Professional Learning

The Winter/Spring catalog is now available! Registration is open and will close on January 16, 2025.

The NYS Teacher Centers statewide organization also offers additional free programs. Please feel free to check them out!

All courses in our catalog are completely online and asynchronous, except for CANVA. There is no set time to log on to the course. Tasks for each will need to be completed during the date range specified and will involve collaborative online dialogue. Please contact Cheryl Herman, cherman@onboces.org, with any questions. *Please note that the Teacher Center is no longer providing books for the studies. 

CANVA for Beginners: This course empowers educators to harness Canva’s tools to create engaging and interactive classroom materials. Explore how to design lesson plans, worksheets, presentations, and visual aids that enhance student engagement and learning. With an emphasis on Canva’s user-friendly features, this class provides the skills needed to elevate instructional content and foster a visually dynamic learning environment. No prior design experience is necessary. 3/5/25, 4-6pm at Veronica Connor Middle School, Grand Island, Deanna Przepiora

Rerouting; Resilience Tools and Tactics Online Book Study: During this study, we will dive into Duncan Kirkwood's book and examine strategies focused on giving you the life you want. Learn how to identify and eliminate problems while overcoming setbacks. Together we will explore the skills of resiliency and mental toughness. 1/15-3/12/25, 15 hours, Amy McMann

Classroom of Calm: How to Promote Student Engagement and Self-Regulation Online Book Study: This study will provide practical strategies to create a calm, engaging, and safe classroom. Explore neuroscience-based tools to foster emotional awareness, resilience, and psychological safety, empowering students and teachers alike. Learn how to support trauma-affected students, balance empathy with accountability, and build strong relationships, ensuring every learner can thrive. 2/24-3/17/25, 15 hours, Kyle Hurtgam

Motivating Students Who Don't Care Online Book Study: Discover practical, research-based strategies to re-engage even the most reluctant learners in this in-depth study. We will explore approaches that foster motivation and inspire students who struggle to find enthusiasm for learning. While this is a shorter title, we will also listen to podcast episodes by Jennifer Gonzalez and Angela Watson that also explore the idea of motivating students who are disinterested in learning. 3/10-3/27/25, 15 hours, Catherine Loncar

Rekindle Your Professional Fire: Powerful Habits for Becoming a More Well-Balanced Teacher Online Book Study: This study will empower teachers to find balance, reduce stress, and renew their passion for teaching. Based on Mike Anderson’s insights, we’ll explore practical ways to recharge, refocus, and restore well-being. Together, we’ll develop strategies to manage daily routines and build positive habits, enhancing both personal and professional fulfillment. 4/28-5/19/25, 15 hours, Lori Hurtgam