Upcoming Professional Learning Events

  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    But I'm not a Reading Teacher: Integrating SOR across all content areas

     

    Register here.

    Many educators outside of the English Language Arts (ELA) classroom often feel unsure of their role in supporting student literacy. However, research from the Science of Reading underscores that all teachers-regardless of subject-play a critical role in helping students access and comprehend complex texts. This professional learning session will empower content-area teachers (e.g., math, science, social studies, the arts) with the knowledge and tools to integrate key Science of Reading principles into their daily instruction. Participants will explore practical strategies that support vocabulary development, comprehension, and disciplinary literacy without sacrificing content rigor. Through engaging activities, real-world examples, and collaborative planning, educators will leave with concrete strategies to support students' literacy growth-no matter what they teach.

    We welcome teams of teachers, administrators, instructional coaches, department chairs, and all for whom literacy instruction is integral, to join us as leaders of literacy.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    LEXIA: LETRS for Early Childhood Educators

    Register here.

    LETRS for Early Childhood Educators professional learning provides deep knowledge of literacy instruction for the youngest learners. The more children know about language and literacy before they begin kindergarten and first grade, the better equipped they are to succeed in literacy learning and beyond.

    This course will:

    -Define early literacy and language, the processes involved, and the developmental sequences by which these skills develop

    -Describe strategies and learning activities that are engaging, effective, and developmentally appropriate

    -Discuss how assessment procedures and data can be used to plan and implement instruction for the youngest learners

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    PE/HE Consortium: Enhancing Teaching Styles and Assessment Strategies in PE

    Register here.

    With Shawn Ladda

    This professional development workshop is designed to support physical education teachers in refining their teaching styles and integrating effective assessment strategies into their classrooms. Participants will explore how different teaching styles can impact student engagement, learning outcomes, and overall class dynamics. Additionally, they will gain practical insights into how to assess both skill development and personal growth in physical educatio

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    The IDEA Exchange (Inspired by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)

    Register here.

    Special education leadership comes with unique challenges, requiring collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. The I.D.E.A. Exchange is responsively designed for special education leaders to engage in open, guided discussions on the most pressing topics in the field. Each session will center around a key theme-ranging from MTSS integration to family partnerships-while allowing participants to share experiences, problem-solve, and build a network of support. Whether you're a director, coordinator, or instructional leader, this space will empower you with fresh insights, practical strategies, and a collaborative professional community.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Restorative Practices Educator Training for RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium

    Register here.

    Please note that this training is limited to personnel from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend, please contact Maisha Campbell (mcampbell@swboces.org). Lori DeCarlo of Restorative Edge Consulting will lead this interactive series to provide training to educators in the use of restorative practices designed to support social-emotional learning and mental health.
    The training will focus on:
    Restorative practices as a trauma-informed approach for creating a culture of belonging, safety, and inclusion


    • Responsive restorative practices, including Affective Communication/Non-Violent Communication, Tier 2 Whole Group Responsive Circles, and Tier 2 Restorative Circles to respond to specific incidents of harm.
    Restorative Discipline: how to embed restorative practices into discipline, including:
    ---Creating a restorative classroom as an alternative to out of school suspension,
    ---Exploring how to use a restorative intervention known as the 5 Step Plan,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Tier 3 Restorative Conferences for serious disciplinary incidents,
    ---Learning how to facilitate a Welcome Back & Re-Entry Circle for students returning from an out of school suspension.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    NYSED Lead Evaluator Training (APPR) - Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Restorative Practices, Via Zoom]

    Register here.

    Social and emotional well-being and skills are foundational to academic success, cultivating a culture of belonging, and nurturing our students' capacity for civic engagement and career readiness, in alignment with New York State's Portrait of a Graduate. In this module we will explore NYSED's Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Benchmarks and the tenets of Restorative Practices to anchor our thinking about and leadership of efforts to improve school culture, optimize conditions for learning, and develop student competencies that reflect attributes of the Portrait of a Graduate.*

    All leaders new to their district or role will need to attend our Foundations in Leading Leaders session to meet the requirements for NYSED's Lead Evaluator Training. Please check your district's APPR plan to determine the number of days/hours approved by NYSED for your district's Lead Evaluator Training.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Enhancing the Co-Teaching Experience

    Register here.

    This 6-hour professional learning course is designed to strengthen educators' capacity to implement effective and engaging co-teaching practices that support inclusive classrooms and improved outcomes for all learners. Participants will explore research-based co-teaching models, clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and instructional strategies that promote shared ownership, student engagement, and equitable access to high-quality Tier 1 instruction.

    Through interactive learning experiences, collaborative planning, and reflection, participants will examine the conditions necessary for successful co-teaching, including communication, trust, scheduling, and alignment with MTSS and special education service delivery. The course emphasizes practical tools for co-planning, differentiating instruction, leveraging data, and using multiple co-teaching approaches intentionally to meet diverse learner needs. By the end of the course, participants will develop actionable strategies to enhance collaboration between general and special educators, increase instructional coherence, and foster inclusive classroom environments that support academic, social-emotional, and behavioral growth. *

    *Learning Outcomes: Participants will be able to: Identify and apply the six co-teaching models effectively based on instructional purpose and student needs Clarify co-teaching roles and responsibilities to promote shared accountability Utilize collaborative planning structures to design inclusive, engaging lessons Implement strategies that increase student engagement and access to core instruction Align co-teaching practices with MTSS frameworks and inclusive service delivery Reflect on current practice and develop next steps for strengthening co-teaching partnerships

    Participants: Co Teaching Teams

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    2025-26 DEI Leaders' Action Network: Advancing Equity Through the NYSED Portrait of a Graduate

    Register here.

    Join a powerful network of school district teams committed to advancing equity, and access in ways that transform classrooms and communities. This year, we will ground our work in Liz Kleinrock's Start Here, Start Now and connect its practical strategies directly to the New York State Portrait of a Graduate.

    Over five full-day sessions, district teams will:

    1.Engage in deep professional learning on equity-centered leadership and culturally responsive-sustaining practices.

    2. Participate in guided book study discussions and collaborative activities that link Start Here, Start Now to Portrait of a Graduate attributes.

    3. Design and refine a district-specific DEI initiative anchored to one of the six Portrait attributes.

    4. Receive targeted support and coaching to move from concept to actionable implementation.

    5. Showcase their work and leave with a clear action plan for 2026-2027.

    By the end of the year, each team will have:

    -Selected a Portrait of a Graduate attribute to anchor their DEI work.
    -Designed and tested a district-specific initiative that advances equity and belonging in their school community.
    -Developed stakeholder engagement and sustainability strategies to ensure lasting impact.
    -Built strong cross-district connections to share resources, successes, and lessons learned.

    Each participating district is strongly encouraged to register as a team of at least two members and up to 5.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    504 Chairperson Training

    Register here.

    Participants will learn to effectively facilitate 504 meetings by defining team roles, engaging parents in meaningful collaboration, and managing challenging conversations. Through practical strategies, participants will gain the skills to develop legally sound 504 Plans that align accommodations with student needs and ensure successful classroom implementation. They will explore methods for monitoring and reviewing 504 Plans, collaborating with educators to track progress, and making data-informed adjustments. Finally, participants will examine the intersection of 504 Plans with other school support systems, applying principles of cultural competence and equity to ensure fair and effective student access to accommodations.

    This professional learning is focused on the facilitation of 504 meetings and the implementation of 504 plans for those who serve as Chairpersons for 504 Committee Meetings.

    Professional learning will include the following areas:

    1. Legal Foundations and Compliance Overview of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

    2. Roles and Responsibilities

    3. 504 Plan Development

    4. Meeting Facilitation and Parent Engagement

    5. Monitoring and Review

    6. Intersection with Other School Supports

    7. Cultural Competence and Equity

    8. Resource Review

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    SLS- Digital Library Advisory Board

    Register here.

    The SWBOCES Digital Library Program is a collaborative online service that provides access to over 16,000 digital ebooks and audio books, to students and staff. This service is an extension of the print collection in school libraries; however, it is online with 24/7 access. It is convenient for students to check out titles anywhere, anytime in multiple formats. The SLS is restarting our Digital Library Advisory Board to help curate our SWBOCES collection on Overdrive/Sora and discuss other pertinent topics regarding digital collections. We welcome anyone who is interested in supporting our digital collection and helping it to thrive to better support all of our students/staff. 

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    RECOVS Restorative Practices Implementation/Action Planning Workshop

    Register here.

    Please note that this training is limited to leaders from districts who are part of SWBOCES's RECOVS Mental Health Grant Consortium. If you have questions about whether you are eligible to attend, please contact Maisha Campbell (mcampbell@swboces.org). Lori DeCarlo of Restorative Edge Consulting will lead this interactive training, which is essential for leaders who are bringing restorative practices to their schools/districts - to understand key principles of restorative practices and conditions for systemic implementation designed to support social-emotional learning and mental health. RECOMMENDED to follow the 3 Day Basic Restorative Practices Training This facilitated workshop utilizes the Implementation Science Framework to create a doable Action Plan for Implementing Restorative Practices for Systemic, Whole School Change

    Objectives:

    • Understand the four stages of implementation science as it applies to systemic implementation of restorative practices.

    • Learn what the research has identified as common "mis-implementation" errors and how to avoiding these pitfalls.

    • Explore evidence based practices that support sustainable implementation of restorative practices.

    • Conduct a self-assessment of current practices to establish a baseline and identify up to 5 priorities for action.

    • Learn about high impact activities for early implementation.

    • Plan for Professional Learning sessions at the building level. Write explicit action plans utilizing a template.

    • Develop key messaging to support the roll-out & enhance buy-in.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    NYSED Lead Evaluator Training (APPR) - Leading for Equity: Implementing the Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education Framework (Virtual)

    Register here.

    Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education anchors New York State's Portrait of a Graduate. In this professional learning experience, school and district leaders will explore NYSED's Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CR-SE) Framework as a guide for enhancing instructional practices and overall school environments while advancing the attributes of the Portrait of a Graduate.

    Participants will explore NYSED's Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CR-SE) Framework as a guide for creating welcoming school environments, delivering rigorous instruction, designing inclusive curriculum and assessments, and engaging in ongoing professional learning. Through a leadership lens, participants will connect these principles to supervision and evaluation practices, identify areas of opportunity, and plan for meaningful change that improves student and staff experiences.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    Northwell Mental Health PD -Eating Disorders [Virtual]

    Register here.

    This session will provide a comprehensive understanding of Eating Disorders, complex and serious mental health conditions that affect an individual's physical health, mental well-being, and daily functioning. Learn practical strategies to recognize warning signs, provide initial support within your setting, address common misconceptions, and facilitate access to specialized care and recovery for individuals struggling with these conditions.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Lit Up: Igniting Reading Engagement & Comprehension in Middle & High School Classrooms (Aligned to Science of Reading/NYS Literacy Briefs)

     

     

     

    Register Here

    Are your students resistant to reading or struggling to comprehend complex text in ELA or Social Studies - or other content areas? While students are often expected to comprehend texts in their middle and high school classes, even students who can name every word may not be reading actively or making sense of the texts they're given.

    How do we support students' engagement with text and reading comprehension across content areas in secondary classrooms, in alignment with the Science of Reading?

    This session will share and engage participants in strategies that help students think more deeply both about how and what they read, from think-alouds and metacognitive reflection to visible thinking routines and protocols for activating reading strategies. Participants will identify implications for curriculum and instruction to bring back to their schools for application. Educators are encouraged to attend in teams to collaborate for the greatest impact and will receive a 10% credit for attending with at least two other district colleagues.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    UFLI Institute: UFLI+ More! (Progress monitoring, differentiation and sound walls!)

    Register here.

    Join us for Day 2, of hands-on professional learning with UFLI.

    Day 2 - UFLI + More This 6- hour session will provide two learning experiences in one! The first half of the day will be an exploration of progress monitoring and differentiation to support small group instruction. The second half of the day will be focused on the use of Sound Walls in a foundational skills environment to support instruction.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES Center for Career Services, 65 Grasslands Rd. Valhalla, NY

    PE/HE Consortium: Winning the One Goal Game

    Register here.

    This workshop will discuss various strength and conditioning concepts, techniques and applications as it relates to coaching and in the classroom. Topics will include physiology of exercise, program design, strength training protocols, plyometric training, speed and agility training, sports nutrition, sports psychology and other advanced training methods.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Trauma Informed Practices: How We Show Up - Relationships that Heal, Support, & Empower (February 2026)

    Register here.

    This interactive training introduces school support staff or educators to the foundational principles of trauma-informed care and social-emotional learning (SEL). Grounded in reflection and real-life scenarios, the session equips participants with simple, effective tools to build trust, consistency, and emotional safety with students. Drawing on the Sanctuary Model, ACEs research, and restorative practices, participants will explore the impact of childhood adversity on student behavior and learn how their daily interactions can promote healing, regulation, and resilience. Whether you're a teacher, paraprofessional, hallway monitor, lunchroom staff member, or school aide, this course affirms your power to make a lasting difference - one relationship at a time.


    Participants will be able to:

    • Define trauma-informed care and explain its relevance in school environments.


    • Describe the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and unmet needs using the lens of Maslow's Hierarchy.

    • Identify the five core SEL competencies and how they show up in daily student behavior.

    • Apply key trauma-informed strategies such as curiosity-based questions, emotional validation, and consistent routines.• Using Community Building circles and the Sanctuary Model check-in questions to support student regulation and build connections.• Reflect on their own school experiences to build empathy and clarity in how they support students.• Recognize signs of secondary trauma and commit to one self-care practice that sustains their emotional wellness.

     

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    LETRS for Elementary Educators- Volume 1

    Register here.

    LETRS is professional learning for elementary educators that invests in teachers' literacy knowledge and professional practice. Teachers gain essential knowledge to master the fundamentals of literacy instruction required to transform student learning. This program is recommended for educators with kindergarten through third- grade students and educators with students working toward proficiency in fourth and fifth grade. LETRS fills gaps in teacher preparation education by covering all layers of language organization (phonology, orthography, morphology, syntax, semantics) and their relevance for teaching reading, spelling, writing, and oral language. All participant materials are included. This course is accredited by the International Dyslexia Association ®

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • SWBOCES - 450 Mamaroneck Avenue, 3rd floor, Harrison, NY

    Early Learning (PK-3) Educators Network

    Register here.

    Our early learning network has a new look! We will meet in person at the Center for Professional Learning and visit host schools to engage in learning walks focused on Early Learning.

    Join us for collaborative learning experiences with colleagues who are dedicated to enhancing the educational experiences of Early Learners (PK-3) across all content areas. Together we will explore best practices, theories, and innovative approaches to early childhood education. Members of the group will engage in activities including sharing resources, analyzing current research, developing curriculum strategies, and reflecting on their teaching methods. We welcome teams of teachers, administrators, instructional coaches, early learning specialists, department chairs, and all who support Early Learning.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
  • via Zoom

    Northwell Mental Health PD -Project ECHO - Children of Divorced Parents and Complex Family Dynamics [Virtual]

    Register here.

    Using the Project ECHO model these sessions will provide expert guidance and review of cases (deidentified) and focus on facilitating open discussions and fostering collaborative team learning, sharing expertise and a teach all learn all model.

    Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support
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Ways to Learn with Us

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Whether you learn with us on-site at the Center, in your district, or virtually, our programs are led by the Center’s core team and an extended team of educators from the region, consultants, professors from higher education, and industry partners.We invite you to explore the many ways we can partner with you, your school, and/or your districts on your learning journey. 

Learning Journey Snapshots

  • The October Literacy Symposium presenters posed with large letters that spell out READ
  • professional learning session teachers working in small groups
  • phys ed/health consortium educator group on the ice at a curling facility
  • hand raised at a professional learning session
  • two educators at a table talking about the session
  • PLCS team having fun at the Boston conference
  • large group listening to presenters at a professional learning session
  • educator listening intently
  • Educators in a science session doing hands on learning
  • educators in an interactive exhibit about the holocaust called Common Circles
  • large group of educators at an in district safety program
  • Catherine Graybosch engaged with a new librarian during their intro program
  • Seated educators at the SLS conference
  • Attendees at the Jacob Burns Film Center at the screening of the film Counted Out
  • Michael Setaro leading a 504 Chairperson session
  • The PLCS team

Request Selections from Our Pre-Recorded Webinars Library

Teaching in Remote/Hybrid Learning Environments (TRLE) Grant

TRLE Grant Graphic

The Rethink K-12 Education Models Grant was developed to support educators in creating innovative practices to respond to and address the challenges created by the COVID-19 crisis.  New York State was one of 11 states awarded funds under this grant competition.  Southern Westchester BOCES, in partnership with LHRIC, Rockland BOCES, and Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES applied for funding through the Rethink K-12 Education Models Grant with the plan to provide educators professional learning opportunities to support in implementing high-quality and effective practices in remote/hybrid teaching and learning in order to lead to success for all students.

Learn more about the TRLE Grant.

 

PLCS NEWS

  • Jacob Burns Film Center and Southern Westchester BOCES Announce New Partnership to Expand Access to Arts in Education

    Jacob Burns Film Center and Southern Westchester BOCES Announce New Partnership to Expand Access to Arts in Education

    The Jacob Burns Film Center (JBFC) and the Center for Professional Learning & Curriculum Support (PLCS) at Southern Westchester Board of Cooperative Educational Services (SWBOCES) are excited to announce a new partnership aimed at expanding access to JBFC’s acclaimed school programs throughout regional school districts. This collaboration highlights both organizations’ shared dedication to embedding visual arts in education as a powerful way to strengthen literacy, foster empathy, and ignite student engagement.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • PLCS Insights: Q&A with SLS Supervisor Catherine Graybosch

    PLCS Insights: Q&A with SLS Supervisor Catherine Graybosch

    "School librarians are the heart and soul of their schools.  They are the people who teachers and students flock to for important information, great books, research projects and more.  As today’s education landscape changes, school librarians are having to adjust in order to remain a vital part of the school community."

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Catherine Graybosch Appointed Supervisor of the School Library System at Southern Westchester BOCES

    Catherine Graybosch Appointed Supervisor of the School Library System at Southern Westchester BOCES

    The Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support (PLCS) at Southern Westchester BOCES is excited to announce the appointment of Catherine Graybosch as the new Supervisor of the School Library System. Catherine brings a wealth of experience as an educator and leader, having served as a Library Media Specialist and Department Head of Media and Information Technology at Great Neck Public Schools. Most recently, she held roles as a Staff Developer, District Curriculum Integration Leader, and Assistant Principal at Katonah-Lewisboro School District. Her commitment to fostering inquiry-based learning, integrating technology, and supporting educator development makes her a valuable addition to our team.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Transformative Leadership: Deepening Equity and Inclusion Through Hofstra’s Inclusive Leadership Program

    Transformative Leadership: Deepening Equity and Inclusion Through Hofstra’s Inclusive Leadership Program

    Supervisor of Community, Culture, and Wellness, and SWBOCES DEI Coordinator Sadika Clarke reflects on how attending Hofstra University’s Certificate in Inclusive Leadership Program has deepened her approach to fostering equity, inclusion, and belonging. This transformative experience, aligned with the New York State Board of Regents' vision for educational institutions, provided hands-on work, case studies, and collaboration with a diverse cohort of leaders. Equipped with practical strategies and a sharpened equity lens, she is now focused on creating lasting systems that embrace diversity and inclusion, driving sustainable impact in schools and beyond.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • PLCS Welcomes Michael Setaro as Supervisor of Teaching, Learning and Student Support

    PLCS Welcomes Michael Setaro

    The Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support (PLCS) at Southern Westchester BOCES is excited to announce the appointment of Michael Setaro as Supervisor of Teaching, Learning, and Student Support. With over 20 years of experience in education, including expertise in special education, social studies, and intensive reading, Mike is dedicated to enhancing the connection between educator development and student success. In his new role, he will focus on leading the Center’s approach to NYSED’s Initial/Recert program for Lead Evaluators, leveraging Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), utilizing data to improve teaching and learning, and co-leading the RECOVS grant to promote wellness and mental health in schools. Mike expressed his honor in serving the region and looks forward to collaborating with educators and community partners to ensure equitable, high-quality education for all students. He holds New York State School Building Leader and School District Leader certifications and is pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Instructional Leadership.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • An Equity Lens: Sadika Clarke puts spotlight on factors that impact learning

    An Equity Lens: Sadika Clarke puts spotlight on factors that impact learning

    Southern Westchester BOCES (SWBOCES) educators at Irvington High School participated in a workshop focused on viewing education through an equity lens, led by Sadika Clarke, Supervisor of Community, Culture, and Wellness at the Center for Professional Learning & Curriculum Support. The session, titled An Equity Lens, encouraged two dozen educators to engage in courageous conversations about educational disparities, opportunity gaps, and systemic racism. Clarke highlighted the importance of addressing factors such as racial discrimination and trauma, emphasizing the role of educators in promoting equitable outcomes. The workshop aimed to raise awareness of personal biases, foster understanding of the Culturally Responsive Sustaining Education (CR-SE) framework, and equip educators with strategies to create more inclusive classrooms.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Empowering Change: Be the Thermostat, not the Thermometer - Lessons from the 5th Annual PLCS DEI Summer Institute

    Empowering Change: Be the Thermostat, not the Thermometer

    In July, the Southern Westchester BOCES Center for Professional Learning and Curriculum Support (PLCS) hosted its 5th Annual Summer Institute for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This impactful event featured keynote speakers like Dr. Alexandria Connally, who addressed implicit bias, Keisha Bell, who discussed allyship in education, and Dr. Raymond Sanchez, who emphasized personal responsibility in advancing DEI. Attendees engaged in over 15 presentations covering various aspects of diversity, and for the first time, the event was recorded for future educational use. The final day included a screening of the award-winning documentary "The Right to Read," followed by a panel discussion on literacy education. The success of the Institute highlighted SWBOCES’s commitment to DEI, with key contributions from Sadika Clarke and other leaders. Clarke expressed gratitude for the shared learning experiences, emphasizing the importance of collective action in promoting educational equity.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Embracing Authentiity, Sadika Clarke

    Embracing Authenticity, Sadika Clarke

    In her new role as Supervisor of Community, Culture, and Wellness, as well as DEI Coordinator for Southern Westchester BOCES, Sadika Clarke expresses a deep sense of purpose and excitement. She is dedicated to creating inclusive environments where everyone feels empowered to be their authentic selves, believing that authenticity leads to greater contributions within communities and organizations. Clarke's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is driven by both personal and professional experiences, particularly as a mother of two, inspiring her passion for equity and justice. She  aims to dismantle systemic barriers and foster spaces where people from all backgrounds are valued and heard. Through collaboration with colleagues, students, and community members, Clarke looks forward to making a lasting, positive impact, fostering a culture of belonging with authenticity, compassion, and integrity.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • 50 School Districts and BOCES Receive Grants to Address Learning Loss and Support Mental Health Services

    50 School Districts and BOCES Receive Grants to Address Learning Loss and Support Mental Health Services

    Governor Kathy Hochul has awarded $100 million to 50 school districts and BOCES, including Southern Westchester BOCES, to address learning loss from the pandemic and enhance mental health support for students. This funding, part of the RECOVS grant program, will improve access to evidence-based interventions and provide resources to help school staff and students identify and respond to academic and mental health challenges. The initiative aligns with Governor Hochul's commitment to expanding mental health services in schools, ensuring that both student well-being and academic recovery are prioritized statewide. 

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning

  • Igniting Equity

    Igniting Equity, Dr. Hope Weinberg

    In this blog, Dr. Hope Weinberg, Supervisor of Literacy and Learning, reflects on the powerful message of The Right to Read, a film advocating for literacy as a fundamental human right. She emphasizes that without the ability to read fluently, individuals are at a disadvantage, which deeply resonates with her as both an educator and a parent. Weinberg connects literacy and equity, highlighting the need for equitable literacy instruction to ensure all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to succeed academically and socially.

    Dr. Weinberg's commitment to literacy equity is rooted in her lifelong involvement in equity work, advocating for social justice and the disruption of systemic inequities in schools. She stresses that achieving equity in literacy requires ongoing reflection, data analysis, and improvement of strategies. Drawing on Horace Mann's belief that "Reading is the great equalizer," she reaffirms the center’s dedication to this mission through initiatives like the Summer Literacy Symposium and continued collaboration with regional districts. For Weinberg, literacy is a critical tool for advancing equity, and she is passionate about supporting this important work.

    News Feed - Center for Professional Learning
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