Summer 2016 Offerings
Google Bootcamp (Day 1)
Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Computer Lab 225
Presenter: Anthony Amitrano, Director of Technology Integration
Description: Google Bootcamp will focus on getting MURSD staff members up and running and comfortable with the many Google tools available. Day will focus on learning basics about Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive (including Docs, Sheets, and Slides). We will focus on fundamental features that will allow you to manage your email, appointments, and files with ease.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: 1.) Access Gmail and perform basic functions (compose an email, label emails, create filters, manage contacts), 2.) Access Calendar and perform basic functions (create calendar entries, invite colleagues to appointments, manage multiple calendars), and 3.) Access Google Drive to create and edit Docs, Sheets, and Slides.
Audience: PreK-12 faculty and staff
Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Computer Lab 225
Presenter: Anthony Amitrano, Director of Technology Integration
Description: Google Bootcamp will focus on getting MURSD staff members up and running and comfortable with the many Google tools available. Day will focus on learning basics about Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive (including Docs, Sheets, and Slides). We will focus on fundamental features that will allow you to manage your email, appointments, and files with ease.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: 1.) Access Gmail and perform basic functions (compose an email, label emails, create filters, manage contacts), 2.) Access Calendar and perform basic functions (create calendar entries, invite colleagues to appointments, manage multiple calendars), and 3.) Access Google Drive to create and edit Docs, Sheets, and Slides.
Audience: PreK-12 faculty and staff
Trauma in the Classroom
Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Time: Session 1 - 9:00-11:00
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Gathering Room
Presenter: Workshop will be presented by Ayon Bose, MA, a mental health clinician from Family Continuity in Northbridge.
Description: Learn about the psychological effects of trauma on children. Topics include the impact of trauma on the developing brain, symptoms of a trauma response, and associated issues in the classroom. Additionally learn about current research-based interventions that help traumatized children improve functioning at home, in school, and in the community.
Outcomes: 1) Participants will be able to identify signs of trauma in children. 2) Participants will be able to differentiate between trauma responses and behavioral issues. 3) Participants will be able to assess and evaluate the need for referral for additional support or counseling services.
Audience: PreK-12 faculty and staff
Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Time: Session 1 - 9:00-11:00
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Gathering Room
Presenter: Workshop will be presented by Ayon Bose, MA, a mental health clinician from Family Continuity in Northbridge.
Description: Learn about the psychological effects of trauma on children. Topics include the impact of trauma on the developing brain, symptoms of a trauma response, and associated issues in the classroom. Additionally learn about current research-based interventions that help traumatized children improve functioning at home, in school, and in the community.
Outcomes: 1) Participants will be able to identify signs of trauma in children. 2) Participants will be able to differentiate between trauma responses and behavioral issues. 3) Participants will be able to assess and evaluate the need for referral for additional support or counseling services.
Audience: PreK-12 faculty and staff
Stage 3: Creating an engaging learning plan for instruction
(Cancelled due to low enrollment)
Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Time: Session 1--9:00-11:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (PDC)
Presenter: Maureen Cohen, Director of Curriculum
Description: Stage 3 of Backwards Design is focused on developing teaching and learning activities that achieve the desired results (Stage 1) as reflected in the assessment evidence to be gathered (Stage 2). This workshop will provide classroom teachers with some frameworks for guiding their lesson plans so they are engaging, differentiated, and rigorous. Various organizational models, paired with instructional strategies will be included for teachers to explore.
(Cancelled due to low enrollment)
Date: Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Time: Session 1--9:00-11:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (PDC)
Presenter: Maureen Cohen, Director of Curriculum
Description: Stage 3 of Backwards Design is focused on developing teaching and learning activities that achieve the desired results (Stage 1) as reflected in the assessment evidence to be gathered (Stage 2). This workshop will provide classroom teachers with some frameworks for guiding their lesson plans so they are engaging, differentiated, and rigorous. Various organizational models, paired with instructional strategies will be included for teachers to explore.
Google and MacBook Bootcamp (Day 2)
Date: Thursday, June 23, 2016
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Computer Lab 225
Presenter: Anthony Amitrano, Director of Technology Integration
Description: Day 2 of Google Bootcamp will focus on more intermediate functions available within Google Apps. The focus of this day will be on using Google Classroom, collaborative tools within Google Drive, and discussing best practices in workflows for disseminating and collecting student work and managing your online classroom. MacBook Bootcamp is a daylong workshop where teachers will be able to receive their new MacBook and receive some basic training on it. Teachers participating in the workshop will be guided through the steps of turning on the MacBook, accessing email, accessing settings, learning basic functions of the apps available on the MacBook, and more. Teachers will also be directed to resources available to help them make the most of the various tools available on the MacBook in preparation for the new school year.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: 1.) Experience Google Classroom and the capabilities it has to manage online workflows for student work, announcements, and formative assessments, 2.) Use the tools within Google Drive to collaborate with colleagues, and discuss how these tools can also be used with students, and 3.) Discuss and explore workflow solutions using Google Apps in combination with iPad apps and other services available for use with students. Participants will be able to: 1.) Receive their district issued MacBook, 2.) Perform basic functions on the MacBook, and 3.) Access and gain a basic understanding of the apps available for use on the MacBook.
Audience: PreK-12 faculty and staff
Date: Thursday, June 23, 2016
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Computer Lab 225
Presenter: Anthony Amitrano, Director of Technology Integration
Description: Day 2 of Google Bootcamp will focus on more intermediate functions available within Google Apps. The focus of this day will be on using Google Classroom, collaborative tools within Google Drive, and discussing best practices in workflows for disseminating and collecting student work and managing your online classroom. MacBook Bootcamp is a daylong workshop where teachers will be able to receive their new MacBook and receive some basic training on it. Teachers participating in the workshop will be guided through the steps of turning on the MacBook, accessing email, accessing settings, learning basic functions of the apps available on the MacBook, and more. Teachers will also be directed to resources available to help them make the most of the various tools available on the MacBook in preparation for the new school year.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: 1.) Experience Google Classroom and the capabilities it has to manage online workflows for student work, announcements, and formative assessments, 2.) Use the tools within Google Drive to collaborate with colleagues, and discuss how these tools can also be used with students, and 3.) Discuss and explore workflow solutions using Google Apps in combination with iPad apps and other services available for use with students. Participants will be able to: 1.) Receive their district issued MacBook, 2.) Perform basic functions on the MacBook, and 3.) Access and gain a basic understanding of the apps available for use on the MacBook.
Audience: PreK-12 faculty and staff
Understanding WIDA Standards for ELLs
(Cancelled due to low enrollment-repeat session offered in August)
Date: Thursday, June 23
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Gathering Room
Presenter: Kelly Blain, ELL Coordinator
Description: This workshop will explore the components of the WIDA Framework for Language Development Standards with a focus on academic language. Participants engage in hands-on activities that address the WIDA Can Do philosophy, examine academic language, and consider the socio-cultural factors that influence language use. This workshop will provide a foundational awareness of the WIDA Framework and has been designed for any educators that work with English Language Learners.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: -Describe the components of the WIDA Framework for Language Development Standards, -Use the WIDA Performance Definitions to identify language expectations of instructional tasks, -And understand how WIDA Can-Do Descriptors help craft instruction that capitalizes and builds upon language assets.
Audience: PreK-12 Teachers
Note: This will meet some of the 15 PDPs required for licensure in the area of ELL
(Cancelled due to low enrollment-repeat session offered in August)
Date: Thursday, June 23
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Gathering Room
Presenter: Kelly Blain, ELL Coordinator
Description: This workshop will explore the components of the WIDA Framework for Language Development Standards with a focus on academic language. Participants engage in hands-on activities that address the WIDA Can Do philosophy, examine academic language, and consider the socio-cultural factors that influence language use. This workshop will provide a foundational awareness of the WIDA Framework and has been designed for any educators that work with English Language Learners.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: -Describe the components of the WIDA Framework for Language Development Standards, -Use the WIDA Performance Definitions to identify language expectations of instructional tasks, -And understand how WIDA Can-Do Descriptors help craft instruction that capitalizes and builds upon language assets.
Audience: PreK-12 Teachers
Note: This will meet some of the 15 PDPs required for licensure in the area of ELL
Incorporating the 2016 Science Standards into your Classroom
(Cancelled due to low enrollment-repeat session offered in August)
Date: Friday, June 24
Time: Session 1 -- 9:00-11:00
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School PDC
Presenter: Jennifer Field
Description: I will provide information and resources to help you transition to the 2016 STE standards. I will provide ideas about new activities or lessons that would help you integrate these standards more smoothly into your science curriculum.
Outcomes: Update their curriculum to align with the 2016 science standards
Audience: PreK- Teachers
(Cancelled due to low enrollment-repeat session offered in August)
Date: Friday, June 24
Time: Session 1 -- 9:00-11:00
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School PDC
Presenter: Jennifer Field
Description: I will provide information and resources to help you transition to the 2016 STE standards. I will provide ideas about new activities or lessons that would help you integrate these standards more smoothly into your science curriculum.
Outcomes: Update their curriculum to align with the 2016 science standards
Audience: PreK- Teachers
Special Education 1.0
Date: Thursday, August 11, 2016
Time: 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (Gathering Room)
Presenter: Diane Borgatti, Team Chair
Description: The world of special education can be difficult to navigate for both new teachers and experienced teachers. Students enter your classrooms with diverse learning needs. Some of your students may have IEPs and others whom you know are struggling may not have any type of support. Why so some students qualify for services and some do not? This seminar will provide an overview of special education law, the referral process, categories of learning disabilities in Massachusetts, determination of eligibility for services, and survival skills for anyone attending an IEP eligibility determination meeting. The IEP document will be reviewed so that classroom teachers can understand their roles in the special education process.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to discuss IDEA 2004, identify the criteria for learning disabilities, roles of educators in the Team process, and what happens when parents consent to the IEP.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
Date: Thursday, August 11, 2016
Time: 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (Gathering Room)
Presenter: Diane Borgatti, Team Chair
Description: The world of special education can be difficult to navigate for both new teachers and experienced teachers. Students enter your classrooms with diverse learning needs. Some of your students may have IEPs and others whom you know are struggling may not have any type of support. Why so some students qualify for services and some do not? This seminar will provide an overview of special education law, the referral process, categories of learning disabilities in Massachusetts, determination of eligibility for services, and survival skills for anyone attending an IEP eligibility determination meeting. The IEP document will be reviewed so that classroom teachers can understand their roles in the special education process.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to discuss IDEA 2004, identify the criteria for learning disabilities, roles of educators in the Team process, and what happens when parents consent to the IEP.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
Growth Mindset: Cultivating a growth mindset with our students
Cancelled due to low enrollment
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2016
Time: 9:00-11:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (PDC)
Presenter: Maureen Cohen, Director of Curriculum
Description: When students believe that their effort and hard work can change their performance in school and that they can "grow their brain" they show resilience, grit, and improved performance. This workshop will provide participants with an overview of the key aspects of growth mindset. It will also include activities that educators can take back to their schools to help foster a growth mindset in their students from day one.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
Cancelled due to low enrollment
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2016
Time: 9:00-11:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (PDC)
Presenter: Maureen Cohen, Director of Curriculum
Description: When students believe that their effort and hard work can change their performance in school and that they can "grow their brain" they show resilience, grit, and improved performance. This workshop will provide participants with an overview of the key aspects of growth mindset. It will also include activities that educators can take back to their schools to help foster a growth mindset in their students from day one.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
Establishing a Common Writing Vocabulary and Essay Practice
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2016
Time: Session 1 and 2 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (220)
Presenter: Michael Clements
Description: The seminar is for all instructors of writing. Participants will discuss terms and writing practices that will help develop effective essay assessments for all genres: non-fiction, fiction, poetry, drama, and visuals.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to demonstrate annotation for purpose, separate persuasion from argument, communicate a discernible voice, and collaborate to bring students to writing with clarity, focus, and consideration of audience.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2016
Time: Session 1 and 2 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (220)
Presenter: Michael Clements
Description: The seminar is for all instructors of writing. Participants will discuss terms and writing practices that will help develop effective essay assessments for all genres: non-fiction, fiction, poetry, drama, and visuals.
Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to demonstrate annotation for purpose, separate persuasion from argument, communicate a discernible voice, and collaborate to bring students to writing with clarity, focus, and consideration of audience.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
Special Education 1.0
(Cancelled due to low enrollment-repeat session offered in August 11)
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2016
Time: 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (Gathering Room)
Presenter: Diane Borgatti, Team Chair
Description: The world of special education can be difficult to navigate for both new teachers and experienced teachers. Students enter your classrooms with diverse learning needs. Some of your students may have IEPs and others whom you know are struggling may not have any type of support. Why so some students qualify for services and some do not? This seminar will provide an overview of special education law, the referral process, categories of learning disabilities in Massachusetts, determination of eligibility for services, and survival skills for anyone attending an IEP eligibility determination meeting. The IEP document will be reviewed so that classroom teachers can understand their roles in the special education process.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to discuss IDEA 2004, identify the criteria for learning disabilities, roles of educators in the Team process, and what happens when parents consent to the IEP.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
(Cancelled due to low enrollment-repeat session offered in August 11)
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2016
Time: 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (Gathering Room)
Presenter: Diane Borgatti, Team Chair
Description: The world of special education can be difficult to navigate for both new teachers and experienced teachers. Students enter your classrooms with diverse learning needs. Some of your students may have IEPs and others whom you know are struggling may not have any type of support. Why so some students qualify for services and some do not? This seminar will provide an overview of special education law, the referral process, categories of learning disabilities in Massachusetts, determination of eligibility for services, and survival skills for anyone attending an IEP eligibility determination meeting. The IEP document will be reviewed so that classroom teachers can understand their roles in the special education process.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to discuss IDEA 2004, identify the criteria for learning disabilities, roles of educators in the Team process, and what happens when parents consent to the IEP.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
MacBook Bootcamp
Date: Thursdays, August 4, August 11,, August 18, or Wednesday, August 24
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Computer Lab 225
Presenter: Anthony Amitrano, Director of Technology Integration
Description: MacBook Bootcamp is a daylong workshop where teachers will be able to receive their new MacBook and receive some basic training on it. Teachers participating in the workshop will be guided through the steps of turning on the MacBook, accessing email, accessing settings, learning basic functions of the apps available on the MacBook, and more. Teachers will also be directed to resources available to help them make the most of the various tools available on the MacBook in preparation for the new school year.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: 1.) Receive their district issued MacBook, 2.) Perform basic functions on the MacBook, and 3.) Access and gain a basic understanding of the apps available for use on the MacBook.
Audience: This workshop is beneficial for all classroom and specialist teachers that will be receiving a MacBook as their primary computer for the 2016-17 school year. If you are unsure as to whether or not you will be receiving a MacBook, please contact your school principal. Note: each day is a repeat session, so you only need to sign up for one session.
Date: Thursdays, August 4, August 11,, August 18, or Wednesday, August 24
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Computer Lab 225
Presenter: Anthony Amitrano, Director of Technology Integration
Description: MacBook Bootcamp is a daylong workshop where teachers will be able to receive their new MacBook and receive some basic training on it. Teachers participating in the workshop will be guided through the steps of turning on the MacBook, accessing email, accessing settings, learning basic functions of the apps available on the MacBook, and more. Teachers will also be directed to resources available to help them make the most of the various tools available on the MacBook in preparation for the new school year.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: 1.) Receive their district issued MacBook, 2.) Perform basic functions on the MacBook, and 3.) Access and gain a basic understanding of the apps available for use on the MacBook.
Audience: This workshop is beneficial for all classroom and specialist teachers that will be receiving a MacBook as their primary computer for the 2016-17 school year. If you are unsure as to whether or not you will be receiving a MacBook, please contact your school principal. Note: each day is a repeat session, so you only need to sign up for one session.
Incorporating the 2016 Science Standards into your Classroom
Date: Thursday, August 11
Time: Session 1 -- 9:00-11:00
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School PDC
Presenter: Jennifer Field
Description: I will provide information and resources to help you transition to the 2016 STE standards. I will provide ideas about new activities or lessons that would help you integrate these standards more smoothly into your science curriculum.
Outcomes: Update their curriculum to align with the 2016 science standards
Audience: PreK- Teachers
Date: Thursday, August 11
Time: Session 1 -- 9:00-11:00
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School PDC
Presenter: Jennifer Field
Description: I will provide information and resources to help you transition to the 2016 STE standards. I will provide ideas about new activities or lessons that would help you integrate these standards more smoothly into your science curriculum.
Outcomes: Update their curriculum to align with the 2016 science standards
Audience: PreK- Teachers
Understanding WIDA Standards for ELLs
Date: Thursday, August 25
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Gathering Room
Presenter: Kelly Blain, ELL Coordinator
Description: This workshop will explore the components of the WIDA Framework for Language Development Standards with a focus on academic language. Participants engage in hands-on activities that address the WIDA Can Do philosophy, examine academic language, and consider the socio-cultural factors that influence language use. This workshop will provide a foundational awareness of the WIDA Framework and has been designed for any educators that work with English Language Learners.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: -Describe the components of the WIDA Framework for Language Development Standards, -Use the WIDA Performance Definitions to identify language expectations of instructional tasks, -And understand how WIDA Can-Do Descriptors help craft instruction that capitalizes and builds upon language assets.
Audience: PreK-12 Teachers
Note: This will meet some of the 15 PDPs required for licensure in the area of ELL
Date: Thursday, August 25
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Gathering Room
Presenter: Kelly Blain, ELL Coordinator
Description: This workshop will explore the components of the WIDA Framework for Language Development Standards with a focus on academic language. Participants engage in hands-on activities that address the WIDA Can Do philosophy, examine academic language, and consider the socio-cultural factors that influence language use. This workshop will provide a foundational awareness of the WIDA Framework and has been designed for any educators that work with English Language Learners.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to: -Describe the components of the WIDA Framework for Language Development Standards, -Use the WIDA Performance Definitions to identify language expectations of instructional tasks, -And understand how WIDA Can-Do Descriptors help craft instruction that capitalizes and builds upon language assets.
Audience: PreK-12 Teachers
Note: This will meet some of the 15 PDPs required for licensure in the area of ELL
Co-Teaching Strategies
Cancelled due to low enrollment
Date: Thursdays, August 25
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Media Center
Presenter: Leah Hagen/Amy Henderson/Kim Lopes
Description: Participants will learn about various co-teaching models, how to differentiate instruction for all learners, and receive take-home resources that can be used in their own classrooms. This is a workshop for any staff that has not already had inclusion training.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to modify content, process, and product to allow all students to be successfully accommodated.
Audience: K-8
Note: This will meet some of the 15 PDPs required for licensure in the area of diverse learners
Cancelled due to low enrollment
Date: Thursdays, August 25
Time: Session 1 and Session 2-- 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School Media Center
Presenter: Leah Hagen/Amy Henderson/Kim Lopes
Description: Participants will learn about various co-teaching models, how to differentiate instruction for all learners, and receive take-home resources that can be used in their own classrooms. This is a workshop for any staff that has not already had inclusion training.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to modify content, process, and product to allow all students to be successfully accommodated.
Audience: K-8
Note: This will meet some of the 15 PDPs required for licensure in the area of diverse learners
Special Education 1.0
(Cancelled due to low enrollment-repeat session offered in August 11)
Date: Thursday, August 25, 2016
Time: 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (PDC)
Presenter: Diane Borgatti, Team Chair
Description: The world of special education can be difficult to navigate for both new teachers and experienced teachers. Students enter your classrooms with diverse learning needs. Some of your students may have IEPs and others whom you know are struggling may not have any type of support. Why so some students qualify for services and some do not? This seminar will provide an overview of special education law, the referral process, categories of learning disabilities in Massachusetts, determination of eligibility for services, and survival skills for anyone attending an IEP eligibility determination meeting. The IEP document will be reviewed so that classroom teachers can understand their roles in the special education process.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to discuss IDEA 2004, identify the criteria for learning disabilities, roles of educators in the Team process, and what happens when parents consent to the IEP.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators
(Cancelled due to low enrollment-repeat session offered in August 11)
Date: Thursday, August 25, 2016
Time: 9:00-1:30
Location: Nipmuc Regional High School (PDC)
Presenter: Diane Borgatti, Team Chair
Description: The world of special education can be difficult to navigate for both new teachers and experienced teachers. Students enter your classrooms with diverse learning needs. Some of your students may have IEPs and others whom you know are struggling may not have any type of support. Why so some students qualify for services and some do not? This seminar will provide an overview of special education law, the referral process, categories of learning disabilities in Massachusetts, determination of eligibility for services, and survival skills for anyone attending an IEP eligibility determination meeting. The IEP document will be reviewed so that classroom teachers can understand their roles in the special education process.
Outcomes: Participants will be able to discuss IDEA 2004, identify the criteria for learning disabilities, roles of educators in the Team process, and what happens when parents consent to the IEP.
Audience: PreK-12 Educators