Elevate: Transformative Strategies for Social and Emotional Success - Held virtually

Elevate: Transformative Strategies for Social and Emotional Success - Held virtually

Sunday, June 2, 2024

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

A 30 minute lunch break

$30 Support Staff (non-licensed)

$50 NASA Members

$75 Non-NASA Members

Dr. Colin Ackerman

Experienced researcher, teacher, and evaluator

Dr. Ackerman is obsessed with exploring practical ways to innovate and integrate Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into K12 education. Connecting research- and evidence-based principles to feasible instructional practice drives his passion for this work. Before shifting into independent consulting, Colin was a researcher at the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL). Much of his work at CASEL contributed to developing the concept of transformative SEL (SEL in service of equity). He worked on the Research-Practice Partnership team, contributing to and leading co-created research projects with education practitioners and policymakers at the school, district, and state levels. Additionally, Colin worked on CASEL’s Program Guide team, thoroughly reviewing submitted SEL curricula and determining if they meet the rigorous standards for evidence of effectiveness and design for inclusion in CASEL’s Guide for Effective Social Emotional Learning Programs.

Colin began his career as a Kindergarten teacher in Nashville, TN, and then decided to pursue a career in research. While earning his doctorate, Colin explored technology implementation in K12 classrooms through the lens of developing democratic values (e.g., collaboration, critical thinking, responsible dissent) for the 21st Century. Colin holds a B.A. in Mass Communication from Miami University, an M.Ed in Curriculum & Instruction from Lipscomb University, and a Ph.D. in Digital Media Studies from the University of Colorado, Boulder.

Workshop Description:

Embark on a journey of transformation with our comprehensive six-part series designed to empower educators in implementing robust social and emotional learning (SEL) programs across their schools. Dive deep into the realm of SEL, understanding its pivotal role in boosting student achievement, bridging gaps, and fostering a positive school culture. From cultivating empathy to promoting responsible decision-making, this course equips all PreK-12 educators with the tools and strategies needed to nurture the holistic development of every student.

Desired Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, participants will:

• Gain a profound understanding of the fundamental concepts of social-emotional learning and its direct impact on academic achievement and student well-being.
• Identify strategies for creating a positive school climate that fosters inclusivity, equity, and respect among students and staff.
• Develop skills to seamlessly integrate SEL competencies into existing curricula and daily classroom practices.
• Explore innovative methods for promoting student engagement, empathy, and responsible decision-making through purposeful SEL practices.

Direct Relationship to Student Achievement and Student Outcomes:

This course is strategically designed to directly enhance student achievement and outcomes by:

• Providing all educators with the knowledge and tools necessary to cultivate a supportive school environment conducive to academic success and overall well-being.
• Equipping educators with practical strategies to integrate SEL into daily instructional practices across all grade levels and content areas, thereby fostering deeper engagement and enhancing learning outcomes.
• Empowering students with essential social and emotional competencies crucial for success in academics, relationships, and life beyond the classroom.
• Promoting equity, inclusivity, and respect, thereby closing achievement gaps and creating a more equitable learning environment for all students.

Target Audience:

Tailored for all PreK-12 educators seeking to advance their professional expertise, this course is applicable to all content and grade level settings and honors equity, subgroup support, and differentiation to ensure every learner receives comprehensive support. Whether you're new to teaching or a seasoned leader in your building or department, this course offers invaluable insights and actionable strategies to drive school improvement through transformative SEL initiatives.

ALL are welcome, including anyone in a non-administrative position!

Participants will earn .5 credit (7.5 hours) toward license renewal!

This workshop ALSO counts for step advancement in Clark, Washoe and most Nevada School Districts!

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In CCSD, those in non-administrative licensed positions may count this workshop for license renewal AND ALSO 2.5 CUs - THOSE IN NON-ADMINISTRATIVE POSITIONS EARN BOTH!

In CCSD, administrators and professional-technical administrators may count this workshop for license renewal OR 2.5 hours toward step-advancement - not both for administrators.

Washoe County participants will be required to also register for this course in "MyPGS" in order to receive in-service credit toward salary advancement.

Washoe County School District (WCSD) participants are required to submit a 300-word essay on how they will implement this professional learning to increase student achievement before a certificate is issued.