The 7 Attitudes of Mindfulness VIRTUAL 1-1/2 hour Workshop facilitated by The Zen Den's Michelle Anglisano and Kristen McDermott-4:30-6pm
2026-11-18 16:30 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual Conference
A meditation inspired by Jon Kabat Zinn. This can be adapted to a 7 week program. Join us for a guided meditation workshop designed to explore the essence of mindfulness through reflection and practice. Together, we’ll answer questions such as: -What is mindfulness? -How can I bring it into my daily life? -Why is being mindful important Through meditation and thoughtful discussion, participants will explore the 7 attitudes of mindfulness-practical principles that help cultivate awareness, compassion, and presence. You’ll leave with tools to incorporate mindfulness into everyday moments, creating a calmer, more balanced, and intentional way of living. Eligible for 1-1/2 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GQBjEJ1rgCtZKyibQ_jqd-N5Vb5VBJdJ/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5406534

Effective CSE/CPSE Chairperson Leadership: Navigating Legal and Regulatory Compliance *IN PERSON* Facilitated by Consulting that Makes a Difference-8:30-2:30pm
2026-11-19 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
In today’s evolving educational landscape, the role of the Committee on Special Education (CSE) and Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) Chairperson is more vital-and more complex-than ever before. Chairpersons are responsible for ensuring that students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE), while also maintaining compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and other applicable federal and state guidelines. This workshop is a comprehensive, in-depth workshop designed to equip current and aspiring chairpersons with the tools, strategies, and legal knowledge necessary to lead effectively. Through interactive discussions, practical case studies, and collaborative learning, participants will gain the confidence and expertise to make informed, student-centered decisions while upholding the highest standards of regulatory compliance. Whether you are newly appointed, experienced but looking to sharpen your skills, or are part of a leadership team seeking consistent districtwide practices, this workshop will support your professional growth. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hOKCRSofxCChN4A5mxI0ghEvpPgPgyRV/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5409260

T. E.A.M: Teaching Educators Adaptive Methodologies: A Hybrid Approach to Instructional K-12 Design *IN PERSON* facilitated by Dr. Melissa Jacobs - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-11-19 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
A world where every individual teacher sees themselves as a Community Architect. A world where teachers find ways to work together to create a village of learning. Building a village is a necessary part of being an educator in a world often siloed and polarized. Instead of creating greater spaces for adaptation we often find ourselves blocked by various impediments that work against mentorship and innovation. This course is designed to break through those obstacles in a clear way, help find support and infrastructure through your own collaboration capsule and build community within the spaces where you sometimes find yourself more isolated. This is one of the adaptive methodologies the course is designed to heighten. In this course educators will create one of the first adaptive methodologies that work to break down silos. Collaboration capsules in the K-12 space are designed to support innovation and experimentation which can cross pollinate between grade levels and subject areas. This is a designed space specifically where reciprocal relationships can live, and lessons can offer greater support for experimentation between colleagues, within different buildings in districts and to other schools. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FmjnCcNjz_CbsQI1ODj33f6uekA-5IFd/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5410805

Tuck Test Prep into Your Best Literacy Practices Across the School Year *IN PERSON* facilitated by Deborah Linscott-Feinstein - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-11-20 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Audience: administrators, literacy coaches, reading teachers, grades 3-8 ENL, general and special education teachers Are you looking to seamlessly integrate test preparation into your daily curriculum without sacrificing authentic literacy instruction? Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to help Grades 3-8 educators maximize the performance of their students in reading and on the NYS ELA exams. This seminar will provide you with for organizing and implementing ELA test preparation seamlessly into your narrative, argument, and informational reading and writing units. We will move beyond rote practice across the year, instead treating the state test as a “transfer genre” so you can reteach transferable strategies already embedded within your reading and writing programs. Join us for a hands-on day tailoring vocabulary study, close reading, multi-media activities and writing strategies designed to meet the NYS ELA expectations later in the school year. Tap the profuse resources yielded from brain-friendly strategies such as: -embedding academic language and analytical question stems across the year that help maximize the performance of your students on the NYS ELA. -incorporating multisensory activities to help your strugglers synthesize nonfiction text features with informational text passages that resemble test passages but match your existing units. -teaching from academic word lists taken from the NYS ELA. -using instructional charts that work well across a variety of units to bolster the academic language of the ELA. -scaffolding metacognitive strategies for tackling short texts. -teaching paragraph and essay structures that foster good writing while accessing the writing structures of the NYS ELA.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pYv8iMs0nhmo_TNdZ3lllC3oDs0Zto0E/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5393407

Informal Writing Assessment VIRTUAL 3 hour Workshop facilitated by Amy Siracusano - 8:30-11:30am
2026-11-23 08:30 - 11:30 | Virtual Conference
This workshop will teach you how to develop informal assessments for writing in the classroom from foundational skills through essay writing using the NY State Next Gen Standards as a guide for end of year learning outcomes. Audience: All Elementary classroom teachers, all content areas and subgroups Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/16GaJtzU7YVeDw9PV3uw1X2vlh4eb4xI9/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5417505

The Art of Co-Teaching (Level 2) Deepening the Co-Teaching Partnership and Practice 3-Hour *IN PERSON* Workshop Facilitated by Consulting that Makes a Difference-8:30-11:30am
2026-12-01 08:30 - 11:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
This is a dynamic, hands-on workshop specifically designed for co-teaching teams who have worked together for at least two years and are ready to advance their skills, deepen their collaboration, and refine their instructional practices. This workshop builds on the foundational knowledge and experience gained in Level 1, offering co-teachers a chance to reflect, recalibrate, and reignite their partnership through focused exploration, meaningful dialogue, and intentional planning. As co-teaching becomes more established in classrooms, educators often find themselves seeking more advanced tools and structures to meet the evolving needs of their students, refine their use of the six co-teaching models, and strengthen their interpersonal dynamics. Level 2 is designed to meet these needs, offering experienced co-teachers the space to move beyond basic implementation and toward true instructional synergy. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/120NMauneyLLaA79Xz95AkCUzwJDyX2tu/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5409109

Beyond the Plateau: Science-Based Fluency Strategies for the Classroom *IN PERSON* facilitated by Lauren Kolbeck Szulc - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-01 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Audience: Classroom teachers grades 1-6, reading teachers, literacy coaches, ELL teachers and administrators Are your students “stuck in the middle of the bridge”-able to decode but lacking the automaticity needed to truly comprehend and enjoy what they read? This full-day, interactive workshop equips educators with a comprehensive Science of Reading-aligned toolbox designed specifically for the needs of developing readers. We’ll redefine fluency as the integration of accuracy, appropriate rate, and prosody-the essential gateway to deep comprehension. Participants will: -Implement the “Read Like Us” protocol -Apply scaffolding techniques in small group instruction to provide all students access to complex, grade-level text. -Design and curate text sets that promote wide reading and develop academic vocabulary. -Use ORF and WCPM data to make informed instructional decisions, targeting appropriate fluency benchmarks rather than speed alone. The afternoon session focuses on maximizing the impact of small group instruction. Participants will practice delivering immediate, targeted feedback and using strategies such as listening passage previews to support students with challenging texts. By shifting from finding the “perfect level” to designing the right scaffold, educators can ensure every student reaches the doorway to comprehension. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BEC1LchIJyeIyXJ7je9eiy6VDD_pqLWo/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5392830

Nuts and Bolts of the NYSSLS for High School Physics *IN PERSON* facilitated by Richard Slesinski - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-01 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
This interactive workshop supports high school physics teachers in navigating the shift to the New York State Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS). Participants will unpack the 3-dimensional nature of the performance expectations, explore released cluster items, and be introduced to developing unit plans rooted in storyline design. Special emphasis will be placed on clarifying what’s “in” and “out” in terms of content, aligning instruction with the intent of the standards, and using the “Activity Before Content” (ABC) approach to promote student sensemaking. Learning Targets: 1. Analyze NYSSLS performance expectations using the 3 dimensions. 2. Identify new and omitted content in NYSSLS-aligned physics compared to previous standards. 3. Draft a realistic pacing guide for the school year. 4. Examine released cluster items to understand performance levels and student expectations. 5. Explore the basics of unit storyline development, anchored in compelling phenomena and student-driven questions. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fKyFVLrFom3fLp2ggExZORUW2vzDGMyf/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5416715

Promoting Teacher Retention Through the Power of Psychological Ownership *IN PERSON* facilitated by Robert Feirsen, Ed.D, and Seth Weitzman, Ed.D.-8:30-11:30am
2026-12-02 08:30 - 11:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
In this interactive workshop, participants will develop an understanding of how to harness the transformative power of psychological ownership to retain the best teachers, build individual and collective expertise, and strengthen relationships. Psychological ownership explains why one teacher exudes enthusiasm, while a colleague fills out applications for another job. Originating from the field of social psychology, psychological ownership offers strategies that instill a superior degree of job satisfaction and commitment, anchoring staff to their schools. Teachers experiencing psychological ownership of their workplace report superior feelings of agency, belonging, expertise, and accountability. Psychological ownership -increases the likelihood of retaining the very best teachers, -increases the impact of new teacher induction, -adds value to professional development, and -builds school capacity by enabling staff to sustain high levels of performance. Ultimately, motivated and engaged staff are best equipped to meet the academic and social-emotional needs of the students they serve. Participants in the workshop will examine school environments that constrain the development of psychological ownership. Attendees with then develop strategies that encourage employees to grow a deep commitment to their work and to the school community at large, as well as empower them to meet the challenges of schooling in today’s demanding climate. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dca1vQMSpSuGwT616KiWkDMztS9-ZP1L/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5415715

AI in the Classroom: Practical Use for Teaching and Learning (6-12) *IN PERSON* facilitated by Mike Ochs - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-02 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
A practical introduction to using AI tools to support teaching, planning, and student learning in secondary classrooms. Teachers explore clear, responsible ways to use AI to generate materials, model thinking, and support writing and analysis-while maintaining strong instructional judgment and student ownership. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14fWhHDHQomo2ss8QkBJXBwSOJchExNKT/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5407905

Student Resilience in Schools: Dr. Michael Ungar's 9 Factors that Schools can Effectively Influence VIRTUAL 3-hour Workshop facilitated by Joan Fretz - 8:30-11:30am
2026-12-03 08:30 - 11:30 | Virtual Conference
In educational settings, there has been an unfair emphasis on a student’s individual responsibility to change, and a lack of attention to the many social and institutional factors that make a student’s resilience possible. Come explore the 9 factors schools can successfully influence, based on the world-wide research of Dr. Michael Ungar, Director and Founder of the Resiliency Research Centre in Canada. Learn how resiliency research helps to shift our focus from psychopathology, disorder and trauma to the promotive and protective factors that positively influence academic and developmental outcomes. Extensive free resources will be provided. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hbSC3znm7kuzbn2R9HhgSgKlSNX6UnoX/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5406140

Phonics Power and Orthographic Mapping: Teaching Principles of Phonics and Word Study in Ways That Stick Gr K-3 *IN PERSON* facilitated by The Living Literacy Network - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-03 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
In this session, teachers will learn the importance of explicit and systematic phonics instruction in ways that lead to orthographic mapping – the process of forming letter-sound connections in order to commit spellings, pronunciations, and meanings of words to memory. Beyond phonics instruction, teachers will also unlock the power of teaching the six syllable types along with common syllable divisions that lead to automaticity for fluid and flexible word solving. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1szV4dslTwaSxIbE2anXnjhObxTW6sbpE/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5413728

Conflict Agility: Turning School Tensions into Collaboration and Capacity *IN PERSON* facilitated by Robert Feirsen, Ed.D. and Seth Weitzman, Ed.D. - 8:30-11:30am
2026-12-07 08:30 - 11:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Conflict in polarized school communities is a continuing challenge for today’s school leaders. Administrators routinely encounter intense, emotional conversations involving parents, educators, students, and community members-often around high stakes issues such as curriculum, student services, equity, and school climate. When perspectives are deeply dissonant, conflict can constrain problem solving, erode trust, and constrain efforts to meet student needs. Too often, leaders respond by avoiding contentious issues or relying on authority based approaches that escalate tension rather than resolve it. This interactive workshop will help school leaders develop the skills and mindset needed to lead through conflict rather than around it. Drawing on research from peace studies, education, organizational psychology, and design thinking, participants will explore the roots of conflict in schools and examine why polarization intensifies under pressure. The session will emphasize how conflict-when skillfully engaged-can become a catalyst for collaboration, trust building, and increased organizational capacity. Participants will engage in realistic case studies addressing common leadership flashpoints. They will apply a structured framework for navigating complex, emotionally charged disagreements while keeping student needs at the center of decision making. Participants will leave with practical strategies they can immediately apply in their schools, as well as tools to turnkey professional learning for their leadership teams-helping create cultures where constructive dialogue replaces avoidance and conflict becomes a driver of school improvement rather than division. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QrwPy4wZJT2wh_KaQ5NFedk6dT_pRRHp/view?usp=sharing
Registration; https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5415829

Alternatives to Suspension *IN PERSON* facilitated by Michelle Levy - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-08 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
This course is intended to help administrators and staff understand that exclusionary practices have significant short and long-tern negative effects on students’ academic, social-emotional, and mental health wellness. There are alternative approaches to discipline that lead to improved student outcomes. Effective alternatives to suspension focuses on restorative practices, behavioral interventions, and social-emotional learning, keeping students in school while addressing the root causes of behavior. Participants will: 1) Understand the purpose (why, when and how) of using alternatives to suspension 2) Gain knowledge of the recent research on school suspensions 3) Learn how a systemic change to the approach to discipline and problem behavior can affect school climate and learning 4) Learn practical, replicable ideas to use as effective and proactive alternatives to suspension. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. Can use 1 Consortium seat. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Xmp9yMqIpQd-dluMZdyvc72RuDQ-seB1/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5397684

USING DECODABLE BOOKS FOR SMALL GROUP INSTRUCTION VIRTUAL Workshop facilitated by Dana Brown - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-08 08:30 - 14:30 | Virtual Conference
Our ultimate goal is to create confident, independent readers. To do this we will connect what we know about using leveled text with a phonics-lens. We will use our decodable readers to connect phonics and vocabulary within a small group instructional model, and see how these instructional materials can help us to do deeper comprehension work. Key takeaways: Procedure for using decodable readers in Paired Reading for school and home practice. Use sentence structure activities to develop oral language skills for the purpose of being able to read challenging texts. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12fcVKirqHMi0a5izKpInsjiqlmIekWzj/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5404408

Hands-On with Required NYSSLS Physics Labs: Build, Explore, and Prepare for Implementation of Investigations 2-Day workshop *IN PERSON* facilitated by Richard Slesinski-8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-08 08:30 - 2026-12-09 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
With the implementation of the New York State Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) approaching, physics educators must prepare to meet new expectations for student investigation and lab-based performance tasks. This two-part workshop series is designed to empower high school physics teachers to confidently teach the three new required NYSSLS physics labs by experiencing them firsthand-as their students would-and by building the physical lab setups needed for effective implementation in their classrooms. By the end of this workshop series, participants will: -Construct the necessary props and equipment for the three new required NYSSLS physics labs -Participate in each of the three new labs as students to deepen their understanding of the student experience. -Analyze the three labs through the lens of the NYSSLS three dimensions: -Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs), -Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs), and -Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs). Eligible for 12 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fcnB5L2XNHZ40XETmNgY8I2dkMGOuiBx/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5416735

Dive Into Differentiation: Foundations for Reaching Every Learner 3-Hour *IN PERSON* Workshop Facilitated by Consulting that Makes a Difference - 8:30-11:30am
2026-12-09 08:30 - 11:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Whether educators are new to differentiation or are seeking to refine their skills, this interactive workshop will leave attendees with strategies that they can readily incorporate into their classrooms the very next day! Participants will learn tools to meet the needs, capacities, and skills of diverse learners in the classroom. Attendees will learn what differentiated instruction is and is not, explore strategies to differentiate the four quadrants of differentiation, and plan lessons that incorporate the strategies and information presented. The workshop will emphasize the importance of ongoing reflection and adaptation to meet the needs of all students, from those who require extra support to those who are ready for enrichment. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vNdTtyrdrfb4432MNuSoEY_z-JjOVQqB/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5409229

Integrating Literacy Across Your Entire School Day *IN PERSON* facilitated by Lauren Kolbeck Szulc and Deborah Linscott-Feinstein - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-09 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Audience: Classroom teachers grades K-6, reading teachers, literacy coaches, ELL teachers and administrators What if literacy instruction didn’t compete with Science, Social Studies, and Math-but made learning in every subject stronger? This engaging, practical workshop is designed for K-6 educators who want to help students read, think, and write with purpose across the school day. Literacy doesn’t stop at the ELA block-it’s the foundation that allows students to access complex texts, build knowledge, and communicate their thinking in every content area. Participants will leave with classroom-ready strategies that support the shift from learning to read to reading to learn. Together, we’ll explore research-aligned practices that help students deepen comprehension, expand vocabulary, and make meaning from rich informational texts-without adding more to your plate. What You’ll Learn and Experience: Strengthening Language Comprehension Across Subjects Building Knowledge with Purposeful Text Sets Making Close Reading Meaningful Teaching Writing as a Thinking Tool This workshop blends research, real classroom examples, and hands-on practice-so you leave ready to implement immediately. If you’re looking to strengthen comprehension and writing without sacrificing content, this session is for you. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jehuNpVUbnEshnaDK1yfu_0FYBvRMjuu/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5392869

Playful Assessments: How Do We Capture the Gift of Learning? VIRTUAL Workshop facilitated by Dana Brown - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-09 08:30 - 14:30 | Virtual Conference
In this workshop, we will come together to explore the landscape of play-based teaching and how it can lead to the concept of playful assessments. Participants will investigate, plan and collaborate around moments to capture in a young learner’s journey, pedagogical documentation, honoring young student voices in documentation, sharing a child’s story productively, self-documentation, conferencing, and sharing and celebrating learning. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZIzXa0Rz-k9wDHYfIlwF_KTUDe6qguQ5/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5404420

Deciphering Dysgraphia: Practical Strategies for Support 3-Hour VIRTUAL Workshop Facilitated by Consulting that Makes a Difference - 8:30-11:30am
2026-12-10 08:30 - 11:30 | Virtual Conference
This strategy-filled workshop is designed to help educators understand and effectively support students with dysgraphia, a learning disability that affects writing skills. Attendees will gain insight into the neurological and cognitive factors that contribute to dysgraphia and explore common signs and symptoms. The workshop will provide practical, research-based strategies to support students in overcoming writing challenges, including alternative ways to express ideas, assistive technology tools, and differentiated instruction techniques. Educators will learn how to adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of students with dysgraphia, from creating a supportive classroom environment to offering personalized accommodations. By the end of the workshop, teachers will have a toolkit of resources and strategies to help students with dysgraphia succeed academically and feel more confident in their writing abilities. This workshop is essential for any educator looking to foster inclusivity and support diverse learners in the classroom. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19cBCabeMiXM85K3vb5GTlTIMJMXEVwzn/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5409256

Dyslexia and Dyslexic Tendencies: Become Empowered with Brain-Based Small Group Strategies *IN PERSON* facilitated by Deborah Linscott-Feinstein - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-10 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Audience: K-6 General and Special Educators, English/ENL Teachers, Reading Specialists, ELA Coaches, and District Administrators Are you ready to be the best advocate for the 20% of students in your classroom who struggle with dyslexia? Join us for a transformative professional development day designed to build your confidence and your students’ success. This workshop will help you to understand the emotional and neurological reality of the dyslexic brain. You will master sequential, systematic, and explicit instruction that doesn’t just manage symptoms but fosters positive brain growth. Simple Phonemic, Letter-Sound, Fluency and Syllable-Type Assessments will stop the guesswork in your small groups. We will equip you with simple assessments that allow you to group students immediately and align your instruction to their exact developmental stage. Your data-driven micro-groups and small groups will help you track students’ mastery of skills. What You Will Master: -Articulatory Memory: Use “Vowel Valley” techniques, mirrors, and gestures for sounds to help students distinguish mouth positions and firm up sound-symbol relationships. -*Building Neural Pathways: Foster activities that make building connections easier. -The Morphology Advantage: Integrate morphology (prefixes, bases/roots, and suffixes) into your daily lessons to help students decode and spell complex words. -Bridging the Gap between Decoding and Meaning: Master “High-Leverage Thinking Moves,” (Burkins and Yates) such as activating prior knowledge, noticing structures, and summarizing core ideas. These will be paired with systematic comprehension techniques, including visualization, text notations for self-monitoring, mapping texts with graphic tools, and summarizing. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19DF8XBBUfz6m_2uNnFXqq_nZj6pl80le/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5393325

Multiple Intelligences *IN PERSON* facilitated by Laura Guggino-Hastings - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-10 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
What if every student’s strengths were the starting point of instruction? This hands-on workshop explores how Multiple Intelligences can transform classroom practice by helping educators design instruction that reflects how students learn best. Participants examine their own teaching patterns, and learn how to recognize and build on student strengths. Through interactive activities, educators design differentiated tools such as choice boards, learning centers, and engaging lesson components that can be used immediately in the classroom. Strategies include movement, music, visual learning, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Participants leave with ready-to-use materials and practical strategies to increase engagement, differentiation, and student success across all content areas. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. Can use 1 consortium seat. If district pays, district approved must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dEDHr-ocegG7w5vGd_4z8fVhGSWMzjFF/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5418262

Understanding the Adolescent Reader: What the Science of Reading Means for Secondary Classrooms facilitated by Nicole Moriarty, Ed.D.-8:30-11:30am
2026-12-11 08:30 - 11:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
This workshop helps educators understand how reading develops in the brain and what that means for instruction across middle and high school classrooms. Grounded in the Science of Reading, participants explore the essential components of skilled reading, including decoding, language comprehension, and knowledge building, and examine how these intersect across content areas. Through practical routines and collaborative learning, educators learn how to integrate reading, writing, and discussion into daily instruction, ensuring that all teachers see themselves as teachers of literacy. Participants consistently highlight the session’s relevance and clarity, noting a shift in how they understand adolescent readers and leaving with concrete, actionable routines-such as text sets, question generation, and structured discussion-that can be implemented immediately. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. Can use 1/2 consortium seat. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uheqQ8coVemAdt39dA_1wN3-evnDBM5K/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5414688

The Art of Co-Teaching (Level 3) Elevating Instruction Through Reflection & Differentiation 3-Hour *IN PERSON* Workshop Facilitated by Consulting that Makes a Difference-8:30-11:30am
2026-12-15 08:30 - 11:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
This is an advanced, practitioner-centered workshop designed for experienced co-teaching teams who have been working together for more than two years. This level supports seasoned teaching partners in reflecting on their journey, refining their practices, and pushing the boundaries of what co-teaching can achieve. It is ideal for educators who have previously completed Level 1 and Level 2, or who bring extensive co-teaching experience and are ready to evolve their partnership and instructional impact. As co-teachers become more seasoned in working together, new challenges emerge-student needs become more complex, team dynamics evolve, and instructional goals grow more ambitious. This workshop is about recognizing those changes, honoring the co-teaching journey, and moving forward with intentionality and innovation. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bRgg82GyavoByXATbG3BbV0QTuWYUhtn/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5409156

Strengthening Writing and Thinking in Science & Social Studies (Grades 4-8) *IN PERSON* facilitated by Lauren Kolbeck Szulc and Deborah Linscott-Feinstein - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-15 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Audience: Classroom teachers grades 4-6, social studies teachers grades 6-8, science teachers grades 6-8, literacy coaches, ELL teachers and administrators What if helping students write about your content actually deepened their understanding of it? This introductory, practical workshop is designed for Science and Social Studies teachers who want to help students clearly express their thinking through writing. Grounded in the science of reading and aligned to the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, this session focuses on how explicit writing instruction can strengthen comprehension, support critical thinking, and make content learning stick. Rather than adding more to your plate, you’ll learn how small, intentional instructional moves can help students successfully write about what they are learning-at both the sentence and paragraph level. What You’ll Learn and Experience: An Introduction to the Science of Reading-With a Focus on Writing Aligning Writing to the NYS Portrait of a Graduate Using Explicit Instruction to Teach Content Writing From Sentences to Strong Paragraphs Practical, Ready-to-Use Strategies Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kF7063L_2IlptRR67Di_aULbpkNFq6_V/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5392910

The Philosophy and Practice Behind Reciprocal Mentorship While Project-Based Learning in the K-12 Classroom and Beyond *IN PERSON* facilitated by Dr. Melissa Jacobs - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-15 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
As we increasingly rely on computers for everyday interactions, the power of human connection requires greater skill development. Reciprocal mentoring programs are designed to both sustain and engage individuals in a successful evidence based method for greater productivity in K-12 and beyond. Building networks within the classroom between student learners to work towards building community, creating collaborative relationships while critically thinking about the work around them helps to build more resilient students. Ultimately, taking that model and establishing those networks between stakeholders to break down silos will be introduced through a project-based approach. Objectives: -Address the reciprocal design in mentoring and your role as change agents -Compare the differences between reciprocal and other types of mentorship -Understand the practical design features that can be incorporated into practice -Understand the impact reciprocal mentorship design has in challenging the mainstream mentoring design and its weaknesses -Assess how reciprocity supports equity and inclusion in its design Work to implement the strategies learned Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vbI7GYAy21_Adu1pTAxngNLAkDFO-P5x/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5410882

NYSED Biology Investigations Refresher: Building Student Skills and Maximizing Student Agency *IN PERSON* Facilitated by Glen Cochrane - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-15 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Are you and your students still navigating the nuances of the required investigations? This workshop focuses on using the investigations to foster student-centered learning, emphasizing the 3D aspects and the most challenging components for classroom management and student learning. It will serve as a refresher for the three mandated NYSED Biology Investigations. During the first and even the second year of implementation, classroom management, student agency (student-centered learning), and student skills proved challenging. We will address how to shift to student-centered implementation with minimal teacher support and develop prompts that encourage students to test solutions. The investigations assess performance expectations that cannot be evaluated at proficiency on the Regents exam. Students are expected to plan and conduct an investigation, use a model to explain a phenomenon, and compare gene frequencies with and without selection factors. Deficiencies in students’ prior learning and skill mastery that underpin high school expectations have added to the challenges to student success. Student activities to develop the skills needed before conducting the investigations will be provided. ***PARTICIPANTS MUST BRING PAPER COPIES OF EACH BIOLOGY INVESTIGATION’S DOCUMENTS. THESE CANNOT BE PROVIDED. **B.Y.O.D. (Bring Your Own Device) – Participants should bring a fully charged laptop, iPad, or tablet to download resources and access websites during the workshop. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. Can use 1 consortium seat. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q9WoIF3ceTsbUvYKrTJa8LT5ksbBqDJE/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5414102

Trauma Informed Practices *IN PERSON* facilitated by Michelle Levy - 8:30-2:30pm
2026-12-16 08:30 - 14:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
Trauma-informed practices are designed to recognize and respond to the impact of trauma on students’ learning and behavior. This approach emphasizes creating a safe and supportive environment that fosters trust, empowerment, and resilience. Trauma-informed practices are educational approaches that prioritize safety, trust, and empowerment to support students affected by adverse experiences while shifting from punitive discipline to empathetic understanding. Participants will learn strategies like predictable routines, supportive instructional practices, restorative justice, and flexible, nurturing environments to reduce triggers, foster resilience, and address trauma’s impact on learning. Eligible for 6 hours CTLE credit. Can use 1 Consortium seat. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Sai6jeiaG2O6BF3abyvwxK0kUIJw4-au/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5398021

BELIEVE - Positivity Changes Lives VIRTUAL 1-1/2 hour Workshop facilitated by The Zen Den's Michelle Anglisano and Kristen McDermott - 4:30-6pm
2026-12-16 16:30 - 18:00 | Virtual Conference
A workshop based off of the TV show Ted Lasso Life can challenge our ability to stay positive, whether through professional pressures or personal demands. Inspired by the uplifting philosophy of Ted Lasso, who champions optimism and focusing on what we can control, this workshop explores how a positive mindset can transform your daily life. Through a variety of meditation practices and breathwork techniques, participants will connect deeply with the motivational messages of Ted Lasso, cultivating a calmer, more focused mind. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with practical tools to shift your outlook, enhance your interactions, and bring a renewed sense of positivity into every aspect of your day. Eligible for 1-1/2 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1f0CB43WedZoXmI2l1IvOjqFU7q57WDWn/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5407826

Deeper Dive into Differentiation: Advancing Your Practice 3-Hour *IN PERSON* Workshop Facilitated by Consulting that Makes a Difference - 8:30-11:30am
2026-12-17 08:30 - 11:30 | JEA Alternative School, 31 Lee Ave, Wheatley Heights, NY, 11798-1837, United States
This workshop is tailored for experienced educators looking to refine and elevate their differentiation practices. Building on foundational strategies, this workshop dives deep into advanced techniques for addressing the diverse needs of learners in complex classrooms. Participants will explore how to integrate high-level differentiation strategies such as tiered instruction, flexible learning environments, and personalized learning paths. Focus will be placed on designing rigorous yet accessible tasks that challenge students at every level, from gifted to struggling learners, while maintaining high standards. Participants will also delve into data-driven decision-making, using formative and summative assessments to adapt instruction in real time. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities, educators will strengthen their ability to create dynamic, student-centered learning experiences that promote engagement and growth. By the end of this workshop, participants will have actionable strategies to foster an inclusive, high-performance classroom that meets the needs of every student. Eligible for 3 hours CTLE credit. If district pays, district approval must be confirmed prior to start of session.
Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-ldghIyyDAkxu2hpCumXvN1AGrWpAeA7/view?usp=sharing
Registration: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=13208&I=5409242
