Events and Workshops

CREC Magnet Schools Secondary Science Instructional Leadership Cohort Learning Sessions

Science leaders from CREC Magnet Schools will meet quarterly to share practice, discuss instructional strategies, and work on problems of practice around science instruction in our schools.

2018-19 Teacher's Choice

Teacher’s Choice is an opportunity for second year and beyond CREC teachers to identify and pursue learning experiences specifically tailored to the needs of your school and classroom. The Teacher’s Choice process reinforces CREC’s Core Values by providing time to engage in self-directed, collaborative learning in order to develop creative solutions to educational challenges to meet the needs of our students. Our hope is that as you work in partnership with your colleagues, you will see an immediate impact on your practice and your students’ learning. (Note: First year teachers and teachers new to CREC will be part of a New Teacher Cohort PLC on Teacher's Choice days. MSAP schools will work in designated teams for Teacher's Choice.)

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.

CREC MTR Consortium

CREC's Minority Teacher Consortium is a learning collective which will meet throughout the 2018-2019 school year. Discussions planned include, but not are not limited to: Affinity Groups, High School Recruitment, and the Recruitment Fair. Other topics will be determined based on participant interests.

Curriculum Council Meeting - 3-21-2019

Bi-monthly scheduled meeting of Directors of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendents and Instructional Leaders

Early Childhood Council Meeting

Early Childhood educators in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Pre-K to grade 12. Early Childhood educators are encouraged to attend these monthly meetings. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group.

21st Century Community Learning Centers Networking Meeting

This Networking Meeting - Andrew Ganucheau, Director of the Louisiana Center for Afterschool Learning, will help us delve into the role of the mission statement. We will explore how the mission statement framework is more than a few succinct sentences but clearly defines the niche of your afterschool program and acts as a constant reminder to front line staff for why the programs exist, including what was envisioned when the program was established. In the afterschool world, this means ditching the traditional job interview and employing techniques to find the best staff your community has to offer.

NGSS Curriculum Consortium H.S. Physics Unit Writing

CREC’s Next Generation Science Curriculum Consortium provides a forum for teachers throughout Connecticut to share in the creativity of developing three-dimensional NGSS-aligned curricula anchored in phenomena. During the initial course specific meeting, participants will be trained to develop story-lined curricula. The remaining consortium meeting dates will be facilitated curriculum and lesson development time. Any curricular documents generated will be reviewed, assessed using the EQuIP rubric, and edited prior to posting for classroom/district use. The participant’s district will be granted an access code to all of the grade specific curricular documents generated in the consortium. Up to 10 NGSS-aligned units will be developed for each of the grade-levels and shared. Science curricula will be integrated by the performance expectations set forth by the NGSS. PARTICIPANTS MUST ATTEND ALL DAYS OF THEIR CONSORTIUM SERIES.

NGSS Curriculum Consortium-Assessment Development - Grade 11 (Chemistry)

Assessment of the three dimensions of the Next Generation Science Standards is a critical component of implementation. As a part of the consortium's work, we will be offering assessment development sessions. These sessions will help districts develop a process of assessment to measure student progress towards the NGSS performance expectations. While the current units contain activities and summative work related to anchor phenomenon, data collection relative to each performance expectation is not present. This cohort of participants will develop an assessment process, including formative and summative components, to assess student achievement in relation to the three dimensions of the NGSS. Participation in these development sessions is $300 per person; THE SAME PERSON MUST ATTEND BOTH DATES.

Perkins V Workshop

SDE will offer information about Perkins V as it pertains to the 2019-2020 school year.

Executive Function Skills

Executive function and self-regulation skills are the mental processes that enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks successfully. The brain needs this skill set to filter distractions, prioritize tasks, set and achieve goals, and control impulses. These skills are crucial for learning and development. This workshop will describe each executive function and its connection to learning.

CT DOTS Introduction: Documentation and Observation for Teaching System

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 two half-day training's. 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 training's. 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. Please be advised this training is comprised of two sessions.

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.

When ELs Struggle: Basic Strategies for the General Education Teacher

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.

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.

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.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Test Preparation Class

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

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that 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.

TEAM Initial Reviewer Training

This one day training is required for anyone serving on a district or regional review committee. Districts must select potential reviewers to attend the training to learn the criteria for a successful reflection paper. Participants are given multiple opportunities to read and review a range of papers to assist them in making informed decisions.

The Coaching and Self Reflection Tool for Competency in Teaching English Learners

To best serve the increasing number of English Learners in our classrooms, educators need strategies and tools to help them reflect on their practice. In this workshop, participants will learn to use the resource, "The Coaching and Self-Reflection Tool for Competency in Teaching English Learners" in professional coaching conversations, in self-reflection on BEST Practices for English Learners, and for reflection and discussion for ANY teacher of English Learners.

360 Degree Learning: An Engaging Approach to Addressing the Summer Slide

Learning should not cease when summer starts. In this one-day session, educators will develop an innovative plan for summer learning that is engaging and exciting - and that students actually want to do. In a collaborative learning environment, participants will explore summer success stories, and learn how to use tools and resources to create their own unique plan for summer learning.

CT DOTS Introduction: Documentation and Observation for Teaching System

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 two half-day training's. 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 training's. 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. Please be advised this training is comprised of two sessions.

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.

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 DOTS Introduction: Documentation and Observation for Teaching System

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 two half-day training's. 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 training's. 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. Please be advised this training is comprised of two sessions.

CT DOTS Introduction: Documentation and Observation for Teaching System

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 two half-day training's. 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 training's. 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. Please be advised this training is comprised of two sessions.

Assistive Technology and Systematic Reading Instruction

Systematic reading instruction explicitly teaches basic reading skills in a way that is beneficial for all students. This type of instruction has been found to be especially beneficial for students who have difficulty learning sound/symbol association and basic decoding skills. Assistive technology allows students with more significant needs to participate in this type of instruction with greater independence and success.

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 bi-monthly 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.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Test Preparation Class

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

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that 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 Meeting

Early Childhood educators in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Pre-K to grade 12. Early Childhood educators are encouraged to attend these monthly meetings. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group.

MTCNE Alumni & Friends Saturday Workshops and Social Gathering

MTCNE cordially invites you to our Alumni & Friends event where we will be exploring the area of the outdoor environment at both the Primary and Elementary level, as well as socializing with colleagues!

Catalyzing Change in High School Mathematics; Initiating Critical Conversations

Mathematics education at the high school level is part of a complex system of policies, traditions, and societal expectations. This workshop will engage all individuals with a stake in high school mathematics in the critical conversations that must take place to bring about and give support to necessary changes in high school mathematics. Participants of this workshop will take part in activities that will help facilitate the critical conversations around the following topics in high school mathematics: Essential Concepts, Tracking, Instructional Practices, and High School Mathematics Pathways. Participants should leave this workshop with action steps that they can take back to their district to help initiate change in high school mathematics.

NGSS Curriculum Consortium-Assessment Development - Biology Grade 10

Assessment of the three dimensions of the Next Generation Science Standards is a critical component of implementation. As a part of the consortium's work, we will be offering assessment development sessions. These sessions will help districts develop a process of assessment to measure student progress towards the NGSS performance expectations. While the current units contain activities and summative work related to anchor phenomenon, data collection relative to each performance expectation is not present. This cohort of participants will develop an assessment process, including formative and summative components, to assess student achievement in relation to the three dimensions of the NGSS. Participation in these development sessions is $300 per person; THE SAME PERSON MUST ATTEND BOTH DATES.

NGSS Curriculum Consortium H.S. Forensic Science Unit Writing

CREC’s Next Generation Science Curriculum Consortium provides a forum for teachers throughout Connecticut to share in the creativity of developing three-dimensional NGSS-aligned curricula anchored in phenomena. During the initial course specific meeting, participants will be trained to develop story-lined curricula. The remaining consortium meeting dates will be facilitated curriculum and lesson development time. Any curricular documents generated will be reviewed, assessed using the EQuIP rubric, and edited prior to posting for classroom/district use. This forensics course has a chemistry focus and is an alternative to the NGSS Chemistry course offered for Track 1 in CREC’s NGSS Curriculum Consortium. The participant’s district will be granted an access code to all of the grade specific curricular documents generated in the consortium. Up to 10 NGSS-aligned units will be developed for each of the grade-levels and shared. Science curricula will be integrated by the performance expectations set forth by the NGSS. PARTICIPANTS MUST ATTEND ALL DAYS OF THEIR CONSORTIUM SERIES.

Social Emotional Learning through Yoga and Mindfulness

CASEL, the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning identifies self-awareness and self-management as two important competencies on the Social and Emotional Learning “wheel”. But how can we teach these important skills? Mindfulness - awareness of the present moment with acceptance -and yoga – mindful movement - can help students become aware of and understand their emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations. This can have a positive impact on behavior, stress levels, relationships and the ability to focus and concentrate.In this workshop participants will: •Discuss how integrating yoga and mindfulness aligns with CASEL’s Social and Emotional Learning competencies •Review case studies and research supporting this work •Learn basic yoga and mindfulness techniques appropriate for a school/classroom 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.

School Structures to Support English Learner Writing Instruction

This full day workshop is divided into two sessions. The morning will focus on structural supports necessary to support the teaching of writing to English Learners. The intended audience for the morning is classroom teachers, EL teachers/tutors and building administrators. In the afternoon, classroom and EL teachers will learn several strategies to incorporate writing into the classroom and have the opportunity to work as a team to apply their new learning in their lesson plans.

Science Council Meeting

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,Connecticut Core Standards, and CAPT Science. In addition, input from participants regarding additional topic selections will be encouraged in order to best meet the needs of the council membership.

Facilitating Futures Planning

Futures planning is a collaborative approach that helps staff, parents, and students to develop a long range plan that will guide the IEP.

21st CCLC New Grantee Orientation

Congratulations on your successful 21stCCLC grant application! We are excited to meet with you to discuss your proposal and expectations for best practices in your newly funded programs. As a 2019-2020 grant recipient, it is expected that you will attend this orientation to review requirements and plans for program implementation.

Implementation of Math Workshop in the Elementary Classroom

This half day workshop offers an overview on how to begin 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.

Math Workshop Next Steps

This half day workshop offers current teachers of Math Workshop 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, collecting artifacts, and math conferences.

Mindfulness 101: A beginners guide to mindfulness practices

Mindfulness seems to be everywhere these days. A growing body of research indicates that mindfulness practices may positively influence physical health, psychological well-being, social skills, and ability to be more compassionate with ourselves and others. It can also help us reduce stress and burnout. Whether you are new to mindfulness or want to expand your knowledge and practice, this workshop is a wonderful opportunity to explore how these practices can help you in both your personal and professional life.

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and Social and Emotional Learning

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.

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 - 5-9-2019

Bi-monthly scheduled meeting of Directors of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendents and Instructional Leaders

Yoga and Mindfulness in the Classroom: Tools to Improve Self-Regulation, Learning and Classroom Climate

Increasing numbers of students lack the skills of self-regulation, impulse control and focus which can negatively affect their behavior, ability to learn and overall well-being. These critical skills, essential to success at home, in school and throughout life, can be learned when taught in a developmentally appropriate, engaging way. Sharing yoga and mindfulness techniques, specifically designed for the time and space crunched classroom, is a convenient, engaging and effective way to promote these skills while cultivating a positive, peaceful productive classroom climate. This workshop is appropriate for PreK-12 classroom teachers, administrators, special educators, school counselors, school social workers, occupational therapists, SLPs, physical therapists, physical education teachers, health educators, and paraprofessionals. No prior yoga experience or mats are required!

Assessing English Learners (ELs) at the Secondary Level

In this session, participants will learn how to equitably assess and grade English learners (ELs) in the secondary classroom based on research-based criteria. By examining assessments with the guidelines of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the stages of English language acquisition, and equal access in mind, participants will evaluate the ways in which they have previously developed and delivered assessments and consider new access points. Participants are encouraged to come in teams (e.g., secondary classroom teacher, coach/department chair, ESL teacher, administrator).

Title III Consortium

Effective Classroom / ESL Strategies For Teaching English Learners: Ways to get English Learners actively involved in your lessons.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Test Preparation Class

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

Structured Literacy Series: Systematic Teaching of Basic Literacy Skills (ACES Location)

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 implementation coaching by experts. Participants will receive the books Speech to Print: Language Essentials for Teachers by Louisa Moats Ph.D. and Multisensory Teaching of Basic Language Skills by Judith Birsh and Suzanne Carreker. The series's curriculum is aligned with the International Dyslexia Association's Level 1 Dyslexia Specialist Standards.

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 Meeting

Early Childhood educators in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Pre-K to grade 12. Early Childhood educators are encouraged to attend these monthly meetings. Topics and speaker lists are developed by the group.

Implementing a Math Workshop Model in a Secondary Math Classroom

Participants will learn how math centers/stations/rotations/workshops in the 5-8 math classroom can supportthe Connecticut Core content and process standards, while meeting the needs of all learners. We will addressdifferent structures, routines, and rituals used to initiate and sustain this type of differentiated instruction.

Next Steps of a Math Workshop Model in a Secondary Math Classroom

This half day workshop offers current secondary teachers of Math Workshop in their 5-8 classrooms 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.

Building and Teaching in a Trauma Informed Classroom

About 1 in 4 children witness or experience a traumatic event before the age of four, and almost 50% of children and adolescents in the United States have experienced at least one type of childhood trauma. In this training you will learn what childhood trauma is, how trauma impacts children and adolescents, and how symptoms might manifest in the classroom. We will also discuss potential triggers that students might face in the classroom and create concrete plans that can be implemented in the classroom to create a more trauma-sensitive experience for all students.

RESC Alliance Foundational Skills for Evaluators of Teachers

The RESC Alliance Foundational Skills for Evaluators of Teachers training is designed to concentrate on the evaluator’s capacity to observe and analyze teacher performance and practice inherent in the CT Common Core of Teaching (CCT) and to provide supportive, high quality feedback to teachers. The primary focus of this training is on written feedback that focuses on areas of strengths and areas of growth explicitly connected to the rubric and observable classroom practices/evidence. The training is designed to link written feedback to verbal feedback and coaching strategies. This supports not only the evaluator’s ability to organize written feedback but consider how this feedback creates a platform for formal conferences that are instructionally focused, dialogic, and student-centered.Training includes both formative reviews of practice along with a final demonstration of proficiency. Participants take part in one formal and one informal video-based observation during the three-day training. Participants will receive feedback about their own practice that will help to codify key skills and prepare them to connect teacher practice to student learning.

Instructional Coaching Institute

The Instructional Coaching Institute is for current and aspiring instructional coaches at all grade levels, who are interested in attending formal training. This 2-day workshop will provide participants with an understanding of various coaching frameworks, theory, research, and current perspectives and practices. Among the topics that will be covered over the course of the two days are working with adult learners, building networks for change, providing feedback, student-centered coaching, assessing student work, promoting teacher reflection, having better conversations, and using videotape for professional growth.

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.

Connecting the SAT to Classroom Math Practice

This full day workshop will provide teachers and instructional leaders with professional development on the redesigned features of the SAT and how to connect the SAT to classroom practice.

Math Council Meeting

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.

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.

Orchestrating Mathematical Discourse to Enhance Student Learning

The importance of engaging students in meaningful mathematical discussion has long been identified as an essential component of students’ mathematics learning. When students share and exchange their ideas, both they and their teachers benefit. This workshop will engage participants in strategies for fostering math talk and engaging students in productive struggle. Participants of this workshop will take part in activities that will help to establish classroom environments that support mathematical discourse. Participants will explore seven effective strategies for orchestrating discourse and examine real student work samples to explore the practice of selecting and sequencing when facilating whole class discussion.

TEAM Mentor Initial Support Training (2 day training)

This two-day 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 the two in-person sessions, there will be an additional time for follow up offered either online or in person 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. Participants must bring their own food/beverage.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Test Preparation Class

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

LifeCourse Planning Tools

Charting the LifeCourse, a universally-designed person-centered planning framework, is a tool to assist individuals and families of all abilities and ages develop a vision of a good life. Participants in this hands-on learning session will understand the importance of person-centered/futures planning, become familiar with LifeCourse tools, and how to use them to support the development of the IEP and Transition Planning.

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 Meeting

Early Childhood educators in CREC districts meet monthly to share best practices and engage in new thinking about instruction. Pre-K to grade 12. 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.

ASTE PD Day 2019

This one-day PD will focus on completing and improving National FFA American Degree and Proficiency Award applications. Learn from FFA staff on how to effectively complete American Degree and Proficiency Award applications. American Degree applications will be covered from 8:30-11:30 a.m.,and Proficiency Awards will be covered from 12:30-3:30 p.m.

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Test Preparation Class

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

ETS® ParaPro Assessment Testing

CREC is now a testing site for the ETS® ParaPro Assessment. ETS developed the ParaPro Assessment as a way to satisfy the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, which requires that 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.

Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Assistants Training Course - Elementary

The Montessori Training Center Northeast (MTCNE) is pleased to offer the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary Assistants Training Course directed by MTCNE staff. The course consists of class lectures, discussions and activities. Participants must also log 9 additional hours of observation in Montessori Primary and Elementary classrooms. Readings and three written papers will be assigned throughout the training. Participants successfully completing the course will be awarded an AMI Primary Assistants Course Certificate.

Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Assistants Training Course - Primary

The Montessori Training Center Northeast (MTCNE) is pleased to offer the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Primary Assistants Training Course directed by MTCNE staff. The course consists of class lectures, discussions and activities. Participants must also log 9 additional hours of observation in Montessori Primary and Elementary classrooms. Readings and three written papers will be assigned throughout the training. Participants successfully completing the course will be awarded an AMI Primary Assistants Course Certificate.

21st CCLC Summer Professional Development

In continuing the use of NAA's Core Competencies for After School and Youth Development Professionals, professional development and training opportunities for staff are crucial and critical for high quality after school programs for youth. To assist 21C programs in learning grant requirements, processes and resources available to them, this summer professional development opportunity will focus on the following areas:Morning Topics: -Risk Assessments -Intervention Plans -Evidence Binder guide and template Afternoon Topics: -Assessment of Program Practices Tool (APT-O) in action -Best Practices & Resources for High Quality 21C programs

Yoga and Mindfulness in the Classroom: Tools to Improve Self-Regulation, Learning and Classroom Climate

Increasing numbers of students lack the skills of self-regulation, impulse control and focus which can negatively affect their behavior, ability to learn and overall well-being. These critical skills, essential to success at home, in school and throughout life, can be learned when taught in a developmentally appropriate, engaging way. Sharing yoga and mindfulness techniques, specifically designed for the time and space crunched classroom, is a convenient, engaging and effective way to promote these skills while cultivating a positive, peaceful productive classroom climate. This workshop is appropriate for PreK-12 classroom teachers, administrators, special educators, school counselors, school social workers, occupational therapists, SLPs, physical therapists, physical education teachers, health educators, and paraprofessionals. No prior yoga experience or mats are required! Price includes card deck, a $32 value.

Assessment of Afterschool Program Practices Tool (APT) for 21st CCLC Programs

The Assessment of Afterschool Program Practices Tool (APT) was developed by the National Institute on Out-of-School Time (NIOST) with 21st Century Community Learning Centers in mind! The APT provides a way for after schools staff to access the quality of their services and use data to make program improvements. Quality after schools programs produce positive outcomes in youth!

Assessment of Afterschool Program Practices Tool (APT) for 21st CCLC Programs

The Assessment of Afterschool Program Practices Tool (APT) was developed by the National Institute on Out-of-School Time (NIOST) with 21st Century Community Learning Centers in mind! The APT provides a way for after school staff to access the quality of their services and use data to make program improvements. Quality after school programs produce positive outcomes in youth!