SURN Aligned Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Workshop

Designed by teachers for teachers, this two-day workshop focuses on the foundational topics that form the basis of sound teaching and learning. Over the two days, we’ll dive into curriculum, instruction, and assessment, all with an eye to strengthening solid Tier 1 instruction. Topics for the two days include: 

• Understanding the need for alignment 

• Unpacking standards 

• Writing intended learning outcomes 

• Using lesson structures 

• Creating lesson plans 

• Choosing instructional strategies and learning activities 

• Grouping students 

• Using formative assessment 

Workshop Goals

• Deepen your foundational, conceptual understanding of curriculum, instruction, and assessment 

• Acquire practical tools and skills for ensuring aligned, effective teaching and learning 

AUDIENCE

• K-12 Teachers (with a school or division leader) 

This workshop is designed for current K-12 teachers and is particularly ideal for early-career teachers and provisionally licensed teachers as well as for those interested in honing their own instructional leadership. We strongly encourage divisions to send a team of teachers who are accompanied by a school or division leader (principal, assistant principal, coach, or specialist) who can support participants’ transfer of learning into practice.  

INFORMATION

• Thursday, October 1 & Thursday, October 15, 2026

• 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.; Check-in starts at 8:00 a.m. 

• William & Mary School of Education

FEES

• $400/person - SURN Division Member

• $600/person - General (Non-SURN Division Member)

• Includes morning coffee, workshop, materials & lunch for both days  

To learn more or register, visit the SURN website. 

VA Gifted Seminar

• The Virginia Association for the Gifted (VA Gifted) will host a one-day seminar titled Union Station: Connecting Pathways for Gifted Learners, on October 5, at Virginia Union University. 

• This year the presenters are all from the state of Virginia, including educator, coach, and national speaker Mr. Donovan Taylor Hall. 

• Learn more from VA Gifted or register today. 

• Registration Deadlines:  

  • Regular from August 15 to  September 18, 2026

  • Late from September 19 to October 5, 2026

STEM Summit Fall 2026

• Co-sponsored by the Virginia Children's Engineering Council, the Southside Virginia Regional Technology Consortium, and the Longwood University Institute for Teaching Through Technology and Innovative Practices, this October 9 event offers a valuable platform to collaborate with fellow STEM educators. 

• Attendees will discover impactful, meaningful strategies designed to engage learners and reinforce the STEM discipline Standards of Learning. 

• Learn more or register today. 

VCSS Conference for History and Social Science Educators

• The Virginia Council for Social Studies (VCSS) invites history and social science educators from across the Commonwealth to attend their annual conference. 

• Join hundreds of other educators at the Virginia Council for the Social Studies Conference on October 9-10 at the William and Mary School of Education. 

• Visit the 2026 VCSS Conference website for more information on the conference venues, lodging, vendors, and other information. 

Coaches Academy: From Coaching Conversations to Classroom Action

• Join Learning Forward Virginia on October 23 at 9 a.m. at the Spotsylvania County School Board Office for a full-day, in-person 2026 Coaches Academy: From Coaching Conversations to Classroom Action featuring Dr. Kim Richardson, President of Learning Forward Virginia and educator and author, Nicole S. Turner. 

• Participants will explore the six-step Simple Strategy Coaching process and learn practical strategies for turning coaching conversations into classroom action using the PLAN, ACT, REFLECT cycle. 

• Designed for instructional coaches, teacher leaders, mentors, administrators, and more. 

• Register or learn more from Learning Forward Virginia today. 

From Language to Literacy Conference

• Registration is open now for the Reading League Virginia conference, From Language to Literacy: Fostering Success and Access to Skilled Reading on February 11, 2027, in Richmond. 

• PreK-12 educators, administrators, specialists, are invited to come together to discover evidence-aligned approaches, connect with fellow literacy leaders, and gain practical insights to strengthen reading instruction. 

• Learn more or register on the Reading League Virginia conference website today. 

From Read Alouds to Rich Math Tasks: Using Children’s Literature to Problem Solve in Math and Develop Reading Comprehension

Teachers: Preschool-Grade 2, Special Education Teachers, Instructional Coaches, & Administrators

Friday, November 13, 2026 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Join Dr. Kateri Thunder, early childhood master teacher and instructional coach, facilitator of this onsite workshop. 

When we intentionally reread books, we develop the components of reading comprehension, including verbal reasoning, literacy knowledge, language structure, and phonological awareness. 

Rereading also creates a familiar context for young learners to notice and wonder about mathematical ideas. Read alouds can harness children’s mathematical curiosities and serve as a springboard into rich math and STEM tasks. Thus, rereading allows us to intentionally develop young children’s positive identities as learners, readers, and mathematicians from the very start.

Join us to examine the intersection of math and read alouds, including classics like There Was an Old Lady, new favorites like Jabari Jumps!, folktales like Gingerbread Girl, math literature like Count the Monkeys, children’s literature like Thank You, Omu!, and more. We will unpack what makes an effective, interactive read aloud, examine the goals of multiple reads of the same text, and experience literature-based, rich math and STEM Tasks.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the role of rereading to develop reading comprehension AND the confidence and excitement to leverage read alouds for deep mathematical problem solving with our youngest learners.

Register Here: https://bit.ly/K-2MathReadingWorkshop

Understanding and Responding to the Impact of Trauma on Youth

• Target Audience:

  • School Counselors, School Psychologists, School Social Workers, Intervention Specialists, Behavior Management Specialists, Special Education Teachers, K-12 Teachers, & School Administrators

• Important Note:
  The September 28th workshop is on-site.
  The October 20th & December 8th sessions are virtual - online only.

• September 28,  October 20, & December 8, 2026

• 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM

  • Presented by:

    • Betsy Bell

  • Registration Fee (Members): $175

  • Type of Workshop:

    • On-Site with Virtual Follow-Up Workshops

  • Location:

    • Hillsdale Conference Center (September 28, 2026)

• Workshop Details

  • Students experience various forms and degrees of trauma as a result of death, illness, crisis, and loss, often affecting behavioral, social-emotional, and academic growth, which can lead to harmful behaviors if unrecognized and untreated. Through scenario-based examples and activities, participants will learn how to identify traumatic events, experiences, and effects. A trauma-informed approach within the multi-tiered system of support will be described, and specific examples and resources will be provided in order to apply the concepts learned.   

• Objectives:

  • Recognize indicators/risk factors of trauma among students.

  • Recognize students experiencing trauma and/or grief.

  • Identify examples of tiered supports for students experiencing trauma and/or grief.

•  A brief overview of the history of ACEs will be discussed, along with the neuroscience of trauma and development.  Real-world examples of common trauma responses and strategies for addressing them will be explored. Usable strategies for working with students with varying levels of trauma, education, and development in classrooms, small groups, and individual work will be discussed and provided.

Webinar 1- Wed. Oct. 20 : Supporting Youth with Trauma Experiences Part 1 - Intervention Matching for Student Success

• Youth who have experienced trauma often express their needs through behaviors that may not align with traditional school expectations. When educators and caregivers view these behaviors through a trauma-informed lens, as communication rather than defiance, they can respond with interventions that promote safety, connection, and success.

• In this webinar, we will explore common trauma-related behaviors seen in school settings and examine practical, effective interventions that address the underlying needs behind those behaviors. Participants will leave with strategies to better support students academically, behaviorally, and emotionally, helping them build skills for success both in and beyond the classroom.

Webinar 2 - Wed. Dec. 8: Supporting Youth with Trauma Experiences Part 2 - Supporting Trauma-Affected Students Through School Break Transitions

• Students who have experienced trauma, or who continue to face ongoing adversity, often find transitions especially challenging. Changes in routine can interrupt the stability, progress, and sense of success they experience at school, particularly during transitions to and from school breaks.

• In this webinar, we will explore proactive strategies educators and support staff can implement before breaks to help students prepare for changes in routine, as well as effective interventions to support students when they return. Participants will gain practical tools to reduce the behavioral and academic impacts that school breaks can create and to foster smoother, more supportive transitions for trauma-affected students.

• Recertification Certificate

  • Recertification Certificates (9 points) will be given at the end of the PD workshop series after completion of an electronic exit survey.

REGISTER NOW

Using Data to Drive Real Learning Cohort Workshops

• Target Audience:

  • K-12 Teachers, Teacher Leaders, Support Specialists, Data Team Members, Building Level Administrators, Content Coordinators, and Instructional Coaches

Note: There will be a workshop scheduled for January, 2027. The date and location to be announced.

• Dates:

  • October 28, & March 25, 2027

  • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Presented by:

• Dr. John Almarode and Dr. Kelley Turner

Registration Fee (Members): $350

Type of Workshop:

• On-Site Workshop - In Person Only

• Location: James Madison University (October 28, 2026)

Workshop Details

Too often, students—especially those from marginalized backgrounds—are denied access to grade-level learning. Well-meaning teachers, eager to ensure success, may over-scaffold lessons, unintentionally limiting student agency and growth. Meanwhile, schools collect mountains of data—but is it the right data? More importantly, do educators know how to use formative data to drive real learning?

This assessment cohort’s high-impact professional learning experiences will be scheduled onsite and virtually throughout the year. We will shift the way you think about assessment and evaluation. Instead of seeing those as endpoints, you’ll learn to use assessment and evaluation as powerful tools to deepen student learning, refine instruction, and promote mastery through job-embedded applications in your school.

What Participants Will Gain:

• • Master the Evaluator Mindset – Understand how to assess learning in real-time and adjust instruction effectively.

  • Make Data Work for You – Learn how to collect, analyze, and act on meaningful student data.

  • Use Scaffolding & Feedback with Purpose – Move beyond over-scaffolding and equip students with the tools to succeed independently.

  • Design Grade-Level Learning Tasks – Ensure every student engages in appropriately challenging, standard-aligned work.

Recertification Certificate: Recertification Certificates will be given at the end of the PD workshop series after completion of an electronic exit survey.

REGISTER TODAY

Planning with Intention: The Learning Cycle

• Target Audience:

  • Teachers: Grades 3-12, Instructional Coaches, & Administrators

• Date:

  • Monday, October 5, 2026

  • 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM

• Registration Fee (Members): $175

• Type of Workshop: On-Site Workshop - In Person Only

  • Location: Doubletree Hotel

Workshop Details

Great instruction doesn't happen by accident — it's the result of intentional planning rooted in evidence. Planning with Intention: The Learning Cycle is a full-day workshop grounded in Visible Learning research that supports educators in designing learning experiences that are clear, purposeful, and responsive. From setting learning intentions to using assessment as a through line, participants will leave with practical strategies and collaborative structures to strengthen instructional planning across the learning cycle.

Guiding questions for this workshop include:

• • What do students need to know and be able to do

  • What does success look like

  • How will students learn it

  • How do we know if they were successful

Participants will leave this session with:

• • Precision crafted learning intentions

  • Student ready success criteria

  • Surface to deep to transfer strategy maps

  • Formative assessment and feedback tools

  • An intentional lesson sketch

  • A collaborative team action plan

Recertification Certificate

• Recertification Certificates (6 points) will be given at the end of the PD workshop series after completion of an electronic exit survey.

REGISTER TODAY

In partnership with W&M T/TAC and W&M Literacy Lab

• Join us again this fall as we continue to implement the Virginia Literacy Act in our schools. Designed for K-8 teachers, coaches, specialists, and leaders, this one-day conference focuses on providing just-in-time resources and practical strategies for implementing effective reading instruction in K-8 classrooms.

Morning Keynote

• Dr. Jake Downs is an Assistant Professor at Utah State University and a Reading Hall of Fame Emerging Scholar Fellow whose research focuses on word reading, fluency, and comprehension. As a former paraprofessional, fourth-grade teacher, instructional coach, and district literacy coordinator, Jake shapes his efforts around a single goal: translating rigorous science into practical classroom strategies. He brings this actionable scholarship to life through ongoing professional development and as the host of the globally recognized Teaching Literacy Podcast, reaching educators in over 140 countries. When not immersed in reading research, Jake enjoys photography, Major League Baseball, and taking care of his yard and garden. He lives in Hyde Park, Utah with his wife and three kids.

Afternoon Keynote

• Lori Sappington is a teacher-turned-author and podcaster dedicated to making literacy learning practical, clear, and accessible for educators. In 2019, she co-founded the podcast Melissa & Lori Love Literacy with Melissa Loftus, creating a trusted space where research meets classroom practice. Since then, the podcast has featured more than 250 experts and reached over 3.5 million downloads worldwide, helping educators better understand and apply the science of reading. Lori is the author of The Literacy 50: A Q&A Handbook for Teachers and a contributor to The Science of Reading. Her work centers on helping teachers bring evidence-based literacy practices into their classrooms every day.

AUDIENCE: K-8 Teachers, Coaches, Specialists, & Leaders 

INFORMATION

• Tuesday, October 20, 2026

• 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; Check-in starts at 8:00 a.m.

• William & Mary School of Education

REGISTER TODAY

SURN Exploring Artificial Intelligence

Join us for this one-day conference as we pry open the lid on generative artificial intelligence. We’ll hear from experts and talk with each other as we seek a deeper understanding of the affordances and constraints of AI, find common language for how we talk about AI, and build our confidence to use AI in ways that enhance deeper teaching and learning.

Morning Keynote

A former elementary teacher, Adam Garry is the founder and president of Strategic EDU. With two decades of consulting experience, he guides educational institutions toward digital and student-centered learning transformations. Co-author of Teaching the iGeneration and Personalized Learning Through Voice and Choice, Adam has contributed articles, blogs, and podcasts on many aspects of education including personalized learning, assessment, generative AI, and leadership. He is currently supporting school districts and companies across the US and Canada with Generative AI initiatives. 

Afternoon Keynote

Dr. Douglas C. Schmidt, is the inaugural Dean of William & Mary's School of Computing, Data Sciences & Physics. With more than thirty years of experience as an internationally recognized computing expert, he is a sought-after educator and leader. As Dean, Dr. Schmidt is focused on advancing William & Mary's efforts to prepare students for success in a data-driven world.

AUDIENCE

• K-12 Teachers, Coaches, Specialists, & Leaders 

INFORMATION

• Monday, November 16, 2026 

• 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; Check-in starts at 8:00 a.m.  

• William & Mary School of Education 

FEES 

• $200/person - SURN Division Member

• $300/person - General (Non-SURN Division Member)

Includes morning coffee, conference, materials, & lunch  

REGISTER TODAY

• Reserve your room in our room block and save money today by clicking HERE!

• VATLL’s Annual Conference is the premier conference for teaching, learning, and leading in Virginia designed for all roles at all levels throughout the entire Commonwealth. 

• December 1-3 at The Williamsburg Lodge

• At this conference, you will have the opportunity to attend educational sessions and participate in hands-on learning environments that will provide you with tangible resources and ready-to-use techniques that will help you learn new instructional strategies to further develop your practice. 

• You will be exposed to the timeliest topics, the latest research, and the most current trends in education today. 

• You will be able to share the information and resources gathered, preparing your school and division to guide educators to improve student learning outcomes.

Super Early Bird Conference Pricing available through June 30:

• Pre-Conference Workshop (December 1): $195

• Conference: $300

• Pre-Con + Conference: $450

REGISTER TODAY

Please note: Super Early Bird Invoices MUST be paid by July 31, 2026 to maintain your registration. Regular prices will be billed otherwise.

YES!! The AI workshops you've been looking for are finally here. These are the solutions for AI most coveted by educators in 2026. 

The Elect AI Virtual Workshop Series is unlike any other with the quality content and premier facilitators you seek - all available On Demand. You watch the webinars on your schedule when it suits you!

AI + Differentiation with Eric Carbaugh

DI Meets AI: Using Generative Tools to Differentiate for Student Needs. One of the biggest roadblocks teachers face when differentiating instruction is finding time to plan. However, generative AI (GenAI) tools can significantly expedite this process by creating differentiated resources in seconds. This session will provide practical guidance on effectively using GenAI to adapt instructional activities, tier content, and analyze assessments to support the diverse learning needs of students.

AI + Engagement with John Meehan

Bots, Brains, and Buy-In: Authentic Engagement in the Age of A.I. ChatGPT can write an essay. Midjourney can make art. But can either get a teenager to care about algebra at 8am? In this fast-paced session, we'll explore hw to keep students plugged in (without zoning out) by blending smart tech with even smarter teaching. Come for the AI. Stay for the “ah-ha!” 

AI + Teacher Burnout with Monica Burns

AI + Teacher Burnout. Explore how AI-powered tools can help lighten the load by automating repetitive tasks and streamlining your workflow. This session focuses on actionable strategies to reduce stress, free up planning time, and support work-life balance.

__________________________________________________________

Each Workshop is $75 OR all 3 workshops are just $150!!! 

REGISTER TODAY!

• Season 3 of the ActiVAtED Learning podcast is now available.

• It continues to highlight innovative teaching practices across the Commonwealth. This podcast brings listeners inside classrooms where educators are activating student engagement through creativity, curiosity, and hands‑on learning. 

• It introduces fresh stories from Virginia schools, elevates student voices, and offers shorter episodes designed for busy educators seeking practical strategies they can use right away. 

• Companion video segments from Blue Ridge PBS provide an even closer look at the classrooms featured in each episode. 

• The new and previous seasons are available through all major podcast platforms.

• Practical tools, real classrooms, and connected educators engage in a summit built for teachers who want hands-on, immediately usable AI strategies and meaningful collaboration with peers. Through small group conversations and collaborative activities, participants will explore high-value tools and learn the essentials of data privacy. They will leave with new skills, ready to use resources, and a connected network of educators. 

Participants will:

• Select AI tools that align with learning targets and student needs

• Recognize how data privacy impacts the safe and responsible use of AI

• Practice foundational prompting skills to strengthen AI supported tasks

• Implement classroom ready AI strategies and resources immediately

• Learn more about the upcoming sessions including:

  • Thursday, October 8, 2026
    Region 1 • CTC at Hull Thomas R. Fulghum Conference Center
    13900 Hull Street Road, Midlothian, VA 23112

• The Office of English is sharing a full collection of thirty professional learning webinars designed to support the 2024 English Standards of Learning. 

• These sessions offer practical guidance and instructional strategies to strengthen teaching and learning across the Commonwealth. 

• Use these resources during PLCs, department meetings, schoolwide professional learning, or whenever it best fits your schedule. 

• Sessions address a wide range of topics, including Effective Practice of Foundational Skills, Text‑Dependent Questioning, Purposeful Planning, Writing Instruction, Considerations for Planning Reading Intervention, and more.

• Virtual AI in Education Series

• What if AI could give you back hours in your week and help you personalize learning without doubling your workload? 

• Learn about AI with GMU TTAC & experts while earning certificates of attendance for PD hours during one-hour virtual professional learning sessions on zoom! 

• These synchronous sessions will explore how educators can effectively leverage AI in their practice. 

• Every session is built on a demonstration-to-application model, ensuring you leave with new skills already at work in your teaching. 

• Register today! 

• The Liberty University School of Education has offered this Professional Learning Video Library to its surrounding school divisions as part of their School and University Partnerships. The videos were not produced by BCPS staff and are offered as a professional learning resource only. BCPS staff may choose to view these videos [at least 45 minutes of content] and complete the Google Form to earn 5 PD points. 

• Select topics of interest to you and access the short videos found HERE. Scroll down to the heading "Professional Development by LU Faculty"

  • Canva Session 1: Design Tools [15:21]

  • Canva Session 2: Building Tools in Canva: Shapes & Graphics [16:56]

  • Canva Session 3: Polls & Quizzes [18:24]

  • Canva Session 4: Working with Media [12:13]

  • Canva Session 5: Canva Apps [6:57]

  • Classroom Management: Self-Management Plans [39:14]

  • Intro to the Science of Reading [12:54]

  • Using AI in the Literacy Classroom [7:39]

  • Classroom Engagement [24:39]

  • Culturally Responsive Pedagogy Part 1 [32:29]

  • Culturally Responsive Pedagogy Part 2 [22:02]

  • E in STEM in the Elementary School [31:38]

  • Student Trauma [31:00]

  • How to Garner, Cultivate, and Improve Administrative Support [16:00]

• Watch the video[s], complete the Google Form, earn 5 PD points!

  • To earn 5 PD Points, you must watch videos that total at least 45 minutes

  • For each 45 minutes of videos, submit 1 Google Form

• VVA offers no cost online professional learning opportunities for all Virginia public school educators.  All K–12 educators and administrators at Virginia public schools and divisions are invited to register for the 2025–2026 VVA Statewide Professional Learning Webinars, held on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. 

• These webinars highlight innovative and creative technologies, instructional strategies, and resources for school divisions.  

• The fall sessions include presenters from MagicSchool AI, VDOE content areas, Bark Parent Safe Monitoring, Project Write, and the Virginia250 Commission. 

• For more information, contact Morgan Occhuizzo. 

New Web-Based Opportunities for AI and Career Advancement

The Virginia Has Jobs AI Career Launch Pad is a web-based platform, developed in partnership with Google, to help Virginians explore and train for high-demand careers in AI and technology. 

The platform offers a curated selection of free and low-cost courses and degree programs. 

Teachers are encouraged to take advantage of these resources—not only to upskill professionally, but also to bring AI literacy into their classrooms. 

Educators can apply for scholarships. 

Welcome to the Council for Exceptional Children's Effective & High-Leverage Practices for Paraeducators program! We're thrilled you are here! Keep scrolling for all the info about the program.

In collaboration with the Paraprofessional Resource & Research Center and the CEEDAR Center, this completely online and on-demand program was designed to provide paraeducators with a learning opportunity focused on their unique role and how that aligns with specific high-leverage practices (HLPs). In this FREE program, you will be introduced to four areas of high-leverage practice: Collaboration, Assessment, Instruction, and Social/Emotional/Behavioral. The courses are broken down into phases created for each of these four areas. This program was curated so that each course builds on the next. Start with the Program Overview (it's only like 2 minutes, we swear) then move on to HLP Focus Area 1, then 2, etc.

*You will have access to this program and all its content for one year from the date of registration.

ACCESS THE TRAINING BY REGISTERING HERE

• The RESPECT PROJECT focuses on improving student performance by helping teachers lawfully and appropriately support students of all faiths.

• Researcher Ilana Horwitz of Stanford University’s Graduate School of Education found that “being religious helps adolescents at the middle and high school level because they have learned the very habits that public schools are structured to reward: conscientiousness and cooperation.”

• Religious students are helped because the faith community and the school community both pour into students lives the characteristics that help social, emotional, and learning development. For example, both institutions want students to respect authority, be conscientious, cooperative, and kind. Both want students to have a sense of purpose in life. It is a benefit to students when they have others outside the school community helping them develop these traits.

• It is not the place of public schools to promote religious adherence. However, they can affirm its value for the many students who already attend religious services and for whom their religious faith is already an important part of their identity.

• RESPECT PROJECT 

  • • One-page flyer

• USDOE's Guidance & RESPECT PROJECT 

  • • 8-page, comprehensive overview

• RESPECT PROJECT 

  • • Webpage:  https://respectproject.net

• 5-minute (Teacher) & 3-minute (Student) Religious Expression in Public Schools 

  • • Videos—From Orange County Dept. of Education website  https://ocde.us/Superintendent/Pages/Religious-freedom-in-public-schools.aspx  (5-min video is embedded in the 30-Teacher Training Module-RESPECT PROJECT)

• Access to the 30-Minute Teacher Training Module:  

1. Visit www.edpoint.net/respect 

2. Scroll to and click on “Access Training Module.”

3. When prompted, enter this password: edpoint35

4. Enter your name and school district.

THE EXPLORE ASD SEMINAR SERIES

The Explore ASD Series contains seminars that provide a narrow focus of information on topics important to educators, families, individuals with ASD, other professionals, and community members. These presentations are approximately 30-40 minutes long and are detailed enough to provide a quick overview or review of information. Current topics include information about diagnosis, characteristics of ASD, employment, and assessment.

Please select one of the following topical areas to see a listing of online seminars relevant to that area.

• Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Environmental Structure and Visual Supports

• Communication

• The Comprehensive Autism Planning System (CAPS)

• Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Reinforcement

• Autism Spectrum Disorder and Employment

• Teacher Evaluation

• Verbal Behavior-Milestones and Placement Program (VB-MAPP)

WEBSITE

• This practice guide provides five recommendations for teaching math to children in preschool, prekindergarten, and kindergarten. 

• Each recommendation includes implementation steps and solutions for common roadblocks. The recommendations also summarize and rate supporting evidence. 

• This guide is geared toward teachers, administrators, and other educators who want to build a strong foundation for later math learning.

  1. Teach number and operations using a developmental progression.

  2. Teach geometry, patterns, measurement, and data analysis using a developmental progression.

  3. Use progress monitoring to ensure that math instruction builds on what each child knows

  4. Teach children to view and describe their world mathematically.

  5. Dedicate time each day to teaching math, and integrate math instruction throughout the school day.

• The practice guide is accompanied by supplemental resources, including a practice guide summary and quick overview for understanding the guide. 

• ACCESS these training materials 

• Conscious Discipline is a research based program specializing in social emotional support

  • The Conscious Discipline Brain State Model recognizes three basic brain / body / mind states likely to produce certain behaviors. Intentional, state-specific responses enable access to advanced skills. 

  • Skills transform everyday discipline issues into teachable moments, equipping children with the social-emotional and communication skills needed to manage themselves, resolve conflict and develop healthy behavior. 

• Sampling of Webinar Topics

  • Pre-K Virtual Lesson Example 

  • Visual Morning Schedule

  • COVID-19 Stress: How Uncertainty Affects the Brain 

  • Home Learning and Brain Smart Starts 

  • Make a Multi-sensory Breathing Pinwheel

  • and many more topics!

• Access full title list of webinars HERE

• 200 free digital resources including printables, song lyrics, and extension activities: CLICK HERE

  • Promote literacy and healthy social skills using planning guides, discussion points and worksheets with our Shubert books

  • Brighten your classroom with songs and chants designed to foster connection and optimize learning. Includes album lyrics. 

  • Free resources to support families and educators in their response to the COVID-19 global pandemic. 

  • Discover posters, tools and activities to simplify and strengthen implementation. Includes templates and ritual plans. 

• The Deeper Learning video series illustrates deeper learning across the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

• These segments were designed to provide real-life examples of teachers implementing deeper learning and how it looks in a variety of settings.

• This series was produced by WHRO Education in partnership with Jobs for the Future, Inc., the Virginia Department of Education, and with generous funding support from The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. 

• LEARN MORE TODAY!

• Sampling of short videos in the playlist: (many more on the site)

  • Deeper Learning: Sounds Like a Plan!

    • Watch as Poquoson High School students apply the 5 C's to solve a real-world problem.

  • Deeper Learning: Senior Projects

    • Watch seniors from Cumberland High School present their culminating senior projects to a panel of evaluators and mentors.

  • Deeper Learning: Virginia STAR

    • Watch as students at Cumberland Middle School learn how to fix computers to give back to community members through the Virginia STAR program.

  • Deeper Learning: What are you thinking?

    • Watch how Whitney Beck, a third grade teacher from Henrico County Public Schools, engages students in her classroom to be thinkers.

  • Deeper Learning: Bari"STARS" in the Making

    • Watch as Poquoson Middle School students run a Cool Beans Cafe and learn real-life work skills.

  • Deeper Learning: Performance Assessment

    • Watch this video to learn about how Rockingham County Public Schools implemented some division-wide history and social science performance assessments.

  • Deeper Learning: What a great idea!

    • Watch Cumberland County elementary students become problem solvers and lead instruction.

• Sign up for this course in Unified Talent today!

  • If you need help signing up for a course in Unified Talent, please access these helpful resources.

• By reading, watching videos, and doing activities, you'll learn cutting-edge strategies for integrating Google in your classroom. 

• You can start and stop lessons at any time; we'll track your progress through the course. 

• At the end of this course, you'll be ready to take the exam to become a Google Certified Educator Level 2. 

• Young students can learn complex vocabulary if given the right supports and scaffolding. 

• This brief REL West video walks teachers through a three-step, evidence-based routine for teaching academic vocabulary to young students. 

• Chalk It Up to Experience! Tips from Real Co-Teachers of Virginia was created by demonstration site teams to celebrate the first five years of the Excellence in Co-Teaching Initiative. Teams share practical advice for effective co-teaching and practices they consider critical to establishing a strong collaborative relationship. This document will serve as an instructional resource for co-teaching teams and administrators to inform their co-teaching practices. 

• Co-Teachers of Virginia – Elementary

  • This series of webshops showcases the products created by real co-teachers of Virginia, select teams of elementary co-teachers participating in the Virginia Department of Education’s Excellence in Co-Teaching Initiative.

• Real Co-Teachers of Virginia Discuss High Leverage Practices (HLPs) - Elementary

  • How are the “special” needs of students with disabilities met in a co-taught classroom? What drives the thinking of co-teachers as they co-plan, co-instruct and co-assess to meet the needs of all their students?

• Learn more HERE

• Virtual Virginia Strategic Services presents webinars on Canvas topics to smooth the transition for Virginia teachers

• Pre-Recorded Webinars on the following topics:

  • Discussions and Collaborations in Canvas

  • Assessment in Canvas

  • Asynchronous and Synchronous Learning in Canvas

  • Using Google and Canvas

  • Consistent and Simple Access to Learning with Canvas

• Access recordings on a variety of Canvas topics HERE

• The Commonwealth Learning Partnership works to advance, align and amplify high-quality professional learning opportunities and resources for Virginia’s education community. 

• The Commonwealth Learning Partnership aims to take the Profile of a Virginia Graduate from vision to practice by investing in aligned and high-quality professional learning and upskilling opportunities for educators and education leaders. 

• Goal is to assist with at home learning

• Resources include:

  • Writing Prompts for all Grade Levels

  • Google Teach From Home

  • Families Front and Center

  • Tools for Facilitating Online Learning 

  • Much More!

• LEARN MORE TODAY!

• New Digital Content from NASA's eClips Series

  • Launchpad: Life Cycle of a Star

  • Launchpad: Engineering Design to Support Scientific Discovery 

  • Real World: Planetary Volcanoes 

  • Real World: The Carbon Cycle -- Essential for Life on Earth 

  • Real World: Computer Simulations -- Turning Complex Ideas Into Solvable Equations

  • Real World: From Idea to Physical Prototype

  • Real World: Close Encounters with An Asteroid 

  • Real World: Small Bodies Orbiting the Sun 

  • Real World: Earth's Energy Balance: Small Changes, Big Impact 

  • Real World: Earth's Energy Balance: Energy In and Energy Out 

  • LEARN MORE TODAY

• Support Building Social-Emotional Skills with Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum

  • Engage students with Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum, a PBS KIDS series based on the Ordinary People Change the World books by Brad Meltzer and Christopher Eliopoulos.

  • The show follows the adventures of Xavier Riddle, his sister Yadina, and their friend Brad as they travel back in time to meet real life historical figures when they were kids. Use these video clips, teaching tips, and historical figure biosketches to support students’ social-emotional, literacy, and social studies skills.

  • LEARN MORE TODAY

• The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) is pleased to announce the addition of newly developed resources into #GoOpenVA. #GoOpenVA is an open education resource that provides a platform for teachers to share openly-licensed digital learning resources with other educators. It also provides an online space to afford educators the opportunity to collaborate on the creation of resources in support of Virginia Standards of Learning and initiatives tied to the Virginia is for Learners campaign. 

• Two new Collections of resources from Virginia Schools divisions provide shared materials for fall 2020 return to school plans and for professional learning resources that can be used to help teachers move to virtual and hybrid learning: Fall 2020 Recover, Redesign, Restart 2020 School Division Plans and Moving to Virtual and Hybrid Learning: Professional Learning for Teachers.  We invite every division to continue to add to these resources so that we can all share the load that our new educational reality demands.

• Other recent additions to #GoOpenVA include resources generated by VDOE instructional teams, lessons produced by teachers in the Commonwealth through several grant opportunities, and state and nationally recognized resources from a variety of Virginia educational institutions.  One national non-profit has also provided some new resources for elementary mathematics and English.  

• These recent additions include:

  • Twenty-seven modules generated by the VCU OER Science Curriculum Project.  These can be found in the Collection VCU STEM Project;

  • Ten lessons (and growing) from the Virginia K-12 Computer Science Pipeline (a joint project between Loudoun and Chesapeake);

  • VDOE Science Instructional Plans generated in collaboration with Virginia teachers.  These plans and other science resources are being uploaded daily and can be found in the Science VDOE Collection;

  • Mathematics Instructional Plans, written by Mathematics Educators with the VDOE;

  • Documents and other educational resources to support the new Fine Arts Standards of Learning.  These are located in the VDOE Fine Arts Collection;

  • Science Inquiry from Home resources developed to support asynchronous elementary science instruction.  These can be found in the Science VDOE Collection;

  • Several sets of lesson plans contributed by the Virginia Geographic Alliance; 

  • Forty-eight lesson plans from New American History;

  • A continually-growing collection of resources from WHRO Education;

  • Twenty-five videos produced by Virginia Public Media for the Wildlife Center of Virginia; and

  • Elementary English, Mathematics, and cross-curricular resources provided through Match Fishtank.

• Teachers can access #GoOpenVA without having an account; however, logging in using their division network to access #GoOpenVA allows increased opportunities for teacher collaboration, as well as, for the sharing and revising of resources aligned to the Virginia Standard of Learning.  All educators in Virginia are learning new ways of teaching and learning at this time.  #GoOpenVA provides a great opportunity to leverage our collective experiences and knowledge through the sharing of creative solutions.

• If you have any further questions about technical support, please contact Jean Weller, Teaching and Learning Technology Integration Specialist at jean.weller@doe.virginia.gov, or (804) 225-2825.

• Discover best practices for supporting virtual learning, find tips on lesson planning and assessment strategies, and access professional learning resources

• Virtual learning has become an integral part of our educational system. Virtual learning can aid in

• Increasing student engagement and choice,

• Supporting personalized learning experiences for students, and

• Increasing equity in access to high quality learning experiences.

• Virtual learning programs offer flexibility to students while providing instruction aligned with the Standards of Learning. A number of Virginia school divisions provide opportunities for their students to take online courses as a part of their regular course offerings.

• Access the virtual learning hub today!