Essential Bulletin for Educators

If you have questions or content recommendations, email us at bsebulletin@pattankop.net.

With appreciation for all you do,

The Pennsylvania BSE and PaTTAN Staff

Used with permission from Dr. Julie Causton and Dr. Kristie Pretti-Frontczak of Inclusive Schooling

Used with permission from Dr. Julie Causton and Dr. Kristie Pretti-Frontczak of Inclusive Schooling

APR Learning Institute for Educators from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
PaTTAN East – December 4, 2023
PaTTAN West – December 5, 2023
PaTTAN Central – December 11, 2023

APR Learning Institute for Paraprofessionals from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
PaTTAN East – December 9, 2023
PaTTAN Central – January 6, 2024
PaTTAN West – January 13, 2024

APR Learning Institutes for Leaders from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
PaTTAN East, PaTTAN Central, PaTTAN West – January 8, 2024

To learn more, review the Learning Institute Flyer, and register on the PaTTAN Training Calendar for a Learning Institute today!

On September 5, 2023, the Pennsylvania Department of Education communicated to the field a change in the model policy to more accurately reflect the Individuals with Disability Education Act (IDEA) entitlement to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) through the age of 21.

In an effort to mitigate the costs associated with 21-year-olds receiving FAPE until their 22nd birthday, the Department is offering to assist LEAs that need help identifying, locating, and securing state and/or federal funding to comply with IDEA.

If you would like to discuss these options, please contact the Bureau of Special Education at RA-PDESPECIALED@PA.GOV and a meeting will be scheduled.

You don’t need huge, uninterrupted blocks of “me-time” in your schedule to cultivate self-care. Here’s a list of over 50 self-care ideas that take anywhere from a whole day to just one minute to practice. Some examples include:

• Clear a spot. We often think more clearly when our spaces are more orderly. Declutter your nightstand, desk, kitchen counter, or your sofa.
• Do a mini digital detox. Try going tech-free for five minutes once a day. Meditate, stand and stretch, or color.
• Water your plants. Caring for plants keeps us in the present and in touch with nature. Research shows that plants boost productivity, creativity, mindfulness, and reduce stress.
  

Educators and school leaders can be proactive about student behavior by implementing evidence-based practices to provide positive reinforcement, teach and maintain appropriate behaviors, and adapt instruction as needed. Behavior analysts Dr. Paulie Gavoni and Anika Costa join PaTTANpod to discuss the science of student behavior and prevention and intervention strategies that support a safe and supportive learning environment.

Reading Universe is a collaborative literacy initiative by WETA/Reading Rockets, The Barksdale Reading Institute, and First Book. This is a FREE resource that provides evidence-based strategies and practical guidance on teaching literacy based on the latest research in the field.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education is establishing a fully automated pep talk phone line that users can call to hear words of encouragement, jokes, and advice from PA students in kindergarten through high school.