As the English Learner population in North Carolina continues to increase, effective teachers must adapt their instruction to meet the needs of this diverse and dynamic group of students. This program will focus on understanding who English Learners are and identifying and meeting their unique needs in the regular classroom. We will explore common classroom teacher concerns, myths surrounding the second language acquisition process, factors that impact that process, the best research-based instructional practices, and the modification of classroom instruction and assessment. Teachers will work to apply these principals to their own lesson plans for immediate classroom application and implementation.

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A wealth of research supports the hypothesis that physical activity can boost comprehension, retention, and self-regulation in students of all achievement levels. Teachers who build movement into their lesson designs will have students who are less disruptive and more engaged. Teachers will learn a variety of strategies for integrating instruction with physical activity, but not at the expense of intellectual rigor. Armed with a collection of techniques you can use immediately, design and create your own physically and mentally active lessons. All teachers from pre-K through 12th-grade are encouraged to attend.

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Designed for teachers of grades 6–12.

Imagine a classroom where digital learning is already immersed into every aspect of the curriculum. Educators today have so many components to consider when creating a lesson, including: content, assessment, collaboration, and digital technology. Learn how to create a learning space where digital tools are seamlessly integrated. Investigate a variety of digital tools and see example lessons for the English/language arts, history, and science classrooms. Inspire your students to become more engaged by creating an immersive digital learning environment.

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Children today spend less time outdoors than ever before — and it may be detrimental not only to their physical health, but also to their cognitive development. Current research shows that students in schools with more “greenness” in their surroundings reported higher scores on standardized testing in English and math. We will examine research on the “nature deficit disorder” and will develop and share plans for connecting literacy and nature. Come join us as we explore the rationale for exposing students to nature and strategies for connecting literacy activities to green spaces in and around our public schools. 

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Computer science drives job growth and innovation throughout our economy and society. According to Code.org: computing occupations make up two-thirds of all projected new jobs in STEM fields, making Computer Science one of the most in-demand college degrees. Most students, however, do not have the opportunity to learn coding. You can help change this. Learn how to code, integrate coding into your curriculum, basics in robotics, and inspire students to learn more about computer science.

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Instructional coaches have a direct impact on instruction and student achievement in today’s schools. Coaches use their role in the schools to enhance others’ abilities through motivation and support. This role can be an overwhelming and daunting task. This program will offer inspiration, guidance, training, strategies, and evidence-based practices for the 21st century instructional coach.

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Designed for teachers in grades 3–12.

The world of STEM—science, technology, engineering, and math—provides a rich environment that motivates children to want to learn more. Children often prefer reading about spiders and dinosaurs to fictional characters. STEM activities help students build vocabulary, incorporate problem-solving skills, and analyze complex text with real-world applications. Maximize classroom time by integrating literacy with the natural connections of STEM disciplines. Experience lessons that give students a desire to read, promote problem solving, and model strategies to cultivate reading comprehension. Join us as we make messes, break things, and create minds-on STEM learning environments.

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Designed for teachers of grades 6–12

MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) is the umbrella under which all educational practices fall. It has two main pillars: RtI (Responsiveness to Instruction/Intervention) and PBIS (Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports). These two areas incorporate all academic and behavioral learning. What have we learned from the experts over the past decades? What does the research tell us about optimal teaching behaviors that equate to maximum learning outcomes? How can we change our behavior to ensure positive and thriving student behaviors? This program is intended to offer the big picture—the major areas that will yield the biggest impact, some of the latest research, as well as practical implementation suggestions and resources. Plan to leave with ideas, resources, and a game plan for your classroom and possibly your school!

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Designed for teachers in grades 3–5.

The NC Math Standards emphasize developing conceptual understandings through modeling and application. Determining how to facilitate these understandings requires collaboration and strategic planning. We will explore and practice strategies for increasing student success by delving into the NC Math Standards and instructional frameworks. We will create contexts for mathematical concepts that lead students to deep understandings and plan a differentiated math classroom that engages students of all skill levels in lessons.

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Canvas, North Carolina’s Learning Management System (LMS), is your place for one-stop learning and course management. Teachers will become familiar with the features of Canvas such as the settings, notifications, and tools in building a course. Create modules using a variety of items such as discussions, assignments, quizzes, and content pages. Set up generic or tailored rubrics for use with a variety of content. This program is designed for beginning users and will allow time to experiment, collaborate, and build at your own pace. Teachers will have a module or more ready to implement on returning to the classroom.

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