Embedded Files
Everything you need to know about CEUs!
Use this FAQ to get answers to all of your questions about CEUs, Timekeeper and Professional Development!
It is the responsibility of the teacher to know when their renewal year is and how many CEU’s they have and/or need.
Credits Required for Licensure Renewal
Professional Educator's License Renewal
Below are the updated credits required for licensure renewal as of August 2025.
*General credits can be content, digital learning, or anything relevant to the license area or subject taught.*
Grade K-5 (8 CEUs)
3 Subject Area
3 Literacy
2 General
Grades 6-12 (8 CEUs)
4 Subject Area
4 General
Student Services Personnel (8 CEUs)
4 Professional Discipline
4 General
Administrators (8 CEUs)
4 Executive's Role
4 General
Speech and Language Pathologists & Audiologists:
Must submit a current active license in their respective fields issued by the North Carolina State Board of Examiners for Speech and Language Pathologists and Audiologists at the time of license renewal.
No further continuing education credits shall be required for license renewal.
Please use this template if you are leading school-based PD at a staff meeting and the staff needs to receive PD credits.
Each part of the form must be complete so that CEU's can be given in TimeKeeper.
CEU TEMPLATE FOR SCHOOL BASED PD
If you attend a virtual training or out of county training,
click HERE to learn how to submit your CEU's for approval.
Professional Development Opportunities
Find the area you are interested in below and click the links to register for PD sessions that are available.
Contact your school administration team for assistance or more information on Professional Development opportunities.
Math
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Teaching and LearningSeptember 2025K-12 MathematicsWelcome Back to SchoolOn behalf of the NCDPI Mathematics Team, we would like to welcome everyone back to a New School Year of New students and New opportunities! Hoping this 2025-26 school year is all that you've dreamed, planned, and hoped for! Here's to a New start to great learning!
NCDPI Mathematics Team
We encourage those of you who receive the Math updates to please share this issue with others who are not currently subscribed to our listserv and invite them to subscribe to the NCDPI K-12 Mathematics Newsletter on the NCDPI Subscriptions webpage.
In This Edition:NCDPI Standards Revision Updates*Professional Learning Opportunities:NCDPI K-12 Math Content SeriesNorth Carolina Mathematics Coaching Network (NCMCN)NCDPI Advanced Math Course (AMC) WebinarWorkshop: Unlock the Power of Writing for Multilingual Learners2025-26 WIDA PD: Secondary Newcomers in Content Area LiteracyNorth Carolina Association of Elementary Educators (NCAEE) Fall PD ConferenceECU STEM Education Online Book StudyApplications: Wake Electric Membership Corporation OpportunitiesResources: NC K-12 Math Standards Resource HubIn Case You Missed It: K-5 Math Unpacking DocumentsNCDPI Standards UpdatesStandards Review and Revision ProcessK-12 Math Standard Course of Study Standards Writing TeamThe NCDPI K-12 Math team is excited to share that during the April 2, 2025, State Board of Education meeting, the Board voted to initiate the revision process for NC K-12 Math Standards. This process is guided by State Board policy as detailed in the Internal Standards Manual.
During their September meeting, the State Board of Education discussed potential changes to the standards revision timeline for all standards, including math, which would shift the timeline for installation of new standards to a two-year period. For the K-12 math standards process, this shift would maintain the goal of adopting new standards during the summer of 2026 while supporting the installation of new standards over the course of the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years. Implementation of the new K-12 Math standards would start with the 2028-2029 school year.
The K-12 Math Standards Writing Team began reviewing the recommendations from the Data Review Committee last July with the goal of releasing a first draft of potential revisions to the K-12 Math standards later this Fall.
Please contact Dr. Charles Aiken (charles.aiken@dpi.nc.gov), Section Chief for Math, Science, and STEM, with any questions
* Reposted with corrections
Professional Learning OpportunitiesNCDPIK-12 Mathematics Content SeriesThe NCDPI K-12 Mathematics Content Series will continue in the 2025 Fall Season. Teachers, teacher leaders, coaches, district staff, and administrators have responded with overwhelmingly positive feedback. To broaden the scope of this opportunity, this season features sessions designed for K-12 Mathematics overall, as well as, sessions designed for specific grade bands. Sessions are focused on mathematics content and pedagogy while highlighting practitioners in the field. Participants earn 2 contact hours per session. Each session meets virtually for 90 minutes with a 30-minute asynchronous reflection time. The information and resources shared are both beneficial and useful.
All sessions are FREE!
MCS Fall Schedule ES Register here MS Register here HS Register here Contact: Jennifer Parker Contact: Tammy Lackey Contact: Lisa Ashe jennifer.parker@dpi.nc.gov tammy.lackey@dpi.nc.gov lisa.ashe@dpi.nc.gov or Joseph Reaper joseph.reaper@dpi.nc.gov
FlyerDon't miss this opportunity and please share with teachers and leaders in your area!
We look forward to seeing you there!
North Carolina Mathematics Coaching NetworkWe are proud to announce the formation of the
North Carolina Mathematics Coaching Network (NCMCN)!
Research has shown that effective mathematics coaching supports the continuous development of mathematics teachers and impacts student learning. With this in mind, the NCMCN is being formed as a state wide professional learning community for coaches who support math teachers in grades K-12.
As a coach of mathematics teachers, you can participate in the NCMCN through four open sessions throughout the year. Everyone is invited to attend according to your schedule. Sessions will be led by the NCDPI math team and university partners.
Dates:
Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 1:00-3:00 pm - RegisterThursday, December 4, 2025 from 1:00-3:00 pm - RegisterThursday, February 26, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 pm - RegisterThursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 pm - RegisterFor more information, please contact Joseph Reaper - joseph.reaper@dpi.nc.gov
NCDPI Advanced Math Course (AMC) WebinarAs we enter another year of implementing the Auto enrollment/ Advanced Math Course (AMC) legislation, NCDPI is offering an Overview Webinar to support districts with implementation and reporting efforts - now that we’ve all transitioned to the Infinite Campus platform. In the meantime, we encourage districts to begin verifying that all students who are eligible for placement in an advanced mathematics course (via scoring a Level 5 on an end of grade or end of course test in 2024-25) are placed appropriately this year.
Join us on Tuesday, September 9th from 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Click here to join!
The team will answer frequently asked questions and will overview resources to support effective implementation of the legislation.
For more information, contact Stephanie Cyrus, Advanced Learning and Gifted Education Consultant, Stephanie.Cyrus@dpi.nc.gov.
Unlock the Power of Writing for Multilingual LearnersTwo 2-Day Workshops | Elementary & Secondary TracksJoin us for this dynamic 2-day workshop designed to spark powerful writing growth for multilingual learners! Using the Teaching and Learning Cycle, we’ll explore how writing instruction can do more than prepare students for academic success—it can empower them to share their voices, connect with others, and advocate for what matters most to them.
Designed for both elementary and secondary contexts, the workshops focus on how intentional, language-rich instruction empowers multilingual learners—not just to succeed in academic writing, but to use writing as a powerful tool to understand the world, express themselves, learn from one another, and advocate for what matters most.
Both workshops guide participants through a pedagogical approach that apprentices students into academic genres, showing how authentic, content-based writing tasks foster deep understanding of how language works in written form. Educators will leave with ready-to-use strategies that support multilingual learners in becoming confident, capable writers across disciplines.
Elementary Track: September 29th and 30th in Winston Salem: Explore writing instruction grounded in science content with applications across subjects.Learn how to build knowledge, analyze mentor texts, co-construct writing, and guide students’ independent practice.Engage students in reflection and revision cycles to strengthen writing skills and voice.Secondary Track: October 2nd and 3rd in Bladen County:Centered on social studies writing, with connections to ELA and science.Focus on disciplinary genres that prepare students for secondary-level academic demands.Emphasis on building background knowledge, unpacking mentor texts, co-writing with students, and supporting independent application.Includes cycles of review and revision to refine student writing.Note: This workshop focuses on disciplinary writing and does not address foundational literacy for SIFE/SLIFE students.Key Outcomes for All Participants:
Build background knowledge so students can write with confidence.Use mentor texts to uncover the language of specific genres.Co-create writing with students as a scaffold for success.Guide students in applying language strategies independently.Foster reflection and revision to grow student voice and effectiveness.Register to attend one of these sessions by completing this form. The ML/Title III team will contact you via email to confirm your reservation or inform you that you are on a waitlist.
Please email ESLTitleIII@dpi.nc.gov with any questions.
2025-26 WIDA Professional Development:Engaging Secondary Newcomers in Content Area LiteracyWIDA is bringing a new professional development opportunity to North Carolina! We are excited to offer 'Engaging Secondary Newcomers in Content Area Literacy.' In this 1-day workshop, educators will explore key factors that influence literacy development in content areas, focusing on how to engage students in content learning. Participants will learn strategies to analyze newcomers’ literacy strengths and identify areas for growth. Through practical application, educators will gain tools for scaffolding instruction to ensure secondary newcomers can engage with grade-level content in reading and writing, promoting their academic success.
Participants will:
Identify ways to create supportive and rigorous literacy learning environments for secondary newcomers in any program modelAnalyze secondary newcomers’ literacy strengths and areas of growthExamine approaches to scaffolding secondary newcomers’ engagement in grade-level content area literacy learningThis workshop is designed for secondary English language development specialists and content teachers who aim to create supportive and rigorous learning environments for adolescent newcomers.
Please complete this interest form, and we will confirm your spot.
NCAEENorth Carolina Association of Elementary Educators Fall PD ConferenceCelebrate the 20th birthday of the NC Association of Elementary Educators (NCAEE) at the statewide conference on Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 9:00 am-4:00 pm at The Arts Based School in Winston-Salem.
Our keynote, award-winning educator, Lindsay Phillips, will start the day with an engaging and motivation message. Choose from four dynamic breakout sessions featuring hands-on learning in content areas, leadership development, and social-emotional learning.
Lunch is on your own with many options within a short walk. We will conclude our conference with an exciting door prize drawing and NCAEE birthday cake. The cost of the conference is only $10 plus a minimal processing fee.
Space is limited—register today at https://www.ncelementary.com/.
ECU Center for STEM EducationOnline Book Study: Choral Counting & Counting Collections: Transforming the PreK-5 Classroom.PreK-5 educators are invited to mark your calendars for book study meetings on Zoom on the second Monday of each month from 4:00-4:45 p.m. beginning September 8, 2025.
Register Here!
If you plan to participate, make plans to get the book by our first meeting.
Contact study leader, Katie Schwartz at schwartzca@ecu.edu with any questions.
Sponsored by the ECU Center for STEM Education.
ApplicationsWake Electric Membership CorporationWake Electric Grant OpportunityDo you know a teacher with a tech-based teaching idea but no budget?Just because it's summer vacation doesn't mean it's time to give technology a break! It's never too late for educators to start planning for the upcoming school year. Wake Electric is awarding up to $20,000 for local teachers in our service territory to bring new technology into their classrooms.
What are Classroom Technology Awards?Classroom Technology Awards (or CTA grants) give up to $3,000 in grant funding to K-12 teachers within Wake Electric's service area. These grants are designed to support specific technology needs that benefit students in the classroom.
These grants can be used to help fund new computers, tablets, 3D printers, Chromebooks, SMART boards, software etc.
EligibilityAll K-12 educators in our service territory (Durham, Franklin, Granville, Johnston, Nash, Vance and Wake counties) are eligible to apply-regardless of subject area.
Judges look for applications that demonstrate originality, creativity, and innovation, as well as strong writing quality.
Think A Classroom Doesn't Need Tech?Technology can enhance any classroom, regardless of subject area or grade level. Whether it's for accessibility or creativity, if it helps students learn, it qualifies.
Previous winners have used this grant for:
TI-83 Calculators CAD/CAM Design softwareCoding RobotsTutoring SubscriptionDigital MicroscopeVisit https://ced.ncsu.edu/math-summit/ for more information.
Apply Now!The application deadline is September 15th
Bright Ideas IconDesigned for K-12 educators, Bright Ideas grants fund creative, classroom-based projects that enhance learning and inspire students. Whether you're planning a hands-on science experiment or a new art initiative, Bright Ideas can help make it happen!
Grants up to $3,000
Deadline: September 15
Apply for Bright Ideas!Class Tech Award IconTeachers can receive up to $3,000 to integrate cutting-edge technology into their classrooms, helping students engage with learning in new and exciting ways. From tablets to software, CTA supports the tools that bring education into the 21st century.
Grants up to $3,000
Deadline: September 15
Apply for Classroom Technology!ResourcesMath Resource Hub IconNC K-12 Math Standards Resource HubThe NCDPI K-12 Mathematics team has created a repository to provide a variety of resources for supporting school leaders, administrators, educators, and parents/caregivers. The NC K-12 Math Standards Resource Hub houses the standards, communications, and recommended resources related to the implementation of the North Carolina K-12 Math Standard Course of Study (NCSCOS).
The hub includes:
K-12 standards and unpacking documentsPrevious PD presentations, recordings, and resourcesAt Home Resource Guides for parent/guardiansMath Options Chart aligned to post graduation plansSTEM Content IntegrationMath educators are encouraged to browse, reference, download, share, discuss, and adapt resources.
Browse the Math Resource HubICYMI - IN CASE YOU MISSED ITK-5 Unpacking Document UpdateIn an effort to improve clarity and support, the 2017 K-5 Mathematics Unpacking Documents have undergone some revisions effective June 2025. These revised unpacking documents may be accessed through
the NC DPI Mathematics Website orthe K-12 Math Standards Resource Hub Unpacking Documents Link.Please use this document to identify changes.
For more information, please contact Jennifer Parker, K-5 Math Consultant - jennifer.parker@dpi.nc.gov.
Sign up for K-12 Mathematics UpdatesNC DPI Mathematics Consultants
Jennifer ParkerK-5 Mathematics Consultant
(984)236-2842
Jennifer.Parker@dpi.nc.gov
Tammy LackeyK-8 Mathematics Consultant
(984) 236-2839
Tammy.Lackey@dpi.nc.gov
Dr. Lisa Ashe6-12 Mathematics Consultant
(984) 236-2840
Lisa.Ashe@dpi.nc.gov
Joseph Reaper6-12 Mathematics Consultant
(984) 236-2841
Joseph.Reaper@dpi.nc.gov
Dr. Charles AikenMath, Science, and STEM Section Chief
Charles.Aiken@dpi.nc.gov
984-236-2837
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Teaching and LearningSeptember 2025K-12 MathematicsWelcome Back to SchoolOn behalf of the NCDPI Mathematics Team, we would like to welcome everyone back to a New School Year of New students and New opportunities! Hoping this 2025-26 school year is all that you've dreamed, planned, and hoped for! Here's to a New start to great learning!
NCDPI Mathematics Team
We encourage those of you who receive the Math updates to please share this issue with others who are not currently subscribed to our listserv and invite them to subscribe to the NCDPI K-12 Mathematics Newsletter on the NCDPI Subscriptions webpage.
In This Edition:NCDPI Standards Revision Updates*Professional Learning Opportunities:NCDPI K-12 Math Content SeriesNorth Carolina Mathematics Coaching Network (NCMCN)NCDPI Advanced Math Course (AMC) WebinarWorkshop: Unlock the Power of Writing for Multilingual Learners2025-26 WIDA PD: Secondary Newcomers in Content Area LiteracyNorth Carolina Association of Elementary Educators (NCAEE) Fall PD ConferenceECU STEM Education Online Book StudyApplications: Wake Electric Membership Corporation OpportunitiesResources: NC K-12 Math Standards Resource HubIn Case You Missed It: K-5 Math Unpacking DocumentsNCDPI Standards UpdatesStandards Review and Revision ProcessK-12 Math Standard Course of Study Standards Writing TeamThe NCDPI K-12 Math team is excited to share that during the April 2, 2025, State Board of Education meeting, the Board voted to initiate the revision process for NC K-12 Math Standards. This process is guided by State Board policy as detailed in the Internal Standards Manual.
During their September meeting, the State Board of Education discussed potential changes to the standards revision timeline for all standards, including math, which would shift the timeline for installation of new standards to a two-year period. For the K-12 math standards process, this shift would maintain the goal of adopting new standards during the summer of 2026 while supporting the installation of new standards over the course of the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years. Implementation of the new K-12 Math standards would start with the 2028-2029 school year.
The K-12 Math Standards Writing Team began reviewing the recommendations from the Data Review Committee last July with the goal of releasing a first draft of potential revisions to the K-12 Math standards later this Fall.
Please contact Dr. Charles Aiken (charles.aiken@dpi.nc.gov), Section Chief for Math, Science, and STEM, with any questions
* Reposted with corrections
Professional Learning OpportunitiesNCDPIK-12 Mathematics Content SeriesThe NCDPI K-12 Mathematics Content Series will continue in the 2025 Fall Season. Teachers, teacher leaders, coaches, district staff, and administrators have responded with overwhelmingly positive feedback. To broaden the scope of this opportunity, this season features sessions designed for K-12 Mathematics overall, as well as, sessions designed for specific grade bands. Sessions are focused on mathematics content and pedagogy while highlighting practitioners in the field. Participants earn 2 contact hours per session. Each session meets virtually for 90 minutes with a 30-minute asynchronous reflection time. The information and resources shared are both beneficial and useful.
All sessions are FREE!
MCS Fall Schedule ES Register here MS Register here HS Register here Contact: Jennifer Parker Contact: Tammy Lackey Contact: Lisa Ashe jennifer.parker@dpi.nc.gov tammy.lackey@dpi.nc.gov lisa.ashe@dpi.nc.gov or Joseph Reaper joseph.reaper@dpi.nc.gov
FlyerDon't miss this opportunity and please share with teachers and leaders in your area!
We look forward to seeing you there!
North Carolina Mathematics Coaching NetworkWe are proud to announce the formation of the
North Carolina Mathematics Coaching Network (NCMCN)!
Research has shown that effective mathematics coaching supports the continuous development of mathematics teachers and impacts student learning. With this in mind, the NCMCN is being formed as a state wide professional learning community for coaches who support math teachers in grades K-12.
As a coach of mathematics teachers, you can participate in the NCMCN through four open sessions throughout the year. Everyone is invited to attend according to your schedule. Sessions will be led by the NCDPI math team and university partners.
Dates:
Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 1:00-3:00 pm - RegisterThursday, December 4, 2025 from 1:00-3:00 pm - RegisterThursday, February 26, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 pm - RegisterThursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 pm - RegisterFor more information, please contact Joseph Reaper - joseph.reaper@dpi.nc.gov
NCDPI Advanced Math Course (AMC) WebinarAs we enter another year of implementing the Auto enrollment/ Advanced Math Course (AMC) legislation, NCDPI is offering an Overview Webinar to support districts with implementation and reporting efforts - now that we’ve all transitioned to the Infinite Campus platform. In the meantime, we encourage districts to begin verifying that all students who are eligible for placement in an advanced mathematics course (via scoring a Level 5 on an end of grade or end of course test in 2024-25) are placed appropriately this year.
Join us on Tuesday, September 9th from 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Click here to join!
The team will answer frequently asked questions and will overview resources to support effective implementation of the legislation.
For more information, contact Stephanie Cyrus, Advanced Learning and Gifted Education Consultant, Stephanie.Cyrus@dpi.nc.gov.
Unlock the Power of Writing for Multilingual LearnersTwo 2-Day Workshops | Elementary & Secondary TracksJoin us for this dynamic 2-day workshop designed to spark powerful writing growth for multilingual learners! Using the Teaching and Learning Cycle, we’ll explore how writing instruction can do more than prepare students for academic success—it can empower them to share their voices, connect with others, and advocate for what matters most to them.
Designed for both elementary and secondary contexts, the workshops focus on how intentional, language-rich instruction empowers multilingual learners—not just to succeed in academic writing, but to use writing as a powerful tool to understand the world, express themselves, learn from one another, and advocate for what matters most.
Both workshops guide participants through a pedagogical approach that apprentices students into academic genres, showing how authentic, content-based writing tasks foster deep understanding of how language works in written form. Educators will leave with ready-to-use strategies that support multilingual learners in becoming confident, capable writers across disciplines.
Elementary Track: September 29th and 30th in Winston Salem: Explore writing instruction grounded in science content with applications across subjects.Learn how to build knowledge, analyze mentor texts, co-construct writing, and guide students’ independent practice.Engage students in reflection and revision cycles to strengthen writing skills and voice.Secondary Track: October 2nd and 3rd in Bladen County:Centered on social studies writing, with connections to ELA and science.Focus on disciplinary genres that prepare students for secondary-level academic demands.Emphasis on building background knowledge, unpacking mentor texts, co-writing with students, and supporting independent application.Includes cycles of review and revision to refine student writing.Note: This workshop focuses on disciplinary writing and does not address foundational literacy for SIFE/SLIFE students.Key Outcomes for All Participants:
Build background knowledge so students can write with confidence.Use mentor texts to uncover the language of specific genres.Co-create writing with students as a scaffold for success.Guide students in applying language strategies independently.Foster reflection and revision to grow student voice and effectiveness.Register to attend one of these sessions by completing this form. The ML/Title III team will contact you via email to confirm your reservation or inform you that you are on a waitlist.
Please email ESLTitleIII@dpi.nc.gov with any questions.
2025-26 WIDA Professional Development:Engaging Secondary Newcomers in Content Area LiteracyWIDA is bringing a new professional development opportunity to North Carolina! We are excited to offer 'Engaging Secondary Newcomers in Content Area Literacy.' In this 1-day workshop, educators will explore key factors that influence literacy development in content areas, focusing on how to engage students in content learning. Participants will learn strategies to analyze newcomers’ literacy strengths and identify areas for growth. Through practical application, educators will gain tools for scaffolding instruction to ensure secondary newcomers can engage with grade-level content in reading and writing, promoting their academic success.
Participants will:
Identify ways to create supportive and rigorous literacy learning environments for secondary newcomers in any program modelAnalyze secondary newcomers’ literacy strengths and areas of growthExamine approaches to scaffolding secondary newcomers’ engagement in grade-level content area literacy learningThis workshop is designed for secondary English language development specialists and content teachers who aim to create supportive and rigorous learning environments for adolescent newcomers.
Please complete this interest form, and we will confirm your spot.
NCAEENorth Carolina Association of Elementary Educators Fall PD ConferenceCelebrate the 20th birthday of the NC Association of Elementary Educators (NCAEE) at the statewide conference on Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 9:00 am-4:00 pm at The Arts Based School in Winston-Salem.
Our keynote, award-winning educator, Lindsay Phillips, will start the day with an engaging and motivation message. Choose from four dynamic breakout sessions featuring hands-on learning in content areas, leadership development, and social-emotional learning.
Lunch is on your own with many options within a short walk. We will conclude our conference with an exciting door prize drawing and NCAEE birthday cake. The cost of the conference is only $10 plus a minimal processing fee.
Space is limited—register today at https://www.ncelementary.com/.
ECU Center for STEM EducationOnline Book Study: Choral Counting & Counting Collections: Transforming the PreK-5 Classroom.PreK-5 educators are invited to mark your calendars for book study meetings on Zoom on the second Monday of each month from 4:00-4:45 p.m. beginning September 8, 2025.
Register Here!
If you plan to participate, make plans to get the book by our first meeting.
Contact study leader, Katie Schwartz at schwartzca@ecu.edu with any questions.
Sponsored by the ECU Center for STEM Education.
ApplicationsWake Electric Membership CorporationWake Electric Grant OpportunityDo you know a teacher with a tech-based teaching idea but no budget?Just because it's summer vacation doesn't mean it's time to give technology a break! It's never too late for educators to start planning for the upcoming school year. Wake Electric is awarding up to $20,000 for local teachers in our service territory to bring new technology into their classrooms.
What are Classroom Technology Awards?Classroom Technology Awards (or CTA grants) give up to $3,000 in grant funding to K-12 teachers within Wake Electric's service area. These grants are designed to support specific technology needs that benefit students in the classroom.
These grants can be used to help fund new computers, tablets, 3D printers, Chromebooks, SMART boards, software etc.
EligibilityAll K-12 educators in our service territory (Durham, Franklin, Granville, Johnston, Nash, Vance and Wake counties) are eligible to apply-regardless of subject area.
Judges look for applications that demonstrate originality, creativity, and innovation, as well as strong writing quality.
Think A Classroom Doesn't Need Tech?Technology can enhance any classroom, regardless of subject area or grade level. Whether it's for accessibility or creativity, if it helps students learn, it qualifies.
Previous winners have used this grant for:
TI-83 Calculators CAD/CAM Design softwareCoding RobotsTutoring SubscriptionDigital MicroscopeVisit https://ced.ncsu.edu/math-summit/ for more information.
Apply Now!The application deadline is September 15th
Bright Ideas IconDesigned for K-12 educators, Bright Ideas grants fund creative, classroom-based projects that enhance learning and inspire students. Whether you're planning a hands-on science experiment or a new art initiative, Bright Ideas can help make it happen!
Grants up to $3,000
Deadline: September 15
Apply for Bright Ideas!Class Tech Award IconTeachers can receive up to $3,000 to integrate cutting-edge technology into their classrooms, helping students engage with learning in new and exciting ways. From tablets to software, CTA supports the tools that bring education into the 21st century.
Grants up to $3,000
Deadline: September 15
Apply for Classroom Technology!ResourcesMath Resource Hub IconNC K-12 Math Standards Resource HubThe NCDPI K-12 Mathematics team has created a repository to provide a variety of resources for supporting school leaders, administrators, educators, and parents/caregivers. The NC K-12 Math Standards Resource Hub houses the standards, communications, and recommended resources related to the implementation of the North Carolina K-12 Math Standard Course of Study (NCSCOS).
The hub includes:
K-12 standards and unpacking documentsPrevious PD presentations, recordings, and resourcesAt Home Resource Guides for parent/guardiansMath Options Chart aligned to post graduation plansSTEM Content IntegrationMath educators are encouraged to browse, reference, download, share, discuss, and adapt resources.
Browse the Math Resource HubICYMI - IN CASE YOU MISSED ITK-5 Unpacking Document UpdateIn an effort to improve clarity and support, the 2017 K-5 Mathematics Unpacking Documents have undergone some revisions effective June 2025. These revised unpacking documents may be accessed through
the NC DPI Mathematics Website orthe K-12 Math Standards Resource Hub Unpacking Documents Link.Please use this document to identify changes.
For more information, please contact Jennifer Parker, K-5 Math Consultant - jennifer.parker@dpi.nc.gov.
Sign up for K-12 Mathematics UpdatesNC DPI Mathematics Consultants
Jennifer ParkerK-5 Mathematics Consultant
(984)236-2842
Jennifer.Parker@dpi.nc.gov
Tammy LackeyK-8 Mathematics Consultant
(984) 236-2839
Tammy.Lackey@dpi.nc.gov
Dr. Lisa Ashe6-12 Mathematics Consultant
(984) 236-2840
Lisa.Ashe@dpi.nc.gov
Joseph Reaper6-12 Mathematics Consultant
(984) 236-2841
Joseph.Reaper@dpi.nc.gov
Dr. Charles AikenMath, Science, and STEM Section Chief
Charles.Aiken@dpi.nc.gov
984-236-2837
Science
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Teaching and Learning
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
K-12 Science
If you have information or opportunities you'd like to share in the monthly K-12 Science newsletter, please send a request to gavin.fradel@dpi.nc.gov no later than the third Monday of every month. Note: Not all requested items are guaranteed to be included.
K-12 Science Support Documents Updates
The NCDPI K-12 Science Team is excited to share updates to the K-12 Science Support Documents. These updates reflect feedback collected from the field and our grade level/content area Science Leadership Teams. Thank you for your ongoing dedication and input, which help us strengthen these resources for everyone. Please continue to provide feedback on these documents using the K-12 Support Document Feedback Form.
To make changes easier to locate, a spreadsheet with detailed updates for each grade and course is available on the Canvas Hub under the “K-12 Support Documents” page.
We hope everyone has a smooth start to the new school year!
K-12 Science Support Documents Updates
Parent/Caregiver Guides Spanish Translations
Science Hub
The Parent/Caregiver guides have been translated into Spanish. You will find them on the NC K-12 Science Standards Resource Hub on the Parent/Caregiver Guide button.
Professional Development Opportunities
2025-2026 NCDPI K-12 Science Office Hours
The K-12 Science Section will offer office hours during the 2025-26 School Year. Each session will focus on a particular topic and target a specific audience. A certificate of attendance will be issued for participants attending the full hour. Information about upcoming sessions and registration can also be found on the DPI website as well as on the Professional Development Button found on the NC K-12 Science Standards Resource Hub. You can view the session descriptions, intended audience, as well as register for the upcoming Office Hours on the Registration button below.
Registration
NCSciTeach Free Workshops for Elementary and Middle School Science Educators
NCSciTeach Free Workshops
Spots are still available for FREE Foldscope workshops on September 16th and October 7th from 4:00 - 6:30 at the Foothills Higher Education Center in Morganton. (It is a single afternoon workshop, participants only need to choose one date to attend)
Foldscopes are portable, durable, waterproof paper microscopes that are a wonderful tool for students of all ages to explore their world and learn at the microscopic level. Participants will receive CEU credit and a set of teaching materials valued at over $100 that includes a Foldscope Mini Classroom Kit and an Explorer Kit! Learn more about Foldscope products at foldscope.com
This is a great opportunity for 5th grade science teachers introducing cells and tissues (LS.5.1.1), but registration is now open to science educators that work with elementary or middle school students. Spend an afternoon igniting your own curiosity and leave with the supplies to inspire your students for years to come!
Registration
The North Carolina Outdoor Classroom Symposium
Outdoor Classroom Symposium
We have opened registration for the Outdoor Classroom Symposium. Please invite teachers you work with to attend!
Registration is open for the 2025 Outdoor Classroom Symposium which will be hosted by the NC Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill on October 13th, 2025. If you are a teacher in North Carolina, we hope you will join us for this unique learning opportunity. Registration begins at 8:45 am. The program will start at 9:15 am and will end at 4:30 pm. This is a free professional development experience but registration is required. Space is limited, so please ensure you are able to attend before you register. *We can provide this event at no cost based on partnerships with the NC Botanical Garden, the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the Department of Public Instruction, and the Albemarle-Pamlico National Estuary Partnership. Spaces are limited and our ability to provide it for FREE relies on your commitment to attend. If you register and then find unable to attend, please contact us as soon as possible and no later than five days prior to the event so we can notify others on our waitlist. Last-minute cancellations and no-shows limit access for others on the waitlist and result in unnecessary waste of food and materials. Below are drafts of the agenda and program to give you a sneak peek at the symposium sessions. These are subject to change.
Draft At-A-Glance Agenda
Draft Program
Registration
North Carolina Association of Elementary Educators Fall PD Conference
NCAEE Fall PD Conference
Celebrate the 20th birthday of the NC Association of Elementary Educators (NCAEE) at the statewide conference on Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 9:00 am-4:00 pm at The Arts Based School in Winston-Salem.
Our keynote, award-winning educator, Lindsay Phillips, will start the day with an engaging and motivation message. Choose from four dynamic breakout sessions featuring hands-on learning in content areas, leadership development, and social-emotional learning.
Lunch is on your own with many options within a short walk. We will conclude our conference with an exciting door prize drawing and NCAEE birthday cake. The cost of the conference is only $10 plus a minimal processing fee. Space is limited—register today at https://www.ncelementary.com/.
Registration
Unlock the Power of Writing for Multilingual Learners
Two 2-Day Workshops | Elementary & Secondary Tracks
Join us for this dynamic 2-day workshop designed to spark powerful writing growth for multilingual learners! Using the Teaching and Learning Cycle, we’ll explore how writing instruction can do more than prepare students for academic success—it can empower them to share their voices, connect with others, and advocate for what matters most to them.
Designed for both elementary and secondary contexts, the workshops focus on how intentional, language-rich instruction empowers multilingual learners—not just to succeed in academic writing, but to use writing as a powerful tool to understand the world, express themselves, learn from one another, and advocate for what matters most.
Both workshops guide participants through a pedagogical approach that apprentices students into academic genres, showing how authentic, content-based writing tasks foster deep understanding of how language works in written form. Educators will leave with ready-to-use strategies that support multilingual learners in becoming confident, capable writers across disciplines.
Elementary Track: September 29th and 30th in Winston Salem:
Explore writing instruction grounded in science content with applications across subjects.
Learn how to build knowledge, analyze mentor texts, co-construct writing, and guide students’ independent practice.
Engage students in reflection and revision cycles to strengthen writing skills and voice.
Secondary Track: October 2nd and 3rd in Bladen County:
Centered on social studies writing, with connections to ELA and science.
Focus on disciplinary genres that prepare students for secondary-level academic demands.
Emphasis on building background knowledge, unpacking mentor texts, co-writing with students, and supporting independent application.
Includes cycles of review and revision to refine student writing.
Note: This workshop focuses on disciplinary writing and does not address foundational literacy for SIFE/SLIFE students.
Key Outcomes for All Participants:
Build background knowledge so students can write with confidence.
Use mentor texts to uncover the language of specific genres.
Co-create writing with students as a scaffold for success.
Guide students in applying language strategies independently.
Foster reflection and revision to grow student voice and effectiveness.
Register to attend one of these sessions by completing this form. The ML/Title III team will contact you via email to confirm your reservation or inform you that you are on a waitlist. Please email ESLTitleIII@dpi.nc.gov with any questions.
Registration
Student and Classroom Opportunities
Duke Energy Science Night!
Our Duke Energy Science Night program for Elementary Schools is in its 15th year! This program, produced by Morehead Planetarium & Science Center, includes a STEM kit and our support throughout the school year as you create a science night to be held for your school community during the NC Science Festival in April 2026.
The Duke Energy Foundation sponsorship funds a number of program kits to award at no charge to schools across NC. Recipients are selected via an application process that includes a detailed review of the school's written statement, need, geography, and past participation. Schools also have the option to purchase kits.
The application period for sponsored kits will end September 23, 2025. Please visit our website www.ncsciencefestival.org/DESN to learn more detailed information about the program, timings, what is included with the kit, and for the link to the application and preorder forms. Feel free to email us at ncscifestschools@mpsc.unc.edu if you have questions after reviewing the details found on the website.
Thank you for all you do for your students - and for STEM education in NC!
Kind regards,
Kim Moore
Duke Energy Science Nights Coordinator
Morehead Planetarium + Science Center
Information and Application
Apples for Schools Program
Apples for Schools
Join the "Apples for Schools" Program from Horne Creek Farm!Help preserve the South’s agricultural heritage and create a “living classroom” for your students. Apply for an "Apples for Schools" grant and receive four heirloom apple trees for your school.
Why Participate?
Connect students with agriculture and healthy eating.
Hands-on learning in history, science, language arts, and math.
Minimal maintenance with long-term benefits.
Educational Benefits:
Learn apple cultivation history and science.
Engage in STEAM activities like mapping and studying pollination.
Foster a connection to nature and sustainability.
For more details, contact lisa.turney@dncr.nc.gov
Applications due by October 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Application and Information
2025-2026 Air Quality AQ-IQ Contest
AQIQ Contest
Each year the North Carolina Division of Air Quality invites 7th grade students to participate in the AQ-IQ Contest which combines S.T.E.A.M. education and project-based learning with student creativity to teach air pollution science to students across the state. The contest gives these students an opportunity to learn about air quality and think about solutions to air pollution and put THEM in charge of creating a project to educate others about an air quality problem.
The AQ-IQ contest allows students to explore their interests and strengths while engaging with the material and learning about air quality. Students are asked to think creatively while designing their projects. Past projects have been posters, videos, Minecraft creations, games, and artistic projects off all sorts!
Each year the AQ-IQ Contest highlights special topic areas with additional recognition because they highlight current air quality challenges, successes, and educational goals. The topics for 2025-2026 contest are:
From the Directors Office: Open Burning – Open burning refers to different types of controlled outdoor fires, such as small residential fires to burn yard waste or commercial land-clearing fires. In North Carolina, state law limits what can be burned outdoors, and when. Investigate some of the open burning challenges like storm debris, man-made material, safety, and health.
Celebrating Ten Years of Success: North Carolina has been in attainment of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ten years. Investigate: What does this mean? How does North Carolina’s Air Compare? How did we get here? And other questions and challenges we faced and might face in the future.
Adventures of the Air Avenger: July 19, 2025, The Air Expo, NC Transportation Museum, AP (Air Press) “During the Annual Recognition Program of the AQ-IQ contest the Smog Queen attacked the room of student and their family with the goal of making them cough and wheeze. A superhero. The Air Avenger appeared, and a battle of wits followed. The Air Avenger caused the Smog Queen to flee – saving the day.” We’re looking for projects that bring to life thrilling untold stories and new adventures of the Air Avenger, showing how courage, creativity, and work help keep the air clean air for all.
Winners will be recognized at a REGIONAL and STATEWIDE level and will receive AWESOME prizes!
This year, projects are due to the NC Division of Air Quality by March 9, 2026! So, PLENTY of time for students to make the most amazing project!
For details about how to enter, general information and past project examples, please visit the NC Environmental Education webpage. This is a great resource to utilize as your students are starting to work on their projects (“How To” Guide for Teachers and Students, examples of past projects, Submission link, AND SO MUCH MORE!)
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Keith Bamberger at keith.bamberger@deq.nc.gov, or Janina Millis at janina.millis@deq.nc.gov.
We are excited to share this opportunity with 7th grade students again this year and we look forward to seeing what they create!
AQ-IQ Contest Information
NASA TechRise Student Challenge
NASA TechRise
The NASA TechRise Student Challenge is a FREE NASA challenge for middle and high schools. Last there were 60 winning teams comprised of 530 students from 50 states and territories build experiments that flew this summer on a commercially operated high-altitude balloon. You can see their experiment presentations and the winner(s) from North Carolina HERE. This is a tremendous achievement for these teams!
The 2025-26 NASA TechRise Student Challenge opens this September and invites student teams in 6th-12th grade to submit experiment ideas to fly on a commercial space industry suborbital flight (e.g., rocket, high-altitude balloon). Similar to previous years, the challenge includes: information sessions for your department or organization upon request, free educational resources to foster classroom learning and an exciting student virtual field trip in the fall. Sixty winning teams will also receive $1500 to build their experiment, a spot to test it on a NASA-sponsored flight, and technical support from our awesome NASA TechRise advisors. The challenge is a great way to get hands-on with a NASA project this school year, and we encourage teams of all skill levels to apply. Updated challenge resources (including videos, slide decks, and educator pacing guides) can all be found on the challenge website HERE when the challenge opens in September.
Information
STEM
Do you deserve to be the next NC STEM School of Distinction?
Intent to Apply due by Friday, October 3rd. Takes only minutes to complete!
Many schools across our state facilitate quality STEM instruction; maximizing community partnerships and driving opportunities for students, developing the skills necessary for future success. NC DPI and the NC State Board of Education want to recognize each and every school that exemplifies the qualities associated with STEM success.
The STEM School Progress Rubric serves as an incredible tool for self-assessment and school improvement and is the key to achievement for STEM schools in North Carolina.
Schools who self-assess at the Prepared or Model level of achievement, based on the Rubric, are encouraged to complete an Intent to Apply with NC DPI. This intent does not obligate the school, but instead, allows the opportunity for receiving additional information and resources toward becoming recognized as one of North Carolina's finest in STEM education.
Interested schools should complete their Intent to Apply no later than COB Friday, October 3, 2025. Please contact Howard Ginsburg at howard.ginsburg@dpi.nc.gov should you have further questions.
Intent to Apply
STEM School Progress Rubric
Draft 3 of the Proposed 2025 ELA SCOS Standard-by-Standard Survey Closes October 1, 2025
State Board of Education policy specifies that the NC Department of Public Instruction will formally collect feedback on the draft revised standards from educators, administrators, parents, students, institutions of higher education, business/industry representatives, and other education agencies.
The purpose of the Draft 3 Standard-by-Standard Survey (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12) is to obtain input from educators and stakeholders familiar with the English Language Arts (ELA) Standard Course of Study in order to inform further revision decisions. As such, the ELA team requests your thoughtful input and comments on the draft revised academic standards for ELA to inform the revision process.
To support completion of the standard-by-standard survey, view this previous listserv regarding the ELA Standards Timeline. This listserv explains key reasons for the delay in the revision timeline for the Proposed 2025 ELA Standard Course of Study. Also, this Survey Companion Document provides context for revisions made to Drafts 1-3 of the Proposed 2025 ELA SCOS.
Draft 3 of the Proposed 2025 ELA SCOS
Draft 3 Survey Companion Document
K-2 Standard-by-Standard Survey
3-5 Standard-by-Standard Survey
6-8 Standard-by-Standard Survey
9-12 Standard-by-Standard Survey
PDF versions of the Draft 3 surveys are available to view, if needed. NCDPI thanks you for your time and input. Your feedback is extremely valuable to the ELA standards revision process.
NCDPI Science Consultants
Dr. Debra Hall
K-5 Science
debra.hall@dpi.nc.gov
Gavin Fradel
6-8 Science
gavin.fradel@dpi.nc.gov
Benita Tipton
9-12 Science
benita.tipton@dpi.nc.gov
Alexis Wood
9-12 Science
kathryn.wood@dpi.nc.gov
Additional Contacts
Dr. Charles Aiken
Section Chief K-12 Mathematics, Science and STEM
charles.aiken@dpi.nc.gov
Howard Ginsburg
K-12 Integrative STEM Specialist
howard.ginsburg@dpi.nc.gov
Social Studies
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Teaching and Learning
Social Studies Update: Back to School Edition 2025
K-12 Social Studies
This update contains K-12 Social Studies and NCDPI reminders. As always, we encourage those of you who receive the updates to please share this issue with others who are not currently subscribed to our listserv. To receive Social Studies Updates, please sign up using the link Social Studies Listerv Update and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Update includes:
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Don't Miss the 2025 Leading with Character Summit!
Save the Date: International Education Week Professional Development
Learning with the Bill of Rights Institute: Free Workshop
Spotlight on The Economic and Personal Finance Course: Making it Relevant Webinar
INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCES
The Financial Skills Challenge - A fun way to build financial know-how!
NOW Available!: America 250- NC Field Trip Guide
AWARDS, GRANTS, AND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES
Announcing the Winner of the 2025 Gilder Lehrman History Teacher of the Year for NC Award
2025 US Senate Youth Program- Scholarship Opportunity for Juniors and Seniors
Thomas Wolfe Memorial Writing Contest (Grades 4-12)
Join the "Apples for Schools" Program from Horne Creek Farm!
NC History Day
Apply to the Learning Happens Here Field Trip Fund!
OFFICE OF TEACHING AND LEARNING: NEWS & UPDATES
Unlock the Power of Writing for Multilingual Learners: Workshops for Elementary & Secondary
Subscribe and Connect with each Area in the Office of Academic Standards
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Character Summitt 2025
November 3, 2025 | 9 am - 4 pm
The Friday Institute: 1890 Main Campus Dr, Raleigh, NC 27606
Gain insight into the 11 Principles of Character Education and practical ways to apply them in your school.
Be inspired by success stories from State and National Schools of Character and learn how they revitalized their school communities.
Connect with experts and fellow school leaders to deepen your understanding of Character Education.
QR Code Character Summit 2025
iew qr code 2025
Save the Date: International Education Week Professional Development
Saturday, November 15, 2025 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and Area Studies Centers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Duke University are thrilled to offer an incredible professional development opportunity as part of International Education Week (IEW) that is designed to enhance your global understanding and perspective.
The focus of this year's event is "Shaping the Future: Climate, Science, and Social Movements in a Changing World," and we can't wait to dive deep into it!
This workshop is for ALL educators, regardless of your content area or grade level.
Earn CEUs/PD hours by attending this in-person workshop!
Attendees will also receive 2 free tickets to the Southern Skies planetarium show, celebrating Indigenous Latin American astronomy!
Register Today!
NCCSS 2025 CONFERENCE
Save the Date: NCCSS Annual Social Studies Conference
Join us in Winston-Salem on February 26–27, 2026, for the North Carolina Council for the Social Studies Annual Conference: Remembering the Past and Inspiring the Future of Social Studies.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate with fellow educators from across the state.
Early Bird Registration special rate is available only through January 31, 2026—register early to lock in the savings!
More details available at nccss26.sched.com
Download and Share the Flyer
EPF Webinar 1 QR Code
Join our "Spotlight" webinar series for the 2025-2026 school year, where we will focus on increasing economic and financial understanding under the theme of “Making it Relevant”. Virtually attending these sessions will provide a valuable opportunity for educators who teach or make curriculum decisions about the Economics and Personal Finance (EPF) course to increase their knowledge, skills, and understanding of the course and its impact on students, teachers, parents, and the community.
The first session, on September 18, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm. The webinar will highlight the importance of financial literacy in NC public schools and showcase practical, real-world strategies for making EPF engaging and relevant to students. Attendees will hear from guest presenters, Crystal M. Shue, EPF Specialist from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and Gretchyn Bedard, veteran EPF teacher from Iredell-Statesville Schools. Both will share how to…
Connect course content to students’ lives
Use and analyze course-related data, and
Build strong partnerships with parents and the community.
Whether you are a new or experienced EPF educator, you’ll leave with ideas, resources, and inspiration to help your students thrive in and beyond the classroom.
Access and Share the Flyer
Register today to join us for this session!!
Learning with the Bill of Rights Institute: Free Workshop
Event: Government & Politics: Civics for the American Experiment
Date: September 29, 2025
Registration: Bill of Rights Institute Event Page
Questions: Contact Dr. Tim Hall, Vance County K-12 SS Instructional Coordinator
This workshop is designed to inspire teachers to cultivate informed citizens. It will:
Dive into the foundational principles of American democracy
Explore contemporary political issues
Introduce innovative teaching strategies to make civics education engaging and relevant
Provide ready-made lesson plans, scholar-written essays, videos, and game-based learning activities
Offer simulation games to deepen students’ understanding of the U.S. government
Participants will leave with practical tools and resources to bring civics education to life and connect students with the constitutional principles that support and promote American ideals.
This program is presented in partnership with the North Carolina Council for the Social Studies and Vance County Schools Center for Innovation.
Register to Attend Now!
INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCES
The Financial Skills Challenge - A fun way to build financial know-how!
Give your students the gift of financial literacy with the Financial Skills Challenge!
The Fall semester session of the Financial Skills Challenge is now open for grades 5-12. In this simulation, your students experience the challenge and reward of successfully managing their finances, first as college students with part-time jobs, then as graduates with their first full-time job.
They’ll learn about sharing rent and bills with roommates, and see what it’s like to have health insurance and student loans to pay! As they navigate the simulation, they’ll learn how to balance their savings goals with their fixed, variable (and unexpected!) expenses, build their emergency savings, set and hit financial goals, build their credit, and live a life!
PFL Bank of America image 2
The game takes about six hours to play, and your whole class can play over the course of a semester (about half an hour each month). Along the way, they’ll learn valuable real-world lessons that will pay off for the rest of their lives. Players learn to:
Budget and pay bills on time
Build savings, an emergency fund, and a credit score
Manage emergency expenses
Make sound financial decisions by experiencing real-life benefits and consequences
This fun, gamified tool is offered at no cost to schools, universities, nonprofits, and other organizations.
If you’re interested in finding out more, SIGN UP for an information session by reaching out to financialskillschallenge@bofa.com
America 250 Field Trip Guide
A new America 250 NC Field Trip Guide is NOW available online through the America 250 NC website and the NC Historic Sites website! This free resource is designed primarily for 4th-grade students but can also be adapted for middle school learners.
The America 250 NC Field Trip Guide is flexible for use at any historic site—local or state—and includes engaging activities to enhance students' learning experiences. The first section provides pre-visit classroom activities, while the second half is designed for on-site exploration. Educators can easily print the guide to share.
Bring history to life for your students! Access the guide TODAY!
Printable Field Trip Guide
AWARDS, GRANTS, AND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES
NC School Bus
Apply to the Learning Happens Here Field Trip Fund!
Plan a Spring Field Trip to North Carolina’s Most Inspiring Destinations!
Are you planning a field trip to one of the 100+ incredible locations managed by the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) this spring? If so, don't miss out on the Learning Happens Here Field Trip Fund, which is a fantastic opportunity for NC Public Schools to receive financial support to cover upcoming trip expenses!
This fund is designed to help reimburse schools for the costs of visiting DNCR locations around the state. By taking advantage of this opportunity, students can explore North Carolina’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty, all while making lasting connections with our state’s heritage. It’s a unique chance to inspire young minds and help foster the next generation of leaders and innovators.
Important note: This funding is available for trips that have not yet been taken.
The NC DNCR team is here to assist you throughout the application process, ensuring a smooth and successful experience. Don’t miss out on this chance to enrich your students’ learning with a hands-on adventure in North Carolina!
Learn more and apply for funding
2 Valencia Abbott GLHTOY
Valencia Abbott is the 2025 Gilder Lehrman History Teacher of the Year for North Carolina!
We are pleased to share that Valencia Abbott, an accomplished educator and Social Studies Department Chair at Rockingham Early College High School in Wentworth, North Carolina, has been named the 2025 Gilder Lehrman History Teacher of the Year for North Carolina.
With more than 21 years of classroom experience, Ms. Abbott is recognized for creating engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences that help students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the past. Her work emphasizes the importance of local and state history and encourages students to make meaningful connections between historical content and the world around them.
Valencia's academic background includes a BA in Political Science-Pre Law, a master’s degree in Liberal Studies, a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in African American Studies from UNC Greensboro, and Add-On Licensure in Academically and Intellectually Gifted Education from Duke University.
Ms. Abbott has contributed her expertise to several professional and community organizations, including the National Council for the Social Studies Carter G. Woodson Book Award Committee, the National Council for History Education Teacher Advisory Council, the Dan River Basin Association, and the NAACP. Valencia also serves as a United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Teacher Fellow and is a member of the North Carolina Council on the Holocaust.
Valencia Abbott continues to demonstrate excellence in teaching and leadership, enriching the educational experience for students across North Carolina.
Breaking News!!
Valencia has also been selected as one of only ten finalists for the National History Teacher of the Year from the Gilder Lehrman Institute. It has been several years since a winner from North Carolina has reached the top 10. If you have a moment, please join us in congratulating her on these extraordinary achievements.
United States Senate Youth Scholarship Program
Please Share This Announcement Along with the Link and QR Code Below with Teachers, Students, Parents, and Members of Your Community!
North Carolina’s application process for the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) is now underway. Applications will be available to high school juniors and seniors August 1 – October 5, 2025.
Two student delegates and two alternates will be selected.
The two delegates will each attend Washington Week in Washington, D.C., and receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship.
USSYP QR Code 2025
Two $10,000 Scholarships Just Waiting for
N.C. Juniors and/or Seniors
The USSYP offers an extraordinary educational experience for high school juniors and seniors with a strong interest in history, political science, or public service. Delegates spend an immersive week in the nation’s capital, meeting with U.S. Senators, cabinet members, Supreme Court justices, and officials from federal agencies and the White House. This prestigious program provides students with unparalleled access to the nation’s political process and leaders.
Get or Share an Application w/ Students
Thomas Wolfe Memorial Writing Contest
Calling All Young Writers Grades 4-12!
Each fall, the Thomas Wolfe Memorial in Asheville holds the annual Student Writing Competition for students across North Carolina. This year’s chosen short story by Thomas Wolfe is “The Sun and the Rain.” Accompanying lesson plans are available that are adaptable to both classroom and online learning environments.
The competition is open to students in grades 4-5, 6-8, and 9-12, with cash prizes awarded to the first, second, and third place winners in each category. Teachers of first-place winners will also receive a cash donation from our foundation to assist with classroom needs and materials. Submissions are due on Saturday, September 27th.
If you have any questions, please email bonnie.showfety@dncr.nc.gov or call the Memorial at 828-253-8304.
Access Materials and Contest Details
Join the "Apples for Schools" Program from Horne Creek Farm!
Help preserve the South’s agricultural heritage and create a “living classroom” for your students. Apply for an "Apples for Schools" grant and receive four heirloom apple trees for your school.
Applications due by October 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Why Participate?
Connect students with agriculture and healthy eating.
Hands-on learning in history, science, language arts, and math.
Minimal maintenance with long-term benefits.
Educational Benefits:
Learn Apple cultivation history and science.
Engage in STEAM activities like mapping and studying pollination.
Foster a connection to nature and sustainability.
Apply Now! Submit your application to Horne Creek Farm by mail, email, or hand delivery. For more details, contact lisa.turney@dncr.nc.gov.
We the People Flyer
EMPOWER STUDENTS TO BECOME ACTIVE CITIZENS!- We the People Program
The We the People Program is a social studies curriculum support that immerses students in the U.S. Constitution and the principles of democracy. The program culminates in a simulated congressional hearing, where students present and defend their knowledge before a panel of judges acting as members of Congress. Students will build research, collaboration, and public speaking skills along with content. The winning high school team from NC will advance to the National Finals in Washington, D.C. this spring!
Want to find out more?
If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Jenny Morris at morrisjf1@appstate.edu.
NC History Day
Each year, hundreds of middle and high school students across North Carolina engage in deep historical inquiry through NC History Day, the state affiliate of National History Day® (NHD). This year’s theme—“Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History”—invites students to explore transformative moments and movements.
NC History Day is a free, flexible program for students in grades 6–12 that integrates into Social Studies curricula, regardless of geographic focus or historical period. Through NHD, students become researchers, writers, filmmakers, web designers, playwrights, and exhibit creators—all while building critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
For educators, it’s a powerful project-based learning model that can be done as an in-class project, independent study, school club, or after-school activity. We can also offer free access to WeVideo for Schools to support students and teachers with online video editing tools!
Participation in the optional spring contest season gives students the opportunity to present their work, sharpen interview skills, earn recognition, and compete for awards and unique academic opportunities on the local, state, or national level.
To learn more and access free classroom resources, visit nchistoryday.org or email nchistoryday@dncr.nc.gov. NC History Day is proudly managed by the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
OFFICE OF TEACHING AND LEARNING: NEWS & UPDATES
Unlock the Power of Writing for Multilingual Learners
Two 2-Day Workshops | Elementary & Secondary Tracks
Join us for this dynamic 2-day workshop designed to spark powerful writing growth for multilingual learners! Using the Teaching and Learning Cycle, we’ll explore how writing instruction can do more than prepare students for academic success—it can empower them to share their voices, connect with others, and advocate for what matters most to them.
Designed for both elementary and secondary contexts, the workshops focus on how intentional, language-rich instruction empowers multilingual learners—not just to succeed in academic writing, but to use writing as a powerful tool to understand the world, express themselves, learn from one another, and advocate for what matters most.
Both workshops guide participants through a pedagogical approach that apprentices students into academic genres, showing how authentic, content-based writing tasks foster deep understanding of how language works in written form. Educators will leave with ready-to-use strategies that support multilingual learners in becoming confident, capable writers across disciplines.
Elementary Track: September 29th and 30th in Winston Salem:
Explore writing instruction grounded in science content with applications across subjects.
Learn how to build knowledge, analyze mentor texts, co-construct writing, and guide students’ independent practice.
Engage students in reflection and revision cycles to strengthen writing skills and voice.
Secondary Track: October 2nd and 3rd in Bladen County:
Centered on social studies writing, with connections to ELA and science.
Focus on disciplinary genres that prepare students for secondary-level academic demands.
Emphasis on building background knowledge, unpacking mentor texts, co-writing with students, and supporting independent application.
Includes cycles of review and revision to refine student writing.
Note: This workshop focuses on disciplinary writing and does not address foundational literacy for SIFE/SLIFE students.
Key Outcomes for All Participants:
Build background knowledge so students can write with confidence.
Use mentor texts to uncover the language of specific genres.
Co-create writing with students as a scaffold for success.
Guide students in applying language strategies independently.
Foster reflection and revision to grow student voice and effectiveness.
Register to attend one of these sessions by completing this form. The ML/Title III team will contact you via email to confirm your reservation or inform you that you are on a waitlist. Please email ESLTitleIII@dpi.nc.gov with any questions.
NC Global Education Logo Square
Global Scholars Program
Interested in growing student and teacher global competencies? This program is free of charge and enables teachers and students to connect with other classrooms worldwide. They provide training, a virtual platform, and supplemental curriculum. Teachers who participate in the Global Scholars program will be eligible to earn micro-credentials toward the Global Educator Digital Badge.
Global Scholars Program Information: Global Cities emphasizes direct peer-to-peer exchange as an essential component of global competency development. The video at the top of this page will help you understand how the Global Scholars Program, operated by Global Cities, makes this exchange possible.
Spotlight NYC: This video demonstrates the potential impact of GS on schools and student learning.
Spotlight Miami: Great example of how Global Scholars educators are finding ways to apply their learning to incorporate global competency education in their core curricula.
Additional Free Workshops
District leaders, please contact Kelly Schultz @ kelly.schultz@dpi.nc.gov to express your interest and connect you with the program.
Subscribe and Connect with each Area in the Office of Teaching and Learning
Do you want to stay up to date on the latest news, opportunities, resources, standards updates, etc., from one or more of the NCDPI Office of Teaching and Learning content areas?
Sign up today to receive newsletters and announcements from the area(s) or topic(s) of your choice.
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The Arts
Link
NCDPI Arts Education
Professional Development Catalog
This document contains titles, descriptions, and links to professional development orchestrated by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Arts Education Section in the Academic Standards Division. Topics are organized thematically, with the newest professional development offerings closest to the beginning of this document. Please refer to the Table of Contents below for an overview of offerings.
Link
LIBRARY
LIBRARY
School Library Communications
School Library Communications
In some of the SLMC Pulse feedback we sought from May - August 2025, some responses indicated confusion about how to stay informed on SLMC news. Along with our DTL social media channels, bi-weekly Thursday meetings with district leaders, we have two school library newsletters. The NC NEW(S) Librarian 101 is a monthly publication sent from ncpublicschools@dpi.nc.gov, curated by school library consultant Mollee Holloman for any/all library stakeholders. Past volumes can be accessed anytime at go.ncdpi.gov/newslibrarian101 and you can subscribe to get these delivered to your inbox under the ‘internal’ option as NC NEW(s) Librarian. (If you previously subscribed and still are not receiving them, make sure you haven’t inadvertently blocked this email address or have it sorted into an ‘other’ folder).
Identified Lead Librarians/District-level contacts also receive a personalized newsletter, “Monday Media Moment” that comes from Mollee Holloman’s email. If you are the main district contact for librarians and do not receive this email, please reach out to mollee.holloman@dpi.nc.gov
nCED CONNECTION
nCED CONNECTION
A Note from the Director
Welcome to the first edition of the NCED Connection Newsletter! As we launch into a new school year, I want to thank you for the work you do every day to serve North Carolina’s students.
Our Digital Teaching & Learning team is here to support you through NCED Connect’s products and services—from statewide systems and School Connectivity to professional learning and digital resources. This newsletter will keep you up to date on new features, events, and tools designed to make your work easier and more impactful.
Here’s to a great start to the year, and thank you for your continued partnership in advancing digital learning across our state.
— Matthew Mayo
Director, Digital Teaching & Learning & School Connectivity
UPCOMING EVENTS
A Note from the Director
Welcome to the first edition of the NCED Connection Newsletter! As we launch into a new school year, I want to thank you for the work you do every day to serve North Carolina’s students.
Our Digital Teaching & Learning team is here to support you through NCED Connect’s products and services—from statewide systems and School Connectivity to professional learning and digital resources. This newsletter will keep you up to date on new features, events, and tools designed to make your work easier and more impactful.
Here’s to a great start to the year, and thank you for your continued partnership in advancing digital learning across our state.
— Matthew Mayo
Director, Digital Teaching & Learning & School Connectivity
uPCOMING EVENTS
uPCOMING EVENTS
NCSIS Conference October 20th - 22nd - Raleigh
NCSIS Conference October 20th - 22nd - Raleigh
We are excited to invite you back to the NCSIS 2025 Conference, taking place October 20-22, 2025, at the Raleigh Downtown Marriott. This year’s event will bring together leaders, educators, and technology professionals from across North Carolina to collaborate, learn, and shape the future of student information systems in our state.
Registration Options:
Early Bird Registration – $150 On Sale Now through September 17, 2025 at 11:59 PM
General Registration – $200 Available September 18 – September 30, 2025
Late Registration – $250 Available October 1, 2025, until capacity is reached
Space is limited! We anticipate strong participation, so we encourage you to register early to secure your spot.
Location: Raleigh Downtown Marriott **New Location this Year!
Dates: October 20 - 22, 2025
Intended Audience: SIS Coordinators & Lead Data Managers
This conference will feature Infinite Campus trainers on site, SIS Experts from the field, breakout sessions & workshops, and networking opportunities designed to support you in making the most of NCSIS during this critical phase of statewide implementation.
Register Now by visiting the DTL Hub - www.dpi.nc.gov/dtl Full hotel information is available in the hub as well.
We look forward to seeing you in Raleigh this October for an engaging and impactful conference.
NCED Connect 2026 Symposium
NCED Connect 2026 Symposium
Save the Date & Call for Proposals!
Save the Date & Call for Proposals!
We are excited to announce that the Call for Proposals is now open for the NCED Connect Symposium, taking place February 9–11, 2026, at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, NC.
This year, we are planning an even larger symposium this year and expanding our offerings around:
AI in Education
NCSIS for ALL roles
EdTech Innovation
Instructional Strategies
NCED Connect Services (NCEES, Schoolnet, Canvas, & OER)
Leadership tracks for CTOs, principals, coaches, and more
NEW this year: Student Showcase (AI Solve-A-Thon)
We invite you to share your expertise by submitting a session proposal. Please complete the Call for Proposals by September 30, 2025, using the link below:
Submit Your Proposal Here - You are needed!
DTL Signature Events
DTL Signature Events
Be sure to check the DTL Signature Events Calendar* or Eventbrite for upcoming in-person and virtual regional meetings and training sessions. Don’t miss out on valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and stay informed!
SCHOOLNET
SCHOOLNET
general Information:
general Information:
Thank you for your patience during Phase II integration with SchoolNet. If you are still experiencing issues, please submit a Service Now Case for Schoolnet. Please remember that this year, to prevent students from accessing their schedules in Schoolnet, schedules will not appear in Schoolnet for the student or teacher until the first student day.
NCSIS for EDUCATORS
NCSIS for EDUCATORS
Campus Learning Updates
Campus Learning Updates
Check this space for ongoing updates about Campus Learning feature updates and improvements.
Feedback Opportunities
Feedback Opportunities
The Teaching & Learning team at Infinite Campus is working to improve the Seating Chart tool. Please share more about how your district handles seating charts. Responses will be used for research purposes.
Thank you for taking the time to participate in this survey on your Quizzes experience with Infinite Campus. This survey should take approximately 5-10 minutes and is used only for research purposes. Your honest feedback is appreciated.
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
🚀 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮’𝘀 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗔𝗜 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲-𝗔-𝗧𝗵𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲!
🚀 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮’𝘀 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗔𝗜 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲-𝗔-𝗧𝗵𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲!
Students in grades 6–12 will team up with mentors to design AI-powered solutions to real community challenges.
📅 🔗 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝘄𝗲𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘀 Mon. Sept. 8
🕐 3:00-4:00 pm
📍 Virtual (statewide + national opportunities)
❓ Why: Build skills, solve problems, and showcase innovation
⚡ How: Teams of up to 4 + mentor, guided by design thinking + NC AI Guidelines
👉 Learn more & register: go.ncdpi.gov/NC-AI-Solve-A-Thon
🔗 Registration for webinars:
Monday, September 8 | 3:00–4:00 p.m. | go.ncdpi.gov/AISolve-A-ThonKickOff2
Upcoming AI Webinars
Upcoming AI Webinars
Remember that all of our webinars are added to the AI Webinars website for on-demand viewing.
Check out our EventBrite Collection & Registrations for upcoming registrations.
Remember that our webinars are made available for on-demand viewing on our NC AI Resources website as well as our YouTube Channel.
Sept 17: Part 1: Traditional to Transformative: Realizing the Promise of Education in an AI-Enabled World - with Vera Cubero
Sept. 24- AI Literacy and Digital Responsibility in K-5: What Educators and Leaders Need to Know with Clarie from Robo Wunderkind
Oct 8: Part 2: Traditional to Transformative: Realizing the Promise of Education in an AI-Enabled World with Vera Cubero
Oct. 15- AI for Principals with Jordan Caldwell
Oct. 20- Free K-12 AI Literacy Courses with Sarah Lucas (Skillstruck)
Brand new FREE AI Literacy Courses for K-12 Students
Teacher creates account (https://my.skillstruck.com/freeailiteracy ) & adds students to a class (student-facing content for all grades, but no student accounts)
Learn more–Free AI Literacy Courses K-12 Flyer | Video tutorial
Questions or need help? Contact Sarah Lucas - sarahlucas@skillstruck.com
SLMC
SLMC
UPCOMING WEBINARS
UPCOMING WEBINARS
Mark your calendars for live, ongoing virtual SLMC professional learning with our webinar series Tech + Text on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays each month at 3:00pm – all sessions will be recorded for on-demand viewing later on YouTube.
September 4 - ConnectED to Research for SLMCs
With the new icons and easier access to digital resources like Britannica and EBSCO, let’s dig into creative and effective ways to connect learners (kids and educators!) to all that these platforms have to offer. We’ll use our librarian lens to consider all age groups, cross-curricular needs, meeting UDL and other accessibility considerations, and some bite-sized PD hacks.
October 2 - T³ Celebrating Reading with the NC Children's Book Awards
Join Harnett Co SLMC and NCCBA Committee Co-chair Lisa Denning for this session about the program, the titles readers can vote on for 2026, and the treasure trove of resources available for teaching with past-year nominees. Don’t miss this session, whether you’re able to catch it at the NCSLMA conference or not!
{Eventbrite Link coming later in Sept.}
October 16 - T³ Go-Getters & Grant Gurus
Strategies, stories, and shortcuts for NC school librarians and leaders who go after what their programs deserve.
{Eventbrite Link coming later in Sept.}
NCEES
Fall 2025 NCEES Face-to-Face Training for New Administrators
Fall 2025 NCEES Face-to-Face Training for New Administrators
The NCDPI NCEES Team is pleased to share an opportunity for new administrators to participate in face-to-face NCEES training sessions in their regions this October. These sessions are designed to support principals and assistant principals in strengthening their understanding and use of the evaluation system.
Session Title: NCEES: Teacher Evaluation Process and Practice for Principals & Assistant Principals
Presented by: NCDPI Regional Education Facilitators (REFs)
Session Description: In this interactive session, participants will explore key NCEES policies and best practices to enhance their leadership and evaluation processes. Topics include:
Reviewing the teacher evaluation process
Providing targeted feedback using rubric-based language
Assigning evaluation plans and access rights
Navigating the staff evaluation dashboard
Running reports to track and complete evaluation steps
Identifying and troubleshooting common pain points
Click on the link for your region to see more details and register for the event.
Region 1 Northeast - October 28- Click Here to Register
Region 2 Southeast - October 8 - Click Here to Register
Region 3 North Central - October 8 - Click Here to Register
Region 4 Sandhills - October 29 - Click Here to Register
Region 5 Piedmont Triad - October 15- Click Here to Register
Region 6 Southwest - October 14 - Click Here to Register
Region 7 Northwest - October 9 - Click Here to Register
Region 8 Western - October 15 - Click Here to Register
Earn CEU credit by attending live sessions.
Click below to learn more!
https://go.ncdpi.gov/25-26NCEEStraining
Upcoming NCEES Webinars
Upcoming NCEES Webinars
Click on the title below to register.
CEUs - My PD, My Transcript in the New NCEES
Description - Learn how to view CEUs on your transcript, find professional learning opportunities, and manage your courses in the NCEES system.
Target Audience - All NCEES Users
Date and Time: September 8, 2025, 4:00 pm -5:00 pm
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DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY
DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY
Got images? Then you need alt text!
Got images? Then you need alt text!
Including alternative text (alt text) for images is essential to making digital content accessible to all users, including those using assistive technology or for times when a webpage doesn’t fully load. Alt text provides a description of an image, allowing users to understand its context and purpose.
Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind:
Be concise: Keep your descriptions short and to the point, focusing on what’s important.
Consider the context: Important visual elements may differ depending on the context. Be sure to describe those visual elements.
For decorative images: If the image is purely decorative, use “Decorative” as the alt text. Some tools will have an option to mark an image as decorative. In HTML, you can leave the alt tag empty (alt=””).
Avoid repeating information: If the image is explained in surrounding text, there’s no need to repeat that in the alt text. When possible, avoid images with text. If you have an image of text, be sure to include that text in the alt text (or surrounding text).
Related WCAG 2.1 standard: WCAG 1.1.1 Non-text Content (A)
For additional information and resources, visit the NCDPI Digital Accessibility website or contact Donna Murray, NCDPI Digital Accessibility Specialist.
Register for upcoming accessibility events
Register for upcoming accessibility events
CoLab - September 17, 2025, 9:00 to 10:30 AM
Next CoP meeting - October 8, 2025, 1:00 to 2:00 PM
Register via Eventbrite: Digital Accessibility Collection
CYBERSECURITY
CYBERSECURITY
K-12 Cybersecurity Fall Events
K-12 Cybersecurity Fall Events
PSU Cybersecurity Bootcamp - October 14-15, 2025 at Friday Institute, Raleigh, NC
The PSU Cybersecurity Bootcamp is an intense 2-day in-person training opportunity that will help PSUs fully leverage the NCDPI K-12 Cybersecurity Program services and resources, from KnowBe4 training and phishing campaigns to incident response planning. Ideal for technology directors, IT managers, and cybersecurity specialists, the Bootcamp provides practical guidance to strengthen your PSU’s cybersecurity posture and take full advantage of the NCDPI K-12 Cybersecurity Program.
Registration coming soon on DTL Eventbrite.
Spring 2025 PSU Cybersecurity Bootcamp: go.ncdpi.gov/Cybersecurity-Bootcamp-Slidedeck
PSU Incident Response Tabletop Exercises (TTX) - November 2025
TTX, or Tabletop Exercises, are a crucial component of incident response planning. They are structured discussions that simulate a cybersecurity incident in a controlled environment, allowing PSU teams to practice their response strategies without the pressure of a real event. TTX validate your documented incident response plan (remember you have access to the PSU Incident Response Toolkit if you don’t have an IR plan already)
Tentative plan to be part of November DLE sessions
NCTIES NEWS
NCTIES NEWS
NCTIES 2026 Conference:
NCTIES 2026 Conference:
March 4-6, 2026
March 4-6, 2026
NCTIES is thrilled to announce an outstanding lineup of featured speakers for our upcoming conference!
Keynote Speaker (March 5th): Sean Astin, Actor, Director, Producer & Mental Health Advocate.
Leadership Retreat (March 4th): Joe Sanfelippo will lead this dedicated session for PSU administrators and their teams.
Additional Featured Speakers: Ken Shelton, Jen Hall, Dee Lanier, Matt Miller, Caitlin Tucker, and Tyler Tarver.
North Carolina Representation: Marsha Sirkin (Director of Science House Coastal), Holly King (CTO Dare County), and Kimberley Thompson-Hairston (Director of Instructional Technology and Media / Public Information Officer).
Call for Proposals Now Open!
Our NCTIES March Conference Call for Proposals is currently open. Each selected proposal will receive complimentary registration (up to 2 presenters) to the conference, recognizing their valuable contributions and expertise.
Visit our NCTIES website (ncties.org) to sign up for information regarding NCTIES initiatives and to keep up with the latest news.
MultiLanguage
MultiLanguage
25-26 Professional Development Session Begins in OCTOBER!
NCDPI’s ML/Title III team is offering a professional development webinar series for the 2025-26 school year, designed for educators working with multilingual learners (MLs). It aims to strengthen instructional practices through collaborative, standards-based approaches.
Connected Teaching: Content, Collaboration, and Continuous Growth: Join us for the first session on October 8th as we explore collaborative, content-rich learning and ongoing reflection. Participants engage in active, work-embedded collaboration through shared planning, peer feedback, and co-teaching to strengthen instructional strategies and support student achievement. The session emphasizes continuous professional growth, creating a supportive community where teachers learn from each other, innovate, and improve classroom practices for MLs together.
Professional Development Series
ML/Title III 2025-26 Professional Development Series
From Planning to Practice:
Collaborative Cycles for Effective Content Instruction for ML Students
NCDPI’s ML/Title III team is offering a professional development webinar series for the 2025-26 designed for educators working with multilingual learners (MLs) and aims to strengthen instructional practices through collaborative, standards-based approaches.
Date & Time
Session Description
October 8th, 2025
3:30 - 5:00 PM
Connected Teaching: Content, Collaboration, and Continuous Growth
Join this PD with your colleagues! This session will guide your team through collaborative, content-rich learning and ongoing reflection. Participants engage in active, work-embedded collaboration through shared planning, peer feedback, and co-teaching to strengthen instructional strategies and support student achievement. The session emphasizes continuous professional growth, creating a supportive community where teachers learn from each other, innovate, and improve classroom practices for MLs together.
November 5th, 2025 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Effective Content Instruction for ML Students in Writing
Participants will explore research-based strategies for planning and scaffolding writing tasks across content areas. Participants will analyze mentor texts to identify key language features and explicitly teach language functions that support academic writing. The session will provide tools for offering meaningful feedback that advances expressive language skills. Educators will leave with actionable resources and approaches to make writing instruction accessible, engaging, and effective for all ML students.
January 21st, 2026
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Effective Content Instruction for ML Students in Speaking and Listening
This session offers educators strategies to strengthen ML students' speaking and listening skills during content instruction. Participants will learn to blend explicit language teaching with engaging, content-based activities and peer discussions, such as clear modeling, structured practice, and targeted feedback.
April 8th, 2026
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Effective Content Instruction for ML Students in Reading and Listening
Turn reading and listening into exciting adventures for your multilingual learners! Join us for a lively professional development session where you’ll discover creative, research-backed strategies to boost ML students’ skills while diving deep into meaningful content. Unlock the secrets to blending explicit language instruction with engaging, content-rich activities that make reading and listening come alive.
May 6th, 2026
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
ELD by Design: Applying the Standards Across Educational Roles
Ready to unlock the full potential of multilingual learners in your school? This dynamic professional development session invites educators, leaders, and support staff to dive into the NC English Language Development Standards and discover how easy it is to include language learning in your content area!
Physical Education
Computer Science Workshops
General Classroom PD
Integrating "Self Management" In Your Classroom: Discover practical strategies to help your students regulate emotions, set goals, and demonstrate self-discipline.
Password: Selfmanagement1 (Case Sensitive)
Integrating "Responsible Decision-Making" In Your Classroom: Strategies to empower your students to think critically, make ethical choices, and contribute positively to society.
Password: Responsible1 (Case Sensitive)
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