VICTORIA ORTA

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

Community circles offer students the opportunity to express themselves while connecting and sharing with their peers in a safe discussion space. Community circles can address a variety of social-emotional learning topics including: self-awareness, building relationships, character education and  executive functioning skills. Participants will create 2-3  community circles to share with the class and use with their students.

*NEW PARTICIPANTS ONLY*

HOLLY FREEHILL

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

THURSDAYS 4-7PM: 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5

This course will explore the concepts presented in Dr. Ross Greene’s The Explosive Child, focusing on understanding children with challenging behaviors, identifying the root causes of their frustration, and using the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model to promote better outcomes.

ELYSE WARD

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

THURSDAYS 4-7PM: 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5

Transform your classroom with Mindful Classroom Management! In this course you'll learn how to harness the power of emotional intelligence to create a positive, supportive learning environment. Discover practical techniques for building strong student relationships, managing conflict with empathy, and using mindfulness to stay calm under pressure.  Empower yourself to foster emotional growth in your students and build a classroom where everyone can thrive.

ALLISON BACON

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

WEDNESDAYS 4-7PM: 1/7, 1/21, 1/28, 2/4, 2/11

This 5-session course is your chance to explore what’s new and next in educational AI—without the stress. We’ll take a hands-on look at emerging tools that can help with lesson planning, student engagement, feedback, and more. Whether you’re curious about saving time, boosting creativity, or supporting learners in new ways, this course will give you the space to experiment, reflect, and plan.

JOYCE SHARROCK-COLE

15 HOURS

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

TUESDAYS 4-7PM: 1/6, 1/13, 1/20, 1/27, 2/3

Transform your classroom with Mindful Classroom Management! In this course you'll learn how to harness the power of emotional intelligence to create a positive, supportive learning environment. Discover practical techniques for building strong student relationships, managing conflict with empathy, and using mindfulness to stay calm under pressure.  Empower yourself to foster emotional growth in your students and build a classroom where everyone can thrive.

*NEW PARTICIPANTS ONLY*

NICOLE MANGIERE NOVER

3 HOURS

FEE: $25 OTA / $15 OSS/CSEA

Do you want to design a life you love? Are you overwhelmed by email and  an endless to do list? Then join Nicole Nover and learn how to use the Google Suite and Passion Planner to support you!

*NEW PARTICIPANTS ONLY*

NICOLE SIBISKI

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

TUESDAYS 4-7PM: 2/3, 2/10, 2/24, 3/3, 3/10

Participants in this workshop will gain an understanding of how art supports ALL learners in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in order  to enhance their engagement and language acquisition. Learn more  about using art as a modality engage all learners. Participants will have hands-on opportunities to create art and write using the lens of their students all which are quickly adaptable to units of study.

MICHELLE GUIRGUIS RODRIGUEZ

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

THURSDAYS 4-7PM: 2/12, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12

PLUS 3 HRS RESULTS

A file folder game is a great way to add variety and engagement to check for understanding, to reinforce skills, and for small group work! They can  be used in all subjects, helping to solidify learning in multiple learning styles; visual, reading, kinesthetic, and auditory if done with a partner. File Folder Games are a great way to break down skills into manageable tasks and help provide a sense of independence when a student is able to work on it without any adult facilitation. Each participant will have the chance to create and share file folders on any topics they choose.

*NEW PARTICIPANTS ONLY*

HOLLY FREEHILL

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

THURSDAYS 4-7PM: 2/12, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19

Pre-K through high school teachers can benefit from learning the basic components of behavioral theory and how they can use that  understanding to decrease behaviors in the classroom. This course is appropriate for both general education and special education teachers.

JILL ANDERSON

6 HOURS

FEE: $50 OTA / $30 OSS/CSEA

WEDNESDAYS 4-7PM: 3/4 & 3/11

Are you finding your student's families are struggling to balance tech time and play time at home? Are you concerned about balancing the use  of technology in the classroom and being more strategic when using devices in your class? This 6 hour workshop will be comprised of two three hour positive and interactive sessions designed to leave educators and caregivers feeling more confident and equipped to navigate their  children's technology usage both at home and in school.

ELYSE WARD

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

SATURDAYS 8-4PM: 3/7 & 3/21

Teaching can be demanding, but self-care doesn't have to be a luxury.  Join us for a transformative five-session course designed to help educators build resilience and prioritize their well-being without burnout. Learn practical strategies to manage stress, set healthy boundaries, and recharge with personalized tools that work for you. Discover how to thrive in the classroom while maintaining your energy, passion, and balance.

ELYSE WARD

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

WEDNESDAYS 4-7PM: 11/12, 11/19, 12/3, 12/10, 12/17

Unlock the Power of the Brain in Your Classroom! Join our upcoming class on Neural Education for Educators and discover how the latest brain science can transform your teaching. Learn practical strategies to boost student engagement, tailor lessons to diverse learning styles, and create an Environment where every learner can thrive. Don’t miss out—empower your teaching with the power of neuroscience!

HOLLY FREEHILL

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

THURSDAYS 4-7PM: 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11

Learn how ADHD affects students learning and behavior in your classroom. Explore techniques that increase engagement and success for all students. Understand behavioral  techniques that can be used to motivate and focus learners

ELIZABETH MERCADO

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

WEDNESDAYS 4-7PM: 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5

This course is designed to help you create sustainable lifestyle changes through the power of mini habits. Each session explores key aspects of well-being—nutrition, movement, sleep, social connection, and mindfulness—offering practical, bite-sized strategies for lasting impact. By the end of the course, you’ll have a personalized wellness vision and a toolkit of simple, effective habits to support your long-term well-being. Each participant will create a "Personal Wellness Vision Project."

SUZETTE MALONE

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

TUESDAYS 4-7PM 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28

Wondering how to connect with students and families that have just arrived to our community? Join us to learn more about what it’s like in the schools and communities from where these newest arrivals have come. Each session will be divided into two parts: 1. connecting with parents and 2. connecting with students. Each session will have Spanish vocabulary/phrases integrated with opportunities for learning and practicing Spanish for the classroom.

ERICA DIALLO

3 HOURS

FEE: $25 OTA / $15 OSS/CSEA

THURSDAY 4-7PM: 12/18

What is it like to be a new Language Learner? Come find out! This course will consist of a 40-minute history lesson taught in French, followed by time to debrief the experience of being a "Newcomer." We will discuss what strategies were used to help you understand the lesson and be able to complete the Exit Ticket.

AMY DAMIANO

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

TUESDAYS 4-7PM: 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16

Inspired by the books *Smarter Charts* by Marjorie Martinelli and Kristine Mraz, this course will help you harness the power of charting to keep learning alive long after the lesson ends. Explore the role of visual literacy and discover how well-designed charts can serve as essential teaching tools that promote student independence. Thoughtfully crafted charts reinforce key concepts, support routines, and empower students to take ownership of their learning. You’ll gain practical strategies to seamlessly integrate charts with digital tools, making learning more visible, accessible, and lasting for your young learners.

ALLISON BACON & MICKI LOCKWOOD

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

SATURDAYS 8:30-4:00PM: 10/4, 10/8

In this course, you’ll dive into local neighborhoods, landmarks, and natural spaces—uncovering stories that connect students to the world around them. Using Google Earth, you’ll learn how to build interactive virtual field trips that bring these places to life. By the end, you 'll have a custom tour ready to share with your students and spark their curiosity about their own community.

JOYCE SHARROCK-COLE

15 HOURS = 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

SATURDAYS 8:30-4PM: 10/25, 11/8

Spend two Saturdays uncovering Ossining’s secrets... walk its streets, hear its stories, and dive into its people and places. Join Village Historian, Joyce Sharrock-Cole and pay close attention, because every fact you learn could be the key to winning the fast-paced, Jeopardy style showdown at the end!

BARRY JAFFESS

6 HOURS

FEE: $50 OTA / $30 OSS/CSEA

SATURDAY 9-3PM: 10/11

Participants will learn the basics of personal finance in this 6 hour workshop. Topics to be discussed include (but not limited to): Retirement Accounts, Stocks, Bonds, Index Funds, Mutual Funds, Online Savings Accounts, Credit Scores and Credit Reports. Based on participant feedback, this workshop is a MUST DO!

NATASHA JAVED

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

SATURDAYS 8:30-4PM: NOV. 15 & 22

This course will focus on preparing teachers with research-based literature and hands-on experiences to demonstrate effectiveness, as well as the long-term and short-term  benefits of engaging students in mindfulness.

*NEW PARTICIPANTS ONLY*

LISA BERGMANN

15 HOURS- 1 CREDIT

*FREE*

DATES: THURSDAY 9/25 AND TUESDAYS 10/14, 11/25, 12/16, 1/20, 2/24, 3/24, 4/14, 5/5, 5/26 (6/2 MAKEUP IF NEEDED)

TIME: 4:00-5:30PM

THIS COURSE IS FOR NON-TENURED EDUCATORS WITHIN THE DISTRICT

The Ossining P.R.I.D.E. is a professional learning community that paves the pathway to success for our new educators in the Ossining Learning Community. Our goal is to co-create thriving, inclusive cultures in our schools, where all students succeed in heart and mind. We continue to shift toward student-centered teaching and learning, where every child feels seen and heard, and every educator is empowered. See email from Lisa Bergmann for more details.

*You must attend all workshops to receive credit for 15 hours = 1 Credit*

SHAMAR WATSON & YOCASTA JIMENEZ

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

DATES: SATURDAYS 9/20, 9/27

TIME: 8:30-4 PM

This workshop will introduce educators to the principles of Hip-Hop Therapy, a unique approach that leverages the elements of DJing, Graffiti, B-boying, and Hip-Hop culture-MCing, Knowledge-for personal development, self-expression, and engaging learning. Each session will focus on one of the five elements, demonstrating how educators can integrate these principles to foster creativity, connection, and healing within their classrooms.

WENDY DALE & IMANI BOLING

45 HOURS - 3 CREDITS

FEE: $300 OTA / $150 OSS/CSEA

DATES: TUESDAYS 9/30, 10/28, 11/18, 12/9, 1/13, 2/10, 3/10, 4/7, 4/28, 5/19 SNOW DATES: 3/17, 5/12

TIME: 4-7 PM

SEED is a national peer-led professional development program that creates conversational communities to drive personal, organizational, and societal change toward greater equity and diversity. We seek to increase awareness of the challenges and advantages of the many kinds of diversity in our lives and their impact on school culture. As educators, it is imperative to be aware of our own biases, to self-monitor our prejudices and to become proactive in our dealings with students to promote a culture of understanding and respect. The course is open to all educational professionals who seek to promote equity and achievement in their school setting.

HOLLY FREEHILL

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

DATES: THURSDAYS 9/25, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30

TIME: 4-7PM

Harness the power of positive reinforcement to shape even the toughest behaviors in your classroom. By understanding the role of positive reinforcement in building self-esteem and motivation, you can create a long-term behavior modification plan that creates sustainable change.

LISA BERGMANN

4 CTLE HOURS

FREE COURSE

DATE: SATURDAY 9/27

TIME: 9AM-1PM

The Ossining Union Free School District offers our newest colleagues a first year support program with an experienced educator as a guide. This training is designed and offered for educators who are new to mentoring or for those who would like a refresher on training. The course will focus on creating a tool box for preparing you to mentor, creating a culture of learning, Charlotte Danielson's work with regards to The Framework for Teaching and the elements of our mentor program here in Ossining.

ALLISON BACON

15 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $125 OTA / $75 OSS/CSEA

DATES: THURSDAYS 9/25, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30

TIME: 4-7 PM

This fun and practical 5-session course will introduce you to the basics of artificial intelligence and how it can save you time, spark creativity, and support all learners. You’ll get hands-on with tools like ChatGPT, explore ways to personalize instruction, and even try out student-friendly AI activities. No tech expertise needed—just come ready to learn, experiment, and walk away with ideas you can use right away!

ALLISON BACON

45 HOURS - 1 CREDIT

FEE: $375 OTA / $225 OSS/CSEA

DATES: TUESDAYS 9/16, 10/7, 10/21, 12/2, 12/16, 1/6, 1/20, 2/3, 2/24, 3/3, 3/24, 4/21, 5/5, 5/26, 6/2

TIME: 5-8PM

This is a virtual course, which will run all year. In this course, you’ll explore how to use technology in tech integration models like: RAT, SAMR, NYS Digital Fluency Standards, Google Workspace, Canva, podcasting, and even AI. Each session focuses on a practical topic, and by the end, you’ll have a portfolio of work you can use right away.

MARY CATHERINE HILLMAN

2 CREDITS

*FREE

DATES:  WEDNESDAYS 9/17, 10/15, 11/19, 12/17, 1/21, 2/11, 3/25, 4/15, 5/20, 6/3

TIME: 4-5:30 PM

A Yearlong Book Study of the book Joy! Growing Strong Throughout Your Seasons of Life as a Teacher and Leader by Timothy D. Kanold. All educators are welcome to join in on this unique opportunity to learn and grow with colleagues throughout the district! *Book must be purchased prior to 9/17.