Upcoming Professional Learning Events

  • 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.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
    read more

  • 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.

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

  • Summer @ the Center: The Institute for Opportunities in Education

    Register here

    This interactive summer conference is designed for educators, administrators, and practitioners eager to deepen their understanding and enhance their practices around creating supportive and welcoming learning environments for all students.

    Participants will:

    - Explore practical, actionable strategies for fostering inclusive practices
    - Collaborate with peers
    - Gain tools for cultivating meaningful and supportive changes within classrooms and schools
    - Access valuable resources

    Attendees can anticipate engaging sessions focused on practical strategies for creating environments where all students thrive, providing innovative resources and insights applicable to their educational settings.

     

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

  • Youth Mental Health First Aid for RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium

    Register here.

    Please note that this training is free for personnel from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend for free, please contact Adam Weinstock (aweinstock@swboces.org).

    Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. This training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to adolescents (ages 12-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care. Participants are taught an action plan that they can apply to non-crisis and crisis situations.

    The course includes 2 hours of self-paced (asynchronous) remote learning, which will be emailed to participants to complete in advance of the scheduled session, which consists of 4.5 hours of synchronous real-time learning via Zoom, plus a 30-minute break.

    By the end of the course, participants will be able to:• Describe the purpose of Youth Mental Health First Aid and the role of the Youth Mental Health First Aider.• Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges that may impact youth.• Explain the impact of traumatic experiences and the role of resilience on adolescent development.• Apply the appropriate steps of the YMHFA Action Plan (ALGEE) to non-crisis situations.• Apply the appropriate steps of the YMHFA Action Plan (ALGEE) to crisis situations.• Choose appropriate methods for self-care following the application of Youth Mental Health First Aid in a crisis or non-crisis situation.

    via Zoom
    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
    read more

  • Restorative Practices Educator Training for RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium

    Register here

    Please note that this training is limited to personnel from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend, please contact Adam Weinstock (aweinstock@swboces.org). Lori DeCarlo of Restorative Edge Consulting will lead this interactive series to provide training to educators in the use of restorative practices designed to support social-emotional learning and mental health.

    The training will focus on:

    • Restorative practices as a trauma-informed approach for creating a culture of belonging, safety, and inclusion

    • Responsive restorative practices, including Affective Communication/Non-Violent Communication, Tier 2 Whole Group Responsive Circles, and Tier 2 Restorative Circles to respond to specific incidents of harm.

    • Restorative Discipline: how to embed restorative practices into discipline, including:
    ---Creating a restorative classroom as an alternative to out of school suspension,
    ---Exploring how to use a restorative intervention known as the 5 Step Plan,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Tier 3 Restorative Conferences for serious disciplinary incidents,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Welcome Back & Re-Entry Circle for students returning from an out of school suspension.

    A highly engaging Restorative Pedagogy will be utilized for the delivery of in-person instruction.

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

  • MTSS Illuminated: From Theory to Practice

    Register Here

    MTSS Illuminated: From Theory to Practice is a full-day, interactive workshop designed for building and district leaders looking to strengthen their Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). This session moves beyond theory, guiding participants through the essential components of MTSS, data-driven decision-making, and effective implementation strategies. Through hands-on problem-solving, case studies, and collaborative discussions, leaders will leave with actionable steps to enhance student support systems in their schools and districts. Whether you're building MTSS from the ground up or refining existing structures, this workshop provides the tools and insights needed for success.

    Understand the Core Principles of MTSS - Define MTSS and its role in improving student outcomes across academics, behavior, and social-emotional learning.

    Establish a Strong MTSS Framework - Learn how to develop and sustain a tiered system of support at the school or district level.

    Use Data-Driven Decision-Making - Explore assessment tools, progress monitoring strategies, and data collection methods to drive interventions.

    Clarify Roles & Responsibilities - Identify the key responsibilities of leaders, teachers, and support staff in the MTSS process.

    Create an Actionable Implementation Plan - Develop next steps for strengthening or launching an effective MTSS system in participants' schools or districts.

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

  • Restorative Practices Educator Training for RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium

    Register here

    Please note that this training is limited to personnel from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend, please contact Adam Weinstock (aweinstock@swboces.org). Lori DeCarlo of Restorative Edge Consulting will lead this interactive series to provide training to educators in the use of restorative practices designed to support social-emotional learning and mental health.

    The training will focus on:

    • Restorative practices as a trauma-informed approach for creating a culture of belonging, safety, and inclusion

    • Responsive restorative practices, including Affective Communication/Non-Violent Communication, Tier 2 Whole Group Responsive Circles, and Tier 2 Restorative Circles to respond to specific incidents of harm.

    • Restorative Discipline: how to embed restorative practices into discipline, including:
    ---Creating a restorative classroom as an alternative to out of school suspension,
    ---Exploring how to use a restorative intervention known as the 5 Step Plan,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Tier 3 Restorative Conferences for serious disciplinary incidents,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Welcome Back & Re-Entry Circle for students returning from an out of school suspension.

    A highly engaging Restorative Pedagogy will be utilized for the delivery of in-person instruction.

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

  • SLS Council Meeting

    Register here.

    The School Library System Council is responsible for developing and approving the Plan of Service; is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the Plan of Service; recommends for approval the annual budget prior to submission to the District Superintendent for his signature; and supports the activities of the School Library System, through service on a committee.

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

  • 504 Chairperson Training

    Register here

    This professional learning is focused on the facilitation of 504 meetings and the implementation of 504 plans for those who serve as Chairpersons for 504 Committee Meetings.

    Professional learning will include the following areas:

    1. Legal Foundations and Compliance Overview of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
    2. Roles and Responsibilities
    3. 504 Plan Development
    4. Meeting Facilitation and Parent Engagement
    5. Monitoring and Review
    6. Intersection with Other School Supports
    7. Cultural Competence and Equity 8. Resource Review

    via Zoom
    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
    read more

  • SLS Communication Coordinators Meeting

    Register here.

    Quarterly meetings for SLS Communication Coordinators as mandated in NY State Education Law 90.18. Communications Coordinators are informed on topics such as New York State Education Department updates, technology, and Information Fluency Skills. Professional development is provided on current issues with the expectation that it is shared with other school librarians in district.

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

  • Restorative Practices Educator Training for RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium

    Register here

    Please note that this training is limited to personnel from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend, please contact Adam Weinstock (aweinstock@swboces.org). Lori DeCarlo of Restorative Edge Consulting will lead this interactive series to provide training to educators in the use of restorative practices designed to support social-emotional learning and mental health.

    The training will focus on:

    • Restorative practices as a trauma-informed approach for creating a culture of belonging, safety, and inclusion

    • Responsive restorative practices, including Affective Communication/Non-Violent Communication, Tier 2 Whole Group Responsive Circles, and Tier 2 Restorative Circles to respond to specific incidents of harm.

    • Restorative Discipline: how to embed restorative practices into discipline, including:
    ---Creating a restorative classroom as an alternative to out of school suspension,
    ---Exploring how to use a restorative intervention known as the 5 Step Plan,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Tier 3 Restorative Conferences for serious disciplinary incidents,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Welcome Back & Re-Entry Circle for students returning from an out of school suspension.

    A highly engaging Restorative Pedagogy will be utilized for the delivery of in-person instruction.

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

  • Restorative Practices Educator Training for RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium

    Register here

    Please note that this training is limited to personnel from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend, please contact Adam Weinstock (aweinstock@swboces.org). Lori DeCarlo of Restorative Edge Consulting will lead this interactive series to provide training to educators in the use of restorative practices designed to support social-emotional learning and mental health.

    The training will focus on:

    • Restorative practices as a trauma-informed approach for creating a culture of belonging, safety, and inclusion

    • Responsive restorative practices, including Affective Communication/Non-Violent Communication, Tier 2 Whole Group Responsive Circles, and Tier 2 Restorative Circles to respond to specific incidents of harm.

    • Restorative Discipline: how to embed restorative practices into discipline, including:
    ---Creating a restorative classroom as an alternative to out of school suspension,
    ---Exploring how to use a restorative intervention known as the 5 Step Plan,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Tier 3 Restorative Conferences for serious disciplinary incidents,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Welcome Back & Re-Entry Circle for students returning from an out of school suspension.

    A highly engaging Restorative Pedagogy will be utilized for the delivery of in-person instruction.

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

  • 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.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
    read more

  • 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.

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

  • Summer @ the Center: The Institute for Opportunities in Education

    Register here

    This interactive summer conference is designed for educators, administrators, and practitioners eager to deepen their understanding and enhance their practices around creating supportive and welcoming learning environments for all students.

    Participants will:

    - Explore practical, actionable strategies for fostering inclusive practices
    - Collaborate with peers
    - Gain tools for cultivating meaningful and supportive changes within classrooms and schools
    - Access valuable resources

    Attendees can anticipate engaging sessions focused on practical strategies for creating environments where all students thrive, providing innovative resources and insights applicable to their educational settings.

     

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

  • Youth Mental Health First Aid for RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium

    Register here.

    Please note that this training is free for personnel from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend for free, please contact Adam Weinstock (aweinstock@swboces.org).

    Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. This training gives adults who work with youth the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to adolescents (ages 12-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care. Participants are taught an action plan that they can apply to non-crisis and crisis situations.

    The course includes 2 hours of self-paced (asynchronous) remote learning, which will be emailed to participants to complete in advance of the scheduled session, which consists of 4.5 hours of synchronous real-time learning via Zoom, plus a 30-minute break.

    By the end of the course, participants will be able to:• Describe the purpose of Youth Mental Health First Aid and the role of the Youth Mental Health First Aider.• Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges that may impact youth.• Explain the impact of traumatic experiences and the role of resilience on adolescent development.• Apply the appropriate steps of the YMHFA Action Plan (ALGEE) to non-crisis situations.• Apply the appropriate steps of the YMHFA Action Plan (ALGEE) to crisis situations.• Choose appropriate methods for self-care following the application of Youth Mental Health First Aid in a crisis or non-crisis situation.

    via Zoom
    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
    read more

  • Restorative Practices Educator Training for RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium

    Register here

    Please note that this training is limited to personnel from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend, please contact Adam Weinstock (aweinstock@swboces.org). Lori DeCarlo of Restorative Edge Consulting will lead this interactive series to provide training to educators in the use of restorative practices designed to support social-emotional learning and mental health.

    The training will focus on:

    • Restorative practices as a trauma-informed approach for creating a culture of belonging, safety, and inclusion

    • Responsive restorative practices, including Affective Communication/Non-Violent Communication, Tier 2 Whole Group Responsive Circles, and Tier 2 Restorative Circles to respond to specific incidents of harm.

    • Restorative Discipline: how to embed restorative practices into discipline, including:
    ---Creating a restorative classroom as an alternative to out of school suspension,
    ---Exploring how to use a restorative intervention known as the 5 Step Plan,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Tier 3 Restorative Conferences for serious disciplinary incidents,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Welcome Back & Re-Entry Circle for students returning from an out of school suspension.

    A highly engaging Restorative Pedagogy will be utilized for the delivery of in-person instruction.

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

  • MTSS Illuminated: From Theory to Practice

    Register Here

    MTSS Illuminated: From Theory to Practice is a full-day, interactive workshop designed for building and district leaders looking to strengthen their Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). This session moves beyond theory, guiding participants through the essential components of MTSS, data-driven decision-making, and effective implementation strategies. Through hands-on problem-solving, case studies, and collaborative discussions, leaders will leave with actionable steps to enhance student support systems in their schools and districts. Whether you're building MTSS from the ground up or refining existing structures, this workshop provides the tools and insights needed for success.

    Understand the Core Principles of MTSS - Define MTSS and its role in improving student outcomes across academics, behavior, and social-emotional learning.

    Establish a Strong MTSS Framework - Learn how to develop and sustain a tiered system of support at the school or district level.

    Use Data-Driven Decision-Making - Explore assessment tools, progress monitoring strategies, and data collection methods to drive interventions.

    Clarify Roles & Responsibilities - Identify the key responsibilities of leaders, teachers, and support staff in the MTSS process.

    Create an Actionable Implementation Plan - Develop next steps for strengthening or launching an effective MTSS system in participants' schools or districts.

    SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY
    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
    read more
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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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  • Sadika Clarke and others
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  • hope weinberg with attendees
  • program attendees
  • attendees discussing work
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  • Sadika Clarke and others

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

  • 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
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • PLCS Insights: Q&A with SLS Supervisor Catherine Graybosch

    Catherine Graybosch, SLS Supervisor

    PLCS Insights: Q&A with SLS Supervisor Catherine Graybosch

    "School librarians are the heart and soul of their schools.  They are the people who teachers and students flock to for important information, great books, research projects and more.  As today’s education landscape changes, school librarians are having to adjust in order to remain a vital part of the school community."

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • 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
    read more

  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • PLCS Insights: Q&A with SLS Supervisor Catherine Graybosch

    Catherine Graybosch, SLS Supervisor

    PLCS Insights: Q&A with SLS Supervisor Catherine Graybosch

    "School librarians are the heart and soul of their schools.  They are the people who teachers and students flock to for important information, great books, research projects and more.  As today’s education landscape changes, school librarians are having to adjust in order to remain a vital part of the school community."

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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