Events

As so many educators have shifted their curriculum to include more blended, technology-rich instruction, are you creating more digital content than ever before? Is your digital content truly accessible to all students? Would your content be accessible to students with visual/hearing impairments or neurodiversity? By intentionally and thoughtfully considering accessibility in the initial phases of content design, we can develop content that is available to all learners. Join us to explore the qualities of creating accessible digital curricular content that works for everyone. With so many avenues for digital content and communication, it can be difficult to know how to make each accessible. In this session, we'll discuss the best practices for creating accessible titles, headings, formatting, hyperlinks, and visual content across a variety of apps… plus, the edtech tools that will make implementing a breeze. Registration will close 4-5 days prior to the event, a virtual link will be sent out prior to event date.

Starting 2025 off right with our second Curriculum Director Roundtable. Whether your role is at the central office, a principal, assistant principal, director, specialist or instructional coach, we welcome everyone to this free event. Joe Cipfl, ROE # 50 Director of Computer Science Development Programs will present the following session: Join us for an enlightening conversation about Artificial Intelligence and its potential impact on content and curriculum.  As technology, and specifically AI, continues to evolve, educators must adapt and integrate cutting-edge digital tools to engage the modern learner effectively.  During this discussion, we will delve into the world of AI-powered content creation, which can transform current static teaching materials into dynamic and interactive resources. This will be followed by discussions regarding curricular updates/resources, professional development along with ISBE, IARSS, ROE and local district updates.  Registration will close 4-5 days prior to the event date.

PD Co-op Member District $185.00, Non PD Co-op District $200.00 (lunch included on site) This course will allow participants to learn effective skills and strategies for using Charlotte Danielson’s Instructional Framework in an evaluation setting in order to more effectively: 1. Identify evidence at the component level during formal and informal observations; 2. Use evidence, with minimal bias, to effectively rate staff on the levels of performance for each component in domains 2 and 3; 3. Increase inter-rater reliability in all phases of the evaluation process; 4. Acquire strategies to support effective collaborative conferencing around formal and informal observations; and 5. Learn techniques, strategies, and protocols to use when conferencing with staff to promote improvement in instructional practice. Attendees will need to bring a fully charged device to this academy.  The application/dissemination must be submitted prior to departure on 1.9.25. Registration closes 4-5 days prior to the event unless tickets are sold out. Cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance, or the event is non-refundable.

Happy 2025...welcome to the new year and an opportunity to learn how to integrate aspects of AI into your current position! Who should attend? All central office and front office and administrative assistants.  Discover how artificial intelligence can streamline your communication, automate tedious tasks, and enhance your overall efficiency. Learn to leverage AI tools for managing emails, drafting documents, updating school communication systems, and even bridging language barriers. This workshop will equip you with the skills and knowledge to embrace AI technology and transform your daily routines. A virtual link will be sent prior to the event date.

Are you ready to transform your classroom into an equitable learning environment for all students? This workshop will empower educators to leverage technology tools to support English Language Learners (ELLs). By combining hands-on experience with popular translation tools and AI-driven applications, you'll learn practical strategies to create inclusive and equitable learning environments. Discover how to integrate AI and technology into lesson planning, assessment, and differentiation to foster collaboration, cultural exchange, and personalized learning experiences for ELL students. This workshop will equip you with the skills to bridge the language gap, create accessible instructional materials, and provide targeted support, ensuring that every student reaches their full potential. Join us to unlock the power of AI and technology to level the playing field for your ELL students. A virtual link will be sent prior to the event date. Registration closes 4-5 days prior to the event unless tickets are sold out.

Join O'Fallon Township High School # 203 Director of Special Services Tiffany Schneider in this very informative virtual session regarding 504 plans.  Originating from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the 504 plan aims to eliminate barriers and ensure students with disabilities receive an education comparable to that of their non-disabled peers. The questions remain; however, how do we navigate the referral process, what documentation is sound and how can we ensure that accommodations are appropriate? Join us together as we navigate best practice and ask your burning 504-related questions. Targeted audience: administrators, special and general educators.  A virtual link will be sent prior to the event date, registration closes 4-5 days prior to January 13.

This event is free for all thanks to an SEL Grant.  Join newly retired administrator's Dr. Emma Cornelius and Melissa Rebmann in this professional development session.  Your unique role as an Instructional Coach always involves wearing MANY hats. With your fellow coaches, you will explore effective strategies to cultivate an environment that supports both students and staff. Discover innovative strategies to create a nurturing environment that fosters collaboration and support, enhancing the overall school culture. In this dynamic course, you’ll gain essential tools to build strong connections and consistency within your learning community, leading to improved outcomes for everyone involved. Experience firsthand how a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere can transform instructional practices and elevate student success. Don’t miss this opportunity to become a catalyst for positive change in your school. Together, we can cultivate a thriving educational community! This professional development course equips you with tools to build a collaborative and empowering learning community, leading to improved outcomes for everyone involved. Participants will debrief afterwards with opportunities to share resources, challenges, celebrations and district updates. Registration will close 4-5 days prior to the session date,

This free virtual session is thanks to the IL SLDS Project.  The What Works Clearinghouse reviewed the research, so you don't have to!   This session will provide recommendations for teaching effective writing from a meta-study of evidence-based research.  Specific examples and strategies will be broken down in order to implement in your classroom the very next day!   A virtual link will be sent prior to the event date, registration will close 4-5 days prior to the event unless tickets are sold out.

Registration closes on January 6, 2025. A virtual link will be sent prior to the meeting dates. Participants must attend all 4 sessions (no exceptions) and complete the requirements to earn the full 12 pd hours (partial pd hours will not be given)

• • January 14, 2025 (4:00-5:00 p.m.) 
    • Focus Areas:  Introductions and Technology
  • January 21, 2025 (4:00-5:00 p.m.)
    • Focus Area:  Play 
  • January 28, 2025 (4:00-5:00 p.m.)
    • Focus Area:  Independence
  • February 4, 2025 (4:00-5:00 p.m.)
    • Focus Area:  Overall and Action

Don’t walk but run to get your hands on the book everyone is talking about. Author and social psychologist, Jonathan Haidt, is challenging readers to consider how social media, phones, and a reduction in a “play-based childhood” has “rewired” our youth. Not only does Haidt make a case that parents can do better, but he argues schools can do better. Join St. Clare School Principal Monica Ybarra for four sessions where you will focus on Technology, Play, Independence, and how we can put ideas into action. Important: Participants must purchase the book (The Anxious Generation How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt) independently.... 10 copies will be raffled off free of charge (must be picked up at the ROE) prior to 2025.  The entire book must be read on or before January 13, 2025.  Book study facilitator, Monica Ybarra will provide questions prior to each session to ensure engaging conversations occur, but also, participants will leave each session with an action plan. Missing a session will result in a $35.00 no show invoice, please do not register unless you can attend all 4 virtual sessions.