monthly 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 bi-monthly 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.

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 this event.

Distance Learning with Nearpod

Classroom instruction has quickly become reliant on distance learning tools and resources. Nearpod is a free/paid tool that allows for interactive synchronous and asynchronous instruction that students can access from any device. In this virtual session we will explore Nearpod and learn how to create immersive, interactive learning experiences that expand the boundaries of the brick and mortar classroom.

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 Para educators serving 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.

Digital Citizenship: Shaping Responsible Learners

As the need to access and information and interact with others online increases, so does the need to prepare our students with tools that will shape them into responsible digital citizens. Our role as educators provides a prime opportunity to help students learn and grow as they take advantage of today’s technology. Join us for an engaging and informative opportunity to learn, explore, and collaborate during this virtual session that will focus on the key concepts of digital citizenship and provide a variety of creative ways to weave positive digital citizenship practices and lessons into students’ daily lives.

Structured Literacy Series: Systematic Teaching of Basic Literacy Skills

Participants will learn systematic, structured methods for teaching decoding, encoding, oral and written expression to students with learning disorders and specific language disabilities. Participants will have the opportunity to apply new skills in practice simulations and receive feedback from experts. The series’ curriculum is aligned with the International Dyslexia Association's Level 1 Dyslexia Specialist Standards. The first class on January 5 will be a full day of live instruction. Participants will then have until June 1 to complete the rest of the required work posted on Schoology. NOTE - Required text (not included): Speech to Print: Language Essentials for Teachers by Louisa Moats Ph.D. and Multisensory Teaching of Basic Language Skills by Beverly J. Wolf M.Ed. and Judith Birsh Ed.D.

Anti-Racist Educator Framework

Develop the will and skill of your organization to enact anti-racist, equitable policies and practices through collaborative teamwork in a four-part cohort workshop with other school and district leaders. Intersession will include support for continuous personal and professional growth. Session 1: Engaging in Anti-racist Conversations, Session 2: Applying a Critical Race Lens to Policy/Practices, Session 3: Culturally Responsive/Relevant Pedagogy, Session 4: Leading for Equity and Social Justice. Participants should have the following district/organization drafts: Racial Equity Plan, Racial Equity Policy, Culturally Responsive Teaching PD Plan, and Plan for Equity Partnership. Recommended text (not included): "Courageous Conversations on Race" by Singleton, "How to Become an Anti-Racist" by Kendi, "Culturally Responsive Teaching" by Hammond, and "Culturally Responsive School Leadership by Khalifa.

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 Para educators serving 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.

CT Early Learning Development Standards (ELDS) Intro Part 1 and 2

This session will focus on using the CT ELDS as the foundation of a cycle of intentional teaching. This session will explore the beginning use of the CT ELDS to support all children’s learning and development. This training builds on Core Knowledge and Competency Level 1 (Promoting Child Development and Learning). No cost to attend.

Curriculum Council Meeting

These council meetings will give CREC Region Directors of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendents, and Instructional Leaders an opportunity to receive professional development, collaborate on curriculum and instructional issues related to teaching and learning, as well as share concerns, issues and resources. Participants will have the opportunity to liaison with CSDE on legislative and policy issues related to schools. No cost to attend this workshop.

STEM Council

STEM educators, coaches, and coordinators in CREC districts meet to share best practices, resources and new thinking around interdisciplinary instruction in science, technology, engineering and math. Discussions may include topics ranging from implementing NGSS, Math CCSS, and ISTE standards to creating effective Makerspaces. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group. No cost to attend this event.

Charting the LifeCourse/Person Centered Planning

Participants in this workshop will become familiar with the Charting the LifeCourse Materials and learn how to utilize them for futures planning. No cost to attend.

Creating a Culture for Writing for English Learners

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

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 Para educators serving 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 Council

Early Childhood educators (Pre-K) in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Early Childhood educators are encouraged to attend these monthly meetings. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group.

Science Council

CREC region science teachers and district coordinators are invited to attend monthly 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. 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 this event.

COMPASS 3 Day Paraeducator Training

Participants will examine the basics of the Early Intervention Program (EIP) process, explore Special Education laws in Participants will examine the basics of the Early Intervention Program (EIP) process, explore Special Education laws in Connecticut and develop best practices in becoming an effective member of an instructional team. Paraeducators will build their practices in evidence-base practices that can be used in the learning environments to support. Sessions will focus on: Instructional Strategies(1), Managing Behaviors (2), Creating Independent Learners(3). NOTE: Sessions will be from 9:00am–12:00pm (Knowledge/Skills and LRE/Inclusive Practices), lunch break, 12:30-1:30pm (Activity). Participants will be assigned to breakout rooms for collaborative discussions and time will be provided for individual work out of the group. The facilitator will be available to participants from 1:30-3:00pm for individual questions/support.

CT ELDS to Common Core State Standards: Using Learning Progressions as a Foundation for Building Meaningful Learning Experiences

In this workshop, participants will look at specific learning progressions across the early childhood spectrum, Pre-K to Grade 3, by examining the CT ELDS and Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Understanding the comprehensive learning progressions helps early childhood educators plan for meaningful learning experiences that build a strong foundation to support long-term development.

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 Para educators serving 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.

NGSS and Universal Design for Learning - Making Instruction in the New Science Standards Meaningful and Achievable for Diverse Learners (K-5)

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) allow students to actively engage with practices and apply crosscutting concepts to deepen their understanding of science and engineering through phenomena and design problems.The authors of NGSS explicitly name Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a necessary tool for the creation of units that are meaningful, accessible and challenging for all students. UDL is a lens through which teachers can analyze curriculum goals, methods and materials to ensure that there are multiple pathways to success for all learners. This asynchronous workshop will run over the course of 4-6 weeks and provide participants with opportunities to become familiar with shifts in NGSS instruction, to become familiar with UDL guidelines, and to identify potential barriers in NGSS lessons and units and use strategies to make them more aligned with UDL .Note: Day of workshop, instructor will send access link to materials.

NGSS for All Students (6-12)

This virtual, synchronous workshop encourages participants to recognize the diversifying student population and current achievement in Connecticut, and how Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) can support all students achieve success in science. Real teaching scenarios written by teachers on the NGSS Diversity and Equity Team will be analyzed, and research and standards-based strategies will be reviewed. By identifying personal implicit biases, participants will be better equipped to address them within their own classrooms and schools, and apply strategies more effectively to best support all their students. NOTE: Required Text (not included): "NGSS for All Students".

Using Story Baskets to Expand Your Literacy Center in Early Childhood

The CT ELDS Strand D outlines early learning experiences that will support children’s interest and engagement with books. To address this learning progression, participants will explore ways to make stories come alive while developing language, literacy and comprehension skills using Story Baskets.

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 Para educators serving 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.

All Students are Motivated

All human behavior is motivated. Sometimes, however, what students are motivated to do, and what the teacher wants them to do are not in harmony. Participants in this workshop will learn some myths of motivation which are omnipresent in schools today and concrete strategies to use in order to differentiate motivational techniques for their students.

Equity Council

CREC's Equity Council provides educators in the CREC region quarterly opportunities to share policies, practices, and procedures to move toward an equitable system of education. The Council will review strategies that eliminate the predictability of outcomes for students who are racially, linguistically, economically diverse, who identify as LGBTQ, and who receive special education services. The group will review successful examples of districts from across the country that are identifying gaps in opportunities and intentionally dismantling the barriers that exist in their systems. No cost to attend event.

Social Emotional Learning Council Meeting

The council will focus on current trends, research and interventions related to Social and Emotional Learning. Members will have the opportunity to network with staff from other districts, have access to resources, and learn the most current developments in the area. No cost to attend.

When ELs Struggle: Basic Strategies for General Education Teachers

This workshop will support general education educators who are working with or have a large ELL population at their school or district with assisting ELs with Basic Strategies through the lens of Second Language Acquisition. Teachers who attend this workshop may be teachers looking for ways to support ELL 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 ELs learn and develop language.

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 Para educators serving 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.

NAEYC Standard 6: Issues of Equity in Early Childhood Parts 1, 2, & 3

This workshop will support participants in increasing their cultural competence, help them identify ways to reduce implicit and explicit bias, and consider strategies for affirming diversity in the early childhood classroom. NAEYC’s position statement Advancing Equity in Early Childhood Education will be used as the foundation for our professional learning. No cost to attend.

Mindfulness Council

This FREE forum, open to anyone interested in integrating mindfulness and yoga into their work with youth, will provide an opportunity to share best practices, activities, expertise and valuable resources. Each session will feature a presentation on a specific topic relevant to integrating mindfulness and/or yoga, and will include time for personal practice support and self-care. Whether you work in a school, a behavioral health or medical setting, or are a parent looking to incorporate mindfulness at home, come join us as we create an open forum for learning and growth. Participant involvement and feedback is essential to the Council’s success. No cost to attend event.

Library Media Specialists Council Meeting

CREC’s Library Media Specialists Council provides a unique opportunity for K-12 Library Media Specialists in the CREC region to come together to share best practices and engage in new thinking about digital literacy for the 21st century. Quarterly meetings will encourage input from participants regarding topics and speaker selections in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend event.

When ELs Struggle: More Strategies

This is the second in a non-sequential series of instructional strategies. You do not have to have attended the first session to participate in this session. This workshop will support general education educators who are working with or have a large ELL population at their school or district with assisting ELs with Basic Strategies through the lens of Second Language Acquisition. Teachers who attend this workshop may be teachers looking for ways to support ELL 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 ELs learn and develop language.

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 Para educators serving 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 Council

Early Childhood educators (Pre-K) in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Early Childhood educators are encouraged to attend these monthly meetings. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group.

Language Arts Council Meeting

CREC’s Language Arts Council provides Language Arts teachers in the CREC region monthly 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 bi-monthly 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.

Augmentative & Alternative Communication Council

Service Providers will share information to assist students with Augmentative & Alternate Communication needs. Members will be able to network with staff from other districts.Topic lists 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 Para educators serving 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.

Blueprint: LRE/Inclusive Practices for Students with Significant Disabilities

Participants will learn about various curriculum frameworks that can be readily used when developing challenging and appropriate instruction for students with significant disabilities. NOTE: Sessions will be from 9:00am–12:00pm (Professional Development), lunch break, 12:30-1:30pm (Activity). Participants will be assigned to breakout rooms for collaborative discussions and time will be provided for individual work out of the group. The facilitator will be available to participants from 1:30-3:00pm for individual questions/support..

AARC Open House Informational Session

Advanced Alternate Route to Certification Program for Special Education is an advanced program for certified teachers to earn a cross endorsement in Comprehensive Special Education (165). To qualify you must be a certified teacher in an approved area (e.g. elementary education, mathematics); have three years teaching experience (substitute experience will be considered); and have a desire to work with students with disabilities. Applications accepted November 1, 2019 through April 30, 2020. AARC advantages are affordable tuition; flexible classes (summer, Saturdays, online); job-embedded portfolio assignments; 14-month program design for working professionals; working in a cohort with a regional mentor.

Knowledge and Skills for Teachers Supervising the Work of Paraeducators

Teachers will build their knowledge on working effectively with paraeducators by understanding 1) Their roles and responsibilities in supporting paraeducators 2) How to provide feedback that will encourage and assist paraeducators to grow professionally, and 3) How to manage the paraeducator's time and effectiveness in supporting the learning environment.

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 Para educators serving 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.

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 this event.

Aligning Social and Emotional Learning to Multi-Tiered Systems of Support

Social and emotional learning provides the structure and process for students to develop skills in understanding and managing emotions, setting goals, showing empathy, maintaining positive relationships and making responsible decisions. Participants will learn strategies and interventions to promote social and emotional learning based on standards.It will focus on Tier 1, 2 and 3 interventions.

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 Para educators serving 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.

Science Council

CREC region science teachers and district coordinators are invited to attend monthly 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. 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 this event.

CT Early Learning Development Standards (ELDS) Intermediate Training Day 1 & 2

This session will focus on using the CT ELDS as the foundation of a cycle of intentional teaching. Participants will consider approaches to developing quality planned programs, including engaging environments and rich learning experiences. This session will also explore the beginning use of the CT ELDS to support all children’s learning and development, using differentiation to meet the needs of diverse learners and children who are dual language learners.This training builds on Core Knowledge and Competency Level 1 and addresses Competency Level 2. No cost to attend.

STEM Council

STEM educators, coaches, and coordinators in CREC districts meet to share best practices, resources and new thinking around interdisciplinary instruction in science, technology, engineering and math. Discussions may include topics ranging from implementing NGSS, Math CCSS, and ISTE standards to creating effective Makerspaces. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group. No cost to attend this event.

English Language Learners Council (Title III)

English Language Learner district coordinators in the CREC region are invited to attend meetings to share best practices, emerging research on improving outcomes for EL students, and to proactively respond to the instructional shifts demanded by the Connecticut Common Core State Standards (CCSS), assessments, and the Connecticut English Language Proficiency (CELP) Standards. Members will engage in new thinking about instructional practices and collaborate to proactively respond to EL needs in their district. No cost to attend.

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and Restorative Practices

This workshop will describe the rationale for Restorative Practices in schools, identify and demonstrate a continuum of restorative practices and discuss a restorative approach as an alternative to traditional discipline practices.Participants will examine strategies for aligning and integrating Restorative Practices within a multi-tiered system of support.

Social Studies Council Meeting

CREC region 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 Para educators serving 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 Council

Early Childhood educators (Pre-K) in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Early Childhood educators are encouraged to attend these monthly meetings. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group.

Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Montessori Refresher Course 2021: The Art of Writing

MTCNE is hosting an Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Refresher Course in Hartford, CT. The Refresher Course is intended to provide AMI Diploma holders fresh perspectives and insights into the work they practice in the classroom daily. Gretchen Hall and Gerry Leonard, MTCNE’s very own Directors of Training, will be prepared to guide attendees through a deep dive into “The Art of Writing: Supporting Self-Expression.” The Refresher Course is open to all, though the AMI Refresher Course Certificate will only be awarded to AMI Diploma holders who complete the course requirements. Space is limited!

CT DOTS Parts 1 and 2

The Connecticut Documentation and Observation for Teaching System (CT DOTS) is a framework to guide early care and education providers in a process of monitoring children’s progress on the skills, abilities, and behaviors in the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS). This introduction to CT DOTS will provide an overview of the tool during the two half-day trainings. The first training addresses how the CT DOTS documents are organized and the process of collecting evidence of children’s learning and development using three strategies: naturalistic observations, planned experiences and family input. Participants will engage in practice with the tool in their own setting between trainings. The second training involves reflection on how to collect relevant and meaningful data and the summarizing of evidence collected over time. This training addresses Core Knowledge and Competency Framework Domain Four - Observing, Documenting and Assessing with a specific focus on the following categories: •Early Childhood Screening and Assessment •Observation and Documentation to Inform Planned Program •Engaging Families. 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 Para educators serving 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.

Curriculum Council Meeting

These council meetings will give CREC Region Directors of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendents, and Instructional Leaders an opportunity to receive professional development, collaborate on curriculum and instructional issues related to teaching and learning, as well as share concerns, issues and resources. Participants will have the opportunity to liaison with CSDE on legislative and policy issues related to schools. No cost to attend this workshop.

CREC 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.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Booster Session

Through development and implementation a school using multi tiered systems of support can create and maintain safe and effective learning environments, ensuring all students have the social, emotional, and behavioral skills to succeed.

Autism Toolbox Part 2

Participants will learn strategies to help students on the autism spectrum into general education classrooms in further detail then Part 1. Attendance in Autism Toolbox Part 1 is not required to participate in this workshop. This workshop is designed for educators in grades K-6.

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 Para educators serving 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.

NGSS and Universal Design for Learning - Making Instruction in the New Science Standards Meaningful and Achievable for Diverse Learners (6-12)

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) allow students to actively engage with practices and apply crosscutting concepts to deepen their understanding of science and engineering through phenomena and design problems.The authors of NGSS explicitly name Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a necessary tool for the creation of units that are meaningful, accessible and challenging for all students. UDL is a lens through which teachers can analyze curriculum goals, methods and materials to ensure that there are multiple pathways to success for all learners. This asynchronous workshop will run over the course of 4-6 weeks and provide participants with opportunities to become familiar with shifts in NGSS instruction, to become familiar with UDL guidelines, and to identify potential barriers in NGSS lessons and units and use strategies to make them more aligned with UDL. NOTE: Instructor will send out materials link day of workshop.

Addressing Challenging Behaviors in Young Children

This one day workshop will provide participants with a framework for establishing a multi-tiered system of supports for social-emotional growth and early intervention for behavioral concerns within a larger overarching, developmentally appropriate system of prevention of challenging behaviors. This framework is easily implemented within curriculum and instruction that is aligned to Connecticut’s Early Learning Development Standards (ELDS) and can be monitored through use of Connecticut’s Documentation and Observation for Teaching System (DOTS).

Math Language Routines to Plan for Purposeful Math Instruction I

Explore 5 mathematical language routines (MLRs) that support the learning of mathematics and language development. MLRs in this session: Stronger and Clearer Each Time, Discussion Supports, Collect and Display, Co-Craft Questions, Three Reads.

Illustrative Mathematics High School Curriculum Overview

Survey the IM curriculum with a focus on the philosophy and instructional shifts and the resourcesavailable in the curriculum for supporting teachers around student understanding and discourse, planning,assessment, and instructional routines.

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 Para educators serving 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.

NGSS for All Students (6-12)

This virtual, synchronous workshop encourages participants to recognize the diversifying student population and current achievement in Connecticut, and how Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) can support all students achieve success in science. Real teaching scenarios written by teachers on the NGSS Diversity and Equity Team will be analyzed, and research and standards-based strategies will be reviewed. By identifying personal implicit biases, participants will be better equipped to address them within their own classrooms and schools, and apply strategies more effectively to best support all their students. NOTE: Required Text (not included): "NGSS for All Students".

Library Media Specialists Council Meeting

CREC’s Library Media Specialists Council provides a unique opportunity for K-12 Library Media Specialists in the CREC region to come together to share best practices and engage in new thinking about digital literacy for the 21st century. Quarterly meetings will encourage input from participants regarding topics and speaker selections in order to best meet the needs of the council membership. No cost to attend event.

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 Para educators serving 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 Council

Early Childhood educators (Pre-K) in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Early Childhood educators are encouraged to attend these monthly meetings. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group.

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 Para educators serving 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 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 Para educators serving 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.

Language Arts Council Meeting

CREC’s Language Arts Council provides Language Arts teachers in the CREC region monthly 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 bi-monthly 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.

Mindfulness Council

This FREE forum, open to anyone interested in integrating mindfulness and yoga into their work with youth, will provide an opportunity to share best practices, activities, expertise and valuable resources. Each session will feature a presentation on a specific topic relevant to integrating mindfulness and/or yoga, and will include time for personal practice support and self-care. Whether you work in a school, a behavioral health or medical setting, or are a parent looking to incorporate mindfulness at home, come join us as we create an open forum for learning and growth. Participant involvement and feedback is essential to the Council’s success. No cost to attend event.

Augmentative & Alternative Communication Council

Service Providers will share information to assist students with Augmentative & Alternate Communication needs. Members will be able to network with staff from other districts.Topic lists are developed by the group. No cost to attend.

Charting the LifeCourse/Person Centered Planning

Participants in this workshop will become familiar with the Charting the LifeCourse Materials and learn how to utilize them for futures planning. No cost to attend.

STEM Council

STEM educators, coaches, and coordinators in CREC districts meet to share best practices, resources and new thinking around interdisciplinary instruction in science, technology, engineering and math. Discussions may include topics ranging from implementing NGSS, Math CCSS, and ISTE standards to creating effective Makerspaces. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group. No cost to attend this event.

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 Para educators serving 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.

Equity Council

CREC's Equity Council provides educators in the CREC region quarterly opportunities to share policies, practices, and procedures to move toward an equitable system of education. The Council will review strategies that eliminate the predictability of outcomes for students who are racially, linguistically, economically diverse, who identify as LGBTQ, and who receive special education services. The group will review successful examples of districts from across the country that are identifying gaps in opportunities and intentionally dismantling the barriers that exist in their systems. No cost to attend event.

Social Emotional Learning Council Meeting

The council will focus on current trends, research and interventions related to Social and Emotional Learning. Members will have the opportunity to network with staff from other districts, have access to resources, and learn the most current developments in the area. No cost to attend.

English Language Learners Council (Title III)

English Language Learner district coordinators in the CREC region are invited to attend meetings to share best practices, emerging research on improving outcomes for EL students, and to proactively respond to the instructional shifts demanded by the Connecticut Common Core State Standards (CCSS), assessments, and the Connecticut English Language Proficiency (CELP) Standards. Members will engage in new thinking about instructional practices and collaborate to proactively respond to EL needs in their district. 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 Para educators serving 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.

Social Studies Council Meeting

CREC region 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.

Curriculum Council Meeting

These council meetings will give CREC Region Directors of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendents, and Instructional Leaders an opportunity to receive professional development, collaborate on curriculum and instructional issues related to teaching and learning, as well as share concerns, issues and resources. Participants will have the opportunity to liaison with CSDE on legislative and policy issues related to schools. No cost to attend this workshop.

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 Para educators serving 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 Council

Early Childhood educators (Pre-K) in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Early Childhood educators are encouraged to attend these monthly meetings. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group.

CREC 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.

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 this event.

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 Para educators serving 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.

Science Council

CREC region science teachers and district coordinators are invited to attend monthly 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. 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 this event.

Teach and Learn with IM 6-8 and High School

During this two-day event, teachers and coaches will be guided by an IM Certified facilitator to gain first-hand experience and fluency with the IM 6-8 and IM High School curricula.

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 Para educators serving 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 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 Para educators serving 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 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 Para educators serving 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 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 Para educators serving 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 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 Para educators serving 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.