2024-2025
2024-2025
Embedded Files
September
September
Mission Checkup: Are Your Assignments On Grade Level?
When & Where:
Wednesday, September 25th
4:15PM - 5:15PM
@VCIS - Learning Lab
Target Audience:
Any Grade Level, Any Subject Area
Description:
In this presentation, participants will identify what rigor means and why it's important in education. They will discover a process to audit assignments to ensure grade level instruction is happening. Participants will also explore tools and ideas to make assignments more challenging.
About the Facilitators:
Lindsey Hooper
Lindsey Hooper
Lindsey Hooper is a Reading Learning Support Specialist at Valley Center Middle School. Prior to her current role, Lindsey taught ELA and Science in Maize and Math, Social Studies, and ELA in Haysville all at the Middle School level. Lindsey will be finishing her Literacy graduate program in December!
Megan Thompson
Megan Thompson
Megan Thompson is a Math Learning Support Specialist at Valley Center Middle School. Prior to her current role, Megan taught Special Education Math at Valley Center Intermediate School and Valley Center Middle School. She holds a masters degree in Special Education from Wichita State University and a masters degree in Building Leadership from Baker University. In addition to that, Megan has her ESOL endorsement.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
Presentation Resources:
Click here for link to presentation
October
October
Connecting Across Languages: Simple Tips for Engaging Multilingual Families
When & Where:
Wednesday, October 30th
4:15PM - 5:15PM
@VCIS - Jeannette's Classroom, Room C16
Target Audience:
Any Grade Level, Any Subject Area
Description:
Participants will learn practical strategies for effectively communicating and building strong connections with multilingual families. The session will cover how to easily utilize translation tools and what interpreter services the district currently has available to best communicate with families who require information in a language other than English. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming language barriers, fostering family engagement, and enhancing the school-home relationship to support the success of all students.
About the Facilitator:
Jeannette Blackwell
Jeannette Blackwell
Jeannette Blackwell graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Wichita State University in 2008. She went on to receive her Master's Degree from Newman University in 2011 with an emphasis in English as a Second Language. Jeannette has classroom teacher experience in 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. This will be her 17th year in education, and her 8th in Valley Center. She is currently the ESOL Specialist at Valley Center Intermediate School and Valley Center Middle School.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
Presentation Resources:
Be on the lookout for a follow-up training on this soon!!
November
November
KITE Mini Tests: What Are They? How Do I Use Them?
When & Where:
Wednesday, November 13th
4:15PM - 5:15PM
@VCIS - Learning Lab
Target Audience:
3rd - 8th, and 10th Grade ELA, Math, and Science Teachers
Description:
Participants will learn how to access their KITE educator portal account, build or copy a mini-test, assign the mini test, access the report of the mini test, and learn about the updated interactive view with immediate feedback for students.
About the Facilitator:
Tia MAssey
Tia MAssey
Tia Massey is one of the Academic Support Coordinators for USD262. Prior to her current role, she was Valley Center Intermediate School's Math Learning Support Specialist. She also taught 4th Grade at Valley Center Intermediate School and West Elementary and spent 5 years teaching in Derby USD260 before joining Valley Center Schools. Tia Massey graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Evangel University with an emphasis in Intercultural Studies from Uganda Christian University. She went on to receive both of her Master Degrees from Emporia State University in Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Administration. In addition to that, Tia is a trained LETRS Facilitator and has her ESOL Endorsement and Building Leadership Licensure.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
December
December
Classroom Management and Effective Systems
When & Where:
Wednesday, December 4th
4:15PM - 5:15PM
@VCIS - Learning Lab
Target Audience:
Anyone, New Teachers/ Anyone Needing a Refresh
Description:
If behavior is a problem, often improving classroom management techniques can help teachers provide students with more opportunities for success. With tools and techniques from this PD, you'll be able to build a thriving, positive learning environment for your students and for you.
About the Facilitators:
Gwen McDonald
Gwen McDonald
Gwen McDonald is in her 11th year of teaching with experience in 2nd - 6th grade. She is currently the Math Learning Support Specialist at VCIS; and previously worked in 428. Gwen just finished her Masters in Education Administration through Emporia State. Outside of school she enjoys spending time with her husband, Kevin and their 3 children, Lee, Savannah, and Natalie.
Aryn Sander
Aryn Sander
Aryn Sander is in her 5th year of teaching 4th grade. This is her 2nd year in Valley Center as a 4th grade math teacher; and previously worked 3 years in 259. She has a background in criminology and social work. Aryn is working on her Master's in Education Administration through Emporia State. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé, Adam, and their son, AJ.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
Presentation Resources:
Click here for link to presentation.
Bond Update with Superintendent Mr. Lehr
When & Where:
Wednesday, December 11th
4:15PM - 5:15PM
Virtual: Google Meet - Link will be in calendar invite sent after registration
Target Audience:
Anyone
Description:
Participants will be given a quick update on some of the most common questions regarding the bond process. How is the bond work going? How will staffing be determined for the new elementary school? How will we know which students will attend the new elementary school?
About the Facilitator:
Greg Lehr
Greg Lehr
After graduating from Valley Center High School in 1996, Mr. Lehr received his bachelor's degree in education from Kansas State University in 2002, his master's degree in school leadership from Baker University in 2008, and his district-level licensure from Emporia State University in 2020.
Mr. Lehr has broad educational experience. He began his teaching career as a teacher and coach at Garden City High School from 2002 to 2004, was a teacher and coach at Hesston High School from 2004 to 2005, and was a coach and teacher at Newton High School from 2005 to 2010. In 2010, Mr. Lehr rejoined the district he graduated from when he became assistant principal of Valley Center Middle School. From 2013 to 2022, he was principal of Valley Center Intermediate School. In 2022, he briefly left USD 262 when he was selected as Superintendent of Schools for USD 439, Sedgwick Public Schools. During his time at Sedgwick, Mr. Lehr had been involved with a $13.8 million bond project, developed a strategic plan, and updated business and employee systems. He has also served on the Ark Valley Special Education Cooperative's Executive Board alongside the superintendents from the Burrton and Valley Center school districts.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
January
January
AI Tools for the Classroom
When & Where:
Wednesday, January 22nd
4:15PM - 5:15PM
Virtual: Zoom link will be in calendar invite sent after registration
Target Audience:
Any Grade Level, Any Subject Area
Description:
This session will delve into specific AI-driven tools designed to enhance teaching and learning. Educators will explore a range of tools that can assist with lesson planning, student engagement, grading, and content creation. By automating time-consuming tasks, these tools empower educators to focus on fostering personalized learning experiences for students. This session is suitable for educators from all backgrounds and grade levels.
About the Facilitator:
Ronnie Williams
Ronnie Williams
Ronnie is a technology integration specialist at Greenbush with a background in education. As a former teacher and principal, he understands the challenges and opportunities educators face in the digital age. Ronnie is passionate about helping educators embrace technology with a blend of humor and expertise. He's known for sharing innovative tools and making learning engaging.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
Connecting Across Languages: Simple Tips for Engaging Multilingual Families
Take 2
Due to a severe storm, the October meeting had to be cut short, and we are now restarting the session from the beginning. If you participated in October but were unable to complete the session with Jeannette Blackwell, this is an excellent opportunity to revisit and recap the material covered. Additionally, we warmly welcome anyone new who was unable to attend previously to join us for this outstanding professional development experience.
When & Where:
Wednesday, January 29th
4:15PM - 5:15PM
@VCIS - Learning Lab
Target Audience:
Any Grade Level, Any Subject Area
Description:
Participants will learn practical strategies for effectively communicating and building strong connections with multilingual families. The session will cover how to easily utilize translation tools and what interpreter services the district currently has available to best communicate with families who require information in a language other than English. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming language barriers, fostering family engagement, and enhancing the school-home relationship to support the success of all students.
About the Facilitator:
Jeannette Blackwell
Jeannette Blackwell
Jeannette Blackwell graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Wichita State University in 2008. She went on to receive her Master's Degree from Newman University in 2011 with an emphasis in English as a Second Language. Jeannette has classroom teacher experience in 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. This will be her 17th year in education, and her 8th in Valley Center. She is currently the ESOL Specialist at Valley Center Intermediate School and Valley Center Middle School.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
March
March
Inclusion in the General Education Classroom
When & Where:
Wednesday, March 26th
4:15PM - 5:15PM
@VCIS Learning Lab
Target Audience:
Elementary (PreK-5), Any Subject Area
Description:
This dynamic Professional Development session is specifically designed for General Education teachers, equipping them with practical strategies to successfully navigate inclusion and effectively implement accommodations for students with IEPs, 504s, and ILPs. Participants will gain valuable insights into fostering an inclusive classroom environment while collaborating seamlessly with Special Education professionals. The session will introduce a variety of actionable tools and techniques tailored to enhance teaching practices for both General and Special Education teachers, ensuring every student’s unique needs are met with confidence and care.
About the Facilitators:
Cami Kingsley
Cami Kingsley
Cami Kingsley is an I.S. teacher at Valley Center Intermediate School. She brings valuable experience to her role, having previously served as a Mixed Abilities educator and paraprofessional, where she developed a strong foundation in supporting diverse learning needs.
Dallas Richardson
Dallas Richardson
Dallas Richardson is a dedicated 4th-grade ELA teacher at Valley Center Intermediate School, currently in her second year at the school and fourth year in the teaching profession. Prior to her current role, she taught 2nd grade, gaining valuable experience in fostering foundational skills and nurturing a love of learning in younger students. She is passionate about creating innovative and inclusive lessons that accommodate the diverse needs of all students, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. As both an educator and a mother, education is a central part of her life. She and her husband, who teaches at the middle school, are proud to be part of the USD 262 community and have greatly enjoyed their time contributing to its success.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
Presentation Resources:
April
April
Strengthening GEI Teams: Enhancing Collaboration & Intervention
When & Where:
Wednesday, April 9th
4:15PM - 5:15PM
@VCIS Learning Lab
Target Audience:
GEI facilitators, members of GEI teams
Description:
This professional development session is designed as a refresher for participants who have already completed the General Education Intervention (GEI) Facilitator Training, as well as for those who are part of their building’s GEI teams and wish to gain more insight and hands-on practice. Through this session, participants will revisit core concepts in the Collaborative Inquiry Cycle, explore effective intervention strategies, clarify team roles, and navigate available resources. This training will provide interactive opportunities for reflection, problem-solving, and skill-building to strengthen your ability to support student success.
About the Facilitators:
Mandy Cundy
Mandy Cundy
Mandy is currently the Special Education Coordinator for the Ark Valley Special Education Cooperative, serving the districts of Burrton, Sedgwick, and Valley Center. She has been in education for 24 years, with 22 of those years as a school psychologist, where she was deeply involved in collaborative problem-solving and facilitating team-based decision-making. Mandy has many years of experience working on general education intervention teams, leading data-driven discussions, and supporting multidisciplinary teams in identifying and implementing effective interventions for students.
Jessica MEfford
Jessica MEfford
Jessica is a school psychologist at West Elementary and VCIS, and she’s passionate about supporting students. With 16 years of experience in education, she’s worked closely with problem-solving teams in her schools and districts. Jessica is especially dedicated to strengthening general education intervention teams, and she’s been an active member of the GEI district team since 2021.
Katie Orr
Katie Orr
Katie Orr is an experienced educator who has served as a classroom teacher, learning support specialist, and instructional coach. Now an Academic Support Coordinator in the Office of Academic Affairs, she enjoys leading data-driven discussions, facilitating professional development, and collaborating with educators. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Kansas State University in 2007 and her Master of Curriculum and Instruction from Wichita State University in 2010. Her credentials include National Board Certification in Literacy: Reading-Language Arts, endorsements in Middle School Social Studies, Reading Specialist, ESOL, School Leadership PK-12, as well as district level licensure.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
AI-Powered Differentiation: Tools & Strategies for Personalizing Instruction
When & Where:
Wednesday, April 23rd
4:15PM - 5:15PM
Virtual: Zoom link will be in calendar invite sent after registration
Target Audience:
Any Grade Level, Any Subject Area
Description:
By the end of this professional development session, teachers will have hands-on experience with at least two AI tools that can make differentiation more efficient and effective. They will walk away with a newly created differentiated lesson component they can use immediately, along with ideas and confidence to continue exploring AI’s potential for personalized learning.
About the Facilitator:
Ronnie Williams
Ronnie Williams
Ronnie is a technology integration specialist at Greenbush with a background in education. As a former teacher and principal, he understands the challenges and opportunities educators face in the digital age. Ronnie is passionate about helping educators embrace technology with a blend of humor and expertise. He's known for sharing innovative tools and making learning engaging.
Registration Information:
Registration is closed
Presentation Resources:
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