Upcoming Professional Learning Events

  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    PE/HE CONSORTIUM - Women's Health

    Register here.

    Women's health is the catalyst to women empowerment. Women empowerment will elevate an individual's lifestyle, prevention, and safety for long term health and wellness. Participants will focus on health promotion and education regarding girls and young women in health education and physical education. Participants are guided by the National Health Education Standards alongside receiving best practices through health skills based activities and resources. Learning Objectives:

    • Educators will be able to enhance their knowledge and comprehension regarding Girls / Young Women and health topics

    • Educators will be able to gain women's health resources and services that can be an aid for students, families, and classroom teaching

    • Educators will be able to transfer health skills based activities into their classroom for positive and meaningful engagement

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    Meet-Up: Our Local History as a Resource for Culturally Responsive Social Studies Instruction

    Register Here

    Come to this Meetup for an introduction to the units that Our Local History has customized for Westchester County. The units are based in US and local history, focused on: 1) 19th century local enslavement and resistance, and 2) 20th century local redlining and civil rights action. These asset-based curriculum resources embody principles of Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education. Participants will receive an overview of the instructional resources and discuss considerations for application.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    Meet-Up: Introduction to the NYSED Culturally Responsive & Sustaining Education Framework

    Register Here

    This session provides an introduction to the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CRSE) Framework, designed to help educators create more inclusive and affirming learning environments. Participants will explore the four principles of the CRSE framework-Welcoming and Affirming Environment, High Expectations and Rigorous Instruction, Inclusive Curriculum and Assessment, and Ongoing Professional Learning and Support-and examine how they can be applied in classroom practice.

    By the end of this session, participants will:
    Understand the key principles of the NYSED CRSE Framework.
    Recognize the impact of culturally responsive teaching on student learning and engagement.
    Identify actionable steps to integrate CRSE principles into their classroom practice.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Key Points Refresher Recertification

    Register here.

    The Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Key Points Refresher is designed to help improve your understanding of key program concepts, enhance your skills and provide strategies to apply the information to workplace realities. Only participants who have completed the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Training during the 2022-2023 school year are eligible to participate in the Refresher Training. You must attend all sessions. In addition, we are asking that individuals attend in pairs or trios so that they can perform the physical interventions with a partner. All participants must complete the physical interventions in order to receive certification. If you have further questions regarding the course, please contact Brandon Cruz via email at bcruz@swboces.org.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Science Investigation (Biology). Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems: For the Birds -Designing Solutions

    Register here

    This one-day session focuses on Science Investigation (Biology). Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems: For the Birds -Designing Solutions.

    This Investigation for the Regents Examinations in Life Science: Biology is a hands-on laboratory experience that prepares students for the new Regents Examinations to be administered in June 2025. (This is 3 of 3 Science Investigations: Biology).

    Participants in this one-day session will: experience this Investigation both as a teacher and student; simulate the collision between a bird in flight with a glass window; collaborate to design, evaluate, and refine a window screen that could be used to reduce the force of this impact and bird mortality; construct a data table(s) that will be used to organize the data collected evaluate the results of this simulation and determine the effectiveness of the solution; refine the solution to further optimize its effectiveness; deepen their understanding of NYSED's expectations for the new Regents' exam in Life Science: Biology.

     

     

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    2024-25 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Leaders' Action Network

    Register here

    This professional learning workshop is designed to support school district teams in identifying, developing, and executing an initiative to create equitable systems within their districts. The Culturally Responsive & Sustaining Education Framework, will anchor our work to - "create student-centered learning environments that: affirm racial, linguistic and cultural identities; prepare students for rigor and independent learning; develop students' abilities to connect across lines of difference; elevate historically marginalized voices; and empower students as agents of social change.” Each participating district is strongly encouraged to register as a team of at least two members and up to 5. Together, participants will LEARN, SHARE and ACT on a new initiative or grow an existing one, that supports your district's vision to create inclusive school communities. We will provide strategies and support to help build a solid foundation for successful implementation. The intentional collaboration among various stakeholders ensures that this work is a shared responsibility, reinforcing the idea that creating equitable educational environments is a collective effort.

    Network Goals:
    - Ground our work in NYSED's CRSE Framework and NYSED's DEI Policy
    - Identify an area of focus and implement action steps to support your district's DEI initiative
    - Contribute to Network resources

     

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Early Learning (PK-3) Educators Network

    Register here.

    Join us for collaborative learning experiences with colleagues who are dedicated to enhancing the educational experiences of Early Learners (PK-3) across all content areas. Together we will explore best practices, theories, and innovative approaches to early childhood education. Members of the group will engage in activities such as sharing resources, analyzing current research, developing curriculum strategies, and reflecting on their teaching methods. We welcome teams of teachers, administrators, instructional coaches, early learning specialists, department chairs, and all who support Early Learning.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Navigating the Future: AI's Role in School Libraries

    Register here

    Looking to find out more about how AI will impact libraries? This course will equip school librarians with essential knowledge and practical skills for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their library systems. Participants will explore the role of AI in enhancing research , information literacy, and library management while addressing ethical considerations and challenges. Through hands-on activities, attendees will gain experience with various AI tools and develop an action plan to implement AI responsibly in their libraries. This course aims to foster collaboration among educators and promote critical thinking about AI's impact on education, preparing librarians to navigate the evolving landscape of technology in support of student success. Join us in transforming school libraries into innovative learning environments. 

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    RECOVS MTSSI Lab: Understanding, Designing, and Implementing MTSS-I systems and structures

    Register here.

    District MTSSi teams from SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium will meet to discuss and collaborate around grant implementation through the lens of MTSS. Together, we will collaboratively explore the components of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports). Guided by the NYSED MTSS-I Pilot, we will investigate and design systems and structures. Our focus will be on exploring effective implementation strategies and utilizing data to enhance school and district practices. This group aims to share experiences, best practices, and develop tools to empower faculty and staff in meeting the unique needs of every student through the structures and guidelines provided by the RECOVS Mental Health Grant.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    Facing History's Approach to Teaching ELA

    Register here

    In this virtual session, Facing History* will introduce educators to its approach to teaching secondary English Language Arts (ELA) that can be used to support common instructional formats: text sets, whole-class reads, and book clubs.

    *Facing History & Ourselves focuses on equipping schools, districts, and teachers with the tools they need to shape the future by nurturing empathy, curiosity, and civic responsibility in young people.


    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Science Investigation (Biology). Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems: For the Birds -Designing Solutions

    Register here

    This one-day session focuses on Science Investigation (Biology). Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems: For the Birds -Designing Solutions.

    This Investigation for the Regents Examinations in Life Science: Biology is a hands-on laboratory experience that prepares students for the new Regents Examinations to be administered in June 2025. (This is 3 of 3 Science Investigations: Biology).

    Participants in this one-day session will: experience this Investigation both as a teacher and student; simulate the collision between a bird in flight with a glass window; collaborate to design, evaluate, and refine a window screen that could be used to reduce the force of this impact and bird mortality; construct a data table(s) that will be used to organize the data collected evaluate the results of this simulation and determine the effectiveness of the solution; refine the solution to further optimize its effectiveness; deepen their understanding of NYSED's expectations for the new Regents' exam in Life Science: Biology.

     

     

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Advancing Reading Engagement & Comprehension in Middle & High School Classrooms (Aligned to NYS Literacy Briefs)

    Register here

    While students are often expected to comprehend texts in their middle and high school classes, even students who can name every word may not be reading actively or making sense of the texts they're given.

    How do we support students' engagement with text and reading comprehension across content areas in secondary classrooms, in alignment with the Science of Reading?

    This session will share and engage participants in strategies that help students think more deeply both about how and what they read, from think-alouds and metacognitive reflection to visible thinking routines and protocols for activating reading strategies.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    Meet-Up: Fostering Engagement & Independence with Making Thinking Visible (MTV)

    Register Here

    Making Thinking Visible (MTV) catalyzes High Impact Practices recommended across content areas, per the NYS Literacy Briefs and Advanced Literacy instruction. Visible thinking routines can support engagement and learning, helping illuminate the content and process of thinking, while supporting entry points for all students. Come learn about the why, what, and how of MTV to determine what you can bring back to your school tomorrow - and beyond.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    Critical Media Literacy in the Age of AI (via Zoom)

    Register here

    Students today are faced with unprecedented challenges in determining fact from fake, as they are bombarded with misinformation and disinformation through conventional and social media. As artificial intelligence becomes more advanced and prevalent, these challenges grow more difficult and complex. In this session, educators will explore trusted, content-rich resources, including Britannica School's curated resource packs and lesson plans that support student research, media literacy fundamentals, misinformation and disinformation concepts, and action plans to determine fact from fake. 

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Advancing Inclusive School Communities

    Register here.

    The Advancing Inclusive School Communities learning series is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and tools necessary to create environments where all students feel valued, respected, and supported. Throughout the series, participants will explore strategies for integrating diverse perspectives to create welcome and affirming environments, implement culturally responsive teaching methods, and develop an Equity Lens approach to teaching and leadership.

    Session 1: Framing DEI in Prek-12 Setting- Getting to the WHY?
    Session 2: Unpacking Identity and Its Impact on Interpersonal Relationships
    Session 3: Introduction to Restorative Practices: A Tool to Build Community
    Session 4: Utilizing NYSED Tools to Create Welcoming and Affirming Environments

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    SLS Collection Development Collegial Circle

    Register here.

    Join us for five sessions focused on a different area of diverse collection development. Each session will be two hours in length. The first part of the session will be educational in nature with participants learning about new books that have been published, how to find high-quality engaging literature, and identifying ways to continue to identify diverse books. Time will also be spent developing cultural competence with a critical eye towards eliminating problematic titles from current collections. The second part of the workshop will give participants time to create booklists, develop promotional plans, and work on their collection development with colleagues.

    Areas of focus:

    Session 1 - Native American
    Session 2 - Black/African American
    Session 3 - AAPI
    Session 4 - LGBTQ
    Session 5 - Hispanic/Latino

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Initial Certification Training

    Register here

    Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® provides your staff with the skills to safely recognize and respond to everyday crisis situations that may involve more challenging behaviors. NCI™ training is designed to help you achieve compliance with current legislative initiatives and best practices.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Initial Certification Training

    Register here

    Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® provides your staff with the skills to safely recognize and respond to everyday crisis situations that may involve more challenging behaviors. NCI™ training is designed to help you achieve compliance with current legislative initiatives and best practices.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Tech Tips & Tricks for PE & Health Educators PE/HE CONSORTIUM

    Register here

    If you're looking for some tech hacks to make your work life easier, this is the session for you! Whether it's quick differentiation strategies, ideas to boost student engagement, or simple troubleshooting tips, attendees will walk away with several actionable ideas they can bring back to their respective districts. This session will be dotted with some live demonstrations and activities, and plenty of time for Q&A and participation throughout.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    AI in Health & Physical Education PE/HE CONSORTIUM

    Register here

    OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft are leading a fast-growing pack of new generative artificial intelligence services capable of human-like conversation, and creating new text, images, videos, code snippets, and more from text-based input or prompts.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
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Ways to Learn with Us

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Whether you learn with us on-site at the Center, in your district, or virtually, our programs are led by the Center’s core team and an extended team of educators from the region, consultants, professors from higher education, and industry partners.We invite you to explore the many ways we can partner with you, your school, and/or your districts on your learning journey. 

Learning Journey Snapshots

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  • program attendees
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Request Selections from Our Pre-Recorded Webinars Library

Teaching in Remote/Hybrid Learning Environments (TRLE) Grant

TRLE Grant Graphic

The Rethink K-12 Education Models Grant was developed to support educators in creating innovative practices to respond to and address the challenges created by the COVID-19 crisis.  New York State was one of 11 states awarded funds under this grant competition.  Southern Westchester BOCES, in partnership with LHRIC, Rockland BOCES, and Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES applied for funding through the Rethink K-12 Education Models Grant with the plan to provide educators professional learning opportunities to support in implementing high-quality and effective practices in remote/hybrid teaching and learning in order to lead to success for all students.

Learn more about the TRLE Grant.

 

PLCS NEWS

  • Catherine Graybosch Appointed Supervisor of the School Library System at Southern Westchester BOCES

    Catherine Graybosch Appointed Supervisor of the School Library System at Southern Westchester BOCES

    The Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support (PLCS) at Southern Westchester BOCES is excited to announce the appointment of Catherine Graybosch as the new Supervisor of the School Library System. Catherine brings a wealth of experience as an educator and leader, having served as a Library Media Specialist and Department Head of Media and Information Technology at Great Neck Public Schools. Most recently, she held roles as a Staff Developer, District Curriculum Integration Leader, and Assistant Principal at Katonah-Lewisboro School District. Her commitment to fostering inquiry-based learning, integrating technology, and supporting educator development makes her a valuable addition to our team.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Transformative Leadership: Deepening Equity and Inclusion Through Hofstra’s Inclusive Leadership Program

    Transformative Leadership: Deepening Equity and Inclusion Through Hofstra’s Inclusive Leadership Program

    Supervisor of Community, Culture, and Wellness, and SWBOCES DEI Coordinator Sadika Clarke reflects on how attending Hofstra University’s Certificate in Inclusive Leadership Program has deepened her approach to fostering equity, inclusion, and belonging. This transformative experience, aligned with the New York State Board of Regents' vision for educational institutions, provided hands-on work, case studies, and collaboration with a diverse cohort of leaders. Equipped with practical strategies and a sharpened equity lens, she is now focused on creating lasting systems that embrace diversity and inclusion, driving sustainable impact in schools and beyond.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • PLCS Welcomes Michael Setaro as Supervisor of Teaching, Learning and Student Support

    PLCS Welcomes Michael Setaro

    The Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support (PLCS) at Southern Westchester BOCES is excited to announce the appointment of Michael Setaro as Supervisor of Teaching, Learning, and Student Support. With over 20 years of experience in education, including expertise in special education, social studies, and intensive reading, Mike is dedicated to enhancing the connection between educator development and student success. In his new role, he will focus on leading the Center’s approach to NYSED’s Initial/Recert program for Lead Evaluators, leveraging Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), utilizing data to improve teaching and learning, and co-leading the RECOVS grant to promote wellness and mental health in schools. Mike expressed his honor in serving the region and looks forward to collaborating with educators and community partners to ensure equitable, high-quality education for all students. He holds New York State School Building Leader and School District Leader certifications and is pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Instructional Leadership.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • An Equity Lens: Sadika Clarke puts spotlight on factors that impact learning

    An Equity Lens: Sadika Clarke puts spotlight on factors that impact learning

    Southern Westchester BOCES (SWBOCES) educators at Irvington High School participated in a workshop focused on viewing education through an equity lens, led by Sadika Clarke, Supervisor of Community, Culture, and Wellness at the Center for Professional Learning & Curriculum Support. The session, titled An Equity Lens, encouraged two dozen educators to engage in courageous conversations about educational disparities, opportunity gaps, and systemic racism. Clarke highlighted the importance of addressing factors such as racial discrimination and trauma, emphasizing the role of educators in promoting equitable outcomes. The workshop aimed to raise awareness of personal biases, foster understanding of the Culturally Responsive Sustaining Education (CR-SE) framework, and equip educators with strategies to create more inclusive classrooms.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Empowering Change: Be the Thermostat, not the Thermometer - Lessons from the 5th Annual PLCS DEI Summer Institute

    Empowering Change: Be the Thermostat, not the Thermometer

    In July, the Southern Westchester BOCES Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support (PLCS) hosted its 5th Annual Summer Institute for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This impactful event featured keynote speakers like Dr. Alexandria Connally, who addressed implicit bias, Keisha Bell, who discussed allyship in education, and Dr. Raymond Sanchez, who emphasized personal responsibility in advancing DEI. Attendees engaged in over 15 presentations covering various aspects of diversity, and for the first time, the event was recorded for future educational use. The final day included a screening of the award-winning documentary "The Right to Read," followed by a panel discussion on literacy education. The success of the Institute highlighted SWBOCES’s commitment to DEI, with key contributions from Sadika Clarke and other leaders. Clarke expressed gratitude for the shared learning experiences, emphasizing the importance of collective action in promoting educational equity.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Embracing Authentiity, Sadika Clarke

    Embracing Authenticity, Sadika Clarke

    In her new role as Supervisor of Community, Culture, and Wellness, as well as DEI Coordinator for Southern Westchester BOCES, Sadika Clarke expresses a deep sense of purpose and excitement. She is dedicated to creating inclusive environments where everyone feels empowered to be their authentic selves, believing that authenticity leads to greater contributions within communities and organizations. Clarke's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is driven by both personal and professional experiences, particularly as a mother of two, inspiring her passion for equity and justice. She  aims to dismantle systemic barriers and foster spaces where people from all backgrounds are valued and heard. Through collaboration with colleagues, students, and community members, Clarke looks forward to making a lasting, positive impact, fostering a culture of belonging with authenticity, compassion, and integrity.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • 50 School Districts and BOCES Receive Grants to Address Learning Loss and Support Mental Health Services

    50 School Districts and BOCES Receive Grants to Address Learning Loss and Support Mental Health Services

    Governor Kathy Hochul has awarded $100 million to 50 school districts and BOCES, including Southern Westchester BOCES, to address learning loss from the pandemic and enhance mental health support for students. This funding, part of the RECOVS grant program, will improve access to evidence-based interventions and provide resources to help school staff and students identify and respond to academic and mental health challenges. The initiative aligns with Governor Hochul's commitment to expanding mental health services in schools, ensuring that both student well-being and academic recovery are prioritized statewide. 

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Igniting Equity

    Igniting Equity, Dr. Hope Weinberg

    In this blog, Dr. Hope Weinberg, Supervisor of Literacy and Learning, reflects on the powerful message of The Right to Read, a film advocating for literacy as a fundamental human right. She emphasizes that without the ability to read fluently, individuals are at a disadvantage, which deeply resonates with her as both an educator and a parent. Weinberg connects literacy and equity, highlighting the need for equitable literacy instruction to ensure all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to succeed academically and socially.

    Dr. Weinberg's commitment to literacy equity is rooted in her lifelong involvement in equity work, advocating for social justice and the disruption of systemic inequities in schools. She stresses that achieving equity in literacy requires ongoing reflection, data analysis, and improvement of strategies. Drawing on Horace Mann's belief that "Reading is the great equalizer," she reaffirms the center’s dedication to this mission through initiatives like the Summer Literacy Symposium and continued collaboration with regional districts. For Weinberg, literacy is a critical tool for advancing equity, and she is passionate about supporting this important work.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • What Would You Say if I Asked You Why?

    What Would You Say if I Asked You Why?

    Dr. Hope Weinberg reflects annually on her professional journey, drawing inspiration from Simon Sinek’s Start with Why. This tradition began ten years ago and focuses on understanding her "WHY" – the deeper purpose behind her work. Initially uncertain of her motivation, she now sees it clearly. Her regular reflection has profoundly shaped her professional development, especially in her role as Supervisor of Literacy and Learning at SWBOCES' Center for Professional Learning. As a leader, she encourages educators to examine their purpose and legacy, emphasizing that legacy-building happens daily through intentional actions in schools. As 2024 begins, Dr. Weinberg urges educators to reflect on their own "WHY," purpose, and impact, using these insights to drive meaningful work and shape their legacy in education.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion - Doing the Work, Adam Weinstock

    Diversity, Equity & Inclusion - Doing the Work

    Adam Weinstock, Assistant Director at the Center for Professional Learning & Curriculum Support (PLCS) at Southern Westchester BOCES, reflects on his first week on the job, which coincided with the 4th Annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Summer Institute. Weinstock draws parallels between the ongoing work needed to realize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream of equity and the mission of the Institute, which brought together educators and experts to explore how to create inclusive, affirming environments in schools. Keynote speakers, such as Dr. Anael Alston and Dr. Aurelia Henriquez, emphasized the importance of educational equity, affirming students' brilliance, and fostering diverse leadership. Weinstock expresses gratitude for the insights shared during the event and a renewed commitment to advancing DEI efforts in schools to ensure all students experience transformative learning.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning
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