Professional Learning Quarterly

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• Self-Paced Course Offered December 1 - December 31
• All coursework is due by the end of December
• All registered participants will be sent a link to the website to access all course materials

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• Self-Paced Course Offered January 1 - January 31
• All coursework is due by the end of January
• All registered participants will be sent a link to the website to access all course materials

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• January 7, 2025 at 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 2 of 3)
• Offered by RBERN
• Description: This 3-part virtual book study will focus on their newly published book, "Collaboration for Multilingual Learners with Exceptionalities- We Share the Students." Content will cover strategies for effective co-planning, co-assessment, and co-teaching, and explore the importance of cultural responsiveness and equitable classroom-based approaches for multilingual learners with exceptionalities. A Zoom link will be provided before the first meeting date. All participants will receive a free copy of the book.

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• January 8, 2025 at 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 1 of 6)
• Additional Sessions will be from 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM on January 16, January 22, January 30, February 4, and February 13.
• Offered by School Library Systems across BOCES (HFM, NERIC, WSWHE, QIII)
• Description: Digital citizenship curricula should strive to show students possibilities over problems, opportunities over risks and community successes over personal gain. This book shows educators how to do just that while being mindful of the responsibility to give back to the community and work toward social justice and equity. This book study is a regional study for school librarians to discuss the contents from a library perspective. It is limited to 20 participants.

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• January 13, 2025 at 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 4 of 8)
• Offered by RBERN
• Description: This minds-on workshop is designed for secondary science teachers ready to three-dimensionalize their instructional practices and create student-centered, inclusive learning environments. Throughout the workshop, educators use their knowledge of the NYS Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) and Performance Level Descriptions (PLDs) to explore strategies for supporting all students with Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs). Educators will: *Create learning environments that support all students, including English language learners (ELLs), by *Increasing student engagement and sense-making through the 5E Model of Instruction, *Focus on specific SEP strategies that foster critical thinking, collaboration, and authentic learning, experiences, *Develop and collaborate on classroom resources (e.g., labs, activities, slide decks, hyperdocs, etc.).

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• January 13, 2025 at 3:30 - 4:30 (Virtual via Zoom - Session 2 of 4)
• Offered by School Improvement Specialists
• Description: Any and all new teachers to be part of the 2024-2025 Regional New Teachers Cohort. This cohort will be encouraged to communicate throughout the year to share questions, ideas, successes, challenges, and more. School Improvement staff will host quarterly meetings of the cohort. New teachers can be defined as someone who is new to the profession (year 1 - 3), new to a school / district, and those in a new role at their current school / district. Various topics relevant to new teachers will be facilitated by members of the School Improvement staff.

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• January 15, 2025 at 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM (In Person at Questar III Central Office Conference Center)
• Offered by School Library System
• Description: Quarterly meetings for SLS Communications Coordinators as mandated in NY State Education Law 90.18. Communications Coordinators are updated on topics such as NY State Education updates, technology, and Information Fluency Skills. Professional development is provided on current issues. Information is brought back to other librarians in their districts. ALL school librarians are welcome. Third Annual Showcase of Excellence - school librarians from Questar III component districts will present on success stories, best practices, and turnkey ideas. This will also serve as the joint SLS Council and Communication Coordinators meeting for the 2024-25 school year. Snow Date - January 22, 2024

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• January 16, 2025 at 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM (In Person at Questar III BOCES Central Office Conference Center)
• Offered by Questar III School Improvement
• Description: This session of the Regional Principals Institute will focus on challenging issues that current principals have dealt with, are dealing with, and/or will deal with in the future. The first half of the session will focus on book and curricular challenges, with the second half of the institute focusing on grade-level discussions. The presentation and collaborative discussions will allow participating principals to work through these issues and leave with information and strategies to handle these specific issues as well as a template for handling other issues that principals face.

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• January 21, 2025 at 3:30 PM - 4:40 PM (Virtual via Zoom)
• Offered by Model Schools
• Description: Join us for an engaging workshop tailored for educators working with English Language Learners in grades 6-12, focusing effective strategies to promote spelling and phonemic awareness instruction. Participants will also deepen their understanding of the science of reading, gaining insights into evidence-based practices that support literacy development. Special attention will be given to addressing the needs of English Language Learners, offering practical techniques to scaffold language learning and promote academic success through innovative educational technology strategies integrated into the curriculum. Learn how to differentiate instruction and provide targeted support to meet the diverse needs of learners in your classroom effectively. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your teaching toolkit and discover new ways to engage and support students in their literacy journey!

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• Self-Paced Course Offered February 1 - February 28
• All coursework is due by the end of February
• All registered participants will be sent a link to the website to access all course materials

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• February 4, 2025 at 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 3 of 3)
• Offered by RBERN
• Description: This 3-part virtual book study will focus on their newly published book, "Collaboration for Multilingual Learners with Exceptionalities- We Share the Students." Content will cover strategies for effective co-planning, co-assessment, and co-teaching, and explore the importance of cultural responsiveness and equitable classroom-based approaches for multilingual learners with exceptionalities. A Zoom link will be provided before the first meeting date. All participants will receive a free copy of the book.

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• February 6, 2025 at 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM (In Person at STEM High School)
• Offered by Model Schools
• Description: Join us for an engaging series of workshops designed to provide educators with the opportunity to share best practices and innovative ways to incorporate educational technology into lessons. Connect and network with other teachers to collaborate and learn from one another. Stay current on the latest research and discover new tech tools to enhance your teaching experience. This workshop is free for Questar Districts as part of the Model Schools Base Fee. Don't miss this valuable opportunity to enhance your teaching skills and expand your technological teaching toolkit!

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• February 10, 2025 at 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 5 of 8)
• Offered by RBERN
• Description: This minds-on workshop is designed for secondary science teachers ready to three-dimensionalize their instructional practices and create student-centered, inclusive learning environments. Throughout the workshop, educators use their knowledge of the NYS Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) and Performance Level Descriptions (PLDs) to explore strategies for supporting all students with Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs). Educators will: *Create learning environments that support all students, including English language learners (ELLs), by *Increasing student engagement and sense-making through the 5E Model of Instruction, *Focus on specific SEP strategies that foster critical thinking, collaboration, and authentic learning, experiences, *Develop and collaborate on classroom resources (e.g., labs, activities, slide decks, hyperdocs, etc.).

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• February 13, 2025 at 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 4 of 6)
• Offered by School Library System
• Description: Book Buzz - If you love books, but don't have time to read them all, then please join us for some rigorous discussion about great new books. All that's required is your latest read and your thoughts. Books should be appropriate for secondary students and published within the last 2 years. It's an awesome way to find out what books are out there and if they might work in your library or classroom. We meet once a month, three times in the fall and three times in the spring. That's it! Hope to see you there. Participants will receive credit at the end of the course, credit will not be given to participants who miss 3 or more sessions. All meetings will be held online. Access information will be sent out the day before the event.

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• February 21, 2025 at 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 1 of 2)
• Offered by RBERN
• Description: The advanced dual language leadership professional learning opportunity, builds upon what is established in the essentials workshop. Participants are able to identify areas of strength, and strands that require attention. Through the use of in-depth reflection, using the rubrics in the Guiding Principles for Dual Language Education: Third Edition, this tailored workshop allows participants to fully focus on meeting the specific needs of the community they serve. Participants in the professional learning will be able to: Identify specific areas of strength and need, targeting the growth of the dual language program they lead Distinguish between outdated and more current biliteracy research and instructional practices Create an action plan to continuously improve dual language programming and biliteracy instructional best practices, via a critical consciousness lens

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• February 25, 2025 at 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 3 of 4)
• Offered by School Improvement Specialists
• Description: This PLC is designed to bring together AP Educators and AP Coordinators from Columbia, Greene, and Rensselaer Counties. In this supportive and collaborative environment, we will focus on exchanging insights, collaborating and sharing resources for innovative teaching and learning, and providing rigorous and engaging instruction practices, in an effort to continuously improve student outcomes across diverse content areas.

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• February 25, 2025 at 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 4 of 6)
• Offered by School Library System
• Description: Book Buzz - If you love books, but don't have time to read them all, then please join us for some rigorous discussion about great new books. All that's required is your latest read and your thoughts. Books should be appropriate for elementary students and published within the last 2 years. It's an awesome way to find out what books are out there and if they might work in your library or classroom. We meet once a month, three times in the fall and three times in the spring. That's it! Hope to see you there. Participants will receive credit at the end of the course, credit will not be given to participants who miss 3 or more sessions. All meetings will be held online. Access information will be sent out the day before the event.

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• REGISTER BY February 6, 2025. See below for Schedule
• Offered by School Library Systems (HFM, NERIC, WSWHE, and QIII BOCES)
• Description: "Here's the truth; it is possible to teach children how to read without killing their love for reading in the process.” Join us as we discuss how to create joyful reading communities while navigating the challenges of the current school environment. This book study is a regional study for school librarians to discuss the contents from a library perspective. Note: Participants are expected to complete assigned readings prior to each meeting. Please register no later than February 6th to ensure your copy of the book arrives on time the tentative reading schedule is below Tentative Schedule: Thu 2/27/2025 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Thu 3/06/2025 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Thu 3/13/2025 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Thu 3/20/2025 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Thu 3/27/2025 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM. Meetings are virtual. Limited to 20 participants.

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• Self-Paced Course Offered March 1 - March 31
• All coursework is due by the end of February
• All registered participants will be sent a link to the website to access all course materials

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• March 4, 2025 at 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 2 of 2)
• Offered by RBERN
• Description: The advanced dual language leadership professional learning opportunity, builds upon what is established in the essentials workshop. Participants are able to identify areas of strength, and strands that require attention. Through the use of in-depth reflection, using the rubrics in the Guiding Principles for Dual Language Education: Third Edition, this tailored workshop allows participants to fully focus on meeting the specific needs of the community they serve. Participants in the professional learning will be able to: Identify specific areas of strength and need, targeting the growth of the dual language program they lead Distinguish between outdated and more current biliteracy research and instructional practices Create an action plan to continuously improve dual language programming and biliteracy instructional best practices, via a critical consciousness lens

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• March 11, 2025 at 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM (Virtual via Zoom)
• Offered by Model Schools
• Description: Potential English Language Learners (ELLs) bring unique challenges and opportunities to our classrooms. Their diverse linguistic backgrounds enrich our educational environment, but they also require specialized strategies and resources to ensure their academic success. This workshop focuses on equipping teachers with strategies to support PreK Potential ELL students through personalized learning approaches and technology integration. By combining personalized learning techniques with technology tools, educators can create inclusive and engaging learning environments that cater to the individual needs of PreK Potential ELLs. Throughout the workshop, participants will explore practical methods to differentiate instruction, leverage technology for language acquisition, and foster a culturally responsive classroom. Join us to discover how personalized learning and technology can enhance the educational experience for PreK Potential ELLs and empower teachers to meet diverse learning needs effectively. This workshop is a continuation from our PD of Utilizing Educational Technology with PreK Potential ELLs.

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• March 13, 2025 at 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM (Virtual via Zoom - Meeting 2 of 3)
• Offered by Model Schools
• Description: These virtual meetings will provide district/building educational technology leaders with the latest information, policies and research from Questar III, NYSED, NYSCATE, Microsoft, Apple, Google, NYS Model Schools, and more. These meetings are free of charge for districts enrolled in the Questar Model Schools Base Fee. This opportunity provides a network of individuals to collaborate with and share best practices.

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• March 13, 2025 at 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 5 of 6)
• Offered by School Library System
• Description: Book Buzz - If you love books, but don't have time to read them all, then please join us for some rigorous discussion about great new books. All that's required is your latest read and your thoughts. Books should be appropriate for secondary students and published within the last 2 years. It's an awesome way to find out what books are out there and if they might work in your library or classroom. We meet once a month, three times in the fall and three times in the spring. That's it! Hope to see you there. Participants will receive credit at the end of the course, credit will not be given to participants who miss 3 or more sessions. All meetings will be held online. Access information will be sent out the day before the event.

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• March 19, 2025 at 8:25 AM - 3:30 PM (In Person at Questar III Central Office Conference Center)
• Offered by RBERN
• Description: Based on the Council for Exceptional Children's guidelines, participants will discover effective, evidence based strategies to support multilingual learners with disabilities, focusing on tailored instruction, assessment techniques, and collaborative approaches. This workshop is ideal for educators, special education professionals, and school leaders seeking to enhance education outcomes and equity for diverse student populations.

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• March 25, 2025 at 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom - Session 5 of 6)
• Offered by School Library System
• Description: Book Buzz - If you love books, but don't have time to read them all, then please join us for some rigorous discussion about great new books. All that's required is your latest read and your thoughts. Books should be appropriate for elementary students and published within the last 2 years. It's an awesome way to find out what books are out there and if they might work in your library or classroom. We meet once a month, three times in the fall and three times in the spring. That's it! Hope to see you there. Participants will receive credit at the end of the course, credit will not be given to participants who miss 3 or more sessions. All meetings will be held online. Access information will be sent out the day before the event.

Click Here to Register

• March 27, 2025 at 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM (In Person at STEM High School - Meeting 4 of 5)
• Offered by Model Schools
• Description: Join us for an engaging series of workshops designed to provide educators with the opportunity to share best practices and innovative ways to incorporate educational technology into lessons. Connect and network with other teachers to collaborate and learn from one another. Stay current on the latest research and discover new tech tools to enhance your teaching experience. This workshop is free for Questar Districts as part of the Model Schools Base Fee. Don't miss this valuable opportunity to enhance your teaching skills and expand your technological teaching toolkit!

Click Here to Register

• March 27, 2025 at 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (In Person at Questar III Central Office Conference Center)
• Offered by School Library System
• Description: One of four required meetings of the SLS Council. Council assists the SLS in its mission as outlined in Commissioner's Regulations 90.18 including creating and monitoring the Plan of Service, and recommending approval of the annual budget and the annual report. Updates are also provided to Council members at each meeting.