Suffolk Public Schools Blog

Coaching in a virtual space looks and feels much different than when we are physically together. Identify the characteristics of powerful conversations, including advancement of an agenda, shared learning, and a stronger relationship. Examine how the principles of great listening manifest in virtual spaces. Explore the five primary types of powerful conversations and practice conversations that actualize strategy. More details are available from VASCD!

Join VDOE and VADLEN for a virtual DLI in A Day conference on February 27, at 10 a.m. via Zoom. Anyone interested in Dual Language Immersion Education is invited to attend. Registration is free and available online through January 29.

Webinar: Putting the ‘AT’ in mATh: Making Math More Accessible with Assistive Technology-February 2
This webinar will look at strategies to make math instruction more accessible by improving the structure of materials, incorporating low-tech assistive technology, and using text-to-speech, handwriting, and speech recognition supports. Register for a one-hour webinar held on February 2 at noon or 3p.m.

Digital Equity Training Support
A relatively new Virginia-specific organization, UnisonEDU’s mission is to provide world-class training support to all school districts in need, at reduced rates, just as they have done with West Point Public Schools. The group offers PD in many areas including Google Workspace, Tech for online and hybrid learning, leadership, and more! Check their website for resources and framework for more information.

Collaborative Planning for Content and Language Integration
Join educators from across the Commonwealth for a “Watch Party” to watch a recording about collaborative planning on January 27 at 4 p.m.

Participants will stop at key points to share ideas, reflect, and ask questions. Ideas and questions in the January series will help guide the development of Standards Crosswalks and sample plans for integrating ELD Standards.

Catalyzing Change in K-12 Mathematics Book Talks
VDOE and the Virginia Council of Mathematics Specialists are excited to partner in offering Catalyzing Change in K-12 Mathematics Book Talks beginning in February. 

The sessions will provide an opportunity for mathematics teachers, specialists, and coaches to engage in critical conversations around the need for change in mathematics education in Virginia.

Participants will be provided an e-book to read and will participate in one (1) hour virtual sessions to be held at 4 p.m. on February 4, 11, 25,  March 11, 25, April 8, 22.  Space is limited. Complete the Google Form to indicate your interest in participating.

Content Instruction with Multilingual Learners
Join Dr. Luciana C. de Oliveira (researcher, educator and author), as she shares what she has learned about quality instruction for ELs within content area settings. Sign up for the January 25 webinar.

New World Language Teaching Methods Online Course
This is a new asynchronous online course in World Language Teaching Methods at UVA. EDIS 5490- World Languages Teaching Methods will be available from February 1–May 6. PreK-12 educators may be eligible for discounted tuition. For more information, email Courtney Sullivan.

Project WILD Workshops
The Project WILD program is an interdisciplinary conservation and environmental education curriculum and materials that focus on wildlife and conservation for all educators.

The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries provides training for educators in support of the Science SOL as well as essential skills in math and language arts. Email Suzie Gilley for more information.

Virginia Dual Language/Immersion Day-February 27
Join VDOE and VADLEN for a virtual DLI in A Day conference on February 27, at 10 a.m. via Zoom. Anyone interested in Dual Language Immersion Education is invited to attend. Registration is free and available online through January 29.

Did You Know? VKRP Fall Survey Remains Open Through January 29! 

Share your experiences with instruction, assessment, and data use this fall on the Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program survey by January 29.

Teachers and administrators received a unique link to the survey via their division email accounts.

The survey can be completed over multiple sessions if necessary and progress will be saved. Email Yin Gu if there are any questions.