Secondary Professional Learning 


High School and Grades 6-12 PD Day:  

Monday, January 29, 2024

Join the Office of School Wellness Programs for professional learning opportunities for secondary teachers in the month of January.  We welcome teachers with availability during Regents Week and Monday, January 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., to connect with other DOE secondary-level teachers and wellness champions in professional learning webinar sessions specifically designed for improving instruction in PE and Health Education and the well-being of students attending grades 6-12 and 9-12 schools.

Educators may register to attend one, two, or three live 90-minute webinars or enroll in self-guided WeLearnNYC courses to complete in their own time.  Space is limited and live webinars will close as sessions reach capacity. Questions? Email your Borough Team. 

High School and Grades 6-12 Professional Development Day

Schedule of Webinars for Monday, January 29

CTLE:  Attendees will be awarded 90 minutes of CTLE for each eligible live webinar they attend, unless otherwise indicated. CTLE certificates (opens in new window) will be available for viewing, downloading, and printing after Tuesday, February 6, 2024. (Access to CTLE certificates is not available on mobile devices or tablets; you must use a desktop or laptop computer.)

Live Webinars: Monday, January 29, 2024 

Session 1  (9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.)  

This session, presented by Neil Como, of the American Heart Association (opens in new window), provides an overview of Hands Only CPR (the same CPR that all NY state high school students have as a graduation requirement) and how to double or triple a sudden cardiac arrest victims chance of survival by using this method. This session will summarize the New York State requirements on CPR and AEDs as a graduation requirements, review who can teach CPR in a school, as well as address common questions and concerns. The steps to save a life are simple, you will learn how to identify a sudden cardiac arrest and how to respond. Participants from 6-12 schools who complete this session will be eligible to apply a free CPR kit for their school (limited quantities available). (Grades 6-12)  


In this interactive webinar, presented by Kerri Tracey, of Size Inclusivity in Schools (opens in new window), participants will learn how to reduce weight stigma and bias by debunking common ideas about obesity and BMI. Participants will explore how weight-based bias occurs in schools and issues with diet culture ideals. Resources and next steps for creating inclusive curricula and spaces where all students feel welcome and affirmed will be provided. (Grades 9-12)  


This session, presented by Advocates for Youth (opens in a new window), provides an overview of contraceptive care for adolescents including an overview of a patient/student-centered approach to contraceptive care, discussions of available birth control methods, and a description of a clinical visit for contraceptive care. This session is facilitated by a physician with expertise in adolescent sexual and reproductive health and participants will have the opportunity to practice answering common student questions about contraception from a non-medical perspective and address the safety of contraceptive methods and decision-making process involved. (Grades 9-12)


In this webinar, presented by Dr. Natasha Ramsey, (@Gorjus_SexEd, www.gorjusdoc.com) participants will review the basics of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including types, prevalence, transmission, and common misconceptions.  Teachers explore resources on effective prevention measures, safe practices, and testing recommendations to reduce transmission. Participants will walk away with increased awareness regarding reproductive injustices in history and the importance of centering reproductive justice in discussions related to sexually transmitted infections. (Grades 9-12)


Track and Field Coach Training, Special Olympics 

This training session will provide a full training on how to run a track & field training program through Special Olympics NY (opens in new window).   Coaches will learn the rules and regulations of the sport, as well as how to structure a season of training to meet the needs of a wide range of abilities.  Special Olympics New York will provide a wide range of age-appropriate resources for all grade levels. Through the partnership between Special Olympics NY and NYC Public Schools, there will be opportunities for students both during the school day and on weekends, typically in the months of May and June. This sport specific training is the second step in the process to becoming a Level II certified coach with Special Olympics New York; participants MUST also complete a general introduction to Special Olympics NY online prior to attending this session. (Grades 6-12)


Teaching Food and Nutrition for All

In this interactive webinar, presented by Laurie M. Tisch Center for Food, Education & Policy, Teachers College Columbia University (opens in new window), participants explore how to inspire students to make food choices that are good for their health as well as good for ecological sustainability. Skills covered include learning research-based strategies to motivate students to want to change their eating, providing practical knowledge and skills and creating active plans for changing behavior. Teachers walk away with links to resources that include lesson plans, books, and articles ready for classroom use. (Grades 9-12)


Coaching 101

Join New York Road Runners (opens in new window) for a professional development module that will focus on the fundamentals of being a good coach and some best practices. They will highlight how to set up the optimal learning environment, give effective cues, and feedback that fosters confidence in your athletes. (Grades 9-12)


Strategies for Secondary Curriculum Mapping in Physical Education - REGISTRATION CLOSED

In this interactive webinar presented by the Office of School Wellness Programs, through discussion and collaboration, participants will explore key strategies needed to create a curriculum that prioritizes secondary Physical Education (PE) learning outcomes, content spiraling and creating assessments that showcase student learning. The Backwards Design process and principles of Universal Design will be introduced, as well as how these design theories impact curriculum mapping and instructional practices. (Grades 6-12)


Modernizing Physical Education: Best Practices and Emerging Instructional Strategies - REGISTRATION CLOSED

In this webinar,  presented by Physical Education Instructional Lead, Anthony Carrano of District 20, participants will review the elements of a quality Physical Education (PE) lesson. Participants will review a brief history of PE and explore how these practices have evolved over the years. Finally, participants will discuss specific resources and supports available today that did not exist previous to 2015. Participants will leave the session with tangible strategies to improve their PE program and practice their savvy skills to access the latest resources and instructional strategies for a contemporary PE program.. (Grades 6-12)

Session  2  (10:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.)  

This session, presented by Neil Como, of the American Heart Association (opens in new window), provides an overview of Hands Only CPR (the same CPR that all NY state high school students have as a graduation requirement) and how to double or triple a sudden cardiac arrest victims chance of survival by using this method. This session will summarize the New York State requirements on CPR and AEDs as a graduation requirements, review who can teach CPR in a school, as well as address common questions and concerns. The steps to save a life are simple, you will learn how to identify a sudden cardiac arrest and how to respond. Participants from 6-12 schools who complete this session will be eligible to apply a free CPR kit for their school (limited quantities available). (Grades 6-12)  


Basketball Coach Training, Special Olympics

This training session will provide a full training on how to run a competitive basketball training program through Special Olympics NY (opens in new window). Coaches will learn the rules and regulations of the sport, as well as how to structure a season of training to meet the needs of a wide range of abilities. Basketball can be run as a traditional or a Unified sports program, providing opportunities for both special education and general education students to train and compete.  There are a variety avenues of participation available for students, depending on the age and ability of the athlete. Basketball is a spring sport (March - June), and competitive events will be available both during the school day and on weekends.  League play is available for both traditional and Unified teams. This sport specific training is the second step in the process to becoming a Level II certified basketball coach with Special Olympics New York; participants MUST also complete a general introduction to Special Olympics NY online prior to attending this session. (Grades 6-12)


Coaching 101

Join New York Road Runners (opens in new window) for a professional development module that will focus on the fundamentals of being a good coach and some best practices. They will highlight how to set up the optimal learning environment, give effective cues, and feedback that fosters confidence in your athletes. (Grades 9-12)


This interactive workshop, presented by the CATCH Program (NYC Department of Mental Health and Hygiene), allows participants the opportunity to gain more foundational skills around teaching consent and effective communication strategies with students. Through the use of short videos, group discussions, and engaging activities, educators will be able to strengthen their own understanding around consent, as well as leave with new materials to use in their classrooms. We will be exploring topics pertaining to condom negotiation skills, the layers of consent, and different aspects of communication. Recommended for high school teachers and educators, but can also be applicable for middle school teachers. (Grades 9-12) 


In this workshop, presented by the Office of School Wellness Programs, participants will learn the who, what, why, where, and how of providing adapted physical education for students with disabilities. Topics will include the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act, evaluation procedures, the least restrictive environment, 504s, the physical educator’s role in the IEP process, as well as what professional learning opportunities, resources, and supports are available for teachers. (Grades 6-12)



Join us for a presentation on how to increase trust and influence in the high school setting with mental performance coach and author James Leath. Learn how authenticity, ownership, and credibility play crucial roles in strengthening your coaching relationships. This session offers insights and actionable tips to help you connect with your students on a deeper level and enhance your teaching and coaching impact.  (Grades 9-12)


Vaping Prevention - How Your School Can Use the CATCH My Breath Program - REGISTRATION CLOSED 

*Session 3 VAPING workshop still has capacity

The goal of the CATCH My Breath NYC initiative (opens in new window) is to reduce the initiation of nicotine vaping by middle and high school students by building the capacity of educators to deliver nicotine vaping prevention education to students and parents, and by empowering students to choose and advocate for a vape-free lifestyle. Participants who complete the 90-minute CATCH My Breath Implementation Training will be trained to implement the CATCH My Breath program for grades 5-12 within their community. The training includes information on the youth vaping epidemic, laws, and policies, an in-depth look at the evidence-based CATCH My Breath curriculum, a demonstration on how to facilitate a CATCH My Breath session, and a review of parent and caregiver outreach materials. (Grades 6-12)


Introduction to Health Education: Strategies for Skills-Based Instruction REGISTRATION CLOSED

In this interactive webinar, participants will learn instructional best practices needed to implement skills-based comprehensive health education so that students acquire the skills and knowledge they need to make healthy choices. Skills covered include advocacy, communication, decision-making, and goal setting and they are applied to mental health, physical activity, nutrition, drug prevention, and violence and injury prevention.  Participants will learn how to access the NYCPS-recommended HealthSmart curriculum, including slide decks in English and Spanish. (Grades 6-12)

Session 3  (1:00 p.m.- 2:30 p.m.) 

Join us for a presentation on how to increase trust and influence in the high school setting with mental performance coach and author James Leath. Learn how authenticity, ownership, and credibility play crucial roles in strengthening your coaching relationships. This session offers insights and actionable tips to help you connect with your students on a deeper level and enhance your teaching and coaching impact.  (Grades 9-12)


The Dangers of Fentanyl: What You and Your Students Need to Know

Join the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor as they share important, preventative information to help combat fentanyl use in New York City and explain how fentanyl deaths often occur in people who are unaware that they have taken fentanyl. As part of a community outreach component to educate young New Yorkers on the dangerousness of fentanyl, the presentation will explain what fentanyl is, why it is so dangerous, and how and why so many people are dying, with a focus on what you and your students can do to prevent it from happening. Jot down your questions during the presentation and get them answered in the Q&A section at the end of the workshop. Upon completion of the workshop, health educators can request several options for turn keying this information to their school community, including requesting both English and Spanish PowerPoint presentations to share and/or requesting a presentation for your students.  (Grades 6-12)


In this interactive webinar, participants will be introduced to the concepts and skills taught within grades 9-12 of the required Growing Up and Staying Safe: New York City K-12 HIV Education Curriculum. By the end of the training, participants will be able to reflect on their grade level scope and sequence to increase familiarity and build confidence, describe the relevance of the concepts and skills within selected lessons to HIV education, and practice one skill from the National Health Education Standards that supports healthy student behaviors in their grade level. (Grades 9-12)


In this interactive webinar, participants will be introduced to the concepts and skills taught within grades 6-8 of the required Growing Up and Staying Safe: New York City K-12 HIV Education Curriculum. By the end of the training, participants will be able to reflect on their grade level scope and sequence to increase familiarity and build confidence, describe the relevance of the concepts and skills within selected lessons to HIV education, and practice one skill from the National Health Education Standards that supports healthy student behaviors in their grade level. (Grades 6-8)


Let’s Build: Creating a Culturally Responsive Health Education Program

In this interactive session, presented by Cairn Guidance (opens in new window), participants will have the opportunity to brainstorm and discuss what components and elements should be present in a high-quality health education classroom. Participants will then spend time designing and building a learning environment that promotes inclusive, culturally responsive, skills-based instruction that will foster high-quality health education. By the conclusion of this workshop, participants will have generated a list of effective strategies that can be implemented in their health education learning spaces. (Grades 6-12)

Grades are based on thoughtfully identified criteria that are aligned with course goals and national standards.  Students should know the components of and criteria included in their grade, and the rationale behind each.  In this session, Physical and Health Education Instructional Leads from District 25 Diana Stein, and District 9 Cristina Rios, will explore how to update and regenerate grading policies to focus on student growth and learning.  This session will be grounded in the Chancellors Regulations and SHAPE America, with a focus on best practices in creating a meaningful and equitable approach to grading in physical education. (Grades 6-12)


In this interactive webinar, participants review the Fitness Education Cycle and an introduction to the NYC FITNESSGRAM assessments and associated resources. Participants will review the components of fitness, and the protocols and instructions for each assessment included in NYC FITNESSGRAM. Appropriate practices for conducting assessments will be introduced and discussed along with resources needed to conduct the assessments. After completion of this webinar, eligible PE teachers (opens in new window) will receive access to the NYC FITNESSGRAM web-based application to enter student scores and can request the FitnessGram® Administration Manual (limited supplies).  (Grades 6-12)



The goal of the CATCH My Breath NYC initiative (opens in new window) is to reduce the initiation of nicotine vaping by middle and high school students by building the capacity of educators to deliver nicotine vaping prevention education to students and parents, and by empowering students to choose and advocate for a vape-free lifestyle. Participants who complete the 90-minute CATCH My Breath Implementation Training will be trained to implement the CATCH My Breath program for grades 5-12 within their community. The training includes information on the youth vaping epidemic, laws, and policies, an in-depth look at the evidence-based CATCH My Breath curriculum, a demonstration on how to facilitate a CATCH My Breath session, and a review of parent and caregiver outreach materials. (Grades 6-12)


Volleyball Coach Training, Special Olympics

This training session will provide a full training on how to run a volleyball training program through Special Olympics NY (opens in new window).  Coaches will learn the rules and regulations of the sport, as well as how to structure a season of training to meet the needs of a wide range of abilities.  Special Olympics New York will provide a wide range of age-appropriate resources for all grade levels. Through the partnership between Special Olympics NY and NYC Public Schools, there will be opportunities for students both during the school day and on weekends, typically in the months of May and June.  This sport specific training is the second step in the process to becoming a Level II certified coach with Special Olympics New York; participants MUST also complete a general introduction to Special Olympics NY online prior to attending this session.  (Grades 6-12)


Enroll in Self-Guided Courses and Complete on Your Own Time

Health Education

Introduction to Health Education: Secondary Requirements and Resources (6-12) Self-Guided Course (CTLE: 45 minutes) 

In this self-guided WeLearnNYC course, participants will learn about the impact of Health Education on student outcomes, the required components of Health Education in NYC, and where to find resources to support Health Education lesson planning. 

HIV Education

HIV Education: Introduction to Requirements and Resources (K-12) Self-Guided Course  (CTLE: 45 minutes)

In this self-guided WeLearnNYC course, participants will review a skills-based approach to HIV education. Participants will leave equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to implement Growing Up and Staying Safe: New York City K-12 HIV Education Curriculum.

Physical Education

Fitness Education and NYC FITNESSGRAM (K-12) Self-Guided Course  (CTLE: 3 hours)

In this self-guided WeLearnNYC course, participants will learn why fitness education is an essential component of teaching PE and review strategies and tips for administering the NYC FITNESSGRAM assessments.  After successful completion of this course, eligible PE teachers (opens in new window) will receive access to the NYC FITNESSGRAM web-based application and can request the Physical Best 4th Edition textbook (limited supplies). 

Note: This training was formerly referred to as “PE Basics 1: Asynchronous Course” and will cover the same content. If you have PE Basics 1 on your Events/CTLE record (opens in new window), then you do not need to take this course. 

Safe and Supportive Schools for LGBTQ+ Students

Introduction to LGBTQ+ Concepts and Terminology (K-12) Self-Guided Course (CTLE: 45 minutes) 

In this self-guided WeLearnNYC course, participants will  examine concepts and terminology like sex assigned at birth, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and discuss creating an inclusive environment that benefits all students by promoting diversity. 

Share Your Experience

Share your Professional Development Day experience using these hash tags: #NYCSchoolWellness, #Teachers4wellness, #PEHealthEd, #MovetoImproveNYC

Read and share the social media guidelines to understand your responsibilities for keeping yourself, students, and families safe online, available on the NYCPS' Digital Citizenship page (opens in new window).

Please note: By participating  in the live webinars, you are opting into email communications from partner organization(s). These communications may include, but are not limited to, organization resources, future opportunities, and promotional offers from the organization(s). 

Professional Learning Policies and Expectations 


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