BCPDI 2024-2025
Workshop & Webinar Lineup
Exploring Sexual Development and the Impact on Neurodivergent Populations
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
*NEW DATE COMING SOON* 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Kristin O'Lexy
Workshop Description:
This presentation will discuss typical sexual development, gender identity and exploration, and sexual orientation and focus on the ways this developmental stage can be impacted by various developmental disabilities. Participants will gain knowledge in understanding how to best support neurodivergent populations through the physical, emotional, behavioral, and social changes that can occur during this developmental stage.
About the Presenter:
Kristin earned a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology and her Master’s of Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University. She also holds certifications in School Social Work and Violence Against Women and Children. Kristin obtained her LCSW in 2013 and has been working in the education and mental health fields since 2007. She also received specialized training and certification in the areas of the treatment and assessment of sexually abusive youth and the impact of Autism on sexual behavior. Kristin is currently the Director of the Wellness Center at Collingswood Public Schools and also sees clients part time at Core Counseling SJ in Voorhees.
Neurodiversity Affirming Strategies
WEBINAR
December 11, 2024 1:00pm-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Amanda Mazin
Workshop Description: The neurodiversity paradigm is reshaping how we understand, use language, interpret and undertake research, and support individuals with neurodevelopmental differences across the lifespan. This evolving paradigm changes the way we think, question, communicate, and act. This session will focus on the nuanced reality and complexity of how to apply these ideas in the classroom. Within this social model of disability, recognition of the relationship between the environment and individuals is paramount. This session will focus on the evolving paradigm and practical ways to create inclusive and equitable learning environments to support all learners with specific focus on shifts in diagnosis, language, and labeling with a push toward difference not deficit vocabulary.
About the Presenter: Dr. Amanda Mazin is a certified special education teacher and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with 25 years’ experience working with students with a variety of academic, behavioral, communicative and social needs and their families. She has consulted to high needs schools and districts focused on teacher training and inclusive models of instruction. She specializes in effective models of teacher education in the areas of classroom design and curriculum modification to best meet the needs of individuals with disabilities in general and special education classrooms. Dr. Mazin has been preparing special education teachers at the graduate level for over ten years, in learner-first models of teaching. Current scholarly interests include preparing teachers to work with neurodivergent learners.
Rethinking Intelligence: A Radical New Understanding of Our Human Potential by Dr. Rina Bliss
BOOK STUDY
January 14th, 2025 and February 4th, 2025 - 3:30-5:00pm
Participants will attend two interactive sessions. A copy of the book will be sent to the participants before the start of the book study.
*Space is limited to 25 participants.
Presenter: This will be a group discussion via Zoom.
Book Description: Intelligence has little to do with standardized test results or other conventional measures of intellect, Dr. Bliss argues. Intelligence is a process, a journey defined by change that cannot be scored or taken away. Intelligence is influenced by our surroundings in ways that are often overlooked—more than Baby Mozart or flash cards or superfoods, factors like stress, connection, and play actually sculpt young minds.
In Rethinking Intelligence, Dr. Bliss shares insights from the burgeoning science of epigenetics to help us harness our environments to empower our minds. If we truly want to nurture potential, we must eliminate toxic stress so that our genes can work optimally, in harmony with our environment. Dr. Bliss offers successful strategies we can use as individuals and a society, including embracing a growth mindset, prioritizing connection, becoming more mindful, and reforming systemic issues—poverty, racism, the lack of quality early childhood education—that have a negative and lasting neurobiological impact.
The Nurtured Heart Approach
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
January 15, 2024 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Bobbie Downs
Workshop Description: The Nurtured Heart Approach® (NHA) is a therapeutic method developed by Howard Glasser in 1992 to help children and adults with challenging behaviors. It is behavior inspiration, not management. Repeated experiences of being seen and acknowledged when things are not going wrong inspires people to build a positive portfolio of themselves: an expansive and expanding reserve of what NHA calls Inner Wealth™.
The approach focuses on creating connected relationships, emphasizing positive behavior, and transforming difficult intensities into abundant Inner Wealth. NHA is based on the premise that an individual’s intense energy can be positively channeled and transformed into a positive force. The approach teaches parents, caregivers, and educators to recognize and amplify positive behavior using "the 3 Stands™.
By implementing NHA, individuals are empowered to develop positive relationships, self-regulate, and build Inner Wealth. It has been used successfully in a variety of settings including schools, homes, foster care, criminal justice, healthcare, and therapeutic environments.
The Science of Reading
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
*NEW PRESENTER*
January 16, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Erin McBride
Workshop Description: What is the “science of reading,” and what does it mean for literacy instruction? Through an intensive one-day workshop, we will explore this essential question and discuss ways to adapt current curricula and teaching methods to align with what the science tells us about reading instruction.
About the Presenter:
Erin McBride is an experienced literacy coach with over a decade of expertise in supporting educators and advancing reading instruction. She currently provides professional development across the state and has served as a literacy content expert for the NJDOE. Erin also provides literacy coaching to teachers across New Jersey through the Rutgers Center for Literacy Development and supervises student teachers at Georgian Court University. She is highly knowledgeable in current evidence-based literacy practices and dedicated to helping educators implement effective, research-backed strategies to improve student outcomes.
Adapt to Include: Modifying Physical Education Instruction for All
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
January 21, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Bayley Hickey
Workshop Description: Attendees of this workshop will gain information on best practices and supports to provide effective physical education instruction for students with diverse learning needs. Utilizing components of universal design for learning and motor development theory, attendees will gain content knowledge in adapted physical education, to implement effective student programming within their district.
About the Presenter: Specializing in adapted physical education his entire career, Bayley has a masters of science in Adapted Physical Education from the university of South Carolina. With a strong background in motor development and control, he implements an individualized physical education model to students in his current position as an HPE teacher at Burlington County Special Services- Westampton. Outside of his position, he is the president of NJAPEC, a state consortium promoting health and physical activity experiences for students with disabilities. Bayley has presented in conferences such as NJAHPERD, and SHAPE America, as well as written resources published in the areas of Adapted Physical Activity, and Universal Design in Physical Education.
Crisis Support and Suicide Prevention for Autistic Youth
WEBINAR
January 22, 2025 12:00-3:00pm
Presenter: Lisa Morgan
Webinar Description: The goal of this workshop is to provide statistics from the latest research on autism and suicide, including unique risk factors, warning signs, as well as practical knowledge to use to identify and support autistic youth in crisis.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the most researched and supported unique risk factors of suicide for autistic people.
- Explain how to communicate and support autistic people in crisis.
- Apply autism specific resources to support autistic people in crisis.
About the Presenter: Lisa Morgan is a trauma-informed consultant specializing in crisis supports and suicide prevention for autistic people. Lisa is founder and co-chair of the Autism and Suicide Prevention Workgroup and has led the development of several autism specific resources for communicating and supporting autistic people in crisis. A self-advocate with a passion for strengths-based solutions, Lisa has authored several books, articles, and resources all available on her website: www.autismcrisissupport.com. She is a community council member of AASET (Autistic Adults and other Stakeholders Engaged Together). Lisa has a master’s degree in Social work and in the Art of Teaching, is a Certified Autism Specialist, a research consultant, and owner of Lisa Morgan Consulting LLC.
Please click here to register.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) 101
February 4, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Adell Valasek
Workshop Description:
-Understand the principles of ABA
-Apply ABA to real life situations
-Understand and identify the functions of behavior
-Identify target behaviors
-Identify replacement behaviors
-Understand the difference between positive and negative reinforcement
-Apply reinforcement schedules
-How to write a task analysis
-Overview of prompting
-Ways to collect data
About the Presenter: Adell Valasek started her career path and passion for teaching individuals with developmental delays in college at Shippensburg University. She completed her Masters in Administration with honors in 1999 and continued to pursue her special education teaching certification at Widener University while working at Devereux CARES as an Instructional Coordinator. Ms. Valasek graduated with honors from Widener University and was inducted into the international honor society chapter of Kappa Delta Pi. Upon graduation, she began teaching in a self contained class at North Hanover School District. During this time, Adell continued to develop her passion by completing coursework in Applied Behavior Analysis at Penn State University. She received her Board Certification as a Behavior Analyst in December of 2005. Her journey continued as an Autism Consultant at the Educational Services Unit. Subsequently, she went back to school at Rutger’s University where she obtained her Supervisor of Education certification. Additionlly, she completed her principal coursework from the University of Scranton in 2015.
Ms. Valasek is now working as the Director of Special Services at North Hanover School District. She has provided trainings through the Burlington County Professional Develop Institute on teaching students with autism and behavior interventions. Adell provides consultation and training services to the International School of Brussels and their families.
In her free time, Adell enjoys spending time with her two daughters and husband, going to the beach, running, and reading. Additionally, she continues to support families in the community by providing therapy in the home setting.
Restorative Practices
IN- PERSON WORKSHOP
February 6, 2025 9:00am- 3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Bobbie Downs
Workshop Description: This interactive workshop will focus on the theoretical and practical foundations of Restorative Practices. Topics include how to set high expectations while being supportive, how to provide direct feedback and ask questions that foster accountability, and the most effective methods to resolve common conflicts. You will also learn to facilitate circles, an essential process for creating a positive learning environment and school culture. Circles may be used to build social capital, resolve social problems and respond when harm occurs. Additionally, our instructors address many issues related to building relationships and community.
About the Presenter: Dr. Bobbie Downs is currently the Director of the Educational Services Unit (ESU) for Burlington County Special Services School District. Ms. Downs decided to pursue a career in education after serving as a teacher and administrator in a school for Sudanese refugees in Cairo, Egypt. Since that time, Ms. Downs served in the role of teacher and administrator at the Burlington County Alternative School before being named Director of the ESU. Ms. Downs received her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Master’s Degree in Teaching from Drew University. Later, Dr. Downs earned her Master’s degree in School Leadership from Rowan University and her Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Rowan University. Dr. Downs also holds a Graduate Certificate of Autism Education. She is a certified mindfulness instructor for Mindful Schools and an instructor for Youth Mental Health First Aid. Dr. Downs is an active member of the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association and the Council for Exceptional Children
Youth Mental Health First Aid- *certification course
IN- PERSON WORKSHOP
February 20, 2025 9:00am- 3:00pm
Presenter: Ms. Jennifer Moses, Ms. Kathy Nizio, Ms. Deanna Scannell
Workshop Description: Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.
Making Schools Places of Learning, Love & Laughter
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
February 26, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Tracey Severns
Workshop Description: When was the last time you laughed at work? When you walk around your school, how many smiles do you see? If we really want to reach and teach post-pandemic students and keep teachers and leaders in the profession, we need to bring back the joy of teaching, learning and leading. The question is, how do we incorporate laughter in today’s climate and use it to enhance mental health and improve student outcomes. This session will address the four things effective leaders do to optimize achievement, raise morale, smile more and stress less. Participants will leave inspired, informed and equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to lead schools that balance the need for rigor and relationships, standards and smiles, focus and fun.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the impact of emotion on school quality, culture and climate.
Learn how to use humor to improve teaching, learning and school leadership.
Discover ways to build relational trust and create a collaborative community of educators who work together to optimize student achievement and support the well-being of students and staff.
Learn how to develop and utilize a unifying mission to motivate faculty and mobilize efforts to improve.
Explore strategies to build relationships, reduce toxicity, and shift the narrative of school from horror stories to success stories.
About the Presenter: Dr. Tracey Severns is a nationally recognized educational leader. During her rise from classroom aide to New Jersey's Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Severns was named Visionary Principal of the Year, a National Distinguished Principal, and Educator of the Year. In addition to her Doctorate in Educational Leadership, she received an honorary Doctorate in Public Service, was selected to represent the USA as educational leader in Brazil, and achieved the National School Change Award.
In 2024, in response to growing concerns about the increasingly negative emotional tone in schools, Dr. Severns took comedy lessons. Since then, she has done stand-up comedy for various educator audiences and her presentations on how to bring the joy back to schools have become one of the most sought-out sessions at professional conferences.
Dr. Severns is an author, passionate presenter, and dedicated provider of professional development, coaching and consultation services throughout North America. Dr. Severns has written numerous articles about leadership and learning. Her first book, Mistakes, Missteps, Missed Opportunities: Lived Lessons from the Real World of Educational Leaders has received critical acclaim and is available through YouthLight Publishers and Amazon.
Reclaiming Our Students: Why Children Are More Anxious, Aggressive, and Shut Down Than Ever - And What We Can Do About It by H. Beach & T. Neufeld Strijack
BOOK STUDY
February 27th, 2025 and March 13th, 2025 3:30-5:00pm
Participants will attend two interactive sessions. A copy of the book will be sent to the participants before the start of the book study.
*Space is limited to 25 participants.
Book Description:
Children are more anxious, aggressive, and shut down than ever.
Faced with this epidemic of emotional health crises and behavioral problems, teachers are asking themselves what went wrong. Why have we lost our students? More importantly: How can we get them back? Hannah Beach, a celebrated educator and specialist in the field of emotional health, and Tamara Neufeld Strijack, clinical counsellor and academic dean of the acclaimed Neufeld Institute, provide a thoughtful guide to restoring the student-teacher relationship and creating the conditions for change. Reclaiming Our Students empowers teachers with relationship-based strategies to restore their leadership role and build emotional safety and inclusion in the classroom..
You’ll learn:
• How to build, feed, and protect the student-teacher relationship
• Why children are anxious or bossy, aggressive or checked out, and what you can do to address these behavioral issues at their root
• How you can help students and classes shift their identity as the “problem student” or “bad class”
• Experiential activities for students of all ages that restore emotional health and build inclusive classrooms
New NJSLS Math Standards K-8 & Lesson Ideas
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
March 13, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Charlene Marchese
Workshop Description: Changes in the New Jersey State Standards in Mathematics provide an opportunity to enhance our students’ mathematical knowledge across grades K-8. The major changes in the standards include the addition of money in primary grades, emphasis on fractional models, simplification of radicals in grade 8 and inclusion of data literacy. In this session we will explore activities that incorporate the content of these changes and how the content develops over time. Participants will reflect on how to integrate these activities into their grade level’s units of study. Please bring a computer to have access to the presentation and working documents within the presentation. It will also be helpful if participants have access to their school’s curriculum resource(s) either digitally or in print.
About the Presenter: Charlene Marchese is an education consultant, and Math for All coach with Bank Street College of Education, with over thirty years’ experience in curriculum design, district performance and improvement, instructional leadership and coaching, and leadership development. Prior to her consulting work, Charlene's roles included classroom teacher, instructional coach, instructional supervisor, and district administrator. Charlene holds a Doctorate in Education from Rutgers University and has presented and facilitated professional learning sessions throughout the United States and abroad. She lives in Westchester County, New York and loves to read, spend time with friends and family, play tennis and hike.
Developing Early Literacy & Math Skills for Pre-K
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
March 18, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Chelsea Shea
Workshop Description:
Developing Early Literacy- The number four has a parallel connection to far more than just Pre-K students’ age; there are four components that develop the foundation to future literacy development. The Big Four of Pre-K Literacy Instruction include: Print Awareness, Oral Language Development, Alphabetic Principle, and Phonological Awareness. This session builds strategies based on the The Big Four, providing meaningful and vast resources to preschool literacy’s teaching arsenal. . This session will leave teachers feeling excited, prepared, and confident to develop early literacy skills.
Developing Early Math Skills for Pre-K Students Developing early math skills in Pre-K is foundational, leading to grasping (later) skills and concepts. In this session, let’s look at the kindergarten curriculum to prepare PreK students, while pinpointing how math is already in the classroom. Together, let’s explore and build age-appropriate games that capture (and hold) students’ attention; most importantly, at the PreK level, find the best time to implement for students’ learning and retention. Let’s apply art and crafts using patterns, numbers and shapes & sizes, while also incorporating cooking in the classroom– to measure, add, and estimate. Most importantly, let’s help PreK teachers create mathematical correspondence activities through play; and help students feel prepared, confident, and excited going forward.
About the Presenter: Chelsea Shea is a professional development consultant living New Jersey. After teaching in Bergen County, NJ for 17 years, Chelsea's love for curriculum development and passion for professional development, lead her to consulting. Chelsea was a former Bergen County Teacher of the Year. With an endless passion for teaching and learning, Chelsea's enthusiasm evolves when coaching teachers to bring something new to to the classroom, or when they (too) see the magic in their growth.
Chelsea continues to participate in professional development workshops, to ultimately coach teachers to continue to grow their practice. Students' learning is always the center of Chelsea's practice, as she believes it is the seed to everyone's success.
Chelsea believes in professionally guiding districts to build curriculum that best meets students' interests and learning styles, while promoting growth and progress; supporting and providing teachers with knowledge and resources to best deliver instruction; and working collectively to ensure consistency and excellence. It is Chelsea's passion to collaborate with teachers to become excited and enthused so ALL students thrive in the classroom; developing a love for both learning and instruction.
Reading Assessment Roadmap
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP (1/2 Day)
March 19, 2025 12:00-3:00pm
Presenter: Alexandra Harb
Workshop Description: This in-person workshop will take participants through a battery of reading assessments to use with students to get a comprehensive understanding of students’ strengths and weaknesses to inform instruction. We will specifically learn how to conduct and analyze the DIBELS assessments, as well as related measures, including phonological awareness and decoding inventories. This workshop is especially appropriate for anyone conducting interventions and/or small group instruction.
About the Presenter: Alex Harb currently serves as a Reading Specialist for Burlington County Special Services School District. She is a graduate of Drexel University, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education (Middle Level Math & English) and her Master’s Degree in Advanced Studies in Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum with a Reading Specialist Certification. She is a Certified Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner with extensive experience providing explicit, systematic literacy interventions. Ms. Harb is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the West Jersey Reading Council.
Ms. Harb is incredibly passionate about early literacy and intervention awareness. When she is not working directly with students, Ms. Harb greatly enjoys collaborating with teachers and administrators to troubleshoot literacy challenges. Ms. Harb is a firm believer that quality literacy instruction starts in the tier one setting with knowledgeable, effective teachers.
Key Concepts and Practices for Effective Classroom Management
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 9, 2024 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Mary Fowler
Workshop Description: Challenging. Disruptive. Irritating. When students bring these types of behaviors to the classroom, their learning, staff instructional delivery, and other student’s learning can suffer. In this workshop, participants will gain knowledge and skills in practices and strategies for surface management (minor undesirable behaviors), the phases in the acting-out cycle, strategies to manage behavior without escalating it, and techniques that help students manage their emotions and behaviors.
Creating a Positive Climate and Structured Classroom
Responding to Minor Undesirable Behaviors
Recognizing The Acting-out Cycle Phases.
Using Collaborative Problem-Solving Methods.
Identifying Triggers Before Escalation.
Strategies to Intervene When Frustration and Behavioral Issues Begins.
Strategies to Improve On-Task Performance.
About the Presenter: Mary Fowler has trained thousands of educators and parents on ADHD, Behavior Management, and Social Emotional Issues. An internationally recognized expert on ADHD, she is the author of four books, including the best seller, Maybe You Know My Kid (3rd edition), the original CHADD Educators Manual, numerous book chapters, and the ADHD Briefing Paper (National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities). She contributed the chapter “Mindful Discipline” for the book: Emotional Disorders: A Neuropsychological, Psychopharmacological, and Educational Perspective. Mary served as a consultant for the US Department of Education Federal Resource Center Task Force on ADHD and has testified before Congressional sub-committees on ADHD-related education issues. A former general education teacher, Mary brings a depth of understanding, practical knowledge and lessons learned to her workshops.
Understanding and Enhancing Paraprofessional Roles and Responsibilities
WEBINAR
October 9, 2024 1:00pm-3:00pm
Presenter: Rebecca Schleifer
Workshop Description: Paraprofessionals play a crucial role in supporting educators, therapists, and other professionals in delivering high-quality services to individuals across different areas of education. This workshop will highlight the roles of paraprofessionals within the classroom setting. We will share ways to effectively communicate and collaborate, as well as how to implement best practices when working with students.
Workshop Goals:
Clarify Roles: Define and clarify the specific responsibilities of paraprofessionals within their respective fields.
Enhance Skills: Provide strategies and techniques to enhance the effectiveness of paraprofessionals in their daily tasks and interactions.
Professional Development: Discuss opportunities for professional growth and development for paraprofessionals.
Collaboration: Explore methods for fostering effective collaboration between paraprofessionals and professionals they support.
About the Presenter: With over fifteen years of classroom experience as a special educator, Rebecca is deeply committed to ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive. Her educational philosophy centers around a hands-on learning approach, where students are empowered to explore and learn through discovery. Rebecca is passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of children with special needs and empowering them to reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
Rebecca creates individualized education plans that cater to the diverse needs of students, and works collaboratively with teaching assistants and therapists to ensure a holistic approach to learning.
Expertise & Skills:
Special Education Instruction
Advocacy for Students and Families
Team Collaboration (with teaching assistants, therapists, etc.)
Orton Gillingham Trained
Preventing Academic Failure Training
Learning Without Tears Training
Building an Autism-Friendly Classroom: Strategies for Special Education Professionals
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 21, 2024 9:00am- 3:00pm
Presenter: Chelsea DeRitis
Workshop Description: The goals of this workshop are to look at how to set up and run an effective special education classroom with a focus on ABA based programming to support students with autism in a self contained classroom setting. The workshop will look at setting up your classroom space, classroom management strategies, and setting up and running targeted academic and life skills programming that focuses on a multi-sensory approach for your students working in a small group or 1:1 setting.
About the Presenter: My name is Chelsea DeRitis, I began my teaching career in 2016 after graduating from the University of Delaware with a degree in elementary education and special education. I worked at Burlington County Special Services School as a teacher in the autism program for 5 years while pursuing my masters in Applied Behavior Analysis. After receiving my masters I moved into the role of Behavior Specialist at the Burlington County Special Services School for 2 years before accepting a position in the North Hanover School District as a Behavior Specialist. I am currently in my 3rd year at the North Hanover School District where I work with the general and special education population. My job focuses on coaching and supporting teachers in classroom management and programming to support students that exhibit challenging behaviors which includes observations, data collection, and writing behavioral intervention plans. I also work with my students in small group settings to build social skills and independence in life skills. In addition to my role as the Behavior Specialist I am our district's Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) trainer, this training focuses on safety protocols and de-escalation techniques to support students and teachers during behaviors. My passion has always been working in special education specifically working with students with Autism and in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis.
Social Emotional Learning Strategies for the Classroom
WEBINAR
October 22, 2024 3:00pm-5:00pm
Presenter: Lisa Kiss
Workshop Description: This virtual presentation will provide the knowledge and tools that you need to create a positive classroom community so you can focus on teaching and your students can focus on learning.
Participants will learn the answers to all the following questions:
Why is it important to know your students?
What is “Social-Emotional Learning?”
How do I deal with social Impairment with students?
Why is Social Emotional Learning so important?
What strategies can I use to teach and reinforce these skills for my students?
Specifically, how do I help students deal with anger?
What are the BEST resources available to make Social Emotional Learning thrive in my classroom?
After joining me for this 2-hour virtual learning experience, you will be able to answer these questions with confidence and have your best year in the classroom yet!.
About the Presenter: Lisa Kiss’s thirty-five years of experience as a Special Education Director and in teaching Special Education students and Gifted students in preschool through age twenty-one has given her an expansive knowledge of cognitive processes needed for learning and intervention strategies to use with students of all ages and intellectual levels. Her expertise lies in leading engaging workshops and coaching novice and veteran teachers in how to implement strategies effectively with students on the Autism Spectrum. Lisa has supported students with autism by implementing academic and behavioral strategies that are effective in teaching students the skills they need to respond to real life situations. Lisa is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience gained over the past 35 years.
Along with being a teacher and administrator, Lisa is an author. Lisa published articles in Educational Leadership. She co-authored with Susan Winebrenner Teaching Students with Learning Difficulties in Today’s Classroom. Within this publication, Lisa share strategies to accommodations, modifications, and reinforcements to facilitate learning and independence of students with Autism. She also collaborated with Susan Winebrenner on an online PLC guide, Meeting the Needs of Twice Exceptional Students.Lisa has presented at several state conferences, multiple times at the Learning Disabilities Association International Conference, California’s Gifted Conference, and multiple times at the conference for the National Association for Gifted and Talented.
She earned her Bachelors of K-8 Education degree and music education degree from Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pennsylvania and her Special Education Certification from Kutztown University. She attended Penn State University to earn her Master’s in Teaching and Curriculum, and later, her Supervisory Certificate for Special Education.
Trauma-Informed Schools
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 29, 2024 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Melissa Sadin
Workshop Description: A recent study in Washington State showed that 80% of the children eligible for special education were exposed to early childhood trauma. Participants will learn how trauma impacts the brain and how it can be linked to dyslexia, ADHD, emotional and behavioral disorders, and autism. The connection between ACES, the neurobiology of trauma and the impact of learning will be discussed. Strategies for improving behavior and academic outcomes will be provided. Finally, the answer to the often-asked question, “How do I separate the disability from the trauma?” will be answered.
About the Presenter: Dr. Sadin has served as a special education teacher, a gifted education teacher, and a building administrator. Most recently she served as a director of special education. Dr. Sadin has been vice-president of her local School Board and is recognized as a Master School Board Member and recently accepted an award for Outstanding Leadership in Education. She has conducted research on the perceptions of teachers working to create trauma-informed classrooms. Dr. Sadin is a published author and has produced numerous webinars on children with attachment trauma in schools. Nationally, Dr. Sadin is a highly sought-after keynote speaker and conference presenter. Her latest book, “Trauma Informed Teaching and IEPs” as well as her best-selling Trauma Guide Series of books are available on her website, www.traumasensitive.com.
Supporting MLLs with High Support Needs
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 30, 2024 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Emily Fiore
Workshop Description: In recent years, many districts in our region have seen a shift in the MLL populations that we serve. Working with newcomers, students with interrupted formal education, and/or MLLs with learning disabilities all require a highly specialized knowledge base and a wide variety of instructional strategies.
We will focus on:
Essentializing objectives for high needs students
Differentiation strategies to begin engaging these students in meaningful academic work
Intake procedures and how to gather/share relevant information about these students
Cultural and emotional considerations as high needs students acculturate to American school systems
Developing an asset-based approach to linguistic and cultural diversity
About the Presenter: Emily Fiore has served as an ENL Teacher in Westchester County for the past 8 years. She specializes in coteaching and working with Students with Interrupted Formal Education(SIFE). Emily has worked with a wide variety of district leaders to provide professional development for her colleagues around the SIOP model, differentiation, and equitable assessments . After graduating from SUNY New Paltz with her Masters in TESOL, Emily was selected by the Superintendent of Schools to enroll in the Bank Street College Future School Leaders Academy. She used this opportunity to work on increasing access to International Baccalaureate curriculum and assessments for ENL students. Emily has presented workshops on a wide variety of ELL topics and provided numerous days of ELL coaching visits in school districts throughout NJ.
AI in the Classroom
WEBINAR
November 12, 2024 3:00pm-5:00pm
Presenter: Coley Contor
Workshop Description: This interactive workshop will explore ways for teachers to integrate AI into their classrooms. Discover how AI can enrich student learning, foster creativity, and provide personalized feedback to students. Gain hands-on experience with AI’s latest tools to support your role as an educator, and learn effective methods to teach students responsible ways to use these technologies. Whether you're curious about AI or eager to leverage its potential, this session will equip you with practical ways to embrace AI with your students!
About the Presenter: Coley is a teacher, coach, and literacy leader. Now, as an educational consultant and staff developer, Coley works in schools across the country to support teachers with everything from creating meaningful writing experiences to refining vocabulary instruction, to building standards-based rubrics. When it comes to PD, teachers and administrators appreciate Coley’s passion and practicality.
Before becoming an educational consultant, Coley worked as a high school ELA teacher and an instructor in the Rutgers University Writing Program. Her experiences as a teacher, and as a writer, led her to believe deeply in process-based writing instruction and student agency. Her experiences range from honors courses to special education and inclusion classes. In her time as a teacher she created a student-run writing center, developed culturally responsive curricula, and provided literacy coaching for content-area teachers.
Hot Issues in School Law
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
November 19, 2024 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Sandra Jacques
Workshop Description: This workshop will address current developments in a variety of legal issues, including recent Supreme Court Decisions, HIB case law and legislative issues, TEACHNJ regulations and Arbitration Decisions, student safety, recent legislative enactments, social media, First Amendment rights and responsibilities, and other current and changes to state and federal law addressing racial discrimination/disparity issues.
About the Presenter: Ms. Jacques is the Assistant Director of Legal Education for FEA. She provides School Law Training to school leaders, educators, parents and other education stakeholders through the LEGAL ONE program.
Ms. Jacques practiced law in the Federal and State Courts of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, where she represented school districts in civil litigation matters, including civil rights, discrimination, and negligence claims. She simultaneously earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management and a Bachelor of Art in Political Science at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She holds a Juris Doctor from Widener University School of Law, and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Trial Advocacy from Temple University Law School.
As an Adjunct Professor at both Ramapo College of New Jersey and New Jersey City University, she teaches the School Law Course in their respective Masters in Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) Programs. Ms. Jacques is also an NJ EXCEL instructor, and a frequent guest speaker for the NJ Leaders to Leaders Program and the NJ Teacher Leader Certification Program.
Ms. Jacques has presented at Conferences for the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP); NJ Association of School Attorneys (NJSBA); and for numerous New Jersey Education Organizations.
Highly Effective Practices for Co-Teaching and Inclusion Models to Support Student Success
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
December 5, 2024 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Diane Appleby
Workshop Description: This workshop will focus upon effective methods of co-teaching in classrooms to include shared instructional responsibilities between the special and general educators. Co-teaching teams will learn how to will work together to plan, organize, instruct, and assess the same group of students. In addition, best methods of instruction will be modeled and practiced in collaborative groups.
Teachers will be provided with samples of scaffolds, co-teaching guides and effective materials.
Workshop includes:
• Share the six co-teaching models of authentic inclusion
• Describe the essential components of effective co-teaching
• Teach how to develop effective partnerships among teachers and students
• Identify research-based, effective strategies for student support
• Explore differentiation and inclusion
About the Presenter: During her career, Dr. Diane Appleby has been a conscientious, caring teacher, consultant and presenter who has provided numerous students, teachers, parents and administrators with the top research-based methods in the area Special Education instruction and co-teaching models. She has extensive training and expertise in best methods of academic support for students with disabilities. Dr. Diane Appleby is recognized for her co-teaching workshops, paraprofessional trainings, strategies and scaffolded reading/writing techniques for all students. She has years of teaching experience in schools (K-12) as a teachers and chairperson for the I&RS committee, college professor, reading interventionist, literacy coach, tutor and curriculum development.
Prior to completing a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership at Saint Elizabeth’s University, Ms. Appleby earned a master’s degree in special education/Learning Disabilities from Kean University and a Reading Recovery Certificate from New York University and her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Dr. Appleby has received the Union County Teacher of the Year Award in 2003, Governor’s Educational Services Professional of the Year Award in 2015, and Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers Award for 1997-1998.
About us
Email: clong@burlcoschools.org
Website: www.edservicesunit.com
Location: 20 Pioneer Boulevard, Westampton, NJ, USA
Phone: 609- 702-0500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Educational-Services-Unit-134704423658284/
Twitter: @ESUBurlco