Region 4 Newsletter: UA/UWA RIC
October/November 2024
Thankful for Each of You!
As we enter the fall season and approach the season of Thanksgiving, the UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center wants every educator in our region to know that we are thankful for your service. It's often said that teaching is "an act of the heart," and we completely agree. The support, structure, and care that is planned and provided is making a difference in students' lives each day! Thank you for leaving a legacy each day as you mold and shape our next generation.
Our newsletter below outlines many opportunities for October and November but also shares information regarding upcoming opportunities for second semester. In addition to these sessions that are open to all educators in our region, we also offer targeted professional learning opportunities designed for individual schools or districts. Administrators, please contact the center directly via e-mail (hgmorgan@ua.edu) or via the following link to request targeted support.
Continue to review our social media pages on Facebook (@uauwaric) and Twitter (@UofARIC) for ongoing announcements. As a reminder, you may find any of our newsletters at: https://inservice.ua.edu/professional-learning-opportunities.
Happy fall!
Dr. Holly Morgan
Director, UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center
Last Day to Share Your Response! 2024-2025 ARIC Professional Learning Needs Assessment- Help Us Help You!
2024-2025 Statewide ARIC Needs Assessment: The voices and opinions of teachers and administrators are crucial to this process; therefore, we need your help!
The Alabama Regional Inservice Centers want to provide quality and relevant professional learning for all educators across the state. Please take a few minutes to complete the 2024-2025 ARIC Regional Inservice Center Needs Assessment.
The survey opens on September 1. Please respond by October 1. Use the QR code or the following link: https://bit.ly/3YJOzS4
October/November 2024 Professional Learning Opportunities and Updates
Beginning October 2: Computer Science Digital Literacy Classroom Application eLearning Course
Join Dr. Barry Wiginton for this eLearning course that focuses upon digital citizenship, computational thinking, and introductory coding. The class dates are October 2 through November 19 for a total of 30 clock hours of credit.
Register via PowerSchool PL section #506167
Registration is Open for these Alabama in Technology in Motion Opportunities that Begin in October!
The Alabama Technology in Motion program has three new professional learning opportunities for the Fall 2024 semester. The popular Library Technology PLGs begin in October and continue throughout the school year. These include 4 face to face cohorts in the region and a state-wide virtual cohort. The sequel to last year’s Don’t Be Spooked by AI Virtual Series returns for three Mondays in October. Plus, administrators have the opportunity to examine AI’s impact in education in the ALCD PLU Beyond Human, Minds and Machines: Exploring Artificial Intelligence. See the flyers below and visit uatim.org/opportunities for registration information.
October 9: In-Person Ellevation Platform + Strategies-Experienced Level
October 9: In-Person Ellevation Platform + Strategies-Experienced Level
Morning Session (8:30-11:30)
Lunch 11:30-12:30
Afternoon Session (12:30-3:30)
Learn how to use Fields within the Student List to organize your data. Use advanced Field configuration tools to refine, organize, and highlight key data.
Learn how to filter your Student List so you can analyze data about subgroups. Use complex Filter refinements and create Filter sets to laser focus your data analysis.
Learn how to use Charts to visually interpret data with ease. Customize, configure, and add additional data sets to your Chart for more nuanced analysis.
Learn how to configure Dashboards to track and visualize information that is relevant to your work.
Participants who are familiar with Ellevation Strategies will be guided through an implementation planning process. Participants will walk away with clear plans for how they will rollout Ellevation Strategies to their district or campus.
Audience: EL Teams, any EL team member responsible for completing tasks in Ellevation including Individual-English learner plan.
Location: UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Register via PowerSchool PL Section #505868 or https://alsde.truenorthlogic.com/ia/empari/learning2/registration/presentRegistrationDetails/505868
October 11: Alabama Council for Social Studies Annual Conference
The Alabama Council for Social Studies will be hosting their annual conference at the Shelby Instructional Service Center on October 11, 2024. Sessions will be held on various threads that include geography, history, civics, government, etc. The ALCSS 2024 theme is Alabama: Many Voices, Many Stories, One State! The keynote speaker will be Dr. Larry Paska, Executive Director of the National Council for the Social Studies.
The conference sessions cover a wide range of topics within the social studies field, including history, geography, civics, economics, and government. These sessions aim to provide educators and stakeholders with insights into various pedagogical practices, technological advancements, social studies trends, and innovations. The conference caters to a diverse audience, including teachers from all grade levels (elementary to post-secondary), preservice-teachers, professors, instructional leaders, and anyone interested in social studies education.
Teachers will need to register at alcss.org. Early registration is $100 if you register by September 13. After that, registration will be $125 per participant. Registration includes all conference sessions, lunch, and materials from some of our sponsors/exhibitors. Teachers can also register for this event in PowerSchool to receive credit. Teachers can go to: https://alsde.truenorthlogic.com/ia/empari/login/index and login into your account. The session information is below:
The PowerSchool PD information is as follows:
Alabama Council for the Social Studies Annual Conference [Course #308879; Section #512907]
October 15: Special Education Services-Differentiated Instructional Guide (DIG), Annual Goals, and Progress Monitoring
Join ALSDE Special Education Services for this session to support your knowledge of the Alabama Differentiated Instructional Guide (DIG), how to write aligned goals, and how to make data-driven decisions based upon progress monitoring.
Date: October 15
Time: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Location: UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center, 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Register via PowerSchool section #514142 or via the following link: https://alsde.truenorthlogic.com/ia/empari/learning2/registration/presentRegistrationDetails/514142
2024-2025 UA/UWA Region 4 Secondary Coaching Community with Diane Sweeney (Session 2: October 22)
If you are a secondary coach in Region Four, register in PowerSchool for each of the sessions below using the following course number: 315396. You will need to register for each of the sessions separately in order to reserve your space. Registration links are included on the dates below.
October 23: Intensive Graphing for Positive Behavioral Change
Join Dr. Gwen Ashley of The University of West Alabama for the face-to-face session, "Intensive Graphing for Positive Behavioral Change," on October 23.
Course Description:
This hands-on workshop will focus on using graphing techniques to improve behavior and will cover the following topics:
- The application of the KWL strategy to academic and behavioral goals.
- The FBA/BIP process.
- Authentic data collection methods such as frequency, duration, and latency.
- Methods of data collection that do not disrupt classroom teaching.
Address for West Alabama:
The University of West Alabama
Lyon Hall building, Room C101
100 North Washington Street
Livingston, AL 35470
Number of participants: 40
Target Audience: K-3 Teachers and staff, administrators, behavioral coaches, counselors, and Special Education Teachers
Eligible Attendees: Must teach in the UA/UWA Region (Region 4) to be eligible to attend training
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Registration:
Register via PowerSchool section #515435 or via https://alsde.truenorthlogic.com/ia/empari/learning2/registration/presentRegistrationDetails/515435
October 24: UA/UWA NBCT Cohort: Component 3 and ATLAS
A zoom link will be included in the PowerSchool information, and you will also receive a reminder email approximately two days prior to the session. Registration closes two days prior to the session to ensure all receive the information prior to the session.
November 4-5: ACT Instructional Mastery Science Course
On November 4-5, The UA-UWA Regional Inservice Center will offer ACT's Instructional Mastery Science course for science educators in Region Four. Space is limited to 30 science educators, and registration opens today on October 1! Register via PowerSchool PL Section #514862. This two-day course is TEAMS approved! More information can be found below:
ACT Instructional Mastery Science Agenda
All participants who complete the 2-day program and pass a 30-question end of course Knowledge Check will earn a certificate and digital badge of ACT Instructional Mastery in the subject area.
November 7: UA/UWA NBCT Cohort: Component 2
Join us virtually on November 7 from 5:00-7:30 pm as we take a deep dive into the requirements of Component 3. Register via PowerSchool PL Section #499097.
A zoom link will be included in the PowerSchool information, and you will also receive a reminder email approximately two days prior to the session. Registration closes two days prior to the session to ensure all receive the information prior to the session.
November 7-8: Alabama Literacy Association Fall Conference
Alabama Literacy Association Fall Conference
November 7-8
Birmingham, Alabama
For more information, visit alabamalitearcyassociation.com. Registration is open!
November 12: UA/UWA NBCT Fall Writing Retreat
If you are an NBCT candidate or a MOC candidate in the UA/UWA Region, join us on November 12 for our fall writing retreat. Candidates will work on their analysis of evidence and written commentary. Full-day substitute reimbursement will be provided for each educator in the UA/UWA Region (Region Four).
Fall Writing Retreat
November 12, 2024; 8:30 AM-3:00 PM
Location: UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center, 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa
Register via PowerSchool Section # 499267
November 18-19: ACT Instructional Mastery Math Course
On November 18-19, The UA-UWA Regional Inservice Center will offer ACT's Instructional Mastery Math course for math educators in Region Four. Space is limited to 30 math educators, and registration opens today on October 1! Register via PowerSchool PL Section #514870. This two-day course is TEAMS approved! More information can be found below:
ACT Instructional Mastery Math AgendaAll participants who complete the 2-day program and pass a 30-question end of course Knowledge Check will earn a certificate and digital badge of ACT Instructional Mastery in the subject area.
November 22: 2024 Fall Librarian Meet-Up
The annual 2024 Fall Librarian Meet Up will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024 at the Jacksonville State Regional Inservice Center. Join the Jax State Regional Inservice Center for an engaging professional learning session designed specifically for ALL school librarians in Alabama! (You do not have to work in the JSU region to attend.) This workshop will explore innovative strategies for enhancing student engagement, promoting literacy, and integrating technology into library programs. Participants will share best practices, collaborate on new ideas, and gain valuable insights into the evolving role of the school librarian. Whether you’re looking to expand your resource collection or create dynamic learning experiences, this session offers the tools and inspiration you need to support your school community effectively.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow librarians and elevate your practice!
~SAVE-THE-DATE FOR THESE FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES~
January 23-24, 2025: Region 4 Science Textbook Caravan (REGISTRATION OPEN!)
Registration is now open! Science textbook committee team members, secure your registration today!
The Science Textbook Caravan for the 2024-2025 school year is a collaborative event with Alabama's Regional Inservice Centers & Publishers' Warehouse, Alabama's textbook depository. The Textbook Caravan is an opportunity for school district delegations to rotate through scheduled presentations from each of the state-adopted publisher options for comprehensive instructional resources. The two-day event has one day geared towards elementary team members (K-6) while the other day is structured for secondary representatives (grades 6-12).
Date:
January 23, 2025 (Elementary)
January 24, 2025 (Secondary)
Location: Paul W. Bryant Conference Center, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Registration:
January 23-Elementary (PowerSchool Section #514872)
https://alsde.truenorthlogic.com/ia/empari/learning2/registration/presentRegistrationDetails/514872
January 24-Secondary (PowerSchool Section #514873)
https://alsde.truenorthlogic.com/ia/empari/learning2/registration/presentRegistrationDetails/514873
2024-2025 ALSDE Curriculum and Instruction Meetings
- For a complete list of all ALSDE Curriculum and Instruction meeting dates and location visit the OSL Running Updates.
- Next meetings are scheduled in January 2025.
UA/UWA Region 4 Curriculum Directors' PLC
- Dates: September 18, February 10, April 9
- Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm (September 18 and February 10), 12:00-3:00 pm (April 9)
- Location: UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center, 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
- This year, we will host 3 meetings with the curriculum directors/professional learning directors who serve as direct liaisons to the Inservice Center.
~OPPORTUNITIES FROM OUR REGIONAL INITIATIVES AND PARTNERS~
Alabama Principal Leadership Development System (APLDS)
Principal Act/APLDS Program Updates:
As a reminder, we have an upcoming deadline for the Principal Act/APLDS Program. All PLPs should be completed and approved by supervisors in the new APLDS Evaluation System by October 1, 2024.
For more information about the APLDS Evaluation System, including example PLPs and step-by-step directions, you can go to https://www.alabamaprincipals.org/evaluation-system. You can also access the Principal Act Overview session presentation materials and recording by going to https://www.alabamaprincipals.org/presentations under the section titled, "Principal Act Overview Sessions".
We also hope you can join us in October for a session!
October 1 and 3: Sessions for superintendents and APLDS district contacts
October 22 and 24: Sessions for school administrators
AMSTI
AMSTI-ASIM will host ongoing trainings throughout the fall semester. Registration for these sessions is available at https://amsti-ua.wixsite.com/amsti-ua. Please contact Sara McGee (smcgee@ua.edu) if you have questions or requests for other professional learning support.
Alabama Science in Motion
ASIM Biology Training and Support (Lisa Clark, lclark@ua.edu)
- ASIM Chemistry/Physical Science Training and Support (Brooks Moss, moss020@ua.edu)
- ASIM Physics and Earth/Space Science Training and Support (Julie Covin, jcovin@ua.edu)
Contact our specialists today to request on-site instructional support as you return to school! We are here for you!
Alabama Reading Initiative
- Leadership Labs Are Coming to A School Near You! Leadership labs are full-day authentic professional learning experiences designed for instructional leaders. (Virtual sessions will be provided for central office staff.)
- Neuhaus Professional Learning Sign Up- See attachment https://forms.office.com/r/wzm0itAjDp
- Contact Dr. Tiffany Davis (tiffany.davis@alsde.edu) or Dr. Tracie Howard (tracie.howard@alsde.edu) with any questions.
- Alabama Summer and Afterschool Program (ASAP) grant, including attachments, can be found using the following link: ASAP Grant
ARI Quick Links Document (Includes Proficiency Scales for K-5)
Office of School Improvement Updates
Additional Resources:
- Alabama Coaching Framework - Coaching Framework Presentations and Documents
- Principal Calendar - Presented at Mega
- OSI Mega Sessions - Presentation Links
- Secondary ELA COS Resources
- OSI Website
Youtube (Recorded PL)
2021 ELA Course of Study: Secondary (6-12) ELA Resources:The following document provides access to curated resources to support implementation of the 2021 ELA Course of Study in Grades 6-12. The link will allow you to create your own copy of the resource document.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XKFtlDduyfdOt6uN1sxM9wXu_9QPLi4Ib11JiOpaax4/copy
Office of Student Learning Updates
Visit the OSL website at the following link: https://sway.office.com/x6GMkvnr5n1z2O6F
PREP Public Website: Recordings, Slides and Resources
Ongoing updates are continuously added at the following link: OSL Updates
Technology in Motion with Dr. Robert Mayben
Join Dr. Mayben for his technology sessions this fall! You may find all of his posted opportunities at www.uatim.org/opportunities.
Contact Dr. Robert Mayben at rmayben@ua.edu to support your school or district's technology professional learning needs.
Region 4 Regional Coordinators, Office of Mathematics Improvement: Amy Tilford and Shea Stroud
2024-2025 Everyone Counts
We are excited to announce the 24-25 Everyone Counts professional learning dates! These sessions aim to enhance the foundation necessary for developing a strong and comprehensive mathematics program. Participants will explore collaborative team structures to engage in high-quality, evidence-based practices and leverage the strengths of all stakeholders to maximize student opportunities. These sessions are designed for principals and assistant principals. Central office leadership is also invited to attend. Please share this information with your assistant principals.
Participants in this year's Everyone Counts sessions may earn 15 clock hours toward the Alabama Principal Leadership Development System (APLDS) requirement. In addition, participants may earn an ACLD-PLU, pending approval.
Registration details for region 4’s 2024-2025 Everyone Counts in-person sessions can be found here. Please note that there are two different dates available for session 1 and session 3. We look forward to your participation in these valuable sessions and to working together to enhance mathematics teaching and learning in our schools.
OMI Newsletter
OMI is thrilled to present our newsletter, OMI Numeracy News ! Inside this issue you will find a recap of OMI summer math camp, important upcoming events for instructional leaders, valuable information related to curriculum and instruction, professional learning opportunities, ideas for coaching, resources for family engagement, and more!
Region 4 EL Specialist: Dr. Stephanie Reynolds
- Ellevation Training Opportunities:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FEtuq50-nNbZesaGqJr-O8zPnH0I9Wcf50G79EVT-ds/edit?usp=sharing
- We have added NEW FORMS TRAINING SESSIONS for teachers below. Please note, teachers to complete monitoring forms for Former ELs (FELs). These are students who have exited the EL program by scoring a 4.8 composite score or above on the ACCESS test. This training will help them learn how to access and complete monitoring forms. We have also curated a new EL Progress Monitoring form for current ELs. This form is recommended but if you have another method of monitoring current ELs, please continue using this method. Training registration links are below
Audience: EL Teams, any EL team member responsible for completing monitoring tasks in Ellevation
Manage EL workflows using Ellevation for compliance needs such as FEL Monitoring, EL Progress Monitoring and more with Forms. In this course, users will understand how to use Forms to gather educator input and document decisions.
**Make sure to use your district email address**
- EL Office Hours: Join our team as we collaborate all things EL! Office hours Q@A sessions are open to all teachers, administrators, coaches, specialists, etc. across the state. Feel free to join us! Microsoft Teams Need help? Join the meeting now
For more information, contact EL Region 4 Specialist: Dr. Stephanie Reynolds (stephanie.reynolds@alsde.edu)
October and November Opportunities: Region 4 ALSDE PowerSchool Coach: Quandria Robinson
The flyer below highlights sessions offered by our PowerSchool coaches in October. Please also feel free to request specific sessions. To request training for your district or school, either reply to this email or click the link in the flyer and submit an Ed Tech ticket request via the following link: Submit Ed Tech Support Ticket
PowerSchool Coach Quandria Robinson (quandria.robinson@alex.state.al.us)
Alabama MTSS Fall 2024 Newsletter
Please find the Alabama MTSS Fall Newsletter at the following link: https://sway.cloud.microsoft/teqlPscXzfiOCHXd?ref=email
ALSDE Physical Education and Social Studies Newsletters
https://sway.cloud.microsoft/lKKDJDPa9SxJ6XGc?ref=email
Monthly Updates from ALSDE Social Studies:
ALSDE Special Education Services
Use the link below to view Special Education Services' ALPDS offerings for administrators:
Special Education Services APLDS Offerings
Contact Elizabeth Greene at elizabeth.greene@alsde.edu with any questions.
Alabama Library Media Newsletter
Librarians, please find the October 2024 Alabama Library Media Newsletter from Susanne Estes.
~RESOURCES~
ALSDE Proficiency Scales
ATLAS Resources
ACCESS Virtual Learning
ACCESS Virtual Learning is an initiative of the Alabama State Department of Education that provides free online classes to all sixth through 12th grade Alabama students.
The program offers Advanced Placement, foreign language and credit recovery courses as well as all the courses needed for a high school diploma. ACCESS courses are led by Alabama-certified teachers and are aligned to the current Alabama College and Career Ready Standards.
Students enrolled in ACCESS courses earn credits from their local school and receive their diploma from their local district.
ACCESS is your partner in education! For more information, please visit access.ua.edu or contact the UA Support Center at access@ua.edu or 205-348-2647.
University of Alabama Online
UA Online — The Best Value in Alabama Education
Elevate your career in education with The University of Alabama, offering 30+ graduate education programs designed for flexibility and success. Here’s why we stand out as the best value in Alabama for education:
- Affordable Options: Enjoy an affordable tuition rate with no hidden fees. Additional tuition grants and scholarships are available exclusively for online students.
- Flexibility: Choose from MA, EdS, EdD, PhD, RHO and graduate certificate programs tailored for educators and school leaders.
- Personalized Support: Benefit from dedicated student success coaches and 24/7 tech support, ensuring you have help whenever you need it.
- Real-World Focus: Our programs emphasize practical experience, empowering you to make an immediate impact in your classroom or organization.
Take the next step in your educational journey with UA Online — where quality education meets exceptional value. Get started today!
UWA Online
Start Your Journey Today At UWA!
Choose from more than 70 degree and certification programs at the University of West Alabama Online.
Learn how an online program can give you the convenience and flexibility you need. Scholarships available at: https://online.uwa.edu/tuition/scholarships-partnerships/teacher-connect/
UWA Black Belt STEM Institute Training Opportunities:
UA/UWA Regional Inservice Education Center
Mrs. Tami Barron, Accounting Specialist
Mrs. Tenika Milsap, UWA Coordinator
Email: hgmorgan@ua.edu
Website: www.inservice.ua.edu
Location: 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
Phone: 205-348-3319
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uauwaric/
Twitter: @UofARIC