East Greenbush Central School District staff participated in a full day of professional development training on Tuesday. All staff attended sexual harassment training and a review of district policies regarding sexual harassment, reporting of complaints, and procedures for investigation and resolution.
Later in the morning, faculty learned about the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards, which are being implemented into the K-12 curriculum. The focus was on practical exemplars and applications of the standards to instruction. Participants received two books which describe best practices and attended a presentation led by Carmalita Seitz, who is a national speaker and expert on the ISTE Standards.
In the afternoon, teachers and staff worked together in grade level and departmental meetings to modify their curriculum and incorporate the ISTE standards.
Additionally, art teachers received training in the new Visual Art Standards; the Columbia Guidance Department visited colleges to discuss admission practices, academic programs and current workforce relevance; and club advisors received training on guidelines and procedures for overseeing student clubs.
This is the fourth day of professional development for staff since the beginning of September. Staff will also attend training sessions on February 8, March 15 and June 27.
“Our professional development plan directly aligns with the district’s strategic plan,” said Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction James McHugh. “I hope our teachers and staff found these sessions to be beneficial and rewarding.”