Practical. Timely. Transformational.

The Highly Engaged Classroom for 21^st Century Learners | Facilitated by Debbie McFalone, Ph.D. McFalone Consulting

Not only are classroom management and student discipline problems often cited in evaluations of “low skill” teachers, but student achievement is directly related to the teacher’s ability to engage 21st century students. Includes specific strategies that principals can share, as teachers develop relationships, integrate relevance into their lessons, and incorporate rigor into the curriculum.

The Highly Engaged Classroom for 21^st Century Learners (Repeated) | Facilitated by Debbie McFalone, Ph.D., McFalone Consulting

Not only are classroom management and student discipline problems often cited in evaluations of “low skill” teachers, but student achievement is directly related to the teacher’s ability to engage 21st century students. Includes specific strategies that principals can share, as teachers develop relationships, integrate relevance into their lessons, and incorporate rigor into the curriculum.

Formative Assessment in the RtI Framework  Facilitated by Eileen Depka, Ph.D., Solution Tree Author and Consultant

Frameworks and processes and assessment, oh my! What can be done to make the pieces fit togther? RTI is a framework. Formative assessment is a process. The structure of the RTI framework coupled with solid formative asssessment practices leads to data-based decisions that make a difference to the levels of success experienced by our students.This session will provide participants with tips, techniques and examples that are engaging, efficient, easy-to-use and effective. Join us for an exciting and informative tour of RTI in the Formative Assessment Framework.   

Current Legal Issues for School Administrators | Presented by Meg Hackett, J.D. of Thrun Law Firm

Legal troubles can be the undoing of even the most skilled principals. If you can't get out of your building for MEMSPA's day-long legal seminar in the Spring, make time in your schedule for this abbreviated session. One of Thrun Law's best will discuss parent rights and responsibilities, medications, special education basics, and - of course - the most current legislation having to do will bullying prevention and teacher evaluations. 

Conversations with Teachers to Improve Performance | Facilitated by Nancy Colflesh, Ph.D, Colflesh & Associates

Using Robyn Jackson's work, we will learn about and practice conversation strategies that help teachers improve their performance. Participants will learn the characteristics of and conversation techniques best suited for teachers who are 'low will / low skill', 'low will / high skill', 'high will / low skill', and 'high will / high skill'. Emphasis will be placed on those teachers who are, 'low will / low skill' and 'low will / high skill.'

Evaluating Instructional Effectiveness:
Ratings Based on Evidence* | Facilitated by Derek Wheaton, Mattawan Early Elementary School Principal

In this interactive session, participants will explore a fellow principal's journey into becoming certified as a proficient observer to assess teacher performance. He will share the lessons learned in filtering bias and personal preference and the challenges of scoring a complete observation in two domain areas using Danielson's framework. Video evidence will be viewed and discussed in the session.

iPads for Administrators | Facilitated by Nathan Bootz , Ed.S., Ithaca Public Schools Superintendent

This session will focus on the value of an Apple iPad for administrators, teachers and students, and how you can use this valuable tool. Session will focus on various applications, portability, and other uses that make the iPad a must for all administrators in your district. Presentation will include "what you need to consider" before going 1-to-1 in your district. A limited number of iPads will be available for participants to use and demo.

Brass Tacks: Tools to Lead Literacy  Facilitated by Sue Stauffacher, Random House Author & Literacy Consultant

With the upcoming implementation of common core standards, this session will help principals transmit to teachers effective literacy strategies, particularly regarding non-fiction reading and the engagement of struggling readers. Children’s book author Sue Stauffacher will share the best practices she has developed and learned from schools that have successfully created a vibrant literacy climate.