Professional Learning Opportunities

Welcome to the future of STEELS education, where traditional multiple-choice tests give way to 3-Dimensional assessments, spotlighting science and engineering practices (SEPs) and cross-cutting concepts (CCCs) alongside disciplinary core ideas (DCIs). In this transformative workshop, we'll explore innovative strategies for assessing students' conceptual understanding through real-world, authentic scenarios. Empower your students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways, preparing them for the complexities of the real world. Lunch on your own

Previous cohorts/attendees who have participated in previous station rotation or hybrid workshops will reflect on current practices and collaborate to create student-centered learning environments. Through personalized strategies like reflective practices, goal-setting, and planning, educators will learn to implement evidence-based, future-ready practices that prioritize their learners' needs and interests. *Participants invited to attend by their district under an established contract are welcome to register at no additional cost (costs are already included in the established contract). For participants who want to attend a workshop outside of a previously established district contract, the cost is $169 for IU13 district participants and $199 for non-IU13 district participants.

This professional learning series prioritizes student-centered learning, starting with a focus on the station rotation learning model. Participants will gain hands-on experience and strategies for implementing personalized and individualized learning approaches through the three learning modalities: direct, small group instruction; focused independent work; and effective collaborative learning. In this 2-day workshop, attendees will engage in various instructional activities and strategies with direct applications in classrooms including active learning strategies and learner-centered techniques. *Participants who are invited to attend by their district under an established contract are welcome to register at no additional cost (costs are already included in the established contract). For participants who want to attend the 2 day series outside of a previously established district contract, the cost for IU13 Schools/Districts is $399 per a person and Non-IU13 Schools/Districts is $424 per a person.

Step into Lancaster's premier outdoor classroom! During this two-day workshop, middle and high school educators will immerse themselves in the innovative stream restoration and scientific research taking place on the Blue Green Connector-a transformational project along the Little Conestoga Creek in the heart of Lancaster. This site is the first of many that will serve as an outdoor classroom and field location with close proximity to many schools. Educators will: * Engage in a hands-on "muddy boots” field experience, exploring the restoration project and the unique opportunities it offers for student learning. * Collaboratively design instructional materials aligned with the new PA STEELS standards, tailored to the learning opportunities found throughout the site. * Develop content that will not only be ready-to-use with their own students, but also featured on the the Blue Green Connector website, expanding access for teachers across the region. Please Note:This site will serve as a premier outdoor field location for STEM, STEAM, and cross-disciplinary learning-linking science, engineering, environmental stewardship, and history in one authentic setting. Who Should Apply: We're seeking 10 middle or high school educators with backgrounds in biology, earth science, environmental science, engineering, history, or STEM/STEAM. Participant Benefits: * $450 stipend per teacher (paid to school to support substitute costs) * Lunch provided both days * 12 Act 48 hours awarded upon completion

Engage young learners in Technology & Engineering (T&E) standards through hands-on challenges, student-driven inquiry, and real-world problem-solving. Educators will explore strategies for effective STEM integration, analyze student engagement research, and collaborate on practical ways to implement STEELS-aligned T&E instruction. Discussions will focus on design thinking, engineering fundamentals, and assessment strategies tailored for elementary classrooms. Leave with classroom-ready resources to spark creativity and curiosity in K-5 students.

This workshop will equip district classroom teachers, administrators, and district staff with the knowledge and tools necessary to comply with the new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations regarding digital accessibility. With the adoption of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA as the standard for state and local government websites, including school districts, this training will ensure that all digital resources - such as school publications, learning management systems, and online instructional materials - are accessible to all individuals. Participants will explore the core principles of WCAG 2.1 and learn practical strategies for creating and maintaining accessible digital content throughout their school district. It is recommended that district teams of (2 - 4 people) attend together to examine aspects of sample district compliance roadmaps and to develop individual district action plans.Workshop cost is $149 per person for IU13 districts and $500 for groups of 4 or more from the same IU13 district. $199 for non-IU13 districts and $750 for groups of 4 or more from the same non-IU13 district.

Support students in Technology & Engineering (T&E) education by exploring innovative strategies, interdisciplinary connections, and student-driven inquiry. Educators will engage in hands-on design challenges, analyze student engagement research, and examine best practices for implementing STEELS-aligned T&E instruction in grades 6-12. Discussions will focus on engineering practices, curriculum integration, and assessment strategies to enhance STEM learning. Walk away with practical tools, resources, and lesson ideas to foster deeper engagement and critical thinking in secondary classrooms.

IU13 Career Ready Leaders' Collaborative meetings offer district and school leaders a valuable space to stay informed about current education initiatives at local, state, and national levels. The focus is on addressing specific career readiness challenges at the district and school levels, encouraging the exchange of practical solutions. These gatherings promote networking and collaboration, enabling leaders to connect with colleagues and local partners. The meeting structure includes insights from guest speakers or business/industry spotlights, highlighting district/program achievements, sharing updates on state/local career readiness opportunities, and providing open spaces for collaborative discussions. This multifaceted approach ensures that leaders leave the meetings with a knowledge of the latest developments and a strengthened network to enhance career readiness initiatives across the IU13 region.

This Demco Book Care Workshop will provide book care training with the aim of helping librarians keep their collection in circulation longer. Training includes protection and repair techniques and offers: a hands-on experience, ideas for protecting books ahead of circulation, and tried-and-true methods for a variety of repairs. Workshops typically cover how to do basic page repairs, tip-ins, hinge and spine repairs, book jacket and laminate applications, and how to reinforce spines. Course notes with links to other free resources such as how-to videos, product directories, and a repair guide will be provided. This Book Doctor Course instructor is Kimberly Young.