Welcome to the iDCPS Conference 2025 registration site! Before registering for sessions, you will need to create an account by clicking on the "Sign Up" option on the menu bar at the top and selecting "Sign Up with Email" (use school email address). Once an account has been created, you will be able to sign up for sessions. If you attended iDCPS Conference 2024 then you already have an account created and should use that same account to register for sessions.
You will need to select a session for all time slots. Please be sure to review the conference website for sample schedules and sessions that are required for your position.
To view session descriptions, hover over the session title. To view additional information such as the intended audience and mandatory audience, either hover over or click on the session title. To sign up for a session, click on "Add to My Sched". ***You will NOT be prompted to submit and/or save after selecting sessions. A copy of your schedule for the day will be provided for you during registration on August 6, 2025 and August 7, 2025.
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Join us for a unique professional development experience at Petersburg National Battlefield, hosted by former park employee Diane Hawkins. This on-site tour offers secondary teachers an immersive exploration of the Battlefield’s rich history, providing insights and strategies for bringing Civil War lessons to life in the classroom. Discover firsthand the stories, landscapes, and artifacts that shaped this pivotal moment in American history. Gain practical tips for engaging students with primary sources, historical inquiry, and site-based learning. Don’t miss this opportunity to walk the grounds where history happened and enhance your teaching with real-world connections
In this engaging and practical session, educators will dive into the essential role of progress monitoring in driving student success across math, reading, and classroom management/behavior. Participants will explore user-friendly tools, strategies, and data collection methods that provide timely insights into student growth. Learn how to use progress monitoring not just as a compliance task, but as a powerful instructional compass that helps identify needs, adjust instruction, and celebrate progress. Walk away with ready-to-use resources and a clear roadmap to keep learning on track all year long!
As a DHS ELA team, the curriculum team will highlight the impact of all grade levels have on overall student achievement and growth! An overview of changes and curriculum enhancments will be shared to prepare for the afternoon grade-level discussions where teachers will take a deeper dive into their specific content.
As a DHS Math team, the curriculum team will highlight the impact of all grade levels have on overall student achievement and growth! An overview of changes and curriculum enhancments will be shared to prepare for the tomorrow's grade-level discussions where teachers will take a deeper dive into their specific content.
Discover how to structure your elementary math block using the Math Workshop model to meet the diverse needs of all learners. This interactive session highlights strategies for flexible grouping, differentiated instruction, and student choice. We'll focus on student-centered routines, tasks, and teacher instructional moves that foster classroom discourse, engagement, and a community of math learners. Walk away with practical strategies and ready-to-use tools so that you can create a responsive, engaging classroom of mathematical problem solvers.
This session will cover: Updates in Titlewave,Tips and tools for effective curation, Resources to strengthen your library program, and Grants and fundraising opportunities.
How do you encourage ALL students to participate and be excited to remain healthy while enrolled in PE classes AND BEYOND. Come learn highly engaging activities like Spike-ball, Putter-ball Badminton, and Pickleball that will get heart rates AND engagment levels up!
Engaging all learners in science requires thoughtful shifts in how we plan and deliver instruction. This session equips elementary educators with research-based practices that foster scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and inclusive exploration. Teachers will learn how to design hands-on, inquiry-based lessons that support varying ability levels and ensure access to rigorous content for all students. Together, we'll examine ways to make science relevant, culturally responsive, and developmentally appropriate—turning every classroom into a space of discovery and empowerment.
Every picture tells a story—and in today’s classrooms, visual storytelling is a powerful tool for student expression, engagement, and connection. In this hands-on session, educators will explore how to use visual media such as drawing, painting, collage, photography, and digital tools to help students craft and share their own narratives. Participants will learn how to guide students in developing characters, settings, and emotions through imagery, while integrating elements of language arts, culture, and identity. Come discover how visual media can elevate student voice, deepen comprehension, and foster creativity across the curriculum. Whether you're working with crayons or tablets, this session will equip you with practical strategies to turn every student into a visual storyteller.
In this session, we will discuss how to empower your students to take the lead and fully become student leaders. We will give tips and tricks that allow us as advisors/club sponsors to be as prepared and successful as possible, along with ways to manage our time and ensure that we are keeping ourselves on track to better serve our students. Details on effective field trip planning and money management will also be shared to ensure a successful school year!
This hands-on session is designed for reading specialists and literacy tutors who are ready to sharpen their impact through intentional reading instruction. Dive into the essentials of creating and implementing Student Reading Plans that drive measurable growth. Learn how to use data to form responsive, high-impact small groups that meet students where they are—and move them forward. Plus, gain practical tools for supporting upper elementary learners using the 4th–5th grade VALLSS framework. Walk away with strategies you can use immediately to personalize instruction and boost student confidence in reading!
This professional development session will equip preschool educators with effective strategies to enhance daily instruction through intentional literacy practices, structured daily schedules, and impactful morning meetings. Educators will explore ways to increase instructional minutes meaningfully and use data to drive small-group instruction that meets the diverse needs of young learners. Participants will walk away with practical tools to create a more focused, engaging, and developmentally appropriate classroom experience.
Critical Decision Points provides administrators with knowledge about the various decisions that are made by parents and teams throughout the time that a student with disabilities is in the educational setting.
We will take a deep dive into the power of classroom discussion as a catalyst for student engagement and learning. Participants will explore strategies that elevate the quality of student talk, promote authentic dialogue, and encourage deeper thinking. This session will highlight practical techniques to structure meaningful classroom conversations and increase student participation. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use tools that enhance instructional delivery and support students in making relevant, content-rich contributions.
This program provides an overview of anxiety and depression in youth and offers strategies for supporting those identified students in your role in the school community. Tier 1, 2, and 3 supports will be discussed, and time will be provided for questions. Topics to be covered include: differentiating between anxiety and stress, differentiating between depression and sadness, warning signs and symptoms, appropriate responses to anxiety behaviors, behavioral de-escalation, suicidal ideation in youth, mitigating long-term effects of mental health issues at a young age and the role of supporting adults.
Join us for a unique professional development experience at Petersburg National Battlefield, hosted by former park employee Diane Hawkins. This on-site tour offers secondary teachers an immersive exploration of the Battlefield’s rich history, providing insights and strategies for bringing Civil War lessons to life in the classroom. Discover firsthand the stories, landscapes, and artifacts that shaped this pivotal moment in American history. Gain practical tips for engaging students with primary sources, historical inquiry, and site-based learning. Don’t miss this opportunity to walk the grounds where history happened and enhance your teaching with real-world connections.
In this engaging and practical session, educators will dive into the essential role of progress monitoring in driving student success across math, reading, and classroom management/behavior. Participants will explore user-friendly tools, strategies, and data collection methods that provide timely insights into student growth. Learn how to use progress monitoring not just as a compliance task, but as a powerful instructional compass that helps identify needs, adjust instruction, and celebrate progress. Walk away with ready-to-use resources and a clear roadmap to keep learning on track all year long!
Discover how to structure your elementary math block using the Math Workshop model to meet the diverse needs of all learners. This interactive session highlights strategies for flexible grouping, differentiated instruction, and student choice. We'll focus on student-centered routines, tasks, and teacher instructional moves that foster classroom discourse, engagement, and a community of math learners. Walk away with practical strategies and ready-to-use tools so that you can create a responsive, engaging classroom of mathematical problem solvers.
As our school district's first faces and voices, clerical staff play a vital role in shaping public perception and trust. This session will empower our front-line ambassadors to "carry the banner" with pride through exceptional customer service, professionalism, and a unified commitment to excellence. Participants will explore best practices for building positive experiences for students, families, and visitors while embracing their critical role as champions of our district’s mission and values.
Transform your art classroom into a vibrant hub of inquiry, creativity, and real-world connection through Project-Based Learning (PBL). In this interactive session, educators will explore how to design meaningful, standards-aligned art projects that go beyond the final product—fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and student ownership. Learn how to build projects around essential questions, community issues, cultural themes, or interdisciplinary connections that engage students in deeper learning. Participants will leave with practical tools for planning, scaffolding, and assessing PBL in the art room, as well as examples of successful projects that inspire creativity with purpose.
Engaging all learners in science requires thoughtful shifts in how we plan and deliver instruction. This session equips elementary educators with research-based practices that foster scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and inclusive exploration. Teachers will learn how to design hands-on, inquiry-based lessons that support varying ability levels and ensure access to rigorous content for all students. Together, we'll examine ways to make science relevant, culturally responsive, and developmentally appropriate—turning every classroom into a space of discovery and empowerment.
This engaging session will focus on collaboration, innovation, and resource sharing. Participants will explore practical strategies to enhance library programming, support student learning, and align library goals with broader school initiatives. The session encourages idea sharing, problem-solving around common challenges, and building a stronger, more connected library community.
What habits or mindsets do you want to carry with you this school year to protect your peace? Join this interactive, refreshing self-care workshop designed just for YOU. Discover how to B.A.L.A.N.C.E. effectively, even when life doesn’t slow down, and leave with practical tools to restore calm, clarity, and control.
This interactive session is designed for middle school literacy staff who are committed to advancing adolescent literacy through intentional planning and targeted instruction. Explore how to develop and implement Student Reading Plans that address the unique needs of grades 6–8 readers. Learn how to leverage assessment data to form purposeful small groups that support fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking. Discover practical strategies for engaging older students, tracking progress, and fostering ownership of their reading journey. Leave equipped with tools to personalize instruction and elevate literacy outcomes in your classroom.
Clear and respectful communication is essential to building trust and partnerships with all families—regardless of the language they speak. In this practical session designed for clerical staff, nurses, bookkeepers, registrars, and administrative assistants, participants will explore effective tools for communicating with families who do not speak English. Learn how to confidently use resources such as LanguageLine, Pocketalk devices, and Google Translate to support inclusive, accurate, and welcoming interactions. Walk away with hands-on practice, tips for real-world situations, and a stronger foundation for equitable family engagement.
A coaches education session for our coaches that are in the school system. The session will allow our staff to complete mandatory coaches training before our seasons start.
In this session, we will review the updated textbook options for the 2024 Standards of Learning to start our official textbook adoption process. Learn about updated features and literature selections.
Finance and HR professionals are the heartbeat of every school district. This session explores how AI can support your productivity, well-being, and growth—helping you save time, reduce stress, and communicate more effectively. Walk away with practical tools and hopeful ideas to empower the heroes who keep schools running strong.
Wednesday August 6, 2025 11:50am - 12:50pm EDT Room 136Dinwiddie High School 11501 Boisseau Road Dinwiddie, Virginia 23841
In this engaging and practical session, educators will dive into the essential role of progress monitoring in driving student success across math, reading, and classroom management/behavior. Participants will explore user-friendly tools, strategies, and data collection methods that provide timely insights into student growth. Learn how to use progress monitoring not just as a compliance task, but as a powerful instructional compass that helps identify needs, adjust instruction, and celebrate progress. Walk away with ready-to-use resources and a clear roadmap to keep learning on track all year long!
This interactive session is the first in a three-part professional learning series focused on high-yield instructional practices that drive student achievement. In Part 1, we will take a deep dive into the power of classroom discussion as a catalyst for student engagement and learning. Participants will explore strategies that elevate the quality of student talk, promote authentic dialogue, and encourage deeper thinking. The session will highlight practical techniques to structure meaningful classroom conversations and increase student participation. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use tools that enhance instructional delivery and support students in making relevant, content-rich contributions.
This interactive session is designed for middle school literacy staff who are committed to advancing adolescent literacy through intentional planning and targeted instruction. Explore how to develop and implement Student Reading Plans that address the unique needs of grades 6–8 readers. Learn how to leverage assessment data to form purposeful small groups that support fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking. Discover practical strategies for engaging older students, tracking progress, and fostering ownership of their reading journey. Leave equipped with tools to personalize instruction and elevate literacy outcomes in your classroom.
In this engaging and practical session, educators will dive into the essential role of progress monitoring in driving student success across math, reading, and classroom management/behavior. Participants will explore user-friendly tools, strategies, and data collection methods that provide timely insights into student growth. Learn how to use progress monitoring not just as a compliance task, but as a powerful instructional compass that helps identify needs, adjust instruction, and celebrate progress. Walk away with ready-to-use resources and a clear roadmap to keep learning on track all year long!
Discover how to structure your elementary math block using the Math Workshop model to meet the diverse needs of all learners. This interactive session highlights strategies for flexible grouping, differentiated instruction, and student choice. We'll focus on student-centered routines, tasks, and teacher instructional moves that foster classroom discourse, engagement, and a community of math learners. Walk away with practical strategies and ready-to-use tools so that you can create a responsive, engaging classroom of mathematical problem solvers.
There will be a number of stations set up around the designated area. Players will be in groups of 2-4. Each station will have instructions or a Chromebook that will show a video of what needs to be done to complete the task in the amount of time given. Each player will have a score card to keep track of completion/incomplete.
Grief doesn’t always look like sadness—it can feel like exhaustion, detachment, or just going through the motions. Join this session to explore compassionate strategies that support you, wherever you are on your healing journey. Walk away with practical, evidence-based tools to better care for yourself and support others throughout the school year.
Engaging all learners in science requires thoughtful shifts in how we plan and deliver instruction. This session equips elementary educators with research-based practices that foster scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and inclusive exploration. Teachers will learn how to design hands-on, inquiry-based lessons that support varying ability levels and ensure access to rigorous content for all students. Together, we'll examine ways to make science relevant, culturally responsive, and developmentally appropriate—turning every classroom into a space of discovery and empowerment.
In this engaging and practical session, educators will dive into the essential role of progress monitoring in driving student success across math, reading, and classroom management/behavior. Participants will explore user-friendly tools, strategies, and data collection methods that provide timely insights into student growth. Learn how to use progress monitoring not just as a compliance task, but as a powerful instructional compass that helps identify needs, adjust instruction, and celebrate progress. Walk away with ready-to-use resources and a clear roadmap to keep learning on track all year long!
This dynamic professional development session is designed specifically for early childhood exceptional education teachers who are navigating the complex demands of meeting diverse student needs. Participants will explore practical strategies for effective communication with families, writing clear and compliant IEPs, and managing challenging behaviors with empathy and structure. The session also emphasizes staying in compliance with IDEA requirements while creating inclusive, developmentally appropriate learning environments. Teachers will leave with ready-to-implement tools, renewed confidence, and a deeper understanding of how to support every young learner—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Your students are the historians—and now you have the tools to guide them! This session introduces you to our new history curriculum and textbook, with a focus on how to help students ask big questions, explore diverse perspectives, and make sense of the world around them. Learn how to structure lessons with inquiry, integrate local history, and build the foundational skills that prepare young learners to think critically about the past, present, and future.
Science Dept will get into their PLC's to discuss the curriculum and associated labs. They will plan required labs for the 2025-2026 school year. The teachers will organize their Safety sheets and complete a list of what supplies they will need for the school year.
CTE, Wolrd Language, and HPE Teachers will assist with updating the pacing and topics covered in their individual courses to ensure our community knows of all the opportunities at DHS and DMS!
Thursday August 7, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am EDT Room 128Dinwiddie High School 11501 Boisseau Road Dinwiddie, Virginia 23841
Curiosity leads the way! Join us as we dive into our newly adopted science curriculum designed to spark inquiry, hands-on discovery, and real-world connections. This session will guide you through the structure of the curriculum, highlight engaging investigations, and provide tools to build confident, curious scientists in every classroom. Leave ready to ignite wonder, deepen understanding, and bring science to life every day.
Creating important, informative and interesting curriculum is pivotal to a successful physical education program. As physical educators we are called to promote programs that encourage students to move, learn and become life long active people. Let’s move a bit and talk about some ideas/resources to support relevant curriculum!
Ready to transform your math block into a powerhouse of engagement and growth? In this energizing session, we’ll explore how to effectively use our new math textbook to build stronger number sense, deeper conceptual understanding, and confident problem solvers. You’ll discover time-saving tools, embedded supports, and ways to adapt lessons to meet your students' diverse needs. Walk away feeling equipped and excited to power up your instruction with purpose and precision!
Responsive Classroom is a student-centered, social and emotional learning approach to teaching and discipline. It is comprised of a set of research, and evidence-based practices designed to create safe, joyful, and engaging classrooms and school communities for both students and teachers. (classroom structures, routines & procedures, active modeling, and academic expectations)
In this engaging and practical session, educators will dive into the essential role of progress monitoring in driving student success across reading and classroom management/behavior. Participants will explore user-friendly tools, strategies, and data collection methods that provide timely insights into student growth. Learn how to use progress monitoring not just as a compliance task, but as a powerful instructional compass that helps identify needs, adjust instruction, and celebrate progress. Walk away with ready-to-use resources and a clear roadmap to keep learning on track all year long!
This 2-hour professional learning session offers a focused introduction to the first three foundational practices of Peter Liljedahl’s Building Thinking Classrooms framework. Designed to help educators shift from traditional, passive instruction to dynamic, student-centered learning environments, the presentation explores:
What Types of Tasks We Use – emphasizing the selection of rich, non-curricular problems that spark curiosity and promote deep thinking. How We Form Collaborative Groups – highlighting the use of visibly random groupings to enhance student engagement and reduce social barriers. Where Students Work – advocating for the use of vertical non-permanent surfaces (VNPS) to encourage active participation and visible thinking. Through practical insights and real-world examples, the presentation equips educators with actionable strategies to begin transforming their classrooms into vibrant spaces where students are actively engaged in problem-solving and collaborative learning.
In this 2-hour session, we will design lessons to “chunk” the 5E phases into blocks that match your schedule. You’ll start by crafting a two-minute Engage prompt that hooks students into the lesson. Next, you’ll set up an Explore activity to give every student a common experience. You’ll practice a short Explain so students can make sense of the science to surface student thinking, then design an Elaborate extension that’s simple enough for a single class or rich enough to stretch across days. To wrap up, you’ll use a short Evaluate check to assess understanding and plan next steps. By the end, you’ll have a set of straightforward 5E routines to design student-centered units and lessons.
We will take a deep dive into the power of classroom discussion as a catalyst for student engagement and learning. Participants will explore strategies that elevate the quality of student talk, promote authentic dialogue, and encourage deeper thinking. The session will highlight practical techniques to structure meaningful classroom conversations and increase student participation. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use tools that enhance instructional delivery and support students in making relevant, content-rich contributions.
Kickstart Literacy is a literacy curriculum for the year before kindergarten that engages children in exciting play- and science of reading-based lessons focusing on phonemic awareness, phonics, and vocabulary –building skills children need to build early literacy skills for reading. Skills are spiraled throughout the year in large-group activities and independent discovery.
As literacy expectations evolve, so must our instructional tools and practices. This session is designed specifically for literacy staff to deepen their impact by harnessing the full power of HMH resources. Explore how to align HMH components with current literacy shifts—including foundational skills, knowledge-building, vocabulary, and complex text engagement. Discover strategies to personalize instruction, close learning gaps, and promote equitable access to high-quality reading experiences. Leave empowered with fresh ideas and actionable takeaways to support teachers and accelerate student growth.
During this session, participants will learn to use the Unique Learning System effectively. Participants will set up their classes and create lesson plans for the first month of school. Participants will also learn to use the features in Unique to assess students, collect data, and monitor progress. This event is mandatory for all teachers who teach at least one self-contained course.
Discover how the engaging, multi-sensory world of Letterland can support early childhood exceptional education students in developing foundational literacy skills. In this hands-on professional development session, educators will explore strategies to introduce alphabet letter shapes and sounds, expand vocabulary, and build phonemic awareness using songs, stories, and actions. With its visual, auditory, and kinesthetic components, Letterland provides a developmentally appropriate and inclusive approach that brings letters to life for all learners. Participants will leave with practical tools and confidence to implement this approach in a way that meets the diverse needs of their Pre-K students.
Your students are the historians—and now you have the tools to guide them! This session introduces you to our new history curriculum and textbook, with a focus on how to help students ask big questions, explore diverse perspectives, and make sense of the world around them. Learn how to structure lessons with inquiry, integrate local history, and build the foundational skills that prepare young learners to think critically about the past, present, and future.
Your students are the historians—and now you have the tools to guide them! This session introduces you to our new history curriculum and textbook, with a focus on how to help students ask big questions, explore diverse perspectives, and make sense of the world around them. Learn how to structure lessons with inquiry, integrate local history, and build the foundational skills that prepare young learners to think critically about the past, present, and future.
DHS Math teachers will continue the discussion from the previous day and take a deeper dive into specific course curriculum to review their new textbook resources specific to their course.
As a DMS ELA team, the curriculum team will highlight the impact of all grade levels have on overall student achievement and growth! An overview of changes and curriculum enhancments will be shared to prepare for the new year!
In this interactive session, teachers will explore the purpose and components of workplace readiness testing and learn how to effectively integrate these essential skills into their daily instruction.
DMS History teachers will explore all the VDOE approved resources and the selected textbook for the coming school year and how to navigate the digital resource.
Curiosity leads the way! Join us as we dive into our newly adopted science curriculum designed to spark inquiry, hands-on discovery, and real-world connections. This session will guide you through the structure of the curriculum, highlight engaging investigations, and provide tools to build confident, curious scientists in every classroom. Leave ready to ignite wonder, deepen understanding, and bring science to life every day.
Ready to transform your math block into a powerhouse of engagement and growth? In this energizing session, we’ll explore how to effectively use our new math textbook to build stronger number sense, deeper conceptual understanding, and confident problem solvers. You’ll discover time-saving tools, embedded supports, and ways to adapt lessons to meet your students' diverse needs. Walk away feeling equipped and excited to power up your instruction with purpose and precision!
When we think of students with executive function challenges, we often associate them with ADHD. However, these difficulties can affect all students. This session will explore the core components of executive functioning, its impact on academic achievement, and evidence-based strategies to support and strengthen these skills in the classroom.
In this interactive PD session, educators will explore research-based strategies to support elementary EL students in developing academic language and content understanding. We will dive into practical approaches such as QSSSA (Question, Signal, Stem, Share, Assess) to foster structured verbal and written student interactions, modeling techniques such as Teacher Think Aloud to give 'velcro' to your teaching, and explicit vocabulary instruction to enhance language acquisition. Participants will engage in hands-on activities and view real classroom examples to see how these strategies can be integrated seamlessly into any lesson. Additionally, attendees will experience working through WIDA writing samples and rubrics for grading expectations. By the end of the session, teachers will leave with ready-to-use tools to increase student engagement, boost language confidence, and support EL learners in achieving academic success. Whether you are new to working with EL students or you want to refine your strategies, this session will provide insights and strategies for immediate implementation.
A coaches education session for our coaches that are in the school system. The session will allow our staff to complete mandatory coaches training before our seasons start.
The Virginia IEP System (VAIEP) is designed to support educators in creating and managing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This session will explore the key features of VAIEP, including its IEP writing capabilities, compliance tracking, progress monitoring, and data collection for state reporting. Participants will receive log-in and learn how to efficiently navigate the system to facilitate IEP meetings, track student progress, and ensure timely, accurate reporting in compliance with Virginia state requirements.
This interactive session is the first in a three-part professional learning series focused on high-yield instructional practices that drive student achievement. In Part 1, we will take a deep dive into the power of classroom discussion as a catalyst for student engagement and learning. Participants will explore strategies that elevate the quality of student talk, promote authentic dialogue, and encourage deeper thinking. The session will highlight practical techniques to structure meaningful classroom conversations and increase student participation. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use tools that enhance instructional delivery and support students in making relevant, content-rich contributions.
Tired of the same old concert routine? Looking to breathe new life into your music performances? This dynamic professional development session will inspire music educators with fresh, creative, and practical ideas for student concerts and school performances that go beyond the traditional format.
Explore innovative approaches such as themed concerts, interdisciplinary showcases, interactive audience elements, student-created compositions, movement integration, and virtual or hybrid performance options. Discover how to make performances more inclusive, culturally responsive, and engaging for all students—regardless of experience level.
Participants will leave with a toolkit of adaptable performance ideas, planning templates, and strategies to strengthen collaboration with classroom teachers and the wider school community. Whether you're looking to energize your winter concert, plan an end-of-year celebration, or incorporate student voice into your performances, this session offers inspiration and support for reimagining what’s possible on the stage.
Join us for an informative session on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and how it affects student privacy. This training will help you understand the importance of protecting student information, key guidelines for handling educational records, and best practices to ensure compliance. Through real-world scenarios and discussions, you’ll learn how to balance confidentiality with appropriate information-sharing, ensuring that student privacy remains a top priority. This session will provide valuable insights to keep student data secure!
This 2-hour professional learning session will focus on collaboratively planning the first nine weeks of instruction with an emphasis on student-centered learning. Participants will engage in backward design to align content standards with meaningful, engaging activities that foster critical thinking, collaboration, and active participation. The session will provide practical strategies and planning tools to help educators develop lessons that are both rigorous and responsive to student needs, ensuring a strong, student-focused start to the school year.
In this 2-hour professional learning session, high school science educators will design their first nine weeks through the lens of the 5E instructional model—Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate using authentic phenomena or engineering challenges. Working collaboratively, participants will map out 5E sequences that weave in key science and engineering practices (e.g., developing models, planning investigations, constructing explanations), build in formative “practice checks” at each phase, and scaffold for diverse learners. Teachers will leave with 5E lesson plan frameworks that incorporate student-centered strategies.
Kickstart Literacy is a literacy curriculum for the year before kindergarten that engages children in exciting play- and science of reading-based lessons focusing on phonemic awareness, phonics, and vocabulary –building skills children need to build early literacy skills for reading. Skills are spiraled throughout the year in large-group activities and independent discovery.
Your students are the historians—and now you have the tools to guide them! This session introduces you to our new history curriculum and textbook, with a focus on how to help students ask big questions, explore diverse perspectives, and make sense of the world around them. Learn how to structure lessons with inquiry, integrate local history, and build the foundational skills that prepare young learners to think critically about the past, present, and future.
In this session, we will review the updated textbook options for the 2024 Standards of Learning to start our official textbook adoption process. Learn about updated features and literature selections.
As a DHS History team, the curriculum team will highlight an overview of changes and curriculum enhancments will be shared and provide time to review the opportunities outside of the classroom through field trips and history partners.
This session will provide teachers with a clear overview of work-based learning (WBL) experiences and the essential components students must complete for successful participation. Educators will learn about the different types of WBL opportunities such as internships, job shadowing, service learning, and school based enterprise.
As a DHS History team, the curriculum team will highlight the impact of all grade levels have on overall student achievement and growth! An overview of changes and curriculum enhancments will be shared to prepare for the new school year!
Curiosity leads the way! Join us as we dive into our newly adopted science curriculum designed to spark inquiry, hands-on discovery, and real-world connections. This session will guide you through the structure of the curriculum, highlight engaging investigations, and provide tools to build confident, curious scientists in every classroom. Leave ready to ignite wonder, deepen understanding, and bring science to life every day.
Thursday August 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:40pm EDT Room 16/18Dinwiddie High School 11501 Boisseau Road Dinwiddie, Virginia 23841
Helping every student graduate on time takes planning and personalized support. We’ll use this time to focus on seniors who need extra help to get back on track.
Ready to transform your math block into a powerhouse of engagement and growth? In this energizing session, we’ll explore how to effectively use our new math textbook to build stronger number sense, deeper conceptual understanding, and confident problem solvers. You’ll discover time-saving tools, embedded supports, and ways to adapt lessons to meet your students' diverse needs. Walk away feeling equipped and excited to power up your instruction with purpose and precision!
Responsive Classroom is a student-centered, social and emotional learning approach to teaching and discipline. It is comprised of a set of research, and evidence-based practices designed to create safe, joyful, and engaging classrooms and school communities for both students and teachers. (classroom structures, routines & procedures, active modeling, and academic expectations)
Now that your reading team has laid the foundation with student reading plans, data-driven small groups, and targeted literacy strategies—what’s next? This forward-focused session is all about identifying actionable next steps to sustain and deepen your impact. Together, we’ll analyze progress, refine our instructional practices, and set meaningful goals for continued student growth. You’ll collaborate on elevating team roles, streamlining supports, and aligning efforts with school-wide literacy priorities. Leave with clarity, confidence, and a customized action plan to take your reading work to the next level!
In today’s classrooms, technology can be a powerful ally in delivering engaging, creative, and differentiated music instruction. This interactive professional development session will introduce educators to a variety of user-friendly digital tools that enhance music learning, creativity, and assessment. Participants will explore tech platforms and apps that support rhythm and melody practice, composition, interactive music games, virtual instruments, and student voice and choice.
Through hands-on demonstrations and collaborative exploration, teachers will leave with practical strategies for integrating digital tools into daily instruction—whether in whole group, small group, or independent learning settings. The session will also highlight how these tools can help meet state music standards, foster 21st-century skills, and promote inclusive, student-centered learning experiences.
Now that you’ve explored the foundations of Letterland, it’s time to reflect, collaborate, and plan what’s next. In this follow-up session, educators will revisit key components of the program with a focus on aligning strategies to the specific needs of their exceptional Pre-K learners. Whether you're refining routines or expanding your use of Letterland, this session will help ensure the program is used with intention and impact.
