Faculty and staff from across the Elwood School District gathered for in person professional development sessions on Nov.  2 and 4 during the district’s Superintendent’s Conference Days, aligned with the theme of “Moving Forward Together!”

Over 50 workshops were provided over the two conference days for teachers, teaching assistants, paraprofessionals and clerical staff. Among the training topics covered were addressing the impact of the pandemic and interrupted learning, and implementing interventions to support continuous growth; working with English Language Learners; studying student work in narrative, fictional and informational writing; applying News Literacy skills in science, social studies and English; supporting the adolescent learner, using diagnostic reports to elevate student learning by addressing each student’s learning needs; and infusing social and emotional learning in physical education lessons.

The district was pleased to welcome staff developers from Stony Brook University’s Center for News Literacy, Curriculum Associates, Columbia University’s Teachers College Reading and Writing Project, and Visionary Adventure. Specialty training was provided for specific departments through virtual or in-person training via the New York State School Music Association, the Heckscher Museum of Art and BOCES.  The district also utilized the expertise of administrators, as well as staff members from Pupil Personnel Services, World Languages and Technology, to turn-key professional development for colleagues.

“Feedback from staff was overwhelmingly positive and staff members were glad to have the opportunity to discuss salient topics addressing the needs of students and staff as we continue to move forward together,” Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Maureen Hull said.