august 29th th& 30 , 2016 - norwalk public...
TRANSCRIPT
2 | P a g e
Defining Instructional Systems for Student Achievement
Dear Norwalk Public Schools Practitioner,
Welcome to the 2016-2017 academic year in the Norwalk Public Schools. I trust that you had an
exciting summer with family and friends. The 2016-2017 academic year will be exciting as we implement
various instructional systems PreK-12. I look forward as we collectively “Raise the Bar and Close the Gap”
in the Norwalk Public Schools.
Attached is the workshop matrix for the 2016 Professional Development Summit. Our theme for
the two days will be Defining Instructional Systems for Student Achievement. The Norwalk Public
Schools are embarking upon important initiatives that will redefine teaching and learning to address the
21st century learner. This comprehensive shift will require us as a district to change the way we think
about classroom pedagogy and student achievement. We hope that you will utilize the two days to
enhance your instructional repertoire to define our instructional systems to improve student-learning
outcomes.
Our two-day design will feature new grade-level workshop activities, vertical department
exercises, intra-district collaboration among schools (CK3LI), and site-based professional learning
workshops that are aligned to school initiatives. This hybrid approach was done intentionally to
customize professional learning and build district capacity around our core initiatives embedded in the
Strategic Operating Plan.
We hope that the 2016 Norwalk Professional Development Summit supports your individual
growth trajectory. As Carol Dweck states in her book Mindset, “When people change to a growth
mindset, they change from a judge-and-be-judged framework to a learn-and-help-learn framework.” I
look forward to your feedback, participation, and development during the 2016-2017 academic year.
Dr. Michael T. Conner
Chief Academic Officer
Norwalk Public Schools
3 | P a g e
Academically Talented Professional Learning
Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) part 2
This will be a continuation of the SEM work that began on March 18th, 2016. During
this workshop, practitioners will review the Schoolwide Enrichment Model and focus
on implementing Enrichment Clusters in their classroom. Enrichment Clusters
provide students with a place to explore what interests them, and with the tools to
uncover those interests with support and guidance. Teachers will be introduced to
the 6 step process for implementing Enrichment Clusters.
Audience: Elementary & Middle School AT Teachers
Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School – AT Room – Room 149
Time: 9:00am – 3:30 pm
Presenter: Nicole Waicunas
Date: August 29th
Art
National Core Arts Standards – Developing Deeper Understanding of NCAS &
Its Implications for District & Program Effectiveness
Norwalk Art teachers will gain knowledge and understanding of the Anchor
Standards in the new NCAS. Working in grade level and vertical teams, educators will
participate in activities to identify common practices related to NCAS and create
Enduring Understandings for the Anchor Standards that support the instructional
shifts required in NCAS. Participants will have an opportunity to view work from
other districts as they address NCAS for both curricular and classroom use.
Audience: K-12 Norwalk Public Schools Art Teachers
Location: Norwalk High School – Room 303E
Time: 8:15am – 2:45 pm
Presenters: Jill Goldberg, Art Education Consultant and Patricia O’Connor, NHS Art
Department Chair
Date: August 30th
4 | P a g e
ELA
Enhanced Core Reading Instruction (ECRI) Training
Cohort II K-2 teachers from Silvermine, Brookside, Jefferson, Marvin, and Tracey
will participate in day 1 of a 2-day workshop offered exclusively by the HILL. The
workshop will overview Enhanced Core Reading Instruction (ECRI), a multi-tiered
program featuring a series of teaching routines designed to increase the effectiveness
of reading instruction in grades K-2. The ECRI materials are highly aligned with
Journeys and the tier 2 intervention pre-teaches the content of the core. The routines
are also used to enhance Journeys for tier 1. Developed by researchers at the Center on
Teaching and Learning, ECRI has been rigorously studied in nearly 50 elementary
schools with hundreds of classrooms and thousands of students.
Audience: K-2 CK3LI Cohort II Classroom Teachers
Location: Silvermine – Urban Hall
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Presenters: Wendy Buckley, Christine Pagano, and Kelly Soule - HILL for Literacy
Date: August 29th
Rigorous Curriculum Design: A Curriculum Roadmap
Cohort I and Cohort III K-2 classroom teachers from Fox Run, Naramake, Wolfpit,
Rowayton, Cranbury, and Kendall will participate in a curriculum workshop that
features the curriculum maps designed this summer by Norwalk teachers. The maps
were created with the intent to connect standards, instruction, and assessment that are
aligned to our instructional resources. Practitioners will learn about rigorous
curriculum design and which standards are considered priorities. Concepts and skills
will be clarified to determine the corresponding level of cognitive rigor. Teachers will
participate in activities that will unpack major components of the curriculum to use in
classroom instruction and implement Authentic Performance Tasks for deeper
interdisciplinary connections.
Audience: K-2 CK3LI Cohort I and Cohort III Classroom Teachers
Location: Naramake (Library), Wolfpit (Library), Rowayton (Gym), Cranbury (Library),
Kendall (Library), Fox Run (Library)
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Presenters: CISDs (Shannon Roman, Jennifer Scanlan, Tisha McCoy, Sandra Ehlers,
Jeffrey Forzani, Christina Guerra, and Assistant Principal, Sarah Carmody)
Date: August 29th
5 | P a g e
Core Instruction Best Practices for Vocabulary
Grades 4 and 5 classroom teachers from Naramake, Jefferson, Marvin, Tracey, and
Kendall will participate in a workshop related to best practices in core instruction.
Important instructional considerations in the area of vocabulary will be the focus. Dr.
Eleanor Osborne, Adjunct Professor of Literacy at Sacred Heart University and
former Associate Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction for New Haven
Public Schools will facilitate this invaluable professional opportunity.
Audience: Grades 4 and 5 Classroom Teachers for Naramake, Jefferson, Marvin, Tracey, and
Kendall
Location: Jefferson – Room 22
Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm Grade 4
12:30pm – 3:30pm Grade 5
Presenter: Dr. Eleanor Osborne
Date: August 29th
Getting Started with Read 180 Universal
The READ 180 Universal professional learning session will prepare middle school and high school teachers from Roton Middle School, West Rocks Middle School, and Norwalk High School to successfully start teaching with the Read 180 Universal intervention. This training is for teachers who are new to Read 180 Universal or have had some initial training with the intervention. Topics include: teaching in a blended-learning environment, HMH Teacher Central, HMH Reading Inventory and progress monitoring, establishing procedures for small-group rotations, and the importance of a growth mindset. (Dedicated Read 180 interventionists from Ponus Ridge and Roton are invited to attend this session in place of the August 30th workshop and spend August 30th planning and designing lessons for this intervention in their home schools.) Audience: Middle and High School Teachers Delivering Read 180 Location: West Rocks Middle School - Computer Lab Time: 7:50am – 2:20pm Presenter: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Date: August 29th
6 | P a g e
Getting Started with System 44 The System 44 Next Generation professional learning session is for teachers who are new to System 44. The session will introduce teachers to the clear instructional path in the system. This workshop will demonstrate how the intervention helps struggling readers achieve mastery of foundational skills in phonics, comprehension, and writing. (Dedicated System 44 interventionists from Ponus Ridge and Roton are invited to attend this session in place of the August 30th workshop and spend August 30th planning and designing lessons for this intervention in their home schools.) Audience: Middle School Teachers Delivering System 44 Location: West Rock Middle School - Library Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm Presenter: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Date: August 29th Supporting Tiered Instruction within an Extended Learning Block
This training is designed to support educators with the implementation of
myPerspectives. Participants will dig into the components, instructional design, and
structure of the program. Participants will practice applying specific features and
design elements (including instructional philosophy, lesson structure, and content) to
classroom practice through hands-on activities and observation of a demonstrated
lesson. Participants will receive a prescriptive, week-by-week implementation training
plan to use following the workshop that can be customized to their needs.
Audience: Grades 6, 7, 8 West Rocks and Roton ELA Teachers
Location: West Rocks Middle School - Portable
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenter: Pearson Trainer
Date: August 29th
ELA: Day 2
Norwalk Public School’s Comprehensive Reading Model: Cohort III CK3LI
Launch and Oral Language Instruction
Cohort III classroom teachers and kindergarten/grade 1 paraprofessionals from
Naramake, Columbus, Wolfpit, Rowayton, Cranbury, and Kendall will further
enhance their understanding of their participation with the district’s K-3 literacy
model. Professional learning goals for the day involve a review of the NPS/CK3LI
district literacy plan, a timeline for implementation, and how the plan and activities
within the framework explicitly relate to the SRBI model. Practitioners from all
schools (with the exception of Columbus) will then participate in a workshop focused
on oral language at the core of comprehensive literacy instruction. Participants will
7 | P a g e
learn about oral language development and the relationship between language
comprehension and reading comprehension while practicing activities that will engage
students in oral discourse to improve vocabulary and comprehension. Teachers
should bring a unit 1 Journeys or CKLA teacher manual to this session.
Audience: K-2 CK3LI Cohort III Classroom Teachers Kindergarten and 1st Grade
Paraprofessionals
Location: Cranbury Elementary – Gym & Library
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Presenters: Dr. Margie Gillis and Literacy How Coaches, Janine Goss and Dr. Michael
Conner
Date: August 30th
Rigorous Curriculum Design: A Curriculum Workshop
K-2 Cohort II classroom teachers from Silvermine, Brookside, Jefferson, Marvin, and
Tracey, District K-2 ELL teachers, District K-2 Special Education teachers, and
Cohort II kindergarten/first grade paraprofessionals will participate in a curriculum
workshop at their own buildings that feature the curriculum maps designed this
summer by Norwalk teachers. The maps were created with the intent to connect
standards, instruction, and assessment that are aligned to our instructional resources.
Practitioners will learn about rigorous curriculum design and which standards are
considered priorities. Concepts and skills will be clarified to determine the
corresponding level of cognitive rigor. Teachers will participate in activities that will
unpack major components of the curriculum to use in classroom instruction and
implement Authentic Performance Tasks for deeper interdisciplinary connections.
Audience: K-2 Cohort II Classroom Teachers, ELL Teachers, Special Education Teachers, K
and 1st Grade Paraprofessionals
Location: Silvermine (Library), Brookside (Library), Jefferson (Room 22), Marvin (Library),
Tracey (Library)
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Presenters: CISDs (Ed Wachowski, Robert Pennington, Tamre Mockus, Italia
Negroni, Jill Katkocin)
Date: August 30th
8 | P a g e
Intentional Design Work for Small Group Instruction
Fox Run’s K-2 teachers will participate in a unique professional learning opportunity
geared to enhance their understanding of research-based instructional priorities.
Practitioners will design plans for small group instruction for the 2016-2017 school
year as Norwalk’s CK3LI pilot school. Fox Run’s CISD, Christina Guerra, will
facilitate the day’s activities focused on using student data and research to inform
differentiated instruction.
Audience: K-2 CK3LI Pilot School Classroom Teachers
Location: Fox Run - Library
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Presenter: Christina Guerra, CISD
Date: August 30th
Rigorous Curriculum Design: A Curriculum Roadmap
Grades 3, 4, and 5 classroom teachers from each elementary school (with the
exception of Columbus), District 3-5 ELL teachers, and District 3-5 Special
Education teachers will participate in a curriculum workshop that features the
curriculum maps designed this summer by Norwalk teachers. The maps were created
with the intent to connect standards, instruction, and assessment that are aligned to
our instructional resources. Practitioners will learn about rigorous curriculum design
and which standards are considered priorities. Concepts and skills will be clarified to
determine the corresponding level of cognitive rigor. Teachers will participate in
activities that will unpack major components of the curriculum to use in classroom
instruction and implement Authentic Performance Tasks for deeper interdisciplinary
connections.
Audience: Grades 3, 4, and 5 Classroom Teachers, ELL Teachers and Special Education
Teachers
Location: Naramake – Grade 3 cohort I & II (Library) & cohort III (L7)
Rowayton – Grade 4 cohort I & II (Gym) & cohort III (Library)
Kendall – Grade 5 cohort I & II (Library) & cohort III (Cafeteria)
Time: 9:00 am - 3:30pm
Presenters: CISDs (Jennifer Scanlan, Shannon Roman, Sandra Ehlers, Pam Augustine
Jefferson, Jeffrey Forzani, and Assistant Principal Sarah Carmody)
Date: August 30th
9 | P a g e
Getting Started with Read 180 Universal
The READ 180 Universal professional learning session will prepare middle school
and high school teachers from Nathan Hale Middle School, Ponus Ridge Middle
School, and Brien McMahon High School to successfully start teaching with the Read
180 Universal intervention. This training is for teachers who are new to Read 180
Universal or have had some initial training with the intervention. Topics include:
teaching in a blended-learning environment, HMH Teacher Central, HMH Reading
Inventory and progress monitoring, establishing procedures for small-group rotations,
and the importance of a growth mindset. A trainer from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
will facilitate this session.
Audience: Middle School Teachers and High School Teachers Delivering Read 180 for Nathan
Hale Middle School, Ponus Ridge Middle School and Brien McMahon High School
Location: Nathan Hale Middle School - Library
Time: 7:50am – 2:20pm
Presenter: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Date: August 30th
Getting Started with System 44
The System 44 Next Generation professional learning session is for teachers who are
new to System 44. The session will introduce teachers to the clear instructional path in
the system. This workshop will demonstrate how the intervention helps struggling
readers achieve mastery of foundational skills in phonics, comprehension, and writing.
A trainer from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt will deliver this professional learning
opportunity.
Audience: Middle School Teachers Delivering System 44
Location: Nathan Hale Middle School – Room 123
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenter: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Date: August 30th
Supporting Tiered Instruction within an Extended Learning Time Block
This training is designed to support Nathan Hale and Ponus Ridge educators with the
implementation of myPerspectives with fidelity. Participants dig into the components,
instructional design, and structure of the program. Participants will practice applying
specific features and design elements (including instructional philosophy, lesson
structure, and content) to classroom practice through hands-on activities and
observation of a demonstrated lesson. Participants will receive a prescriptive, week-
10 | P a g e
by-week implementation training plan to use following the workshop that can be
customized to their needs.
OUTCOMES:
By the end of the training, participants will be able to:
• Apply best practices for usage and recommended implementation strategies.
• Effectively integrate print and digital program components into instruction.
• Utilize specific program design knowledge to inform instruction and frame
classroom practice.
Audience: Grades 6, 7, 8 Ponus Ridge and Nathan Hale ELA Teachers
Location: Nathan Hale Middle School – Room 121
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenter: Pearson
Date: August 30th
ELL
A comprehensive introduction to the new Connecticut English Language Proficiency
(CELP) Standards will be the focus for ELL leaders who were not able to participate
in the spring. Other ELL teachers will explore the ESL Level I curriculum revision,
initiated this summer by elementary and secondary Curriculum Committees. Teachers
will work on completing the revisions and designing lessons collaboratively.
Audience: K-12 ELL Teachers
Location: Brien McMahon High School – Rooms 1093 and 1087
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenters: Helene Becker, ELL Instructional Specialist
Naomi Migliacci, ELL Consultant
Dates: August 29th and 30th
ELLI TeachNET: A Year-at-a-Glance Participants will engage in a team strategy building session to define and endorse the
ELLI TeachNET experience for the 2016-17 academic year, which includes an
overview of its components, expected outcomes and benefits. The session will include
an in-depth review and alignment of professional teaching and learning topics and
opportunities throughout the SY 2016-17 calendar year and beyond.
Audience: NPS PK Teachers
Location: 11 Allen Road- NECC
Time: 10:30am - 12:30pm
11 | P a g e
Presenters: Kate Delli Carpini, Margie Gillis, Rhonda Kiest, and Cristina Matos
Date: August 29th
PELI
Practitioners in the NPS Pre-K classes will receive training in the administration of
the Preschool Early Literacy indicators (PELI). Practitioners will receive step-by-step
instruction in the administration and scoring of the assessment and will have a review
of available reports. Practitioners will also have an opportunity to score a modeled
assessment.
Audience: NPS Pre-K Teachers and Special Education Instructional Aides
Location: 11 Allen Road- NECC
Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm
Presenters: Anne Downey
Date: August 30th
Math Grade 4 & 5 Math PD All grade 4 & 5 teachers will be working with the District Math Specialist to better prepare for the 2016-17 school year. Each session will focus on three things: The new K-5 Elementary Math Curricula, 20-20-20 Lesson Plan Design model, and Interventions and Enrichment using both print and digital resources. Time will also be set aside to discuss Pacing and to begin grade-level lesson planning for the start of the school year. Audience: Grade 4 & 5 Math Teachers from Naramake, Jefferson, Tracey, and Kendall Location: Jefferson – Room 23 Time: 9:00am -12:00pm Grade 5 12:30pm – 3:30pm Grade 4 Presenter: Craig Creller Date: August 29th Math 180- Course I Professional Learning MATH 180 professional learning is designed to help teachers consider how MATH 180 prepares students to meet rigorous College and Career Readiness Standards. Teachers understand the MATH 180 Instructional Model from the teacher’s and student’s perspective looking closely at the role of classroom discourse to support learning of mathematics. Teachers discover how Scholastic Central supports teaching, planning, and progress monitoring. They interpret MATH 180 progress, performance,
12 | P a g e
and assessment data to inform instruction and prepare for the first six weeks with MATH 180. Learning Outcomes
Understand the research behind MATH 180. Learn how the Common Core State Standards and assessments
impact teaching, curriculum, and learning. Experience the MATH 180 Instructional Model from the
student’s perspective. Explain and use the role of talk to support learning of
mathematics. Use Scholastic Central to support teaching, planning, and progress
monitoring. Interpret MATH 180 progress, performance, and assessment data
to inform instruction. Prepare for the first two weeks with MATH 180.
Audience: 6 – 12 Math Teachers + Norwalk High School Location: West Rocks Middle School – Portable Time: 7:50am – 2:20pm Presenter: Craig Creller and Scholastic Date: August 29th Big Ideas Participants engage in a variety of hands-on experiences to learn about Big Ideas organization, design, and resources, through direct instruction, guided practice, and cooperative exploration, participants will experience the program’s resources both from a student and teacher perspective. The goal is to build deeper understanding and confidence to begin implementing Big Ideas in their respective learning environments. Learning Outcomes:
Enrich daily instruction by applying knowledge of Big Ideas program organization and pedagogy
Support differentiation, assessment, and effective whole and small group instruction using HMH program resources and instructional tools
Enhance instructional delivery and student learning using HMH technology
Audience: All 6 – 8 Math Teachers (does not include Gr. 6 NHMS) Location: Nathan Hale Middle School – Room 133 Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
13 | P a g e
Presenter: Craig Creller and Big Ideas Date: August 30th Math 180- Course I Professional Learning MATH 180 professional learning is designed to help teachers consider how MATH 180 prepares students to meet rigorous College and Career Readiness Standards. Teachers understand the MATH 180 Instructional Model from the teacher’s and student’s perspective looking closely at the role of classroom discourse to support learning of mathematics. Teachers discover how Scholastic Central supports teaching, planning, and progress monitoring. They interpret MATH 180 progress, performance, and assessment data to inform instruction and prepare for the first six weeks with MATH 180. Learning Outcomes
Understand the research behind MATH 180. Learn how the Common Core State Standards and assessments
impact teaching, curriculum, and learning. Experience the MATH 180 Instructional Model from the
student’s perspective. Explain and use the role of talk to support learning of
mathematics. Use Scholastic Central to support teaching, planning, and progress
monitoring. Interpret MATH 180 progress, performance, and assessment data
to inform instruction. Prepare for the first two weeks with MATH 180.
Audience: 6 – 12 Math Teachers Location: Nathan Hale Middle School – Room 131 Time: 7:50am – 2:20pm Presenter: Craig Creller and Scholastic Date: August 30th
14 | P a g e
Music
Music practitioners will continue the process of developing, implementing and
sustaining a Pre-K to 12 district-wide, standards-based Music Department Curriculum
that is unique to the Norwalk Public Schools.
The topics to be addressed in this session will include developing a K-8 General
Music learning expectation in the National Core Arts Standard areas of Creating,
Performing, Responding and Connecting and collaborating to create “assured
experiences” in music for each grade level as part of the curriculum document.
Audience: K-8 Music Teachers
Location: Norwalk High School – Band Room
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenters: Chris Rivera - Norwalk High School, Ron Secchi -Brien McMahon High School,
Margaret Kelly - Fox Run Elementary School
Date: August 29th
Audience: K-12 Music Teachers
Location: Brien McMahon High School – Band Room
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenters: Chris Rivera - Norwalk High School, Ron Secchi - Brien McMahon High School,
Margaret Kelly - Fox Run Elementary School
Date: August 30th
NWEA Map
Title: NWEA MAP Administration Participants will learn how to implement and administer MAP assessments and how adaptive testing measures student progress and identifies instructional needs. The session will focus on the proctor’s role during test administration; setting up test and student sign in. Topics will include an overview of key reports, interpreting results, and using results to plan instruction. New elementary and content teachers in applicable grades may join one of the
sessions above. Library Aides may choose from Sessions 1-5 and attend the afternoon portion. Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm Facilitators: NWEA Staff Dates/Audience/ Location: 8/29 Sessions 1: All Grade 3 teachers- Marvin Cafeteria 8/29 Session 2: Cohort 2* Grade 4 & 5 teachers – Cranbury Gym 8/29 Session 3: Nathan Hale ELA and Math teachers, grades 6-8 - Library 8/29 Session 4: Ponus Ridge ELA and Math teachers, grade 6-8 – Room 113
15 | P a g e
8/30 Session 5: Brien McMahon ELA and Mat teachers, grades 9 & 10 and other staff involved with MAP – CGS Community Room
*Cohort 2 elementary schools are: Brookside, Columbus, Cranbury, Fox Run, Rowayton, Silvermine, and Wolfpit Title: NWEA MAP Administration and Troubleshooting Participants will learn how to proctor, suspend, and resume the MAP Assessment. In addition, participants will learn troubleshooting techniques and tricks. The focus will be on how the tech liaisons can support school proctors during the MAP administration. Audience: School Technical Liaisons Location: Roton Middle School Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm Presenter: NWEA Staff Date: August 30th NWEA MAP Overview for Administrators Participants will learn to employ a systems approach to MAP planning and implementation. In addition, participants will build skills in accessing MAP data and interpreting results. There will be a focus on how to support data teams to interpret and apply data. Participants at all NWEA sessions will use Chromebooks or laptops. Audience: Cohort 2 Administrators and New Administrators Location: Central Office, Room 322
Time: 8:30am – 3:00pm
Presenter: Dawn Essig, NWEA
Date: August 30th
Roles and Responsibilities for Paras Paraeducators, regardless of what position they may be assigned, are a vital link for school districts to accommodate a wide range of individual and group needs. They are team members who support learner-centered instructional environments and expand student-learning by providing individualized attention, instruction, and behavior management. In order for a paraeducator to understand, clarify and fulfill their duties, they must have a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of all staff. Aligned with Levels 1 and 2 of the National Paraeducator and Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Standards, this basic module seeks to clarify the roles and responsibilities of the paraeducator, teacher, and administrator as partners in an educational team. Strategies to work effectively as a member of an instructional team are provided.
16 | P a g e
Audience: Paraeducators Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Auditorium Time: 8:30am – 11:30am Presenter: Jennifer Benevento, AFT CT Date: August 30th Legal Issues for Paras AFT-CT Attorney, Eric Chester will discuss a number of legal issues facing Paraprofessionals in the workplace today. Topics to be covered include: work related injuries, obligations and responsibilities as a mandated reporter, what to do and not do if DCF is investigating you, and the appropriate use of reasonable restraint of a student. Audience: Regular and Special Education Paraeducators Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Auditorium Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm Presenter: Eric Chester, Ferguson, Doyle and Chester
Date: August 29th
First Aid for Paras From cuts and scrapes to bumps and bruises, kids are going to get hurt from time to time. Join us for this informative workshop where you will learn what to do in case of an emergency, including how to respond and assess the situation, as well as how to provide basic first aid treatment. Topics to be covered include: the importance of Universal Precautions, the steps of a primary assessment of both responsive and unresponsive victims, and how to recognize and perform basic first aid for minor injuries. Audience: Regular and Special Education Paraeducators Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Cafeteria Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm Presenter: Dennis Fogler
17 | P a g e
Date: August 29th
Managing Student Behavior Disruptive behavior is a hindrance to the learning environment and the academic success of students and the school. Inappropriate student behavior can occur anywhere in our schools making it necessary for all school personnel to assist in dealing with these students. This workshop is part of the original researched-based AFT Managing Antisocial Behavior course to help paraprofessionals work with special needs students. However, the practices and strategies that are incorporated are also appropriate for non-disabled students, and in areas outside the classroom such as the cafeteria, playground and office. This workshop can help support personnel to prevent, minimize or eliminate many behavior problems. The purpose of the workshop is to help support staff create and maintain an orderly environment in their specific areas of responsibility, to address student issues within their control and to learn to use research-based, field-tested strategies. The workshop will examine: Appropriate/anti-social behavior, Characteristics of behavior, Root causes of anti-social behavior, Effective Behavior Management Techniques and the acting Out Cycle. Audience: Regular Paraeducators Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Computer Lab – Room 218 Time: 8:30am – 11:30am Presenter: Leonard Edmonds
Date: August 29th
Library PSRPs Managing Student Behavior Disruptive behavior is a hindrance to the learning environment and the academic success of students and the school. Inappropriate student behavior can occur anywhere in our schools making it necessary for all school personnel to assist in dealing with these students. This workshop is part of the original researched-based AFT Managing Antisocial Behavior course to help paraprofessionals work with special needs students. However, the practices and strategies that are incorporated are also appropriate for non-disabled students, and in areas outside the classroom such as the cafeteria, playground and office. This workshop can help support personnel to prevent, minimize or eliminate many behavior problems. The purpose of the workshop is to help support staff create and maintain an orderly environment in their specific areas of responsibility, to address student issues within their control and to learn to use research-based, field-tested strategies. The workshop will examine: Appropriate/anti-social behavior, Characteristics of behavior, Root causes of anti-
18 | P a g e
social behavior, Effective Behavior Management Techniques and the acting Out Cycle. Audience: Library Staff Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Computer Lab – Room 218 Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm Presenter: Leonard Edmonds, AFT
Date: August 29th
Clerical and Secretarial PSRPs Effective Communication Communication skills are required to support students learning, to collaborate with colleagues, and to send and receive information. All staff need professional development to acquire and refine knowledge and skills in various communication techniques. Effective Communication is a prerequisite for developing learning communities in which all members are valued, feel safe, and are respected. All school personnel model and reinforce good communication skills to improve students’ communication skills. Aligned with Levels 1 and 2 of the National Paraeducator and Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Standards, this basic module seeks to explore various aspects of collaboration and communication with adults and students, including relationship building and effective problem solving. Audience: Clerical and Secretarial Staff Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Library Time: 8:30am – 11:30am Presenter: Jennifer Benevento, AFT CT
Date: August 30th
Tools for Secretaries Clerical staff interacts with everyone in the school community from the administrator and staff to students, vendors and community members. School Secretaries’ role is integral to the smooth operation of the school, but can be demanding and stressful. In this workshop we will explore factors that determine the degree of stress and demands placed on school secretaries during their workday. We will offer strategies to help them better manage their workloads, create a work-friendly office environment that diminishes stress, maintains good working relationships and makes interacting with the office a win-win for everyone, especially the secretary. The workshop will examine: the many hats of the school secretary, the pros and cons of multitasking, the Eisenhower Box, and Customer Service protocols. Audience: Clerical and Secretarial Staff Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Computer Lab – Room 218 Time: 8:30am – 11:30am
19 | P a g e
Presenter: Leonard Edmonds, AFT
Date; August 30th
Effective Communication Communication skills are required to support student learning, to collaborate with colleagues, and to send and receive information. All staff need professional development to acquire and refine knowledge and skills in various communication techniques. Effective Communication is a prerequisite for developing learning communities in which all members are valued, feel safe, and are respected. All school personnel model and reinforce good communication skills to improve students’ communication skills. Aligned with Levels 1 and 2 of the National Paraeducator and Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Standards, this basic module seeks to explore various aspects of collaboration and communication with adults and students, including relationship building and effective problem solving. Audience: Clerical and Secretarial Staff Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Library Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm Presenter: Jennifer Benevento, AFT CT
Date: August 30th
Tools for Secretaries Clerical staff interacts with everyone in the school community from the administrator and staff to students, vendors and community members. School Secretaries’ role is integral to the smooth operation of the school, but can be demanding and stressful. In this workshop we will explore factors that determine the degree of stress and demands placed on school secretaries during their workday. We will offer strategies to help them better manage their workloads, create a work-friendly office environment that diminishes stress, maintains good working relationships and makes interacting with the office a win-win for everyone, especially the secretary. The workshop will examine: the many hats of the school secretary, the pros and cons of multitasking, the
20 | P a g e
Eisenhower Box, and Customer Service protocols. Audience: Clerical and Secretarial Staff Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Computer Lab – Room 218 Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm Presenter: Leonard Edmonds, AFT
Date: August 30th
PE/Health
K-12 Physical Education teachers will be meeting at Brien McMahon High School.
The USTA will present the morning session and introduce their cutting edge in-
school curriculum with relevant, up to date materials for tennis physical education
programs. The First Tee of CT will present the afternoon session training teachers to
incorporate their established curriculum introducing golf into school physical
education programs.
Audience: K-12 Physical Education Teachers
Location: Brien McMahon High School – Main Gym
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenters: USTA
First Tee of CT
Date: August 30th
K-12 Health educators will be meeting at Brien McMahon High School to focus on
articulating the health curriculum and incorporating the new state requirements. The
afternoon session will focus on lesson delivery of health topics and coordinating
health classroom resources.
Audience: K-12 Health Teachers
Location: Brien McMahon High School – Rooms 1205 and 1207
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm-
Presenters: NPS Staff
Date: August 30th
Science:
The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) require educators to view instruction
in a new dimension. As our nation continues to adopt, implement, and transition to
the NGSS, phenomenon-driven instruction will guide students to deeper level
thinking with complex science content. In our two-day workshop, middle school
practitioners will engage in vertical and horizontal groups to discuss “phenomena-
driven instruction” and how to apply these strategies in a practical manner. Teachers
will engage in interactive mini-sessions focused on storylines and how to understand
21 | P a g e
the grade level bands for instructional purposes. Key outcomes from the sessions
include:
1. Design lessons using “phenomena” in a practical manner
2. Sharing new learning about phenomena and storylines (PEs) for instructional
purposes
3. Unwrapping standards to support developing grade-level storylines
Audience: 6-8 Middle School Science Teachers
Location: Nathan Hale Middle School
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm (Tech Lab – everyone)
6th Grade – Room 221, 7th Grade – Room 222, 8th Grade – Room 109
Presenters: Stephanie Tom, Theresa Cetinski, and Maria Fox
Date: August 29th and August 30th
Social Studies
6th, 7th, 8th Grade Social Studies Teachers
Participants will examine the revised 6th, 7th and 8th Grade Social Studies RCD
Curriculum and Authentic Performance Assessments (APTs) along with the newly
aligned print and online resources for rigorous, differentiated planning and
implementation.
Audience: 6th, 7th, 8th Social Studies Teachers
Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School – Room 106
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenter: Sara Slogesky, CREC
Dates: August 29th and 30th
Norwalk High School Social Studies Teachers
Participants will explore the Pearson online resources for effective, rigorous, and
differentiated instructional planning and implementation.
Audience: NHS 9-12 Social Studies Teachers
Location Norwalk High School – Social Studies Resource Room
Time: 7:30am – 2:00pm
Presenter: Marci Garner, Pearson
Date: August 29th
22 | P a g e
Brien McMahon High School Social Studies Teachers
Participants will explore the Pearson online resources for more effective, rigorous,
and differentiated instructional planning and implementation.
Audience: BMHS 9-12 Social Studies Teachers
Location: Brien McMahon High School – Room 2110
Time: 7:30am – 2:00pm
Presenter: Marci Garner, Pearson
Date: August 30th
Teach to One Instructional Model Orientation
The second day of Teach to One orientation will provide teachers with the
opportunity to take a deep dive in understanding the different learning modalities.
Participants will investigate the key teacher and student moves in each of the
modalities. Teachers will have an opportunity to explore the student and teacher
portals and norm on some guidelines for grading and other operational practices. The
focus of the day will continue to be on the student success framework for learning.
Audience: Teach to One Teachers
Location: Nathan Hale Middle School
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenter: Lyn Harper
Date: August 29th
Teach to One Instructional Model Orientation
On this final day of the three-day orientation for teachers in the Teach to One Math
Center, participants will focus on planning for student orientation and preparing the
Math Center for the students. Teachers will review the available student orientation
materials and plan the agenda for the student orientation days. The second part of the
day will be designated for team time to make the final preparation in the Math Center.
Audience: Teach to One Teachers
Location: Nathan Hale Middle School
Time: 8:15am – 2:45pm
Presenter: Lyn Harper
Date: August 30th
23 | P a g e
World Language
NHMS, WRMS, NHS Levels 1 and 2 Teachers
Levels 1 and 2 Middle School (Nathan Hale and West Rocks) and Norwalk High
School World Language teachers will participate in a vertical articulation review of the
RCD Curriculum Units and assessments with a focus on student progress and
achievement to guide rigorous, differentiated planning and implementation.
Audience: NHMS, WRMS and NHS Levels 1 and 2 Teachers
Location: Norwalk High School – Room 314B
Time: 11:00am – 1:00pm
Presenter: Marcia Schenker
Date: August 29th
NHMS, WRMS, NHS Heritage Language Teachers
Heritage Language Teachers from NHMS, WRMS and NHS will be introduced to the
Curriculum Design and Development Plan for the Heritage Language Curriculum
Revision Project.
Audience: NHMS, WRMS and NHS Heritage Language Teachers
Location: NHS – Room 314B
Time: 1:30pm – 2:30/3:00pm
Presenter: Marcia Schenker
Date: August 29th
BMHS World Languages Level 3 Teachers
Level 3 World Languages Teachers at Brien McMahon High School will examine the
new Level 3 RCD Curriculum and Authentic Performance Assessments (APTs) along
with the newly aligned print and online resources for rigorous, differentiated planning
and implementation.
Audience: BMHS World Language level 3 Teachers
Location: Brien McMahon High School – Room 1046
Time: 7:30am – 2:00pm
Presenter: Marcia Schenker
Date: August 30th
24 | P a g e
NHS World Languages Level 3 Teachers
Level 3 World Language teachers at Norwalk High School will examine the new Level
3 RCD Curriculum and Authentic Performance Assessments (APTs) along with the
newly aligned print and online resources for rigorous, differentiated planning and
implementation.
Audience: NHS World Language Level 3 Teachers
Location: Norwalk High School – 314B
Time: 7:30am – 2:00pm
Presenter: Marcia Schenker
Date: August 29th
PRMS, RMS, BMHS Levels 1 and 2 Teachers
Levels 1 and 2 Middle School (Ponus Ridge and Roton) and Brien McMahon High
School teachers will participate in a vertical articulation review of the RCD
Curriculum Units and assessments along with a focus on student progress and
achievement to guide rigorous, differentiated planning an implementation.
Audience: PRMS, RMS, BMHS Levels 1 and 2 Teachers
Location: Brien McMahon High School – Room 1046
Time: 11:00am – 1:00pm
Presenter: Marcia Schenker
Date: August 30th
PRMS, RMS, and BMHS Heritage Language Teachers
Heritage Language Teachers from PRMS, RMS and BMHS will be introduced to the
Curriculum Design and Development Plan for the Heritage Language Curriculum
Revision Project.
Audience: PRMS, RMS and BMHS Heritage Language Teachers
Location: Brien McMahon High School – Room 1046
Time: 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Presenter: Marcia Schenker
Date: August 30th
504 Professional Development (School Counselors & Social Workers)
Support staff at the building level will participate in a workshop from the law office of
Berchem, Moses & Devlin, P.C. on Section 504 procedures. The workshop will be
25 | P a g e
followed by a PD session in using 504 Direct, our online system for creating and
managing 504 cases.
Audience: School Counselors (Secondary Schools)
Social Workers (Elementary Schools – after meeting with Special Education)
Location: Norwalk High School - Room
Time: 10:30am – 3:30pm
Presenters: Ralph Valenzisi, Donna Patchen and Law Office of Berchem, Moses
& Devlin, P. C.
Date: August 29th
Center for Global Studies
Practitioners will be reviewing the vision, mission, and goals of the CGS using The
Daggett System of Effective Instruction; teachers and staff will re-imagine instruction
as a systemic environment, not an individual act, and consider the implications of this
in the school’s long-term planning and structure. Sessions will focus on developing a
profile of CGS graduate, re-imagining standardized assessments, planning for
interdisciplinary projects and assessments, and creating systemic support for
struggling students.
Audience: Center for Global Studies Teachers and Staff
Location: Brien McMahon High School – CGS Room 1010
Time: 7:30am – 2:00pm
Presenters: CGS Staff
Date: August 29th and 30th
Brien McMahon High School
Our professional development focus remains Student Centered Learning: How to Use the
Extended Learning Period to Our Best Advantage? BMHS teachers will show their
colleagues how to maximize the powerful teaching tool, Google Classroom. This is
the next step in our journey towards becoming more student centered in our
pedagogy. Google Classroom also expands the opportunities for learning outside of
the classroom, improving communication with students and parents, and promoting
21st century learning skills. There will be an overview of the many benefits of Google
Classroom and breakout sessions for beginners and teachers who have a working
knowledge of the platform. We plan to continue this professional development
throughout the school year.
Audience: Brien McMahon High School Staff
Location: Brien McMahon High School
Time: 7:30am – 2:00pm
26 | P a g e
Presenters: Dani Brown, Jean Bunce, John Cross, Tom O’Neil
Date: August 29th and 30th
NECA
NECA teachers attended a 2-day IB/PTech Retreat on Monday, 8/22 and
Tuesday8/23 and participated in several workshops on Mindsets and Culture,
Professional Skills Required for Student Internships, and Agile Coaching. The team
will continue their training on culture and mindsets through the development of
mission and vision statements, aggressive monitoring techniques, and opening class
routines and procedures. Teachers will also participate in NHS department meetings
to further their development and implementation of block schedule lesson planning.
Audience: NECA Teachers
Location: Norwalk High School – NECA
Time: 7:30am – 2:30pm
Presenter: Karen Amaker
Dates: August 29th and 30th
Norwalk High School
As a continuation of their work during 2015-2016 with presenters from CES and
CSSR, NHS teachers will work in department-specific instructional data teams to
complete lessons for the elongated bloc. Our work will result in content-specific
interactive learning activities, pre-referral classroom teacher interventions, and
teaching methods aligned to school/department vision and academic look-for(s). We
will also complete an examination of curriculum pacing with regard to the A/B block
schedule as we prepare for the NEASC 2-year report.
Audience: Norwalk High School Staff
Location: Norwalk High
Time: 7:30am – 2:00pm
Presenters: Norwalk High School Staff
Date: August 29th and 30th
Norwalk Pathways Academy
Blended learning involves leveraging technology to afford each student a more
personalized learning experience. Within Edgenuity, the presenter will show the one-
to-one learning experiences integrated with digital learning based on the students’
personal needs. Staff will be trained on the new Dashboard, customization, and
tracking student progress.
27 | P a g e
Audience: Norwalk Pathways Academy Teachers
Location: Norwalk Pathways Academy
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Presenters: Edgenuity, Inc.
Date: August 29th
Presenters and staff will continue to discuss the various modalities of blended learning
within a course or subject to provide an integrated learning experience for all students.
Teachers will examine their instructional practices, use of data, and connect the
professional development activities to the students by examining instructional
strategies to actively engage students in the content through inquiry based activities
and various forms of assessment.
Audience: Norwalk Pathways Academy Teachers
Location: Norwalk Pathways Academy
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Presenters: Edgenuity, Inc.
Date: August 30th
Special Education
Special Education (MORNING): Dr. Toper will discuss her vision for the special education services for Norwalk Public Schools. Priority items from the CREC report will be reviewed and highlighted. Additionally, the new Norwalk Policy and Procedures manual will be shared with staff. Audience: ALL Special Education Teachers, Social Workers, Speech and Language
Pathologists, and Psychologists
Location: Brien McMahon High School cafeteria Duration: 8:00 am – 10:00am Presenters: Dr. Toper Date: August 29th
Pre-K Staff (AFTERNOON): The Stepping Stones Staff will cover the following
ELLI TeachNET topics; Dialogic Reading, Invented Spelling and using CT ELDS to
write IEP goals.
Audience: Pre-K Teachers and Psychologists
Location: Norwalk High School - NECC
Duration: 10:30am – 3:00pm Presenters: Stepping Stones Staff Date: August 29th
28 | P a g e
Special Education (AFTERNOON): Terri Defrancis will review key components
of the Policy and Procedures manual. In addition, procedures regarding seclusion
and restraint will be shared.
Audience: K-12 Special Education Teachers and Psychologists
Location: Brien McMahon High School cafeteria Duration: 10:30am – 3:00pm Presenters: Terri Defrancis Date: August 29th Speech Language Pathologists (AFTERNOON): The Speech Language
Pathologists will participate in a program consisting of the following topics: Data
collection methods, how to collect data with multiple students, data graphs/and tables
that are easy to understand, best practices for report writing, reviewing reports with
families, and five-minute summary for PPT. NOTE: Participants are asked submit
questions prior to the workshop.
Audience: Speech Language Pathologists
Location: City Hall Room 101 Duration: 10:30am – 3:00pm Presenter: Rachel Fritz
Date: August 29th
Social Workers (AFTERNOON): Social Workers will participate in a session in
using 504 Direct, our online system for creating and managing 504 cases. The
workshop will be followed by a workshop from the law office of Berchem, Moses &
Devlin, P.C. on Section 504 procedures.
Audience: Social Workers
Location: Brien McMahon High School Duration: 10:30am – 3:30pm Presenter: Ralph Valenzisi, Donna Patchen, and Law office of Berchem, Moses & Devlin,
P.C.
Date: August 29th
Special Education Paraprofessionals and ABA Therapists (MORNING): Roles and Responsibilities for Paras Paraeducators, regardless of what position they may be assigned, are a vital link for school districts to accommodate a wide range of individual and group needs. They are team members who support learner-centered instructional environments and expand student-learning by providing individualized attention, instruction, and behavior management. In order for a paraeducator to understand, clarify and fulfill their duties,
29 | P a g e
they must have a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of all staff. Aligned with Levels 1 and 2 of the National Paraeducator and Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Standards, this basic module seeks to clarify the roles and responsibilities of the paraeducator, teacher, and administrator as partners in an educational team. Strategies to work effectively as a member of an instructional team are provided. Audience: Special Education Paraprofessionals and ABA Therapists
Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Auditorium Duration: 8:30am – 11:30 Presenter: Jennifer Benevento, AFT CT
Date: August 29th
Special Education Paraprofessionals and ABA Therapists (AFTERNOON): CHOOSE 1 Session Legal Issues for Paras AFT-CT Attorney, Eric Chester will discuss legal issues facing Paraprofessionals in the workplace today. Topics to be covered include: work related injuries, obligations and responsibilities as a mandated reporter, what to do and not do if DCF is investigating you, and the appropriate use of reasonable restraint of a student. Audience: Paraeducators Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Auditorium Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm Presenter: Eric Chester, Ferguson, Doyle and Chester
Date: August 29th
First Aid for Paras From cuts and scrapes to bumps and bruises, kids are going to get hurt from time to time. Join us for this informative workshop where you will learn what to do in case of an emergency, including how to respond and assess the situation, as well as how to provide basic first aid treatment. Topics to be covered include: the importance of Universal Precautions, the steps of a primary assessment of both responsive and unresponsive victims, and how to recognize and perform basic first aid for minor injuries. Audience: Special Education Paraeducators Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Cafeteria Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm Presenter: Dennis Fogler
Date: August 29th
30 | P a g e
Managing Student Behavior Disruptive behavior is a hindrance to the learning environment and the academic success of students and the school. Inappropriate student behavior can occur anywhere in our schools making it necessary for all school personnel to assist in dealing with these students. This workshop is part of the original researched-based AFT Managing Antisocial Behavior course to help paraprofessionals work with special needs students. However, the practices and strategies that are incorporated are also appropriate for non-disabled students, and in areas outside the classroom such as the cafeteria, playground and office. This workshop can help support personnel to prevent, minimize or eliminate many behavior problems. The purpose of the workshop is to help support staff create and maintain an orderly environment in their specific areas of responsibility, to address student issues within their control and to learn to use research-based, field-tested strategies. The workshop will examine: Appropriate/anti-social behavior, Characteristics of behavior, Root causes of anti-social behavior, Effective Behavior Management Techniques and the acting Out Cycle. Audience: Special Education Paraeducators Location: Ponus Ridge Middle School Computer Lab – Room 218 Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm Presenter: Leonard Edmonds
Date: August 29th
Special Education Teachers K -12 (ALL DAY): Special Education teachers will
participate in their school site professional development activities.
Audience: K-12 Special Education Teachers
Location: District and School Site
Duration: Vary Presenters: Vary Date: August 30th *Please reference booklet for appropriate workshops.
Speech and Language (ALL DAY): Speech and language pathologists will review
students’ IEP, and develop a schedule of services to be implemented the first day of
school.
Audience: Speech and Language Pathologists
Location: School Site Duration: 8:00am – 3:00pm Presenter: Staff
Date: August 30th
31 | P a g e
Psychologists and Social Workers (ALL DAY): The Psychologist and Social
workers will participate in a program covering the following topics; knowledge of the
Social Emotional Learning frameworks, writing SMART goals to address students’
social/ emotional needs, identifying impact of students’ social/ emotional needs and
strategies to address those needs.
Audience: Psychologists and Social Workers
Location: City Hall Room 333 Duration: 8:00am – 3:00pm Presenter: SERC
Date: August 30th