Professional Learning Courses

1. Participate in Training

A school district or other educational provider offers a training, workshop, or professional
development. You complete it to their standards.

2. Request Registration

Use the link provided by your school district or other educational provider to fill out the request for
registration form on-line. This lets WSU know you want graduate credit for the training you’ve completed and to proceed with registering you--you won’t register yourself. A video tutorial for this process is included on the next accordian tab.

3. Apply for Admission

If you’re not currently admitted as a non-degree student in the Learning & Instructional Design program, you’ll need to apply for admission to the WSU Graduate School under this program. A video tutorial for this process is included on the last accordian tab below.

If you were admitted to this program and have taken a course in the last two years, you can skip this
step.

4. Make Payment when Notified

It may be several weeks between the time you are notified that your request from registration has been received and registration taking place. When registration has been completed on your behalf, you will be contacted and provided instructions for making payment.

5. Request Transcripts

Instructions will be provided about how to request a transcript when registration is complete. Pay close attention to the date you are told grades will be posted, so the transcript you request has the new credit listed. Skip this step if you don’t need a transcript.

To download a PDF document of these steps for printing or distribution, click here . 

Each district or organization partnering with the College of Applied Studies has been provided instructions with a link to request registration; new instructions are created each semester. If you did not receive these instructions, please contact the instructor of your professional development or email Grant.Seymour@wichita.edu to obtain a copy; be sure to include with your email the district/organization and when you are completing the professional development.

This link is to the Non-Degree B Graduate Application .

Tip: Be sure to select Learning & Instructional Design as the program department and double check that you are applying for the appropriate semseter, given courses are offered for the semester after the professional development has been completed (see table below for example).

The semester the professional development was completed:	The semester course credit is available:	The semester admission should be requested by new students:
Fall 2024 -->	Spring 2025 -->	Spring 2025
Spring 2025 -->	Summer 2025 -->	Summer 2025
Summer 2025 -->	Fall 2025 -->	Fall 2025

Title	Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling Volume 1 (Year 1)
Presenter	Traci Holder (coordinator)
Dates	9/23/2024  11/4/2024  1/3/2025  4/21/2025
Time	Varied
Location	Online unit completion plus four in-person training sessions at Andover District Office
Audience	PK-12 teachers who teach reading; elementary admins
Credit Hours	4
Course Description	This course provides teachers with the skills they need to master the fundamentals of reading instruction – phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, and language. This experience strengthens teachers’ knowledge of language structure, the development of the reading brain, and how to nurture the development of foundational literacy skills. Part 1 includes four units:  The Challenge of Learning to Read; The Speech Sounds of English; Teaching Beginning Phonics, Word Recognition, and Spelling; and Advanced Decoding, Spelling, and Word Recognition.

---

Title	Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling Volume 2 (Year 2)
Presenter	Traci Holder (coordinator)
Dates	9/23/2024  11/4/2024  1/3/2025  4/21/2025
Time	Varied
Location	Online unit completion plus four in-person training sessions at Andover District Office
Audience	PK-12 teachers who teach reading; elementary admins
Credit Hours	4
Course Description	This course provides teachers with the skills they need to master the fundamentals of reading instruction – phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, and language. This experience strengthens teachers’ knowledge of language structure, the development of the reading brain, and how to nurture the development of foundational literacy skills. Volume 2 addresses vocabulary, comprehension, and writing.

---

Title	Regulation and Co-Regulation: Accessible Neuroscience and Connection Strategies that Bring Calm into the Classroom
Presenter	Stacey Ryan and Janelle Tittsworth
Dates	February 7 - March 14
Time	5 weeks, Self-Paced
Location	Online
Audience	PreK-12 Educators
Credit Hours	1
Course Description	Both children and adults experience moments of dysregulation. Regulation and Co-Regulation: Accessible Neuroscience and Connection Strategies that Bring Calm into the Classroom provides educators with knowledge and strategies to help manage stressful situations. This course will consist of reading, reflection, and classroom application.

---

Title	Canva for the Classroom
Presenter	Micah Brown
Dates	January 31 - March 7
Time	Self-paced 5 weeks
Location	Online
Audience	K-12 Educators
Credit Hours	1
Course Description	Discover the power of Canva for Education in this self-paced online course designed specifically for educators. Over five weeks, you'll explore the basics of Canva, find ways to enhance your teaching, and learn how to have your students use this versatile digital tool. Each week, you'll dive into a module with readings, videos, and application activities.

---

Title	Mastering Google Workspace for Education
Presenter	Rachel Meenen
Dates	01/31/25-03/07/25
Time	5 weeks
Location	Self-Paced Online and Optional Zoom
Audience	PreK-12 Educators
Credit Hours	1
Course Description	Google Workspace can be so much more than a word doc, a spreadsheet, or slides. During this course, we will cover some basics if you are just looking to get started with a tool or go a little deeper for those of you who are ready to learn some new tips and tricks! Assignments will consist of learning and application and there will be optional Zoom meetings to attend in place of online work.

---

Title	Teach Like a Champion 3.0 - Part 2
Presenter	Stacey Ryan
Dates	January 31 to March 7
Time	Part 2: 5 weeks, self-paced online
Location	Online
Audience	PK-12 Teachers
Credit Hours	1
Course Description	Teach Like a Champion 3.0 by Doug Lemov explores the craft of teaching and serves as a comprehensive guide for both new and veteran educators looking to enhance their teaching. The book offers 63 practical ideas and proven techniques supported by research to engage students, manage classrooms effectively, and foster a positive learning environment.   *Participants will read, reflect on, and apply techniques from the second half of the book. This course is for participants who have already completed Teach Like a Champion 3.0 - Part 1.

 

Course Title: Emotional Poverty in All Demographics

Instructor Name, Title, and Contact Information: Casie Davis, Teacher, cdavis@usd402.com
Dates: January 2025 - May 2025
Time: Online/No specific time
Location: Google Classroom
Audience: Any educator

Credit Hours / Range of Credit Hours: 1 credit hour

Course Description: Address anger, anxiety, and violence in the classroom with strategies and best practices that work in classrooms. Under-resourced students, wealthy students, and students in all demographics can benefit from calming and healing techniques Ruby Payne, author of A Framework for Understanding Poverty, shares in this book. Provides understandings of origins of anger, anxiety, and avoidance. Gives a language to talk about brain regulation, integration, and emotional competence. Provides tools for educators to address and reduce anger, anxiety, and avoidance. Helps educators manage the “classroom dance” that occurs between the educator and the students. Provides the tools to motivate good behavior and identifies the differences in male and female emotional processing. 

Class Description: The Science of Language and Literacy professional development will provide teachers with the skills they need to master the fundamentals of reading instruction – phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, and language. This experience strengthens teachers’ knowledge of language structure, the development of the reading brain, and how to nurture the development of foundational literacy skills. The Science of Language and Literacy will build the knowledge and skills so that teachers can be more successful with locally selected curriculum and interventions. 
 
Science of Language and Literacy 1: (3 credit hours) 
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester 
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time 
 
Science of Language and Literacy 2: (3 credit hours) 
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester 
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time 
 
Science of Language and Literacy 3: (3 credit hours) 
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester 
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time 
 
Science of Language and Literacy 4: (3 credit hours) 

In-person training: 16 hours total per semester 
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time 

 

Helping Young People Learn Self-Regulation (Brad Chapin) April 4 (8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.) (.5 credit) 

This seminar, Helping Young People Learn Self-Regulation: Teaching Impulse Control to Students Grades K-12, the presenter will provide recommendations and strategies that you will be able to use with all students, and in particular with students who have behavioral and/or emotional self-control issues. Included will be practical insights, recommendations and learning activities that are based upon the evidence-based approaches used in cognitive-behavior psychology. The content of this seminar is consistent with the principles underlying the RTI/MTSS and Positive Behavior Supports movements. The presenter will provide creative, fresh and engaging approaches for individual students, small groups, classrooms and the whole school. 

Maize, USD 266

Spring 2024 (Summer Pre-Session)
CAS 750I Effective Instructional Practices VII
Dates: August 26-December 6
Time: varies by date
Audience: All educators
Location: Virtual (unless indicated below)
Credit Hours: 1 credit hour for taking the equivalent of four 3-hour courses (12 contact hours)

Instructor: Andrea Palmer Phone: 316-258-9439
Title: Executive Director of Professional Learning
Email: apalmer@usd266.com
PLS website: http://tinyurl.com/266-pls

Course Title

Course Description

ETS 7002 Elementary Reading Exam Study Course

This course is designed for teachers and administrators who will be required to obtain the Seal of Literacy on their license before 2028 who do not wish to take LETRS. The course will consist of two in-person information sessions and some practicum work to support your learning. Students will be able to use knowledge gained from the course to decide on appropriate instructional decisions based on assessment details. Students will learn the foundations of reading instruction and be able to apply that learning. Students will understand the natural order in which children acquire reading skills. Students will be prepared to pass the ETS 7002 Elementary Reading Praxis in order to obtain the Seal of Literacy. ***This course will include online coursework, with two required in-person training days to enhance hands-on learning and collaboration. In-person dates are: January 13th and February 10th 5:00 PM-8 :00 PM

 

Improve Every Lesson with SEL	This book identifies SEL skills in three broad categories: Intrapersonal, Interpersonal, and skills as a community member. It offers research-based strategies for integrating these skills into all lesson plans, including as a starter, through direct instruction, and for formative assessment. In addition, this book offers inspiration for all teachers to seize opportunities for developing caring and joyful communities of learners. Audience: ALL
Passionate Learners - How to Engage and Empower Your Students	Would you like to be a student in your own classroom? Are you needing fresh ideas on how to build trust, create more choice, and support students in developing intrinsic motivation? Pernille Ripp's latest edition of "Passionate Learners" offers honest reflections, a variety of practical ideas and strategies, and heartfelt stories to help all educators feel inspired to foster a community of passionate learners. Audience: ALL
Digital Escape Room	Digital Escape Rooms engage students while requiring them to use critical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills to solve a set of challenges designed around a specific content area or objective. Digital Escape Rooms allow educators of all levels and subject areas to expand curriculum, while meeting the needs of all learners. In this workshop, educators will gain the skills and strategies to move beyond a segmented lesson plan to discover the power and excitement generated by intentional connected learning in Digital Escape Rooms. Focus will be on planning and creating a digital Escape Room that can be used cross-curricular and encourages student engagement, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking as well as real connections. Educators will create a Digital Escape Room that can be used immediately in the classroom. Audience: ALL

PD Session Name: USD 259 Technology Integration Tools & Beyond (EdTech Team) 

• Name of Presenter(s): Tana Ruder, District Technology Integration Specialist 

• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course 

• Dates of PD Session: January 6-26 

• Audience: PK-12 Teachers, Wichita Public Schools 

• PD Description: Come explore all the technology integration tools available in the district & beyond. The first part of this asynchronous course will take you on a journey through the technology resources at your fingertips. Once you have an overview of available technology, you will explore a few tools of your choice at a deeper level. The final piece is showcasing how you can use these technologies to enhance and impact student learning. 

• # of Credit Hours: 1 Grad Credit Hour 

---

• PD Session Name: DesignSmart: Graphic Design Tools for Teachers 

• Name of Presenter(s): Dyane Smokorowski, Coordinator of Digital Literacy, Wichita Public Schools 

• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course 

• Dates of PD Session: January 5-February 2, 2025 

• Audience: PreK-12 Wichita USD 259 Educators 

• PD Description: In today's digital-first classroom, the power of visual storytelling is unparalleled. "DesignSmart: Graphic Design Tools for Teachers" is an immersive, four-week online course designed to empower educators with essential graphic design skills using Canva. Led by Dyane Smokorowski, this course will guide participants through the intricacies of creating engaging, accessible, and inclusive educational content. From mastering the principles of design to applying these concepts through hands-on projects, educators will learn to enhance their teaching toolkit, foster student engagement, and bring creativity to the forefront of their instructional practices. Prepare to transform your classroom materials into visually stunning learning experiences that captivate and inspire. 

• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours 

---

• PD Session Name: EmpowerED Educator Fellowship: Building Teacher Leadership Foundations Part 2 

• Name of Presenter(s): Dyane Smokorowski, Coordinator of Digital Literacy, Wichita Public Schools 

• Location of PD Session: In person and Canvas 

• Dates of PD Session: January 7-May 6 

• Audience: PreK-12 EmpowerED Fellows 

• PD Description:The EmpowerED  fellowship is designed to cultivate teacher leadership by exploring innovative practices, building collaborative communities, and fostering professional growth. Fellows will engage in activities focused on developing leadership skills, unpacking educational standards, and building a supportive network of educators. The course will emphasize applying the Teacher Leader Standards to create positive change in classrooms and schools, with a mix of in-person activities, online collaboration, and reflective practices. 

• # of Credit Hours: 1 Grad Credit Hour 

---

• PD Session Name: Tech Like a PIRATE: Using Classroom Technology to Create an Experience and Make Learning Memorable 

• Name of Presenter(s): Dyane Smokorowski, Coordinator of Digital Literacy, Wichita Public Schools 

• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course 

• Dates of PD Session: February 2-March 2, 2025 

• Audience: PreK-12 Wichita USD 259 Educators 

• PD Description: Inspired by Matt Miller’s Tech Like a PIRATE, this course is designed to equip educators with innovative and practical strategies for using technology to create dynamic, memorable learning experiences. Participants will explore how technology can be a powerful tool for engaging students, enhancing creativity, and fostering deep learning. The course provides a customizable set of principles that ensure technology is an asset, not a distraction, and offers strategies to integrate AI tools for personalized learning and content creation in the classroom. Teachers will learn how to use low- or no-cost tools to amplify student engagement, streamline tasks, and design impactful lessons. Educators will also dive into the latest AI innovations and learn how to implement these tools to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students. This course empowers teachers, whether they are tech-savvy or tech-terrified, to create transformative classroom experiences. 

• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours 

---

• PD Session Name: AI Explorers: Creative Tech in the Classroom (EdTechTeam) 

• Name of Presenter(s): Tana Ruder, District Technology Integration Specialist 

• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course 

• Dates of PD Session: February 9-March 9 

• Audience: PK-12 Teachers, Wichita Public Schools 

• PD Description: Dive into the exciting world of AI with "AI Explorers: Creative Tech in the Classroom," a course that demystifies technology and inspires innovation. Over four weeks, you’ll get your hands on the coolest AI tools out there and see how they can make your teaching more fun and your lessons more impactful. We’ll play with AI that personalizes learning for every student, discover how to make informed decisions using tech, and find new ways to spark engagement in the classroom. This isn’t about sitting back and listening—it's about doing, creating, and maybe even a little experimenting. Get ready to mix, match, and meld AI into your teaching and watch your classroom come alive. All you need is curiosity and a desire to give your students a head-start in a world where technology is everywhere. 

• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours 

 

---

• PD Session Name: Ok Microsoft, I See You: Embracing Office 365 Tools 

• Name of Presenter(s): Joshua Ehret  

• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course 

• Dates of PD Session: Feb 17-March 7th 

• Audience: K-12 Secondary Teachers, Wichita Public Schools 

• PD Description: Ok Microsoft, I See You: Embracing Office for Productivity” explores the powerful tools within Microsoft Office, including Stream, Clipchamp, and Loop, alongside essential apps like Word, Teams, and PowerPoint. This class highlights how these tools enhance productivity and collaboration. Participants will learn practical tips and techniques to maximize their efficiency using Microsoft’s suite of applications. 

• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours 

 

---

• PD Session Name: Game On: Using Digital Games to Transform Teaching, Learning, and Assessment 

• Name of Presenter(s): Clint Dayhuff 

• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course 

• Dates of PD Session: April 6-May 4 

• Audience: PK-12 Teachers, Wichita Public Schools 

• PD Description: This course is based on the book Game On: Using Digital Games to Transform Teaching, Learning, and Assessment and explores how digital gaming can enhance student engagement, learning, and assessment in the 21st-century classroom. Participants will delve into research and learning theories that support why today’s students require different approaches to teaching than previous generations. Educators will explore how to gamify lessons, using digital games to create interactive, immersive learning experiences that resonate with students’ real-world digital environments. 

In this course, teachers will learn how to select and incorporate digital games to meet diverse learning needs and to assess student progress in innovative ways. Practical examples and a curated list of educational games will be provided to help educators integrate games into their lesson design. The course also includes strategies for using AI to enhance gamification and personalizing learning pathways for students. By the end, educators will be able to leverage gaming and AI tools to engage students, improve learning outcomes, and prepare them for success in future college and career settings. 

• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours 

---

• PD Session Name: Teaching with Canvas: Harmonizing Your Online Resources and Lessons (EdTechTeam) 

• Name of Presenter(s): Joshua Ehret  

• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course 

• Dates of PD Session:  April 7th to May 2nd 

• Audience: 6-12 Secondary Teachers, Wichita Public Schools 

• PD Description: This online Canvas course walks educators through the initial steps of integrating Canvas into classroom activities and curriculums. Learn how to organize resources, design engaging interactive lessons using Canvas modules, and utilize various Canvas tools for effective instruction. The goal is to help transform your digital teaching approach into a harmonious and well-orchestrated learning experience for your students. 

• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours 

---

• PD Session Name: ExpeditionED: Charting the Course for AI in Education 

• Name of Presenter(s): Various Classroom Teachers 

• Location of PD Session: In-Person, Wichita State University 

• Dates of PD Session: May 28-29, 2025 

• Audience: PreK-12 Educators across Kansas 

• PD Description: ExpeditionED is an  in-person professional development experience designed to help educators explore the powerful intersection of artificial intelligence and pedagogy. This year’s conference brings together a dynamic group of innovative classroom teachers, thought leaders, and AI experts to lead hands-on workshops, engaging discussions, and live demonstrations of cutting-edge AI tools 

Participants will discover how AI can enhance teaching strategies, foster deeper student engagement, and create personalized learning pathways. The event focuses on practical, real-world applications of AI in the classroom, from lesson planning to assessment, ensuring educators walk away with actionable insights and strategies. Through interactive sessions and collaborative learning experiences, attendees will learn how to leverage AI not only as a tool for enhancing instructional effectiveness but also as a means to inspire students for a future driven by technology. 

• # of Credit Hours: 1 Grad Credit Hour 

 

 

 

 

 

AccuTrain

Chicago Summit Request for Registration Form

New York Summit Request for Registration Form

Orlando Summit Request for Registration Form

Nashville Summit Request for Registration Form

Las Vegas Summit Request for Registration Form

View all AccuTrain Summits

Andover, USD 385

Title:  Book Study- Healthy Teachers, Happy Classrooms: Twelve Brain-Based Principles to Avoid Burnout, Increase Optimism, and Support Physical Well-Being 

Presenter: Janelle Tittsworth & Stacey Ryan

Dates: October 4 - November 8

Time: 5 weeks, self-paced online

Location: Online

Audience: K-12 Teachers

Credit Hours: 1

Course Description: Participants are required to purchase a print or digital copy of the book. Several copies were purchased for each building if you want to borrow one. 

Healthy Teachers, Happy Classrooms:  Twelve Brain-Based Principles to Avoid Burnout, Increase Optimism, and Support Physical Well-Being by Marcia L. Tate

ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1952812972

---

Title: Canva for the Classroom

Presenter: Micah Brown

Dates: October 20th- November 24th

Time: self-paced

Location: Online

Audience: K-12 Educators

Credit Hours: 1

Course Description: Discover the power of Canva for Education in this self-paced online course designed specifically for educators. Over five weeks, you'll explore the basics of Canva, find ways to enhance your teaching, and learn how to have your students use this versatile digital tool. Each week, you'll dive into a module with readings, videos, and application activities.

---

Title: Google Workspace

Presenter: Rachel Meenen

Dates: Friday, October 11th - Friday, November 22nd

Time: 6 weeks

Location: Self-Paced Online and Optional Zoom

Audience: PK-12 Educators

Credit Hours: 1

Course Description: Google Workspace can be so much more than what you think. During this course, we will cover some basics if you are just looking to get started with a tool or go a little deeper for those of you who are ready to learn some new tips and tricks! Assignments will consist of learning and application and there will be optional Zoom meetings to attend in place of online work. 

Augusta, USD 402

CAS 750B Effective Instructional Practice II : May 2024 (Summer 2024 pre-session)

PD Session Name: To Be Determined

Name of Presenter: Casie Davis

Location of PD Session: Online/Google Classroom

Dates of PD Session:

Audience: USD 402 Licensed and Classified Staff and Surrounding District Licensed
and Classified Staff

PD Description:

# of Credit Hours (1 credit per 45 seat hours): 1 credit

Buhler, USD 313

To be determined.

Chapman, USD 473

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Classroom (September 16th - October 4th)

Location: Online via Google Classroom (Self-Paced)

Credits: 1 Credit Hour

Course Registration: $65

College Credit Cost: $65 to Wichita State

AI in the Classroom is an engaging self-paced course designed to empower educators with the knowledge and skills to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) seamlessly into their teaching practices. Over the course of three weeks, participants will explore various AI websites, learn innovative methods for leveraging AI tools as educators, and discover creative ways to facilitate student engagement and learning through AI technologies.

 

Google Sheets for Educators (September 16th - October 4th)

Location: Online via Google Classroom (Self-Paced)

Credits: 1 Credit Hour

Course Registration: $65

College Credit Cost: $65 to Wichita State

Google Sheets for Educators is a comprehensive self-paced, three-week course designed to equip teachers with the essential skills and knowledge to utilize Google Sheets effectively in their educational practices. Participants will dive into the world of spreadsheets, mastering basic organization techniques, exploring powerful formulas and functions, and discovering innovative ways to manipulate student data to enhance teaching and learning.

Clearwater, USD 264

Contact: Jason Crist - Email: Jcrist@usd264.org

Title: Science of Langauge and Literacy

Audience: USD 264 employees only

Description: The Science of Language and Literacy professional development will provide teachers with the skills they need to master the fundamentals of reading instruction – phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, and language. This experience strengthens teachers’ knowledge of language structure, the development of the reading brain, and how to nurture the development of foundational literacy skills. The Science of Language and Literacy will build the knowledge and skills so that teachers can be more successful with locally selected curriculum and interventions.

Science of Language and Literacy 1: (3 credit hours)
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time

Science of Language and Literacy 2: (3 credit hours)
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time

Science of Language and Literacy 3: (3 credit hours)
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time

Science of Language and Literacy 4: (3 credit hours)

In-person training: 16 hours total per semester
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time

Haysville, USD 261

---

Brain Aligned Learning 102 (Jennifer Taylor) September 25 (8 a.m. to 12 p.m.)

Armed with evidence-based strategies rooted in neuroscience, educators will be empowered to unlock the full potential of their students and inspire a lifelong love of learning. Key objectives:

• Gain insights into the structure and function of the brain, including key regions involved in learning, memory, attention, and emotional regulation.
• Learn about the concept of neuroplasticity and how the brain has the remarkable ability to adapt and change.
• Explore the principles of cognitive load theory and how to design learning experiences that manage cognitive load effectively, optimizing learning and retention.
• Discover the power of multisensory learning and how to incorporate visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile elements into teaching practices to enhance comprehension and memory.
• Understand the relationship between emotions and learning and learn strategies for creating a positive and supportive learning environment that fosters emotional well-being and academic success.

---

Adult Mental Health First Aid (COMCARE) October 2 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Mental Health First Aid teaches:

• Information on depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, and substance use.
• A 5-step action plan to help someone developing a mental health concern or in crisis.
• Available evidence-based professional, peer, and self-help resources.

Mental Health First Aid is listed in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices. Studies show that individuals trained in the program increase their knowledge of signs, symptoms and risk factors of mental illness and addictions; can identify multiple types of professional and self-help resources for individuals with a mental illness or addiction; increase their confidence in and likelihood to help an individual in distress; and show reduced social distance to individuals with mental illnesses.

The Adult Mental Health First Aid course is appropriate for anyone who wants to learn how to help adults who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or concern.

---

Behavior Supports That Work (Dr. Linda Aldridge) November 6 (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)

Designed with an eye toward the general education setting, participants emerge with tools ready for immediate implementation. The focus is on development of supports for the most challenging student in the class, the one for whom referral to the School Support Team may be under consideration. Utilizing a neurological perspective, setting conditions (school, community, and home) are explored. Factors explaining behavioral concerns are identified, supports are initiated, and data are kept regarding student response to supports. This learning experience is appropriate for administrators, general education teachers, and special education staff. Processes taught are effective at the preschool, elementary, middle and high school levels.

---

Brain Aligned Learning 101 (Jennifer Taylor) December 4 (8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.)

Most things that teachers do work to support social emotional learning. Some things work really well and other things only make minor improvements (Hattie, 2008: Tokuhama-Espinosa, 2014). We want to gear our teaching to those things that we know work well to help all children learn necessary social and emotional skills. We can accomplish this through an interdisciplinary approach, pulling from the broad field of neuroscience. Participants will unpack strategies that work based on what we know from the most up to date science behind the way the brain learns.

Inman, USD 448

To be determined

Kansas Leadership Center (KLC)

Title: Introduction to Leadership: When Everyone Leads and Your Leadership Edge

Presenter: Jason Bosch, EdD; Seth Bate, MA, PCC; Tamara Bauer, MS; Julia Fabris McBride, PCC; Tina Khan, MA, MS; Lalo Munoz; Joseph Shephard, MPA, and other qualified Kansas Leadership Center teachers and staff.

Dates:

Create your own schedule:

• Choose from among multiple locations, dates, times, and delivery methods for the one-day When Everyone Leads portion of the course. See current list of course options here: Step 1 of the KLC Path.
• Choose from among multiple locations, dates, and delivery methods for the two-day Your Leadership Edge portion of the course. See current list of course options here: Step 2 of the KLC Path.

Location:

This course is designed to be accessible to every college student and adult learner, with flexible dates, times, and locations for completing the three-day course. The course is offered in-person at the Kansas Leadership Center in Wichita, Kansas, and at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Conference Center in Kansas City, Missouri. It is offered virtually via Zoom.

Audience:

Adults 18 and older

Credit hours: 1

Description:

Learn principles and apply tools from the Kansas Leadership Center (KLC ) Leadership Framework to exercise more leadership and make more impact. This one-credit course features Steps 1 and 2 of the Kansas Leadership Center Path, plus reading and written reflection designed to develop the mindset and skills you need to make more progress on the issues you care about most.

Day one (Step 1 of the KLC Path) is built around the book When Everyone Leads: How the Toughest Challenges Get Seen and Solved. You’ll learn the foundational principles of leadership: Leadership is not about authority and position. Leadership is an activity—small actions taken in moments of opportunity. That means everyone can lead, no matter where they sit in an organization or community. And when more people feel empowered to see and seize their moments to lead, we make more progress on our most important challenges.

By the end the When Everyone Leads portion of the course students will successfully:

1. Describe the principle “leadership is an activity not a position or authority” and how it applies to your life and work.
2. Summarize at least two big ideas from day one, When Everyone Leads, and personalize them to your life and work.
3. Select three ways you will exercise leadership before you come back for the Your Leadership Edge portion of the course.

Days two and three of the course (Step 2 of the KLC Path) are built around the book Your Leadership Edge: Tools and Strategies for When Everyone Leads. It features opportunities to learn and practice core skills and tools from KLC’s powerful leadership framework. Discover new ways to communicate, solve problems and lead more effectively back in your context. Sharpen interpersonal skills, self-awareness and confidence with others. Your Leadership Edge helps you find, test and push to the edge of your comfort zone.

By the end of the Your Leadership Edge portion of the coursestudents will:

1. Apply the distinction between adaptive challenges and technical problems to your leadership challenges.
2. Apply the KLC leadership framework to imagine new ways forward on issues you care about most.
3. Identify key areas where you need to stretch, grow and experiment (i.e. your leadership edge).
4. Experiment with new ways to manage yourself.
5. Create a simple plan to experiment with at least three skills and/or tools from Your Leadership Edge to make progress on an important challenge after the course.
6. Reflect in writing about what you learned and practiced in the classroom and how you have begun to apply leadership principles, skills and tools in your life, work, or community.

Learning Forward Kansas

To be determined

Learning Forward Kansas Registration:

Advanced registration on the Learning Forward KS Website is required. 

https://learningforwardkansas.org/upcoming-events/

Maize, USD 266

Spring 2024 (Summer Pre-Session)
CAS 750I Effective Instructional Practices VII
Dates: August 26-December 6
Time: varies by date
Audience: All educators
Location: Virtual (unless indicated below)
Credit Hours: 1 credit hour for taking the equivalent of four 3-hour courses (12 contact hours)

Instructor: Andrea Palmer Phone: 316-258-9439
Title: Executive Director of Professional Learning
Email: apalmer@usd266.com
PLS website: http://tinyurl.com/266-pls

---

Shift to Student Led Writing - UDL principles and practice

Description:

This is a course that assists in shifting focus of writing from teacher-centered to student-centered practices for all levels. This book study applies and focuses on Universal Design for Learning principles within the parameters of designing writing tasks. You will review templates for structures and ideas that can be immediately put into practice in the classroom setting. There is no need to purchase that book.

---

Summarization in Any Subject

Description:

Does your lead measure involve summarization, active reading strategies, background knowledge or
vocabulary? Do you want to focus on vocabulary? This PLS could be for you! This book starts with some great background information for teachers! We will then read about a few strategies together and then the latter portion of this book study will be choose your own adventure. The discussion board posts will help us brainstorm ways to incorporate the strategies into our classrooms. With the final activity being building 3 activities for your class in the fall.

Audience: ALL

---

Reading in the Wild

Course Objectives: Throughout our online book study, participants will complete reflective prompts, opinion posts, and give ideas for implementation and engagement.

Teachers will read and discuss "Reading in the Wild" written by Donalyn Miller. In this book, Miller, a 6th grade teacher, continues the discussion from her first book, "The Book Whisperer". She offers advice, strategies, and resources on how to instill lifelong "wild" reading habits in our students.

Target Audience - K - 9

---

Making Hope Happen

Description:

"Making Hope Happen" is a Maize PLS course designed to empower teachers/staff with the skills and mindset needed to foster hope and positivity in their personal and professional lives. This book study will feature practical exercises, real-life case studies, and researched based information around the concept of hope. Participants will learn how to cultivate hope as a strategic asset for achieving goals, overcoming challenges, and enhancing overall well-being not only for themselves but their students and colleagues. The course is designed around the teachings found in the book "Making Hope Happen" by Dr. Shane Lopez. All participants will need to acquire the book for this course. Participants will be engaged through a series of questions after each chapter that will require a written response.

Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the psychology of hope and its impact on human motivation and achievement.
2. Develop techniques to build and sustain hope in various life situations.
3. Learn strategies to inspire hope in others, fostering a supportive and optimistic environment.
4. Explore the role of hope in resilience and how to leverage it during times of adversity.
5. Create a personalized action plan to implement hope-based practices.

---

"The Ball"

Description:

Well-known author and presenter, Todd Whitaker, will warm your heart, help you regain focus, and remind you to "keep your eye on the ball", through his story-telling of the reconnection between a veteran teacher and her former student. Through the story of separate and unique challenges the characters face, readers will confront, challenge, and reflect over personal and professional priorities. This book's message resonates with all readers and is a perfect start for the beginning of a school year!

---

The Resilient Teen

Description:

This book study would be beneficial to anyone working with adolescents in a classroom setting. Grades 7-12 can be an exciting, yet very difficult and confusing period of growth. The Resilient Teen will instruct the reader in ten powerful skills to help understand and manage emotions, recover from difficult situations, and provide tips for better relationship building skills for building resilience when working with teenage youth.

---

Book Study: INTENTIONAL NEUROPLASTICITY

Description:

Students are carrying their mental exhaustion to classrooms along with their challenging behaviors. Educator burnout is at an all time high. Intentional Neuroplasticity dives into the plasticity of the brain and the nervous system. This then affects behaviors. Learning to empower and relieve our nervous systems is explored in this book. It is a helpful tool for educators themselves and our students.

---

Dealing With Difficult Parents

Communicating with parents is one of the most challenging and potentially stressful tasks that teachers face daily. Whether trying to resolve a heated argument or delivering bad news, it is essential to know how to handle difficult situations and establish positive relationships with your students' parents.

---

How to Plan Differentiated Reading Instruction

The authors provide a detailed framework for implementing differentiated small group instruction over multi-week cycles.

---

The Comprehension Blueprint: Helping Students Make Meaning From Text by Nancy Lewis Hennessy

Course objectives: Participants will:

• Gain critical background knowledge on the essentials they need to teach text comprehension.
• Learn about a framework for organizing instruction that is aligned with the language comprehension strands of Scarborough's Reading Rope.
• Reflect on how they might utilize the framework for planning their units and lessons, adapting to the needs of individual students, and assessing student progress.

Publisher description:
“Comprehension is a primary ingredient of reading success—but most educators aren't taught how to deliver structured comprehension instruction in their classrooms. K–8 teachers will find the guidance they need in this groundbreaking professional resource from Nancy Hennessy, former IDA President and an expert on reading comprehension. Meticulously researched and masterfully organized, this book offers a clear blueprint for understanding the complexities of reading comprehension and delivering high-quality, evidence-based instruction that helps students construct meaning from challenging texts.

Aligned with the science of reading and IDA's Structured Literacy approach, this book is a must for in-service educators and an ideal supplement to pair with core literacy textbooks. Today's teachers will get the essential knowledge and practical tools they

Wichita, USD 259

Josh Ehret

• PD Session Name: Teaching with Canvas: Harmonizing Your Online Resources and Lessons (EdTechTeam)
• Name of Presenter(s): Joshua Ehret 
• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course
• Dates of PD Session:  Oct 22 - Nov 15
• Audience: 6-12 Secondary Teachers, Wichita Public Schools
• PD Description: This online Canvas course will walk educators through the initial steps of integrating Canvas into their teaching. Learn how to organize resources, design engaging interactive lessons using Canvas modules, and utilize various Canvas tools for effective instruction. The goal is to help transform your digital teaching approach into a harmonious and well-orchestrated learning experience for your students.
• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours

---

Josh Ehret

• PD Session Name: Teaching with Canvas: Harmonizing Your Online Resources and Lessons (EdTechTeam)
• Name of Presenter(s): Joshua Ehret 
• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course
• Dates of PD Session:  Nov 18- Dec 20
• Audience: 6-12 Secondary Teachers, Wichita Public Schools
• PD Description: This online Canvas course will walk educators through the initial steps of integrating Canvas into their teaching. Learn how to organize resources, design engaging interactive lessons using Canvas modules, and utilize various Canvas tools for effective instruction. The goal is to help transform your digital teaching approach into a harmonious and well-orchestrated learning experience for your students.
• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours

---

Tana Ruder

PD Session Name: AI Explorers: Creative Tech in the Classroom (EdTechTeam)

• Name of Presenter(s): Tana Ruder, District Technology Integration Specialist
• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course
• Dates of PD Session: October & November 2024
• Audience: PK-12 Teachers, Wichita Public Schools
• PD Description: Dive into the exciting world of AI with "AI Explorers: Creative Tech in the Classroom," a course that demystifies technology and inspires innovation. Over four weeks, you’ll get your hands on the coolest AI tools out there and see how they can make your teaching more fun and your lessons more impactful. We’ll play with AI that personalizes learning for every student, discover how to make informed decisions using tech, and find new ways to spark engagement in the classroom. This isn’t about sitting back and listening—it's about doing, creating, and maybe even a little experimenting. Get ready to mix, match, and meld AI into your teaching and watch your classroom come alive. All you need is curiosity and a desire to give your students a head-start in a world where technology is everywhere.
• # of Credit Hours: 2 Grad Credit Hours

Tana Ruder

PD Session Name: USD 259 Technology Integration Tools (EdTechTeam)

• Name of Presenter(s): Tana Ruder, District Technology Integration Specialist
• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course
• Dates of PD Session: Fall 2024
• Audience: PK-12 Teachers, Wichita Public Schools
• PD Description: Come explore all the technology integration tools available in the district. The first part of this asynchronous course will take you on a journey through the technology resources at your fingertips. Once you have an overview of available technology, you will explore a few tools of your choice at a deeper level. The final piece is showcasing how you can use these technologies to enhance and transform student learning.
• # of Credit Hours: 1 Grad Credit Hours

---

Kristin Ford

• PD Session Name: “iPads in Action: A Course for Elementary Teachers” (EdTechTeam)
• Name of Presenter(s): Kristin Ford 
• Location of PD Session: Online Asynchronous Course
• Dates of PD Session: 2 Weeks long Fall 2024
• Audience: K-5 Educators Wichita Public Schools
• PD Description: This course is designed to empower elementary school teachers with the knowledge and skills to effectively integrate iPads into their classrooms while learning the Seesaw platform. Participants will explore how to use iPads as powerful teaching tools to engage students and enhance learning experiences. Key areas of focus will include; Understanding the iPad Ecosystem, Accessibility Tools, and Maximizing Digital Tools and Apps. By the end of this course, teachers will be equipped to harness the power of iPads to create dynamic, interactive, and inclusive learning environments. Join us on this exciting journey to redefine teaching and learning in the digital age! 
• # of Credit Hours: 1 Grad Credit Hour

---

 

• PD Session Name: EmpowerED Educator Fellowship: Building Teacher Leadership Foundations Part 1
• Name of Presenter(s): Dyane Smokorowski, Tammy Martin, Chris Wendt
• Location of PD Session: In-Person & Canvas
• Dates of PD Session: September 10 - December 6, 2024
• Audience: K-12 Educators, Wichita Public Schools
• PD Description:  This fellowship is designed to cultivate teacher leadership by exploring innovative practices, building collaborative communities, and fostering professional growth. Fellows will engage in activities focused on developing leadership skills, unpacking educational standards, and building a supportive network of educators. The course will emphasize applying the Teacher Leader Standards to create positive change in classrooms and schools, with a mix of in-person activities, online collaboration, and reflective practices.
• # of Credit Hours: 1 Grad Credit Hour

Valley Center, USD 262

To be determined

Andover, USD 385

Title: Kagan Brain-Friendly Teaching

Presenter: Traci Holder (coordinator); Kagan trainer

Dates: July 29-30

Time: 8:30 - 3:45 (registration begins at 8:00)

Location: Center for Advanced Professional Studies - Andover USD 385

Audience: PK-12 teachers and administrators (no previous Kagan training is required - must be employed with USD 385)

Credit hours: 1

Course Description:

Brain science and research has direct applications to classroom teaching and learning. We ignore the research at the peril of our own success as well as at the success of our students. Teaching with methods that don’t respect brain science is like swimming against the current: teaching is more exhausting, students learn less, and students like class and content less. When we align our teaching with how the brain best learns, we are going with the current.

Students learn more, enjoy class more, and teaching is more effortless and enjoyable for us. In this workshop, learn six core principles of brain-friendly teaching. For each principle, you will come away with Kagan Structures, tools, tips, and techniques to make your teaching more brain compatible and more scientifically sound.

This is a great workshop for teachers who are new to Kagan and for those who have attended other Kagan workshops.

---

Title: Capturing Kids’ Hearts 1

Presenter: Traci Holder with CKH trainer

Dates: July 22-23

Time: 8:00-4:00

Location: Andover District Office

Audience: Certified staff who work in Capturing Kids’ Hearts buildings (must be employed with USD 385)

Credit hours: 1

Course Description:

Capturing Kids’ Hearts 1 is an immersive, participatory experience. Teachers, staff, and  administrators learn and practice skills they will use and model in their classrooms, schools, and districts. The program’s research-based processes improve five key indicators of school  performance: fewer discipline referrals, improved attendance, higher student achievement, lower dropout rates, and higher teacher satisfaction. Capturing Kids’ Hearts 1 is the beginning of a  transformational, multi-year process for teachers and administrators at the campus or district level.

---

Title: Book Study - Engaging the Reqired Brain

Presenter: Rachel Meenen and Micah Brown

Dates: June 2nd-30th

Time: 4 weeks, self-paced online

Location: Online

Audience: K-12 Teachers (must be employed with USD 385)

Credit hours: 1

Required Materials: Participants are required to purchase a print or digital copy of the book.

Engaging the Reqired Brain by David A. Sousa

2nd Edition - February 2, 2024

ISBN-13: 978-1071923245

Course Description:

“Does the way teachers use technology in instruction improve student achievement?” Students are engaging with new information in different ways, so educators must shift their instructional practice accordingly. In this book study, participants will explore the work of educational neuroscience author, Dr. David Sousa in his book, "Engaging the Rewired Brain”. They will develop a deeper understanding of the types of classrooms that engage the rewired brain, and strategies to determine whether, when, and how to use technology.

---

Title: Book Study - Lead from Where You Are

Presenter: Janelle Tittsworth & Stacey Ryan

Dates: May 31-June 28

Time: 4 weeks, self-paced online

Location: Online

Required Materials: Participants are required to purchase a print or digital copy of the book.

Lead from Where You Are: Building Intention, Connection and Direction in Our Schools by Joe Sanfelippo

ISBN-13: 978-1948334471

Audience: PK-12 Teachers (must be employed with USD 385)

Credit hours: 1

Course Description:

During this book study, participants will reflect on and grow their current practice. Lead from Where You Are offers a down-to-earth, implementable approach to rethinking how we build leadership and community in schools. Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, a veteran principal and superintendent, contends that our focus must be on growing leadership potential all across the community, from students to teachers to staff. We can do this by reflecting on how we build a sense of intention together, connect with each other, and direct those we lead with compassion and affirmation.

---

Title: Book Study - What Great Teachers Do Differently

Presenter: Stacey Ryan

Dates: June 14-July 12

Time: 4 weeks, self-paced online

Location: Online

Required Materials: Participants are required to purchase a print or digital copy of the book.

What Great Teachers Do Differently by Todd Whitaker

3rd Edition - April 22, 2020

ISBN-13: 978-0367344641

Audience: PK-12 Teachers (must be employed with USD 385)

Credit hours: 1

Course Description:

In this book study, participants will reflect on and grow their current teaching practice. The book, by Todd Whitaker, explores 19 components to being effective in the classroom.Teachers will learn and use ideas from the book to enhance student engagement, management, instruction and effectiveness with their current students.

---

Title: Book study - Healthy Teachers, Happy Classrooms: Twelve Brain-Based Priniciples to Avoid Burnout, Increase Optimism, and Support Physical Well-Being

Presenter: Janelle Tittsworth & Stacey Ryan

Dates: June 14-July 12

Time: 4 weeks, self-paced online

Location: Online

Required Materials: Participants are required to purchase a print or digital copy of the book.

Healthy Teachers, Happy Classrooms: Twelve Brain-Baised Principals to Avoid Burnout, Increase Optimism, and Support Physical Well-Being by Marcia L. Tate

ISBN-13: 978-1952812972

Audience: PK-12 Teachers (must be employed with USD 385)

Credit hours: 1

Course Description:

This book, by Dr. Marcia Tate, provides practical ideas for educators to implement twelve principles of a healthy lifestyle. Participants will explore essential components that lead to longevity in education. Each principle includes brain research, action steps, and connections to the classroom. Educators will reflect on topics from the book and apply self-selected strategies to their own lives and teaching practice.

Arts Partners

Title: Just Add Art Symposium

Presenter(s): Multiple

Date: July 24th & 25th

Credit Hours: .5

Description:

Arts integration engages diverse learners through music, dance, poetry, visual art and drama to understand and express their learning of curriculum concepts through the arts.

Now arts integration isn’t just for the art teacher, these strategies can be incorporated by all educators from early childhood to 12th grade as well as school support staff. In addition to the hands-on workshops for PreK-12th grade educators, there will be sessions specifically for Kindergarten and preschool educators, sponsored by The Wolf Trap Institute of Early Learning Through the Arts.

Augusta, USD 402

Book Study - TBD

Buhler, USD 313

June 3 - July 8 (6 sessions) - Book Study

The Playful Classroom: The Power of Play for All Ages by Jed Dearybury & Julie Jones, PhD (2020)

Research studies show that all students―young and old, rich and poor, urban and rural―benefit immensely from classrooms filled with art, creativity, and laughter. Fun, playfulness, creative thinking, and individual expression reinforce positive experiences, which in turn lead to more engaged students, better classroom environments, and successful learning outcomes. Designed for K-12 educators, The Playful Classroom describes how teachers can develop a playful mindset for giving students meaningful, relevant and fun learning experiences. This unique real-world guide provides you with everything you need to incorporate engaging, hands-on lessons and creative activities, regardless of the level and subject you teach. 

Building on contemporary and seminal works on learning theory and play pedagogy, the authors explain how to inspire your students by bringing play. into your classroom. This clear, user-friendly guide supplies practical strategies and effective solutions for adding the missing ingredients to your classroom culture. Access to the authors’ companion website provides videos, learning experiences, and downloadable teaching and learning resources. Packed with relatable humor, proven methods, and valuable insights, this book enables you to:

• Provide meaningful experiences that will benefit students both in school and later in life 
• Combine the principles of PLAY with traditional curricula to encourage creative learning
• Promote trust, collaboration, and growth in students
• Develop a playful mindset for bringing the arts into every lesson
• Foster critical thinking in any school community

The Playful Classroom:  The Power of Play for All Ages is a must-have resource for K-12 educators, higher education professionals, and readers looking for education-based professional development and training resources.

 

Catholic Diocese of Wichita

Summary: The Catholic Diocese of WIchita is holding a summer learning program for their teachers and the following classes can be used to earn college credit from WSU. Dates for the classes will be June 10-13, 2024 held at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School (8101 West Central, Wichita, KS).  Students will take 4 sessions for 1 credit hour or 8 sessions for 2 credit hours. College Credit will be awarded by Wichita State University in the FALL-Session at the cost of $65 per credit hour.

---

June 10, 2024 8:30-11:30

Name of Course: Spelling: It All Makes Sense!

Presenter: Allyson Deaver

Date: June 10, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: All Levels

Course Description: The focus of this book discussion will be on morphology (meaning) and etymology (origin) of words. Questions like why is there a W in answer and L in talk will also be answered. No need to read cover to cover. Come ready to share your questions and insights from Beneath the Surface of Words: What English Spelling Reveals & Why It Matters by Sue Scibetta Hegland.

 

Name of Course: Effective Elementary Classroom Management Strategies

Presenter: Stephanie Warren

Date: June 10, 2024–8:30-11:30

Audience: K-5

Course Description: This session will provide a variety of ideas and resources to help support classroom management and behavior in a positive way. Teachers will leave this session with a toolbox of strategies that could be implemented the next day. We will look at schoolwide, classroom, and individual behavior systems. This session will be helpful for teachers just beginning in their careers or those looking to do something different with their students.

 

Name of Course: Helping Middle Schoolers Love Writing

Presenter: Lori Doerneman

Date: June 10, 2024–8:30-11:30

Audience: Middle School

Course Description: You will be immersed in the practice of using mentor sentences (from well-known authors) to solidify your understanding of phrases and clauses. Your writing will become stronger and you will learn how to teach this technique to your 6th, 7th, and 8th graders.

 

Name of Course: Taking Book Reports to the Next Level

Presenter: Mary Carol Greene

Date: June 10, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: Grades 4 - 12

Course Description: First, learn how to create a themed, grade-appropriate reading list for your students to choose a book report book. Then, learn how to ensure that students are reading their books. Next, learn how to use their books as source material for the different types of writing which you need to teach (such as narrative, chronological, expository, persuasive, argumentative, and even poetry writing). Finally, learn how to create presentation guidelines for students to present their work and practice their speaking skills.

---

June 10, 2024 12:30-3:30

Name of Course: The Neurodivergent Student from the Perspective of Administration and School Counselor

Presenters: Zoe Greenemeyer and Corey Ritter

Date: June 10, 2024–12:30-3:30

Audience: All Levels

Course Description: This session will provide insight into brain development, how trauma impacts this, and the parts of the brain that are triggered in situations and why they may be triggered. This leads to behaviors you may see in and out of the classroom. We will explain the connection between the brain and behaviors. This will move us into classroom management and discipline strategies from the administration and counseling perspective. We will discuss the importance of relationships, staff development, and classroom social and emotional lessons. We will leave you with an understanding of your students through a trauma informed lens and provide strategies that we have used in our school to meet the needs of the students and staff.

 

Name of Course: Phonics & Reading- How to Teach What I Wasn't Taught

Presenter: Allyson Deaver

Date: June 10, 2024–12:30-3:30

Audience: K-5

Course Description: This session will take an in-depth focus on the 6 syllable types learning how to apply them in decoding unknown or higher level words. We will also focus on syllable division rules to be able to give teachers the knowledge of how to identify syllables and decode single and multi syllable words with the knowledge and resources to apply in their teaching. Application of these concepts will be practiced throughout the session. Resources will be provided for utilization in classrooms and MTSS application.

 

Name of Course: Graphic Organizers for Writing

Presenter: Mary Carol Greene

Date: June 10, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: English Teachers of Grades 4 - 12

Course Description: Learn how to use graphic organizers to simplify and illustrate the writing process for your students. First, learn how to teach paragraph writing using a fun and memorable graphic organizer. Then, learn how to teach more complex writing (such as chronological, expository, persuasive, and argumentative essays) using clear, consistent, and effective graphic organizers. All graphic organizers were created by the presenter and can be modified for your content area. Print and digital copies of all of the graphic organizers used during the class will be provided to all enrolled.

---

June 11, 2024 8:30-11:30

Name of Course: Getting Google Organized

Presenter: Valerie Rohlman

Date: June 11, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: All Levels

Course Description: Keeping your files and materials organized is an endless task. When attending this session, I will give you some tips and tricks to help you keep your Gmail and Drive organized. You will also have time during the session to work on organizing your messages and files. I will highlight some of the newest features of these apps as well as any other Google questions you may have.

 

Name of Course: Innovative Teachers Motivate Innovative Students

Presenter: Kim Cowsill

Date: June 11, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: K-8

Course Description: In this session I will share some teaching strategies I learned at a conference called, “The Innovative Schools Summit.” There were many amazing speakers at this conference who motivated and reminded me of the teacher I want to be. We are living in times of great stress and anxiety and learning ways to help work through these obstacles makes teaching and learning more manageable and enjoyable. I will also share some strategies I use with my small intervention groups to motivate students.

 

Name of Course: Achieving Reading Fluency and Comprehension

Presenter: Carmen Abellanas Sanchez

Date: June 11, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: ELA teachers grades 2-5

Course Description: Apply the knowledge based on the science of reading, to help our students acquire the necessary skills to read and comprehend increasingly longer and more complex texts. Rethink how we teach and apply morphology, grammar, vocabulary and spelling to read more fluently that will lead to a better comprehension of the texts. This session will provide the knowledge to adjust teaching practices, as well as, highly customizable activities to enhance your lessons.

 

Name of Course: Cool Biology water labs on a budget

Presenter: Donna Maus

Date: June 11, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: Middle School/High School

Course Description: The session is devoted to understanding some of the unique (and miraculous) properties of water and its relationship to living things. We will do several different demonstrations that are fun and illustrate the properties of water. We will do an experiment that will help your students understand osmosis and its impact. Participants will have time to discuss with their peers, develop their own timelines, and ask questions. Participants will leave with documents to do the labs in their own classroom.

---

June 11, 2024 12:30-3:30

Name of Course: A Site to Behold

Presenter: Susie Klausmeyer and Matthew Ho

Date: June 11, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: All Levels

Course Description: Like the Teacher to Teacher website? Want something similar for your classroom but don't know where to start? Come join Matthew and Susie as they show you how to create a website easily. You will leave the class with a start to your website and the tools to complete it.

 

Name of Course: Bringing Lessons to Life through STEM

Presenter: Valerie Rohlman

Date: June 11, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: Emphasis on K-6, but can be adapted for MS

Course Description: This is our 3rd year of integrating STEM into our school in grades K-5. During this session I will share some of the ways we have gathered materials to supply the program. I will provide instructions and examples of some of the projects the students have done and give you the opportunity to make a few also. I will also share some of the sources that I have been using and how we integrate literature with them.

 

Name of Course: Building Community (How to engage diverse students)

Presenter: Carmen Abellanas Sanchez

Date: June 11, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: Teachers from K-8 grades

Course Description: In this session we will try to find unity in diversity, to develop a sense of belonging and community in our classrooms. During the session we will understand how we can engage, challenge and include every student in our class, through different techniques and ideas, that can be adapted to any grade and subject area. Helping our students to find their community in the classroom, will lead them to a better attitude towards their schoolwork and learning.

 

Name of Course: Teach KS Nature with Ecomeet

Presenter: Donna Maus

Date: June 11, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: Science and drama teachers, grades 7-12

Course Description: Ecomeet is a wildlife competition that can help your students have a lot of fun and learn about Kansas wildlife. We will learn about the different parts of the competition, and I'll have activities set up so you can experience (and tell students) how to be successful in each part. You will receive resources your students can use to study, and I'll walk you through how to prepare, including introductory materials and a timeline.

---

June 12, 2024 8:30-11:30

Name of Course: Aristotle: Classroom & Student Device Management for Teachers

Presenter: Matthew Ho

Date: June 12, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: K-12

Course Description: AristotleK12 encompasses student-centric filtering, asset utilization and reporting, student behavior analytics, and classroom management. AristotleK12 is the EdTech solution providing you with the convenience and flexibility needed when managing student technology.

 

Name of Course: Keepers on Parade

Presenter: Lisa Lang

Date: June 12, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: K-8

Course Description: Bringing the Keeper of the Plains to your classroom! Keepers on Parade is an art project established in 2015 to promote Wichita pride with 10-foot tall, hand-painted replicas of the city's iconic Keeper of the Plains statue. Keepers on Parade was started by Together Wichita and continued by the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2022 as part of the organization's quality-of-place initiative. Taking inspiration for that initiative, participants will learn how to create their own personalized, unique miniature Keeper of the Plains with a project that is easily adaptable to their classroom with students.

 

 

Name of Course: Teaching Whole-Class Novels Without Chapter Comprehension Quizzes

Presenter: Mary Carol Greene

Date: June 12, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: Grades 4-12

Course Description: Are you tired of using reading comprehension quizzes or assignments for every chapter of your whole-class novels? Learn how you can ensure students’ participation, improve their vocabularies, practice note taking, develop their literary analysis skills, and work on structured writing — all on a daily basis with one simple assignment. The 4th grade through 6th grade novel Where the Mountain Meets the Moon and the 7th grade through 10th grade novel The Hobbit will be used as example whole-class novels.

 

Name of Course: A Comprehensive Guide for a Unit over Herman Melville

Presenter: Said Fallaha

Date: June 12, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: 6-12th This is intended for those who do not enjoy teaching Melville but must cover him.

Course Description: This will be an overview on how to teach a whole unit on Herman Melville. It will include, biographical anecdotes, which stories to teach, which chapter to teach out of Moby Dick, philosophies to discuss in relation to the texts, history to discuss in relation to the texts, Biblical contexts to discuss in relation to the texts, and instructions on how to play a sport (my invention) as a fun capstone to the unit. Plus, our own discussion of the reading Plus, writing assignments (For your students) Plus, my PowerPoints for your use and editing.

---

June 12, 2024 12:30-3:30

Name of Course: 30+ Digital Tools

Presenter: Susie Klausmeyer

Date: June 12, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: All Levels

Name of Course: Come learn about a variety of technology tools from making your presentations interactive to extensions for Google Chrome to tools to increase productivity. You will get a chance to try them out and pick tools that you can take back to your classroom. Bring your laptop!

 

Name of Course: Storybook Art

Presenter: Lisa Lang

Date: June 12, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: Elementary

Name of Course: Participants will learn ways to integrate art into the Elementary Classroom through the use of Art projects that pair with a variety of children's storybooks. These are projects that are easily adaptable to general education classrooms using a variety of materials.

 

Name of Course: Student Council and Summer Camps

Presenter: Joel Arnold

Date: June 12, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: Elementary and Middle School

Name of Course: There are so many ways to build community at our schools! Student Council gives your students a voice and builds up leaders! Summer Camps put a whole new spin on summer school and turn a drudgery into something the students look forward to! Come hear our school's story and get ideas you can take to your school!

 

Name of Course: Successful Classroom Management from Day 1

Presenters: Andrew and Anne Howell

Date: June 12, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: Grades 6-12

Name of Course: Walk into your classroom confidently next year knowing that classroom management will be easier! Andrew and Anne Howell will share strategies and activities that lay the foundation for strong and personable classroom management practices. The Howells will provide tools teachers can implement during their first week of school which will lead to an engaging and loving classroom environment all year long!

 

Name of Course: Graphic Organizers for Writing

Presenter: Mary Carol Greene

Date: June 12, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: English Teachers of Grades 4 - 12

Name of Course: Learn how to use graphic organizers to simplify and illustrate the writing process for your students. First, learn how to teach paragraph writing using a fun and memorable graphic organizer. Then, learn how to teach more complex writing (such as chronological, expository, persuasive, and argumentative essays) using clear, consistent, and effective graphic organizers. All graphic organizers were created by the presenter and can be modified for your content area. Print and digital copies of all of the graphic organizers used during the class will be provided to all enrolled.

---

June 13, 2024 8:30-11:30

Name of Course: AI--Be Not Afraid

Presenter: Susie Klausmeyer

Date: June 13, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: PreK-12

Course Description: Be Not Afraid of AI. AI can make your teaching life easier. I will share specific AI tools for teachers. You will create prompts to use in AI. I will share tools that are available to use with your students. There will be time to play and learn.

 

Name of Course: Poetry Power!

Presenter: Joel Arnold

Date: June 13, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: Elementary

Course Description: Memorizing poetry is a lost art in our schools! But our school has found that there is much joy to be had in sharing beautiful, exciting, and funny poems with our students. Even students that struggle with memorizing are able to take pride in learning parts of great poems for a class recitation. You will leave this class with great ideas for how you can incorporate poetry into your classroom!

 

Name of Course: Fostering Fertility Appreciation in Teens

Presenter: Lindy Meyer

Date: June 13, 2024–8:30-11:30

Audience: 5-12

Course Description: Overview of male and female reproductive systems with an emphasis on the hormones of each. Demonstration of how presenting this material to middle and high school students has resulted in better health and treatment of abnormalities in students and assists them in making better decisions in relationships. It will be presented as an allied health service that is guided by Catholic moral principles.

 

Name of Course: 101 P.E. games/activities using folding tables

Presenter: Brad Hollinger

Date: June 13, 2024– 8:30-11:30

Audience: P.E. teachers, Latch Key teachers, summer school teachers

Course Description: TableTop games are a great way to teach P.E. concepts that are part of a "Striking" unit. A variety of games involving multiple types of balls, racquets, paddles or just your hands will be taught that include multiple grade levels from Pre K through even 8th grade. This is a participation class in that all activities and games will be played by participants that day (Learn by doing). No need for notes as I will try to have a handout available for you to take home.

---

June 13, 2024 12:30-3:30

Name of Course: Mental Illness: The Silent Epidemic in Our Schools

Presenter: Brooke McGivern

Date: June 13, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: K-12

Course Description: We will look at the most common mental illnesses that are appearing in the classroom today and discuss what steps we as educators can take to help navigate these professional challenges.

 

Name of Course: The Best Teachers Steal: Engaging Projects

Presenter: Joel Arnold

Date: June 13, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: K-8

Course Description: Our students come alive when they are learning through hands-on activities and projects! Joel has stolen many ideas from colleagues over the years, and wants you to steal from him now! Tons of great lessons and rubrics for every subject that will energize your students. We will end with time for show and tell (and steal) for anyone who has a project they are proud of that you want to share!

 

Name of Course: Catch Em’ Young! Supporting our Earliest Readers

Presenter: Ann Warren

Date: June 13, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: K-2

Course Description: Research has shown that students who lag behind in early reading development will rarely catch up without intensive intervention. Primary teachers are the front line in identifying and addressing reading concerns to set children on the path to proficient reading. In this session, teachers will learn why reading difficulties occur and how to identify at-risk students. Additionally, teachers will use student data to plan structured literacy instructional activities to take and use in their own classrooms. This session will be both informative and hands-on, and teachers will gain confidence with addressing early reading concerns.

 

Name of Course: Notes the Cornell Way

Presenter: Jeremy Barr

Date: June 13, 2024– 12:30-3:30

Audience: 5^th-12th

Course Description: How are you and your students feeling about taking notes? Are you doing all the work just to have students lose them, throw them in a backpack, or become locker fodder? Do students seem confused about how best to study? Cornell Lecture Notes is an ideal note-taking structure and process that engages students in the learning multiple times. More than just a structure for taking notes, Cornell Notes become a process for students to interact with their class/lecture notes. When using Cornell Notes remember the CORNELL WAY to note-taking, note-making, note-interacting, and note-reflecting.

Chapman, USD 473

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Classroom (June 3 - June 21)
AI in the Classroom is an engaging self-paced course designed to empower
educators with the knowledge and skills to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI)
seamlessly into their teaching practices. Over the course of three weeks, participants
will explore various AI websites, learn innovative methods for leveraging AI tools as
educators, and discover creative ways to facilitate student engagement and learning
through AI technologies.

Google Sheets for Educators (June 10 - June 28)
Google Sheets for Educators is a comprehensive self-paced three week course
designed to equip teachers with the essential skills and knowledge to utilize Google
Sheets effectively in their educational practices. Participants will dive into the world
of spreadsheets, mastering basic organization techniques, exploring powerful
formulas and functions, and discovering innovative ways to manipulate student data
to enhance teaching and learning.

Canva, Designing for your Classroom (June 17 - July 5)
Canva, Design in the Classroom is an interactive course designed to teach educators
the skills and knowledge of visual design principles. Over the course of three weeks,
participants will learn to seamlessly integrate design into their teaching practices
using the online platform, Canva. Teachers will explore the fundamentals of design,
discover innovative ways to incorporate visual elements into lessons, and learn how
to create engaging and impactful lesson plans for student use.

Clearwater, USD 264

Contact: Jason Crist - Email: Jcrist@usd264.org

Title: Science of Langauge and Literacy

Audience: USD 264 employees only

Description: The Science of Language and Literacy professional development will provide teachers with the skills they need to master the fundamentals of reading instruction – phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, and language. This experience strengthens teachers’ knowledge of language structure, the development of the reading brain, and how to nurture the development of foundational literacy skills. The Science of Language and Literacy will build the knowledge and skills so that teachers can be more successful with locally selected curriculum and interventions.

Science of Language and Literacy 1: (3 credit hours)
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time

Science of Language and Literacy 2: (3 credit hours)
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time

Science of Language and Literacy 3: (3 credit hours)
In-person training: 16 hours total per semester
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time

Science of Language and Literacy 4: (3 credit hours)

In-person training: 16 hours total per semester
Course work: 120+ hours of individual work time

---

Course Name: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Classroom
Location: Online via Google Classroom
Dates: June 3 - June 23 (Self-Paced)
Credits: 1 Credit Hour
Course Registration: USD 264 Employees = FREE |  Non-USD 264 Employees = $65 

College Credit Cost: 1 Credit Hour = $65 to Wichita State
Description: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Classroom guides educators in using and integrating AI in their classrooms. What’s the big deal with AI? Chat GPT? Google Bard? Are my students cheating? Can I use AI to be a more effective teacher and enhance my instruction? Let’s dive into all those questions and more as we look at the implications AI has for your classroom and your students.

---

Course Name: Chromebook Guru - From Beginner to Boss
Location: Online via Google Classroom
Dates: 3 Weeks - June 10 - June 30 (Self-Paced)
Credits: 1 Credit Hour
Cost: Course Registration = $65 and 1 Credit Hour = $65 ($130 Total)

Description: Feeling like a Chromebook rookie? In "Chromebook Guru: From Beginner to Boss," you'll transform from a confused clicker to a confident Chromebook commander! This course dives deep into the world of Chromebooks, unlocking their hidden potential. Master essential functions, discover time-saving hacks, and conquer accessibility features. Get ready to say goodbye to Chromebook struggles and hello to digital mastery!

---

Course Name: Unleash Creativity in Your Classroom with Canva!
Location: Online via Google Classroom
Dates: June 17 - July 7 (Self-Paced)
Credits: 1 Credit Hour
Cost: Course Registration = $65 and 1 Credit Hour = $65 ($130 Total)

Description: Unleash Creativity in Your Classroom with Canva! This course empowers you to use Canva, a free and powerful design tool, to create stunning visuals that enhance learning. Go beyond textbooks! Craft engaging presentations, infographics, and social media graphics that resonate with students. Learn photo editing, design layout, and collaboration tools – all within an intuitive platform. Transform your lessons and empower students to explore the world of digital design.

---

Course Name: G Suite for the Classroom: Create, Assess & Collaborate with Docs, Forms & Slides
Location: Online via Google Classroom
Dates: June 24 - July 14 (Self-Paced)
Credits: 1 Credit Hour
Cost: Course Registration = $65 and 1 Credit Hour = $65 ($130 Total)

Description: Need a fresh look at your Google Tools? G Suite for the Classroom: Create, Assess & Collaborate with Docs, Forms & Slides equips you to harness the power of Google Apps! Learn to craft engaging lessons with Docs, streamline assessments with Forms, and foster collaboration with Slides. This course unlocks the full potential of Google Apps including new features, empowering you and your students for a more interactive and efficient learning experience! Not only will we discuss how to use these tools to support collaboration and creativity, but also how to use them to save time and energy for everyday tasks.

---

Course Name: Game Changers: AI Tools for Every Classroom
Location: Online via Google Classroom
Dates: July 1 - July 21 (Self-Paced)
Credits: 1 Credit Hour
Cost: Course Registration = $65 and 1 Credit Hour = $65 ($130 Total)

Description: Feeling overwhelmed by paperwork and repetitive tasks? Game Changers: AI Tools for Every Classroom unlocks the power of Artificial Intelligence to transform your teaching! Explore innovative tools like Magic School AI, Adobe Express, Pictory, Canva and more to streamline grading, personalize learning, and create dynamic content. This course empowers you to work smarter, not harder, while igniting creativity and student engagement in your classroom. We will examine AI Tool topics that include: ChatBots, Visual & Design, Lesson & Content Creation, Teaching Aides, Assessment Generators and Collaboration & Communication.

---

Course Name: Backward Mapping for Standards Alignment

Dates: June & July

Credits: 2 credit hours

USD 264 Employees Only.

Description: This course provides educators with practical tools and strategies to enhance their instructional planning and assessment practices. Through mandatory in-person seat work sessions and complementary independent coursework, participants will develop and refine their skills in creating and aligning learning intentions, success criteria, formative and summative assessments, and daily lesson plans to State Standards/Competencies. Educators will learn to design robust instructional units that promote student success and meet the rigorous demands of educational standards.

Cosmosphere

June 25th & 26th Summer Teacher STEM Camp sessions.

.5 credit hour

Exploration Place

Onsite and traveling camp staff professional development. Further details to be provided by Exploration Place management.

Requirements:

• Attendance at orientation and training
• completion of KCCTO training
• observations by Camp Manager and Assistant Camp Director at onsite and traveling camp sites
• completion of written reflections

Eligible for 1 credit hour upon completion and approval from Exploration Place management.