Scarsdale Elementary ELA News!

Professional Learning

At the core of every Scarsdale teacher is a lifelong learner. The District offers many opportunities for teachers to hone their craft and stay abreast of cutting-edge research and pedagogical practices. From the Scarsdale Teachers Institute (STI) to the Scarsdale Teacher Collaborative (ST@C) to our memberships and partnerships with experts in the field of literacy, teachers pursue learning interests collaboratively and individually. Ultimately, students benefit tremendously from teachers participating in professional learning communities, not only through the increased skills and expertise that they acquire, but also because the teachers themselves model learning.

District-Based Professional Development Workshops

The Districtwide Elementary ELA Workshops are thoughtfully designed to address the specific requests and needs identified by our teacher colleagues. These workshops offer targeted support to refine instructional practices, enhance student outcomes, and foster collaboration among educators. As teachers set their ELA goals, they are encouraged to register for workshops that align with their individual professional development plans. These optional workshops are heavily attended by elementary teachers across the District.

The District remains committed to providing high-quality professional development that empowers educators to continually grow and adapt their teaching practices. These workshops are part of an ongoing effort to support teachers in delivering engaging and effective ELA instruction. By participating, educators not only enhance their own skills, but also contribute to a collaborative learning community focused on excellence in literacy education.

Collegial Research Groups

The Collegial Research Group (CRG) brings together classroom and specialty area teacher-leaders and potential teacher-leaders from across the District. Teachers who volunteer to participate in the CRG will engage in a research study with colleagues Districtwide, along with an expert in the field of literacy in a teacher-driven specialized area of instruction. For the 2024-25 school year, teachers involved in the CRG will be learning with Yvonne Liu Constant, author of Pedagogy of Play and Practitioner Specialist, and Harvard's Project Zero.

Members of the District ELA Teacher-Researcher Collegial Group convene on specific days across the year in classrooms that have developed exemplary practices so that the group can research students, implement classroom practices, and reflect together. During these days together, K-5 experienced workshop teachers, ELA Coordinators, and our facilitator leader work shoulder-to-shoulder as researchers to pursue serious classroom-based inquiry.

Description of Teacher-Researcher Collegial Group at a Glance

Goals and Focus:

Exemplary Practices
Research Students
Implement Practices
Professional Reflection

Scarsdale Teachers Institute (STI)

The Scarsdale Teachers Institute (STI) supports innovative, teacher-driven, professional development and continuing learning in support of Scarsdale and Edgemont district goals. The STI offers over 100 workshops, seminars, guest lectures, and more per year to the faculty of the Scarsdale and Edgemont schools, neighboring school districts, and community residents. With a myriad of choices, teachers can participate and offer courses based on their passions, interests, and goals. A major focus of the STI is enhancing literacy learning at all levels of the district organization.

*See ELA Courses offered through the STI posted at the bottom of the page.

Scarsdale Teachers Collaborative (ST@C)

The Scarsdale Teachers Collaborative (ST@C) is a community of educators seeking to share ideas, collaborate, and learn together informally. These teacher-led classes allow teachers to engage in meaningful dialogue and professional growth, providing a glimpse into each other's classroom. Our teachers are creative professionals who possess unique skills across the science, craft, and art of teaching. The ST@C is a forum for teachers to share those gifts with their colleagues through voluntary teacher-run and attended sessions.

Professional Learning

📘 ELA Professional Development Opportunities

We are committed to supporting teachers with flexible and meaningful professional learning experiences. Throughout the year, you’ll have access to a variety of PD options designed to fit different schedules, needs, and teaching goals.

🏫 Half-Day Workshops (In-Person)

For those who prefer hands-on, in-depth learning, optional half-day workshops are offered during the school day. These sessions focus on topics such as preparing for upcoming units, exploring best practices, and refining instructional strategies. Sub coverage is provided when needed.

💻 Lunchtime Zoom Sessions (ST@Cs)

If you’d rather not miss classroom time, short online workshops are available, often held during lunch. These sessions provide a focused look at specific aspects of the ELA curriculum and instructional practices.

🌙 Afterschool/Weekend Courses (STI)

For those who want to go deeper and earn credit or stipends, afterschool and weekend courses are available. These sessions allow teachers to explore ELA topics in greater depth while also supporting professional growth and development.

If... Then... PD Guidance

ELA "If... Then..." PD Plan 2025_Shared

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