6-12 ELA Workshops
Description: Join COOR ISD Secondary Consultant, MJ Ewald, with a deep dive into 6-12 Disciplinary Literacy Essentials. Participants will work with a collaborative network to support, connect, collaborate, and encourage each other to engage students in authentic ELA instructional strategies. Time will be spent in professional learning around ELA curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
• October 8, 2026 - Located at COOR CEC
• December 10, 2026 • February 11, 2027 • April 8, 2027
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-11a
Facilitator: MJ Ewald, COOR ISD Secondary Consultant | ewaldmj@coorisd.net
6-12 Literacy Toolbox
Participants will receive:
A curated monthly list consisting of links to one podcast/video, one research article, and one teaching resource delivered to your inbox.
Access to a cumulative Padlet with all email resources grouped by topic.
Scheduling Information:
Self-paced | Asynchronous monthly engagement with content
Facilitator: MJ Ewald, COOR ISD Secondary Consultant | ewaldmj@coorisd.net
Audience:
6-12 Teachers, Instructional Coaches, and Administrators
6-12 Math Workshops
Description: Join COOR ISD Secondary Consultant, MJ Ewald, with a deep dive into 6-12 Disciplinary Literacy Essentials. Participants will work with a collaborative network to support, connect, collaborate, and encourage each other to engage our students in authentic math instructional strategies. Time will be spent in professional learning around math curriculum, instruction, and assessment..
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
2026: Nov 12
2027: Jan 14 | Mar 11 | May 13
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-11a
Facilitator: MJ Ewald, COOR ISD Secondary Consultant | ewaldmj@coorisd.net
AAC in Action: Building Communication Success with TD Snap Training Series
Description: This two-part hands-on training will build participant confidence in supporting students who use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). Participants will learn the basics of TD Snap, including editing buttons, creating folders, navigating page sets, selecting appropriate vocabulary layouts, and adding personalized actions.
The second session will focus on supporting student access and independence by exploring access methods such as touch, switch access, and eye gaze, along with personalization features. Participants will also learn effective AAC modeling strategies, classroom supports, and environmental adjustments that promote communication, collaboration, and inclusion.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
October 6, 2026 | Location: COOR Education Center | Time: 9a-12p
February 9, 2027 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 9a-12p
Facilitator: Taylor Baker,Tobii Dynavox Representative
Audience:
Teams or Individuals using or wanting to use Tobii Dynavox products- including general education staff, SLPs, OTs, SSWs, special education staff, paraeducators, and administrators
Register Here
SCECHs available
AI Teacher Leaders
This session is for K–12 educators who want to go further with AI and discover how to thoughtfully integrate it into the classroom. The focus is on integrating AI with the goals and strategies you are already working toward, whether at the department, grade-level, or building level. Open to K-12 educators, instructional coaches, and leaders across COOR ISD.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
2026: Sept 23, 2026
2027: Mar 16, 2027
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 12p-2:30p
Facilitator: Karle Delo, MI Virtual AI Strategist
Assistant Principal Community of Practice
The Assistant Principal Community of Practice offers members a platform to connect, exchange insights, seek support, and establish meaningful relationships with fellow assistant principals. Sessions will include discussions on professional learning articles focusing on specific topics, providing attendees with actionable insights applicable to their school environments.
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format | last Tues of the month
2026: Sept 30, Oct 28, Nov 25
2027: Jan 27, Feb 24, Apr 28, May 26
Location: CATIC • Roscommon Middle School | Time: 8:30a-10:30a
Facilitator: Mike Evans, CATIC Principal/Director
Building Better Access: Strengthening Assistive Technology Systems
Description: This collaborative professional learning series brings together the COOR ISD Assistive Technology Leadership Team and Alt+Shift to strengthen assistive technology practices across our region. Participants will use the Alt+Shift Practice Profiles to evaluate current systems, identify strengths and opportunities for growth, establish shared goals, and develop consistent, evidence-based practices. The series is designed to build local capacity, improve collaboration among educators, monitor implementation, and ultimately enhance access and outcomes for students who benefit from assistive technology.
Scheduling Information:
In Person
September 2 & September 30 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8a-3:30p
Facilitator: Megan Hojnacki, Alt + Shift Assistive Technology and AAC Specialist
Audience:
By invitation only
Register Here - to come
SCECHs available
Behavior Interventions in the Classroom
Description: This training provides participants with a working understanding of behavior science and increases their strategies for addressing high-frequency, low-intensity behavior in the classroom. At the end of the sessions, participants are equipped with skills and a structure to intentionally select and implement classroom strategies to support learners’ academic and behavioral success.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
Sepetember 28, 2026 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8a-3p
Facilitator: by the MiMTSS Technical Assistance Center
Audience:
K-12 Teachers & K-12 Principals
Building a Strong MTSS Foundation for Your District
Description: This series supports District Implementation Teams in installing a district implementation infrastructure to effectively implement, scaleup, and sustain educational innovations encompassed within an MTSS framework. Developing capacity for implementation at the district level allows for the sustainability of effective practices, thus improving students’ outcomes.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
Day 1: Sept. 24, 2026 | Day 2: October 14, 2026
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-3:30p
Facilitator: MiMTSS Technical Assistance Center
Audience:
District Leaders, K-12 Principals
Classroom Solutions in 30
Description: Join our Teacher Consultant for 30 minute virtual mini sessions designed to give you practical, evidence based strategies you can use right away. Each session focuses on a key topic to support student success and build stronger, more inclusive classrooms.
Audience:
General Ed Teachers
Special Ed teachers
Ancillary Staff
Support Staff
Register Here
SCECHs available
COOR ISD AI Taskforce
The AI Task Force is designed to build the collective capacity of district leaders and educators to understand, evaluate, and strategically implement artificial intelligence tools in support of teaching and learning. Through a combination of collaborative learning, hands-on exploration, and guided inquiry, participants will deepen their knowledge of AI applications, ethical considerations, data privacy, and instructional integration.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
2026: Sept 23, Oct 28, Dec 2
2027: Jan 27, Feb 24, Apr 21, May 19
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-11:30a
Facilitator: Karle Delo, MI Virtual AI Strategist
COOR ISD Coaches' Research Consortium
Instructional coaches will increase repertoire of skills, gain professional knowledge, and impact student and teacher performance through exploring timely topics, engaging in the practical application of learning, collaboratively problem-solving around barriers, and celebrating successes.
Topics explored include (but not limited to): professional reading and viewing surrounding current research and practice in the field, coaching scenarios, coaching models and techniques, coaching cycles, and district data analysis protocols.
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format
2026: Sept 11, Oct 9, Nov 13, Dec 11
2027: Jan 8, Feb 12 (Steve Seward-is scheduled for 2/5/27), Mar 12, Apr 9, May 14
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 10a-2p
Facilitator: Michelle Ewald, COOR ISD K-5 Literacy Coach & Dr. Katie Harris, Director of Instructional Services
COOR ISD Curriculum Collaborative
District curriculum, assessment, and instructional leaders will increase skills and gain knowledge through leveraging capacity, engaging proactively with intentionality, and strengthening instructional systems at the district and/or ISD level. The primary goal of this Collaborative is to ensure a collaborative culture around continuous improvement of district and ISD educational programs. Through its review of current instructional programs and implementation of best practice, the Collaborative seeks to- support the COOR regional Instructional Leadership Team's vision, goals, and priorities of building a regional framework for teaching and learning.
Scheduling Information:
Virtual Format | 3rd Monday
2026: Dates to come
2027: Dates to come
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-9:30p
Facilitator: Dr. Katie Harris, Director of Instructional Services
Audience:
District Curriculum Directors
Assistant Superintendents of Curriculum & Instruction
Register Here
SCECHs available
COOR ISD Instructional Leadership Team
The Instructional Leadership Team will work collaboratively to set the vision for teaching and learning at the ISD level by leading and guiding the creation and refinement of instructional systems to connect people, processes, and structures to support the vision. The team will ensure that the proper supports are in place to enact the necessary changes with the implementation of systems at the ISD and district level. The team is defined as the COOR Superintendent and Directors and district representatives who work together to sustain COOR’s sense of purpose in strengthening student, teacher, and leader performance.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format | 1st Wed of each month
2026: Sept 9, Oct 7, Nov 4, Dec 2 location TBD
2027: Jan 6, Feb 3, Mar 3, Apr 7, May 5,
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-11:30a
Facilitator: Shawn Petri, COOR ISD Superintendent & Dr. Katie Harris, Director of Instructional Services
COOR ISD Special Education Coordinator Collaborative
Description: District Special Education Coordinators are invited to participate in monthly collaborative meetings throughout the school year. These sessions provide an opportunity to network with colleagues, discuss timely special education topics, share resources and best practices, receive important state and ISD updates, and collaborate on solutions to support students with disabilities. Together, we will strengthen leadership, build consistency across districts, and promote continuous improvement in special education programs and services.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
2026: September 17 • October 15 • November 19 • December 17
2027: January 21 • February 18 • March 18 • April 15 • May 20 • June 17
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-11:30a
Facilitator: Melisa Akers, Director of Special Ed
Audience:
District Coordinators of Special Education
Register Here
SCECHs available
COOR ISD Student Support Network
The Student Support Team will work collaboratively to address a variety of factors that influence the whole child, specifically focusing on the non-academic needs of learners. Research on effective practices for supporting student needs demonstrates how such supports not only lend to the general success of the learner, but also how they can address the many needs that students have that will enable learning and academic progress.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format | 1st Tues of each month
2026: Sept 8, Oct 6, Nov 3, Dec 1
2027: Jan 5, Feb 2, Mar 2 location TBD, Apr 6, May 4, Jun 1
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-11:30a
Facilitator: Cindy Hunt, CMH Educational Consulting LLC
COOR ISD Transition Council: Connecting Partners for Successful Postsecondary Outcomes
Description: The COOR ISD Transition Council brings together educators, community agencies, adult service providers, and other stakeholders who support students with disabilities as they prepare for life after high school. These collaborative meetings provide updates on state and local transition initiatives, share best practices and resources, and offer opportunities for professional learning, networking, and cross-agency collaboration. Participants will work together to strengthen transition planning and improve postsecondary outcomes for students.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
2026: September 29 • December 1 - Virtual
2027: February 16 • April 20
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 12:30p-3:30p
Facilitator: Kerri Smitz, Transition Coordinator
Audience:
Educators involved in the development and implementation of transition IEPs
Register Here
SCECHs available
Counselor Forum
Counselors will have the opportunity to meet throughout the school year to support one another and discuss testing, college admission, enrollment, CTE, and Xello implementation.
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format
2026: Sept 16, Nov 11
2027: Jan 13, Feb 10, Mar 10 , May 12
Location: CATIC-Roscommon Middle School | Time: 8:30a-10:30a
Facilitator: Mike Evans, CATIC Principal/Director
Scheduling Information:
Two Options: Self-paced or Staff training (Face-to-Face)
Facilitator: Michelle Ewald,COOR ISD, K-5 Literacy Coach
Audience:
K-5 Teachers, Instructional Coaches, and Administrators
Early On PLC: Foundation for Success
Description: A gathering of professionals committed to growth through the sharing of ideas, evaluating current practices using the latest research, and commitment to adherence to the Key Principles of Early Intervention, Local Service Area Plan, the State Plan for Early On, and IDEA Part C.
Agenda
Working with the very young student with autism, using strategies learned through the Teach Me To Talk Strength Based Autism course
Developing functional social-emotional outcomes
Primary Service Provider model
Documentation of AAC on IFSPs
Premature infants - what makes them unique?
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
October 1, 2026 • April 29, 2027 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 9a-3p
Facilitator: Amber Larrison, Teacher Consultant, Amber Akin, Early Intervention Home Visitor, Kimberly Young, Early On Coordinator, Tammy Baudoux, Special Education, Occupational Therapist
Audience:
Birth to three - Early Intervention Home Visitors, OTs, PTAs, SLPs, ECSE Teachers, Early On and Special Education Coordinators
Register Here
SCECHs available
EdPlan Essentials: A User Bootcamp for Special Education Processes
Description: This training is designed for new EdPlan users and those looking for a refresher on navigating key special education processes within EdPlan and PCG products. Participants will receive a practical, “how-to” overview of common workflows, including REEDs, METs, IEPs, assessments, and service logging for personal care, ancillary services, and targeted case management.
This session focuses on using EdPlan tools effectively and is not a comprehensive IEP development training. For in-depth IEP training, participants should attend the Michigan Virtual IEP Bootcamp.
Scheduling Information:
Virtual
September 3, 2026 | Time: 1p-3p
Facilitator: Nicole Grace, Special Education Technical Assistance
Audience:
New EdPlan users, Special Education Teachers, Special Education Coordinators, Case Managers, related service providers, School Psychologists, Administrators, and other staff responsible for entering, reviewing, or managing special education documentation in EdPlan.
Register Here
SCECHs available
Education-Based Autism Evaluations: A Comprehensive Approach from Referral to Eligibility
Description: This training will provide an overview of the education-based autism evaluation process, guiding participants through each step from initial referral to the Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team (MET) decision. Participants will explore best practices for conducting evaluations with fidelity, including gathering meaningful data, selecting appropriate assessment tools, collaborating with team members, and determining eligibility based on educational impact.
Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of the roles and responsibilities within the evaluation process and practical strategies to support consistent, compliant, and comprehensive autism evaluations in the school setting.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
September 29, 2026 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-12:30p
Facilitator: Amber Larrison ASD, Teacher Consultant, Nicole Grace, Special Education Technical Assistance,
Becky Bunn, School Psychologist
Audience:
Professionals involved in the autism evaluation process.
Register Here- to come
SCECHs available
Educational Benefit Review (EBR): Strengthening the Quality and Impact of IEPs
Description: Educational Benefit Reviews (EBRs) provide districts with a structured process for evaluating the quality and effectiveness of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Through a collaborative review of a student's three-year evaluation cycle, participants will examine whether IEPs are both procedurally compliant and reasonably designed to enable meaningful educational progress.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
January 29, 2027 | Location: COOR Education Center | Time: 8:30a-3:30p
Facilitator: Nicole Grace, General Supervision Monitor
Audience:
Invitation only. District Special Education Coordinators will work with their district teams to determine who will participate in this training. If you are interested in attending, please reach out to your district's Special EducationCoordinator.
Register Here
SCECHs available
Emotion Regulation, Behavioral Triggers & Levels of Response
This professional learning session provides educators with practical, trauma-informed strategies to better understand and respond to student behavior through the lens of emotion regulation and nervous system functioning. Participants will explore behavioral triggers and antecedents, recognize signs of dysregulation and escalation, and learn developmentally appropriate levels of response to support student safety, connection, and engagement. The training emphasizes prevention, co-regulation, de-escalation techniques, and relationship-centered practices that can be immediately applied in classroom and school settings.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
Day 1: January 29, 2027 | Day 2: April 30, 2027 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8am-11a
Facilitator: Michelle Culton-Ekstrom, M.A., L.L.P., C.C.T.P., TBRI® Practitioner, Secondary Ed Cert. Teacher
COOR ISD Behavioral Health Coordinator
Audience:
Educators, school support staff, administrators
Register Here
SCECHs available
Enhancing Secondary Tier 1
Description: Effective Tier 1 instruction across content areas at the secondary level requires careful attention to lesson design, development, and delivery. With the proper support and intentional planning, all students can access and engage meaningfully with content-area texts. This series explores the instructional decisions and evidence-based strategies that strengthen students’ ability to comprehend complex content at the secondary level.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
Day 1: Feb 25, 2027 | Day 2: March 18, 2027 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-3p
Facilitator: by the MiMTSS Technical Assistance Center
Audience:
6-12 Teachers
Fundamentals of Restorative Practices for Educators
Restorative Practices is a field within the social sciences that studies how to strengthen
relationships between individuals, as well as social connections within communities.
Building and strengthening relationships and community is a critical component of school and organizational culture. Restorative Practices is an essential framework for creating a positive learning environment, building social capital, and resolving relational issues. During this two-day introductory experience, participants will learn the fundamental theory and practices for engaging with students, staff, and parents in their school setting, as well as the community at large.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format (Must Attend Both Days)
Day 1: November 6, 2026 | Day 2: December 7, 2026 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 9am-3p
Facilitator: Marianne Swank, Ed.S, Northern Intention, LLC.
Audience:
Early Childhood Educators, K-12 Teachers, School staff, Administrators, and all Professionals who support the Educational System.
Register Here
SCECHs available
Installing and Using Check-In, Check-Out (CICO)
Description: This team-based training is designed to support the installation and initial use of
Check-In, Check-Out (CICO), an evidence-based standard treatment protocol
intervention designed to support learners in developing social, emotional, and
behavioral skills through daily check-ins and increased teacher feedback.
During this in-person session, teams will learn about the key components of
CICO and work to develop or refine the components of CICO and prepare for
initial use within their specific school context. Teams should include an
administrator, the identified CICO Coordinator, the identified CICO Facilitator, and
members of the school’s Multidisciplinary Team or Intervention Response Team.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
October 5, 2026 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 9a-3:30p
Facilitator: MiMTSS Technical Assistance Center
Audience:
Administrator, the identified CICO Coordinator, the identified CICO Facilitator, and Members of the school’s Multidisciplinary Team or Intervention Response Team.
SCECHs available 5.5 hrs
K-5 Literacy Toolbox
Participants will receive:
A curated monthly list consisting of links to one podcast/video, one research article, and one teaching resource delivered to your inbox.
Access to a cumulative Padlet with all email resources grouped by topic.
Scheduling Information:
Self-paced | Asynchronous monthly engagement with content
Facilitator: Michelle Ewald,COOR ISD, K-5 Literacy Coach
Audience:
K-5 Teachers, Instructional Coaches, and Administrators
K-12 Health & PE Community of Practice 26-27
Description: Connection: creating rich opportunities for participants in the Community of Practice to make meaningful and sustained connections. Purposeful Practice: The group provides tangible ways to take insights and put them into practice both in the group and in daily classroom instruction, using the group to share and reflect on learning and refine practice. Relevant Learning: Topics brought to the group are relevant and useful for daily application in the classroom, and speak to individual interests and real challenges faced by leaders and practitioners. Sharing and Reflection: Participants will share personal stories about what is and is not working and reflecting on their learning with feedback from other participants.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
October 13 • December 4
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 9a-2:30p
Facilitator: Helen Craig, Regional School Health Coordinator | hcraig-isd@eupschools.org
K-12 Principal Leadership Series
Building level instructional leaders will increase repertoire of skills, gain professional knowledge, and impact student, teacher, and leader performance through exploring timely topics, engaging in the practical application of learning, collaboratively problem-solving around barriers, and celebrating successes.
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format | 3rd Tues of each month
2026: Sept 15, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 15
2027: Jan 19, Feb 16, Mar 16, Apr 20, May 18, Jun 15
Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-10:30a
Facilitator: Dr. Katie Harris, Director of Instructional Services
K-12 Social Studies Workshop
Description: We are preparing students to enter a world where disagreement is constant, information is overwhelming, and clarity is hard-earned. They will be expected to weigh evidence, listen across differences, and contribute thoughtfully to conversations that shape their communities.
Yet too often, school teaches students to answer questions rather than wrestle with them. We’ve all seen what bad discourse looks like. It’s loud but lacks substance. It’s confident but missing evidence. It's a disagreement without listening. Good discourse is disciplined, respectful, rooted in sources, and powerful enough to change minds.
Social Studies is uniquely positioned to cultivate that kind of discourse. This training will leverage Michigan’s state standards as well as the C3 Framework to focus on how to build discourse intentionally - establishing norms, creating routines, recognizing the right moments, preparing students for meaningful dialogue, and reflection for growth. In a time when public conversation feels fractured, classrooms can
become the place where students learn how to disagree responsibly, reason with evidence, and participate in civic life.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
October 21, 2026 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-3p
Facilitator: Dave Johnson, COOR ISD Instructional Consultant | david.johnson@wmisd.org
Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDR): Understanding the Process and Making Informed Decisions
Description: This training provides an overview of the Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) process, including when an MDR is required, the roles and responsibilities of team members, and how to make compliant, data-informed decisions. Participants will explore the connection between student disability, behavior, and disciplinary actions while gaining practical guidance for navigating MDRs effectively.
Scheduling Information:
Virtual
September 22, 2026 | Time: 8:30a-10:30a
Facilitator: Christine Foren, Oakland Schools Compliance Consultant
Melissa Strobridge, Oakland Schools Special Populations Compliance Consultant
Audience:
Teachers, coordinators, administrators, school psychologists, social workers, counselors, and other staff involved in student discipline.
Register Here - to come
SCECHs available
Navigating Student Discipline Under IDEA: Supporting Students While Maintaining Compliance
Description: Disciplining students with disabilities can be a little overwhelming for educators and administrations. During this training, you will gain the knowledge on processes and practices to understand how to better support these students. You will gain experience in learning definitions of different terms and practices. You will get resources that will help you to address behavior. You will also gain experience on how to apply protection for students with disabilities and those who are not yet eligible for special education in compliance with IDEA
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
January 14, 2027 | Location: COOR Education Center | Time: 8:30a-11:30a
Facilitator: Melisa Akers, Director of Special Ed & Nicole Grace, Special Education Technical Assistance
Audience:
All school staff who are directly involved in student discipline and all special education staff who want to learn more about the legalities of discipline as it relates to special education.
Register Here
SCECHs available
Peer-to-Peer Programs: From Idea to Implementation
Description: Interested in starting a Peer-to-Peer program in your school? These two sessions will provide a practical roadmap for developing a program that fosters inclusion and student connections. Participants will learn the essential components of a successful Peer-to-Peer model, including program planning, student recruitment, training, scheduling, and ongoing support. A local educator will share real-world examples, successes, and strategies that have helped create positive outcomes for students across the school community.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
January 25, 2027 | Location: Houghton Lake Junior/Senior High School | Time: 8a-3:30p
Facilitator: Amy Bontekoe, Houghton Lake P2P Coordinator, Danielle Csapo, Special Education Teacher,
Amber Larrison, Special Education Teacher Consultant/Regional START Representative
Audience:
All Audience
Register Here
SCECHs available
Recognizing Implicit Bias: Building Awareness to Strengthen Therapeutic Practice
Description:
Scheduling Information:
Virtual
November 5, 2026 | Time: 1p-3p
Facilitator: Alex Boesch, PhD Owner, Intercultural LLC
Audience:
Anyone who is LARA licensed
Register Here - to come
SCECHs available
Seclusion and Restraint in Michigan Schools: What Every Educator Needs to Know
Description: As expectations around seclusion and restraint continue to increase, it is essential that all school staff understand their responsibilities and the requirements guiding these practices. This session will review Michigan rules and expectations, allowable uses of seclusion and restraint, prohibited practices, documentation requirements, reporting responsibilities, and strategies for preventing behavioral escalation.
Scheduling Information:
December 3, 2026 | COOR ISD | Time: 9a-12p
Facilitator: Melisa Akers, Director of Special Ed, Nicole Grace, Special Education Technical Assistance
Audience:
All Audience
Register Here
SCECHs available
Strengthening Tier 1 Supports: Creating Inclusive Classrooms for Students with Disabilities
Description: Creating a classroom environment where all students can engage, learn, and develop independence requires intentional planning and proactive supports. This training will explore universal classroom practices designed to increase student engagement, promote independence, and reduce challenging behaviors across learning environments.
Participants will be introduced to the CETA (Classroom Environment and Teaching Assessment), a research-based tool that supports educators in identifying classroom strengths, developing meaningful goals, and implementing effective Tier 1 supports for students with disabilities in the general education setting.
Educators will leave with practical strategies to strengthen inclusive practices, enhance classroom routines and expectations, and create learning environments that support the success of all students.
Scheduling Information:
November 17, 2026 | COOR ISD | Time: 8:30a-2:30p
Facilitator: Amber Larrison and Nicole Grace, ISD START Representatives
Audience:
Educators who support students in inclusive classroom settings and other school staff interested in strengthening universal classroom supports and Tier 1 practices.
Register Here
SCECHs available
Student & Staff Mental Health, Wellness, and Resilience
This interactive professional development session provides educators with practical tools to support both student and staff mental health in the school environment. Participants will explore the impact of stress, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and burnout on learning and workplace culture while identifying actionable strategies to improve wellness, resilience, and emotional safety. Educators will engage in reflection, collaborative discussion, and wellness-focused activities designed to strengthen both individual well-being and school-wide support systems.
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
Day 1: November 18, 2026 | Day 2: February 10, 2027 | Location: COOR ISD | Time: 8am-11a
Facilitator: Michelle Culton-Ekstrom, M.A., L.L.P., C.C.T.P., TBRI® Practitioner, Secondary Ed Cert. Teacher
COOR ISD Behavioral Health Coordinator
Audience:
Educators, school support staff, administrators
Register Here
SCECHs available
Understanding Behavior: Using FBAs and BIPs to Support Student Success
Description: Effective behavior support begins with understanding the reason behind the behavior. This training will help educators move beyond simply responding to challenging behaviors and focus on identifying the underlying needs of students. Participants will learn how Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) guide intervention planning and how Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) can provide consistent, proactive strategies to support students.
Audience:
Staff who support students with behavioral needs, including special education and general education staff
Register Here
SCECHs available
Writing Meaningful and Compliant IEPs: Michigan Virtual Module Study Series
Description: Develop high-quality IEPs that are both legally compliant and designed to support meaningful educational progress for students with disabilities. Using the Michigan Virtual IEP modules developed in partnership with the Michigan Department of Education Office of Special Education, participants will deepen their understanding of the procedural and substantive requirements of the IEP process.
This professional learning series follows a blended learning format. Participants will complete each assigned Michigan Virtual module independently prior to the scheduled virtual discussion session. During the facilitated meetings, COOR ISD staff will guide collaborative conversations to reinforce key concepts, answer questions, discuss real-world application, and provide opportunities for participants to share effective practices from their districts.
The series includes ten Michigan Virtual modules, with each module varying in length.
Before attending the first session, participants must register for the Michigan Virtual IEP modules. If you are new to Michigan Virtual, you may be prompted to create a free account before accessing the coursework.
Scheduling Information:
Virtual | Time: 3p-4p
2026: September 10 • Sept 24 • Oct 8 • Oct 22 • Nov 5 • Nov 19 • Dec 3
2027: Jan 14 • Jan 28
Facilitator: Nicole Grace, Special Education Technical Assistance/Compliance Monitor
Audience:
Anyone who is new to the IEP process or anyone who would like to deepen their understanding of the IEP process.
Register Here
SCECHs available
Program/Services Available Upon Request
6-12 Literacy Toolbox
Participants will receive:
A curated monthly list consisting of links to one podcast/video, one research article, and one teaching resource delivered to your inbox.
Access to a cumulative Padlet with all email resources grouped by topic.
Scheduling Information:
Self-paced | Asynchronous monthly engagement with content
Facilitator: MJ Ewald, COOR ISD Secondary Consultant | ewaldmj@coorisd.net
Audience:
6-12 Teachers, Instructional Coaches, and Administrators
Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management (BTAM) Basic Training
Michigan K-12 Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (Mi-BTAM) program is a proactive approach to ensuring the safety and well-being of school communities. It provides schools with tools and strategies to identify, assess, and manage potential threats in a supportive and collaborative manner.
The Basic Training is a one-day workshop that covers topics such as understanding school violence and implications for prevention, steps for developing and operating an effective school threat assessment program, and developing and implementing case management plans.
Scheduling Information:
Available Upon Request
Facilitator: Michelle Culton-Ekstrom, M.A., L.L.P., C.C.T.P., TBRI® Practitioner, Secondary Ed Cert. Teacher
COOR ISD Behavioral Health Coordinator
Audience:
All Staff
Register Here
Building Independence Together: A Collaborative Training for Paraprofessionals and Teachers
Description: Effective student support begins with a strong partnership between teachers and paraprofessionals. While this training is most impactful when classroom teams attend together, teachers and paraprofessionals are also welcome to participate individually.
Participants will explore practical, evidence-based strategies for creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments. Topics include visual supports, universal supports, prompting hierarchies, data collection, roles and responsibilities, conflict resolution, and strategies for fostering student independence and meaningful participation across educational settings
Scheduling Information:
Virtual or In Person Format
Available Upon Request | Request During District PD Days
Facilitators: Amber Larrison, Special Education Teacher Consultant, Thalma Hibbard, Paraprofessional Coach,
Nicole Grace, Special Education Technical Assistance
Audience:
Paraprofessionals and Classroom Teachers who have para support in their classroom
Register Here
SCECHs available
Instructional Leadership Coaching
School instructional leaders will strengthen their knowledge and skills along with enhancing their instructional leadership capabilities through weekly/bi-weekly coaching sessions tailored to develop a full range of individual leadership abilities in order to make a sufficient impact on learning for all including school systems, teacher development, and student achievement
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format | Available Upon Request
Facilitator: Dr. Katie Harris, Director of Instructional Services
K-5 Instructional Rounds Information to Come
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format | Varies depending on building goals & needs | Available Upon Request
Facilitator: Michelle Ewald,COOR ISD, K-5 Literacy Coach
Audience:
K-5 Teachers, Instructional Coaches, and Administrators
K-5 Learning Labs
A learning lab is defined as a professional learning structure that takes place within the context of educators’ jobs through real-time observations (Kortlandt & Keesling, 2025). Participants will engage in this job-embedded learning structure with the overall goal of supporting the application of learning into practice through the lens of studying and reflection in a collaborative space.
Step 1: Facilitated pre-observation
Step 2: Shared observation (within established norms)
Step 3: Post-observation, which includes planning for future application in the classroom
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format | Varies depending on building goals & needs | Available Upon Request
Facilitator: Michelle Ewald,COOR ISD, K-5 Literacy Coach
Audience:
K-5 Teachers, Instructional Coaches, and Administrators
MICIP Support (Onsite)
District School Improvement teams are provided with a facilitator to work on a state reporting/improvement plan in a workshop setting.
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format | Available Upon Request
Facilitator: Dr. Katie Harris, Director of Instructional Services
Onsite 6-12 Disciplinary Literacy Essential Instructional Practices Support
Disciplinary Literacy Essential Support could include, but is not limited to:
The ISD consultant collaborating with the building administrator
Facilitation of disciplinary literacy essential professional learning
Collaboration at grade level meetings, PLCs, and/or data meetings to support district outcomes
Regular, onsite follow-up from the ISD consultant to plan and support alongside district staff is available as part of this PL offering.
Scheduling Information:
Available Upon Request | In-Person Format
Facilitator: MJ Ewald, COOR ISD Secondary Consultant | ewaldmj@coorisd.net
Audience:
Building administrators, curriculum directors, instructional coaches, and/or teacher leaders
Onsite ELA Support
ELA support could include, but is not limited to:
The ISD coach collaborating with the building academic/instructional coach.
Support with implementing the existing district ELA curriculum.
Support during the implementation phase of newly adopted ELA curriculum.
Facilitation of literacy related professional learning.
Collaboration at grade level meetings, PLCs, and/ or data meetings to support district outcomes.
Regular, onsite follow-up from the ISD coach to plan, model, and/or co-teach alongside district staff is scheduled as part of this PD offering.
Scheduling Information:
In-Person Format | Varies depending on building goals & needs | Scheduled support at regular intervals is encouraged
Facilitator: Michelle Ewald,COOR ISD, K-5 Literacy Coach
Audience:
K-5 Teachers, Instructional Coaches, and Administrators
Paraeducator Bootcamp
Description: Training must be requested by the district, specific times and dates cannot be predetermined.
Once a request is made, we will coordinate scheduling and provide a detailed agenda outlining the agreed-upon breakdown and timing for both trainers and the district. Paraeducator Bootcamp is now offering Level One, Level Two, Early Childhood, and Transition-Aged Paraeducator Training.
These trainings will include the following topics:
Paraeducator Orientation: Roles and Responsibilities
Professional and Ethical Practice
The Teacher-Paraeducator Team
Academic Supports (expanded in Level 2)
Behavior Support (expanded in Level 2)
Individuals who participate will receive:
A one-year Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Paraeducator membership
Digital and Physical Badging
Manuals
Scheduling Information:
5 hours of on-demand virtual training | 1 in person training (6 hours) | Virtual or In Person Format
Available Upon Request
Facilitators:
• Virtual: Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE)
• In person: Amber Larrison Special Education Teacher Consultant, Thalma Hibbard, Paraprofessional Coach,
Nicole Grace, Special Education Technical Assistance
Audience:
This training is designed for paraeducators who support students across the educational system, including those working in Title I, special education, and general education settings.
General education teachers who work with paraeducators in their classrooms are also encouraged to attend to strengthen collaboration, communication, and effective support for students
This training has a cost so enrollment will need to be authorized by your building principal. Slots are limited
Register Here
SCECHs available
Transforming Behavior Through PFA-SBT
Description: Effective student support begins with a strong partnership between teachers and paraprofessionals. While this training is most impactful when classroom teams attend together, teachers and paraprofessionals are also welcome to participate individually.
Participants will explore practical, evidence-based strategies for creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments. Topics include visual supports, universal supports, prompting hierarchies, data collection, roles and responsibilities, conflict resolution, and strategies for fostering student independence and meaningful participation across educational settings
Scheduling Information:
In Person Format
Available Upon Request | Request During District PD Days
Facilitators: Amber Larrison, ASD Teacher Consultant
Audience:
By invitation only. Schools or districts interested in building internal capacity to support students with significant behavior challenges. Ideally, each participating district will send a small implementation team (3–6 members) representing multiple disciplines.
Register Here-to come
SCECHs available
Transition Topics
Description: Training must be requested by district, specific times and dates cannot be predetermined. Once a request is made, we will coordinate scheduling and provide a detailed agenda outlining the agreed-upon breakdown and timing for both trainers and the districts.
Transition Topics include but are not limited to:
Post-Secondary Goals
B-13 Monitoring & Coaching
How-to-use Transition Assessments
Personal Curriculum 101, tips & tricks
NTCAT: How to utilize the resource of Evidence-Based Practice
Self Determination
Summary of Performance (SOP)
Michigan Rehabilitation Services and other outside agencies collaboration
Post-Secondary Education Supports
Scheduling Information:
Available Upon Request
Facilitator: Kerri Smitz,Transition Coordinator
Audience:
educators involved in the development and implementation of transition IEPs, including transition teachers, principals responsible for ensuring effective transition services, and special education coordinators.
Register Here
SCECHs available