Local education foundations (LEFs) must become a more important component in the school district’s quest for alternative funding opportunities. The session will outline the very specific reasons why LEFs underachieve and provide the three proven solutions and requirements that make them successful. The most successful education foundation in the state of New Jersey, the Montclair Foundation for Education Excellence and Executive Director Lois Whipple will provide the details of the foundation’s success.Stephen Gilfus, Founder and inventor of Blackboard will present new “cutting edge” solutions using “private-public” partnerships for providing alternative funding opportunities and outline how “shared services” can reduce costs among multiple participating school districts. Bob New, President of MACEF, will present how one PA 501 (C) (3) foundation supports many small school districts in a region/county generating new funding opportunities.
Attending college remains a challenge for underrepresented students. This session provides a road map for school educational leaders to diminish the disparity among low income and high income students’ college readiness and access by implementing a comprehensive college and career readiness program aligned with the ASCA National Model.
Every district is struggling to find cost effective ways to maintain district programs.Many districts are unaware that the ESC should be the first resource for cost effective, shared services. In a panel discussion format superintendents from geographically diverse ESCs will provide specific examples of the services and programs that are available or that can be developed by the ESC to meet district needs.
We will show powerful, short-cycle, formative assessment procedures that rapidly improved NJDOE test scores of Title I and special education students. Schools improved 15-45%; some quadrupled advanced proficiency. We will report dramatic successes in diverse schools in Trenton, Belleville, Clementon, Lawnside, Pine Hill, Union City, Jersey City, Runnemede, Mt. Holly and Island Heights, Two schools received $100,000 Title I Awards from NJDOE.
Through an interactive presentation, learn how NJ's DOE, a state child advocacy organization and the state's principals and supervisors' association collaborated to develop a multi-tiered professional development program for district administrators that focuses on ensuring that participants become effective leaders of the Pre K-3rd grade continuum.
Group attendees will learn how to creatively think outside of the box to maintain and expand quality instructional programs through innovative measures. Participants will learn how partnerships with local universities can offer courses and services that could not normally be funded through the school budget, share services with other school districts and the municipality, utilize local businesses and corporations to fund purchase of equipment and supplies, and offer grants and scholarships, and create job descriptions that offer efficiencies and cost savings. The Clark Public School District in Union County, while committed to increasing the budget only three tax points per year (less than 1% growth), has recently been honored on the College Board's AP Achievement List in March, been cited as one of America's Best High Schools by Newsweek Magazine in 2010, and listed as the 24th best place to place to live in New Jersey By New Jersey Magazine this past Spring.
Each of the three presenters will focus on her area of expertise (curriculum, technology development, and communications) with regard to the benefits of using a district website to support district goals. Specific examples and pages will be presented using PowerPoint or real-time access to the Marlboro Township School District website via the Internet.
This workshop, presented by the President of NJ Association for Gifted Children, will provide participants with resources of activities, contests, collaborations and ideas that have been used effectively with gifted students and which provide opportunities to enrich learning, engage students, and stimulate creativity. Many of these programs and contests are free. Examples will be shared through DVDs and hands-on samples. Information on grants received and how to fund some of these programs will also be provided.
We're kicking Workshop 2011 with a bang! Join us at 9:30AM in the TD Bank Theatre on the Exhibit Floor to find out what we have in store for you during Workshop. We'll tell you about some of our not to be missed sessions, introduce you to some cool folks and get your day started right!
To solidify the skill sets necessary to help students perform optimally on state assessments, the Vernon Schools have implemented “blitz” programs for students in grades 4-8 and 11. Using multiple forms of data, students are tiered according to their ability levels and several days before the tests move together as cohorts to different classroom experts in the buildings to focus on specific cluster areas, test taking strategies, etc. The week culminates in an academic pep rally.
Leading school attorneys will discuss complex, thorny free speech and religion issues that arise in public schools, including:
• Disciplining students and employees for on-line speech
• Imposing limits on free expression in school
• Imposing limits on statements at board meetings by members and
others
• Responding to requests for accommodation of religious beliefs
Participants will be encouraged to ask questions about First Amendment issues and challenges in their districts. The answers will not always be clear. Lively discussion is expected.
The overarching goals of this interactive session are to provide board of education members and school leaders, with a review of, and discussion centered on, the universally accepted character traits of respect and responsibility as related to creating district policy and expectations that will help to foster a culture of character within the school district. The session will outline and review the benefits of strong policy expectations, academically infused character education within schools, and identify effective strategies for implementation within the district and whole-school community.
Our session will have two moderators-one familiar with members' present advocacy activities and one familiar with the operation of local legislative offices and lobbying strategies. Through narratives and questions posed to four legislative aides, representing both political parties, and with NJSBA members with an interest in politics and advocacy, the moderators will demonstrate the importance of establishing and maintaining a two way dialogue with local district legislators, who direct the educational and fiscal policies that board members and administrators must follow in the governance and operation of school districts.
In these days of shrinking revenue, reduced State and federal aid, 2% caps, exploding energy costs and taxpayer rejection of budgets and school facilities referenda, Board Members must look to creative ways to support ongoing educational programs. This workshop will explore alternative funding sources including school bus advertising, naming rights, concessions, power purchase agreements and student activity fees.
Building on the themes presented in his book, School Cannot Do It Alone, Jamie makes the case that this is public education’s most hopeful time. He acknowledges the threats arising from multiplying mandates, shifting demographics, media hype, and a changing economy. But he demonstrates how all districts can marshal the tremendous resources at their disposal to initiate a conversation that produces the Four Prerequisites of Progress: community understanding, trust, permission to change, and support. This presentation includes the popular "Blueberry Story" and a discussion of the mental affliction "Nostesia" – a disease comprised of 50% nostalgia, 50% amnesia, which prevents Americans from appreciating the achievements of their local schools.
Enlightened district leadership matters if we are to effectively close our observed achievement gaps. Do you have a defined vision for excellence and equity and a focused plan for addressing the gaps? Come engage in stimulating dialog and learn about key elements of Board and Superintendent responsibility in developing policies that promote more equitable outcomes for all students.
One of the most appealing aspects of iPads and iPod Touch devices is the fact that they are easy, intuitive to use and expand teaching and learning possibilities. As schools start using Apple iOS devices in the classroom on a large scale, there are often varying levels of understanding about the management options available to IT administrators. Mobile Device Management (MDM) is commonly perceived as a comprehensive solution for managing mobile devices, but in reality there are additional steps to consider when managing iOS devices. With this presentation, we will discuss the options and technologies available to manage Apple iOS devices in the classroom, including a definition of terms, an up to date summary of Apple's management framework, and the place of mobile device management framework, and the place of mobile device management tools such as the Casper Suite from JAMF Software. Next, that kowledge, framework and toolset will be applied to create a practical workflow used to support thousands of iPads in a real world educational environment.
Roundtable discussion on board committees. NJSBA policy consultant, David Bosted will answers concerns, discuss what other school districts may be doing and offer suggestions and advise on policy language.
NJSBA policy consultant will answer questions and discuss protecting and encouraging student health, what other school districts may be doing and offer suggestions and advise on policy language.
Get answers to their district specific questions.... and cement relationships with the Field Service Department.
Learn how your district can utilize technology to engage your parents, citizens and constituents. We’ll explain how you can use Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Podcasts to connect with your community to share your district’s story. We'll hear first hand from a Superintendent recently launched her district Facebook page and from a social savvey former Edison High School student who rocked her school vote last April.
We'll show you how you can use web-based solutions to enable you to sell tickets for district events and fundraisers. We’ll explain how hyper-local news sites are transforming how citizens get the news. This fast paced presentation will help you and your district look at technology you can use, instead of technology you might be afraid of.
The Delaware Valley Regional High School and its K-8 Constituent Districts have sprung to action in response to a proposition from the Executive County Superintendent that limited purpose schools throughout Hunterdon County should start “acting like a K-12 District”. Best practices in sharing transportation, administration, technology, and facilities will be demonstrated.
In these challenging times, funding the capital maintenance our aging school facilities require can seem impossible. The real cost of deteriorating and aged facilities however can not just be seen in worn out paint and finishes but in adverse impacts on student performance. While pressured to deliver continually improving test results, administrators often overlook the benefits adequately maintained facilities can help deliver. Numerous opportunities to fund these improvements – with minimal capital outlay – are here today and can be employed to address maintenance backlogs today. Learn about programs like ESIP, solar PPA’s and other State incentive programs that can benefit your educational goals today.
We are in our third year of our Freshman Foundation Program which was designed to transition freshman successfully into high school academically and socially. Freshman have a morning academic block taught by a team of teachers with common preparation time. Students also have a Foundation class that offers academic support, enrichment and financial literacy. The Sophomore component offers a focused Humanities Block of instruction, the Junior year focuses all academic classes on an overarching essential question and offers various pathways of non-traditional options culminating in a Senior Thesis.
Through an interactive presentation, participants will receive information on how significant teacher behavior changes, and documented student learning increases, when PLCs are used. Changes in teacher practice, developed through collaborative staff learning through PLC Teamss, results in increased academic achievement. Through hands-on activities, attendees will learn the components of PLC Teams (roles, agreements, norms, data analysis, SMART goals and evaluation), as well as the required district commitments.
The challenging new frontier in education has arrived. This session showcases the myriad applications of synchronous online instruction in support of district needs: course supplements in a time of budget constraints, remedial coursework for at-risk students, home instruction. Connect with students in their environment: the virtual landscape
By using problems identified in children's literature, students are given opportunities to create tangible solutions to solve problems presented in some of their favorite stories. Children identify the problem, consider how the problem could be solved, ponder what they could make to solve the problem, plan and build a solution. Next, they test their solutions to determine whether or not their creations meet the needs of the problem. Students are encouraged to seek multiple solutions to promote the understanding that there is more than one working solution. As a closure activity, students revisit the story to compare their solutions with the one provided in the literature. This circular process integrates math, science and technology in a hands-on learning approach. Meeting countless standards, children's engineering allows children to become problem solvers of the future by allowing them to practice 21st century problem solving skills in an active and innovative setting.
The TI MathForward™ program – responds to a pressing need for middle school algebra readiness and high school algebra success while increasing teacher capacity for further gains. The TI MathForward program enables schools to turn around student achievement in mathematics and creates a basis for sustained progress over the long term.
It is our goal to help you learn ways to evaluate and shape your school’s or district’s SMART Board use. It is easy to walk into a classroom and see that a teacher has something displayed on a SMART Board, but how do you really assess what type of learning is taking place? We will investigate ways to further integrate and evaluate the use of the SMART Board interactive whiteboard, Notebook software, and other educational technologies. Together we will explore effective and engaging uses of the SMART Board, ways to help teachers plan and design interactive learning environments, how to use SMART Technologies products to assess student learning, and so much more.
Join us on a super exciting virtual field trip at the TD Bank Theatre on the showfloor as we demonstrate how your district can leverage the Cisco TelePresence system to take students on virtual field trips. In this simulation, your scheduled mission puts you onboard the the space station as it glides through the silence of space, two hundred and fifty miles above the earth. The station's solar panels bathe in the sun's rays, generating the electrical energy vital to the station's systems. Everything appears tranquil and safe. A major solar flare, however, is about to erupt. We'll ask for a few volunteers from the audience to help us save the day while showing you how your students can take advantage of this technology saving your district money!
Teachscape Reflect was developed as part of the Measures of Effective Teaching (MET) project, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and has been used to capture over 12,000 lessons in more than 3,000 classrooms across six states. This workshop will focus on bringing this study and its findings to the conference attendees. They will view the video capture solution engineered by Teachscape which involves panoramic digital video cameras that require minimal training to set up, are operated remotely by the individual teachers, and do not require a cameraperson. After class, participating teachers can upload video lessons to a secure Internet site where they will review the video, and individually or collaboratively view, share and comment on it anytime, anywhere. I will show them what the recording station looks like, and how the video can be viewed, tagged, edited, etc. online.
"Personal Learning Plans" is a national trend and a proven technique to get middle school and early HS students thinking about possible careers, and what it is required to get from (a) where they are now to (b) a successful career. PLPs don't have to be complicated or expensive. Career Days for 8th graders is a related tool for motivating students and making them consider alternatives. This session will also mention "Career Academies" and related ideas for making successful transitions from school to college and career.
Participants will be given the basic information on important PERC and Court decisions effecting labor relations in the schools. Question and answer session with participants.
In print or online, school district publications are a valuable vehicle for getting your district’s message out. This session will discuss both print and online publications – the advantages and disadvantages of both regulations that govern content, and how to publish district news on the web. Learn how your message should be crafted differently for an Internet audience. View examples of good New Jersey school district communications vehicles.
Yes, there is hope! See the most recent technological advances in Pupil Transportation and how they lead to cost savings. Every district is facing budget constraints and those dollars are better taken out of operations than class rooms. See the latest solutions to reduce transportation costs, whether contracted or district owned. Things can always be done better, see the tools that can get you there! Hear testimonials as to how other districts are handling the current financial crisis.
The presentation will focus on the components of a Owner's Project Requirement. How to Develop the OPR as a functional living document. Define when the OPR should be developed for a building program and the overall process. The role of the OPR for Building Commissioning and for the Owner's expectations being fulfilled.
The "new" news media represents a growing opportunity to communicate with your school district's stakeholders, but blogs, online publications, social media sites and the like also present unique challenges for districts. Explore this topic with a distinguished panel of speakers, including veteran education reporter John Mooney, a founder of NJSpotlight.com
For our presentation, we would like to share our district’s journey to provide meaningful and sustainable professional development for our teachers. The district designed a Professional Development Academy to enhance the individual expertise of thirty eight staff members. Over the course of one school year, participants met in cohorts of ten, every month, and honed their skills in the areas of literacy and data-driven decision making. These experiences not only were quite manageable but also proved to be both sustainable and systemic.
This session will be a follow-up to Jamie's keynote address: Welcome to The Great Conversation. Participants will gain a better understanding of how they can initiate and maintain an ongoing discussion with the people of their communities - including those who have no children in school - to secure the Prerequisites of Progress: community understanding, trust, permission, and support.
Each of the three presenters will handle one of the community groups listed above. Using a PowerPoint presentation and handouts, they will describe the planning and participants in each effort to engage various segments of the Bernards community. The will detail the successes and failures. Then, they will assist participants in drawing up their own plan.
From national legislation to New Jersey statute and administrative code, from headlines on school violence to individual fear wrought by school yard bullying, there is more than ample evidence that if students are preoccupied by any number of daily social and emotional stressors that they can’t handle, then academic performance may be a non-starter. Unfortunately, existing policy on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) does not necessarily translate into effective practice in schools. This session will engage participants in dialogue not only about the connection between SEL and student achievement, but also about how best to use practical tools.
This workshop will be interactive and will engage participants in learning about how education foundation can create new funding for innovative and valued programs in their school district. They will share their challenges, successes and ideas for what will work in their community, and learn from each other. The presentation is fun and fast moving. They will leave with a wealth of resources, most of them free, to take the steps to start or build an education foundation.
The lure of the Energy Savings Improvement Plan (ESIP) is the promise that “savings generated from reduced energy use … will be sufficient to cover the cost of the program’s energy conservation measures.” But developing and implementing a plan in conformance with statutory requirements and school district budget restrictions requires close attention to detail by the district’s Buildings and Grounds Committee, business administrator and attorney. Learn from one district’s experience.
This presentation will follow the Mock Board stage event. Conducted by a Board attorney and a Board member, in which the attorney will give a brief overview of the legalities of shared services between two school districts, or between school districts and municipalities, while the Board member will present her experiences with shared services from a personal perspective.
Join us in the TD Bank Theatre for an important and informative presentation by Beata Caranci, Associate Vice President and Deputy Chief Economist at TD Bank Financial Group.
Ms. Caranci will discuss the economy, the economic outlook and what it means to you and your district.
This subject will briefly describe the E-Rate program and the most common reasons for funding denial, then focus on recent rule changes that will result in loss of funding for many applicants. The presentation will describe the best practices for avoiding the loss of funding.
Join us for an informative session on the resources, services, and data available to you as a member through New Jersey School Boards Association. View a live demonstration of the Labor Relations web page and learn where to find valuable information on breaking issues, teachers’ settlement rates, salary guide, insurance comparisons and other hot topics. A must see for new members, as well as a great refresher for our experienced members!
Come find out how will this summer's new pension and health benefit law impacts your district and its negtotiations with its employee organizations.
Participants will see sample fraudulent documents and view a live online demonstration detailing the ease and speed of determining a student's actual residence using new online database technology. This is the same technology and databases used by credit card companies to quickly identify potential fraud now available to school districts.
Using a combination of PowerPoint presentation, hand-outs, and time for Q and A, the presenters will discuss their experience in devloping a comprensive districtwide safe schools procedure and protocol. This workshop will walk participants through all of the steps required to join the new anti-bullying and school security drill laws into a district's daily routine. The district safety team, which is comprised of a school administrator, senior maintenance safety advisor and a police captain will provide a detailed account of what they've learned that a district must identify and incorporate into new procedures that will comply with state law. Participants will leave the workshop with a detailed understanding of how a district safety team needs to work together to make sure that all aspects of the school security are addressed.
It is intended to use this direct experience presentation, necessarily limited by the available time, in conjuncection with a group session that will more fully explain various alternatives for financing and implementing energy savings improvements and renewable energy production facilities to reduce a district's energy costs and favorably impact energy policy in the State.
This session explores the power of collaboration among stakeholders in developing a K-12 summer reading program that promotes a love of reading. Hear from a parent, teacher, and supervisor how the Somerville Public School district;s Curriculum Committee created a dynamic summer reading program that celebrates the joy of reading throughout the year.
In a world where communication is reliant on being 120 characters, we need to economize on our words and provide our community a message that is succinct, efficient and effective. This message is the tagline your district wishes to have communicated in schools, at the football fields, in the newspapers as your "social echo." How do we create a positive, effective social echo? This session will assist you in your effort.
I will demonstrate and share mathematics activities that are engaging and hands-on, and aligned to the new CCSS. In addition, I will present talking points on what parents can do at home to support math education, and on what they should expect to seen in the classroom. I will present a sample agenda for a community mathematics event.
Now more that ever, districts must evaluate the most effective communications tools to reach and engage every audience from young parents and alumni via text messaging, twitter and facebook to the business community to seniors. NJSPRA Communication Professionals will share their expertise in creating a successful communication plan for the 24/7 21st century we live in.
For the mini-PR forums, I would like to discuss with Board members why it is so important for one person in the district, whether it's the Superintendent or Board President, to speak for the district. Too many voices lead to reporters inferring what they will into an article, which is never good, and may lead to doubt among the public as to what the district is doing or if they even know what they're doing. It is essential that the correct information is shared with the community and parents, particularly during budget time.
Our presentation will discuss the use of online surveys, including design, distribution, and evaluation of results, as a means for obtaining input from stakeholders and gauging public opinion. Discussion will include using survey results in the decision-making process as well as to create messages that address concerns and correct misinformation.
There is nothing in the new health care reform law (PPACA) that addresses the issue of health care plan cost control. Using largely non-technical terms, and with an interactive and engaging style, Milliman health care actuary Suzanne Taranto will help the attendees to identify the key action steps needed to respond to this critical challenge.
This program has been perennially popular as an Action Lab at Workshop, but can also be delivered in a compact, cogent format as a floor session. Some districts are already delivering Option II programs, but many more have not yet started. Many board members are not aware of how valuable Option II can be to save parents money while expanding the curriculum and facilitating a successful transition from HS to college. Board members can learn about policy resources in this area and other areas related to improving student academic achievement, at NJSBA.
View Lenape District's new reality series, We Teach, a candid, unvarnished look into the daily lives of Lenape District teachers. The program focuses on what it takes to mentally, physically and emotionally engage students and prepare them for success beyond high school. Presentation discusses series development and community impact.
These are difficult times, but we must remember that children are our lifeline to the future, and that lifeline is our responsibility. These children will become lifelong learners and the leaders of tomorrow, and we must see that their dreams become reality through our collective efforts as school board members.
This presentation will inspire you to create a bright future for the next generation with teamwork, “dream work,” and working together.
The New Jersey School Buildings and Grounds Association members are Certified Educational Facilities Managers in Schhol Districts in New Jersey.We have created a Resource Hand book for our members with fifty nine Heath and Safety issuses all from DOE,DEP,DOC,PEOSH,and DH.
We are sure Board Members,BA,s and Superintendents will be made aware from our presentation of the fifty nine issuses all school districts face that are mandated by an agency and have become the responsibiliey of the single school district.
Many school districts are in the process of installing solar photovoltaic panels on their facilities, or are thinking of doing so. Not that many have completed their solar projects or begun to realize energy savings/revenues. Our panel will include a Business Administrator from a school district which has been selling SRECS since 2009 and is now considering other energy projects, the Director of Marketing for an online auction for SRECS and other energy credits, and financial/energy advisors who have worked with numerous NJ Boards of Education on solar, energy and other capital projects.
In 2009, Governor Corzine passed legislation that supported the creation of the “Energy Savings Improvement Program” (ESIP). ESIP is an alternate funding vehicle that offers school districts in New Jersey the ability to pursue energy related school infrastructure improvements (HVAC, control systems, lighting, building envelope – windows, doors & roofs) without the need to go to a bond referendum, incur additional debt service, or deplete already thin capital improvement funds. ESIP allows districts to self-fund these projects through future expected energy savings.
With minimal state aid on capital projects expected in upcoming years and with the available “Pay for Performance” rebates available to school districts in New Jersey, the need to explore creative programs, such as ESIP, has never been greater. This presentation will discuss the program, its benefits, its pros and cons compared to traditional school infrastructure funding, AND how to use the process as a resource for education and awareness among students, staff and faculty of energy management.
Charter schools, school choice and the Opportunity Scholarship Act are being touted as reform options for children in failing schools. However, many questions remain, on issues such as accountability and funding. Panelists will discuss both sides of the issue.
It is intended to use this direct experience presentation, necessarily limited by the available time, in conjunction with a group session that will more fully explain various alternatives for financing and implementing energy savings improvements and renewable energy production facilities to reduce a district's energy costs and favorably impact energy policy in the State.
LearnDoEarn is a national program that gives students information they need to make the best academic, behavioral, career and financial decisions. Developed and presented by educators and leaders in the business community, LearnDoEarn materials help motivate students to achieve at higher levels; set academic, behavioral, and career goals; and what is needed in grades 6 – 12 to prepare for, and succeed in, college, work and life. Used by more than 200 teachers this semester.
With the implementation of superintendent salary caps in conjunction with the accountability regulations, the ability of a board to recruit and retain a quality superintendent has become more complex. Our goal is to provide board members with the ins and outs of negotiating a new superintendent contract that will enable the board to fairly remunerate the superintendent while maintaining their fiduciary responsibility to their community.
Kingsway Regional School District took the bold step of embarking on a community-based strategic planning initiative to wake up its community to focus their resources toward a common vision. Students, families, staff, Board and general citizenry came together through active engagement that streamlined an often cumbersome and lengthy process to produce a cost-effective strategic plan that has built a sense of community and ownership.
AdvancED's newest program, ASSIST, redefines the meaning of continuous improvement and gives schools and districts the tools and support they need to transform education. ASSIST merges process, content, and technology into a dynamic web-based platform that supports end to end management of school improvement and accreditation processes. Schools and districts are provided access to high-quality research and consulting support, surveys for gathering stakeholder input, relevant data for analyzing and understanding results, and tools for formulating improvement goals and action plans.
Classroom Economy is an engaging and hands-on approach to teach the "Economics, Innovation, and Technology" strand of the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (6.1.4.C.1-16). Having students engaged in a simulated economic environment allows for a deeper understanding of economic principles. Establishing a classroom economy provides the opportunity to create a cohesive, year-long unit in which the students become active participants and are invested in learning and understanding the concepts presented in class.
The presentation will describe the special education services that EBS can provide to NJ Public Schools. They include: 1. Management & Direct Services (Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, School Psychologists, Special Education Teachers, School Nurses, Other Special Services);
2. Consulting Services (Perform a Program Analysis; Develop a Strategic Plan for Special Services; Develop Comprehensive Solutions for Special Education Issues/Challenges)
3. Customized Trainings (RTI- Response to Intervention; FBA - Functional Behavior Assessments; Multicultural Difference vs. Delay; Collaborative Service Delivery; Autism; Literacy; Augmentative Communication; Assistive Technology)
Fast ForWord is a research-based program that provides instructional strategies and multisensory activities to assist students in classroom activities and learning. A software program published by Scientific Learning, it features a series of scientifically validated reading intervention products that apply neuroscience principles to building the learning capacity of students. The Fast ForWord program utilizes patented technologies that leverage the science and opportunity of brain plasticity. By exercising processing skills through intensive, adaptive activity, actual physical changes occur in the brain. These physical changes to the brain can result in changes to one’s abilities. The program is offered on every level (Primary, Elementary, Middle and High School) and is designed to offer challenging, innovative and experiential learning.
Instructional Aides can be highly effective support for students with disabilities. One of the greatest challenges in providing this support is in knowing whether it is used and useful in meeting students' IEP goals and objectives and also whether data is being collected to manage the service effectively. This program will discuss methods of data collection and ongoing review of data among instructional aides, educators and child study team members.
LEGO Designs is a robotics program aimed at hands-on technology, engineering, and mathematics and designed to have students working in pairs. Our top seniors are paired with our top seventh-graders and they work together on high-interest activities/challenges in the high school's new, cutting-edge computer lab after school and on Saturdays. The students who we are at risk of losing to one of the magnet high schools come to our high school and get to see one of our top-shelf, brand new facilities. They also develop mentoring-type relationships with seniors who tell them about all that our high school has to offer. Students enrolled, for example, in Advanced Placement mathematics classes serve as the senior mentors since engineering has a direct link to many of the concepts that are studied in such courses; the seventh-graders are selected via an application and accompanying rubric.
Lunch Monitors is an easy-to-implement program that integrates general and special education students in the lunch room. The program also can reduce bullying and promotes positive peer interactions between students of all ages. Fifth grade students volunteer their recess time to monitor student behaviors in the lunchroom. Monitors work with a partner to correct misbehavior in a respectful manner and award tickets to students who show appropriate behaviors. Students can earn lunchroom privileges in monthly ticket drawings. Being a monitor helps students learn to work with others, initiate and maintain conversations, develop and recognize appropriate social skills, serve as role models, and build self-esteem. The presence of the Lunch Monitors in the cafeteria also motivates students to behave appropriately.
The Oxford Central School has participated in the National Archery in the Schools Program since 2006. The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is a joint venture between state departments of Education and Wildlife. The program promotes student education, physical education and participation in the life long sport of Archery. The program’s focus is to provide International Style Target Archery training in physical education classes grades 4 - 12. NASP is a program designed for students that promotes the valuable lessons presented by the sport of archery. Students learn many skills that carry-over into their academic classes: patience, cooperation, dedication, team work and integrity.
The objective of the program is to provide another sport that students can participate in everyday. The NASP program allows studnets from grades 4-12 to compete against each other without advantage of size, athleticism or many other physical attributes that might accompany other more traditional sports. This program allows students of all abilites to particpate.
Today's high school classroom is frequently one that reflects the pressurized environment of high stakes testing. Content presentation and retention is paramount to all parties involved. There is a constant search for ways to alter lessons and assignments, as well as continuing attempts to locate best practices that will yield the best understanding of content.
However, group interactions have two major forces, one being content dynamics, and the other being process dynamics. Process dynamics involve all of the many human behaviors, both verbal and nonverbal, which play a major role in how we as human beings are received. Though often overlooked, these play a crucial role in student behavior and understanding of material. Some topics to be addressed include: Nonverbal teacher and student behavior, modeling of appropriate behavior, psychology's curricular content, students searching for meaning, group dynamics and processes and others.
As a young professional entering the teaching world, I was given the opportunity to become a leave replacement substitute for grades 2 and 3. I was expected to transition into these classrooms several months into the school year while maintaining the consistency of learning and fluidity of the classroom environment. The purpose of this presentation is to offer the advice and strategies that lead me towards success. By implementing time, effort, and dedication into the teaching field, one can eventually achieve the ultimate goal; having your own classroom.
The South River Preschool is an innovative program designed to facilitate inclusion of all special education students with their typically developing peers. Preschoolers learn through play and social interaction. Three different preschool programs are offered based upon the needs of our students: the Verbal Behavior Program (one full-day self-contained class), Self-Contained Program (one half-day class), and a General Education Program (three half-day classes). The Creative Curriculum is implemented in all of the preschool classes. Most of our special education students are placed in the general education preschool program. A critical component of our program is the immediate change of placement to the general education preschool as soon a student can benefit from increased inclusion.
The Buddy Class Program is a school-wide social skills building program designed to promote a safe and caring school environment. With the education of the whole child as a focal point, upper elementary-aged classes are "buddied" and the students within these classes are partnered or "buddied" with the the younger-aged elementary classes and students.
We will take a short test that will then become the body of the presentation. The answers to the test items are actually the topics of the presentation. Attendess will be encouraged to share their understanding of the uses of testing in their respective districts and we will endeavor to have them become more involved with the testing continuum that takes place during the school life of a student. We will also explore tactics to improve test taking skills. I will have handouts for each attendee. Board Members will need this type of information as we move further into the "Data Driven Decision Making" mode of school improvement.
For more than two centuries, innovation and creativity from New Jerseyans have transformed the world through their invaluable and unique contributions. The current stakes are high – NJ faces enormous economic, social, cultural, educational and environmental challenges. How can creativity and innovation revitalize New Jersey? Learn how you can spark a movement in your community that recognizes, fosters and sustains creativity and innovation as catalysts for a vital, prosperous and sustainable NJ. Hear what work has been done to create this initiative and how it is changing how we think about community. This is essential for our State to succeed economically and socially in the 21st century.
The presenters will give an overview of current studies on the state of kindergarten that call for immediate action, followed by a highlight of the new state Kindergarten Guidelines in a Powerpoint presentation. There will be opportunities for questions and an exchange of ideas.
Note: Participants can read and download a copy of the Kindergarten Guidelines on the NJ DOE website at http://www.state.nj.us/education/ece/guide/KindergartenGuidelines.pdf)
The negotiations environment is changing rapidly and board members need to know the latest changes to the law and tactics which are being utilized. Board members also need to know what the latest trends are in negotiations.
The “Energy Savings Improvement Program” (ESIP) is an alternate funding vehicle that offers school districts in New Jersey the ability to pursue energy related school infrastructure improvements (HVAC, control systems, lighting, building envelope – windows, doors & roofs) without the need to go to a bond referendum, incur additional debt service, or deplete already thin capital improvement funds. ESIP allows districts to self-fund these projects through future expected energy savings.
With minimal state aid on capital projects expected in upcoming years and with the available “Pay for Performance” rebates available to school districts in New Jersey, the need to explore creative programs, such as ESIP, has never been greater. This presentation will discuss the program, its benefits, its pros and cons compared to traditional school infrastructure funding, and the process to explore it as a viable vehicle.
Diverse schools in Jersey City, Union City, Trenton, Belleville, Lawnside, Runnemede, Lakewood, Clementon, Upper Deerfield, Mt Holly and Island Heights increased proficiency on NJDOE tests by 12-55% in literacy and mathematics; some schools had 500% rates of gain in advanced proficiency. Several schools received $100,000 Title I awards from NJDOE. We will offer tools that translate data into classroom differentiation so all students can rapidly achieve AYP.
School and university partners share their accomplishments after 12 years of collaborative work in Professional Development Schools. This work includes: mentoring preservice teachers, supporting novice teachers, reenergizing veteran teachers, co-teaching undergraduate classes, offering graduate classes at PDSs, clinics run by university students, facilitating professional learning communities, and much more
With the challenges of a fragile economy and a 2% budget cap, districts must be more creative than ever in addressing facility needs with cost-effective solutions. Participants will learn about successful partnerships between the district and their municipal government. They will see examples of abandoned buildings transformed into exciting instructional settings. They will see how they can bring about energy efficiencies for cost savings today and for years to come. They will leave with information that could provide such savings in their own district.
Participants will be able to understand the steps needed to improve security and safety at school events.
As a result of a Strategic Plan initiative, Woodbury City Public Schools hired an Evaluation and Research Coordinator to facilitate the district’s efforts to improve instruction through the use of evidence-based decision making. This group session will highlight effective tools and strategies implemented by the Coordinator to facilitate these improvements and how these services may be beneficial to your district.
During this session, NJSBA will discuss the current issues in school law.
As Acting Commissioner, Christopher Cerf oversees New Jersey’s 2,500 public schools, 1.4 million students, and 110,000 teachers in over 600 school districts.‪ Commissioner Cerf will discuss issues effecting public education in New Jersey and his vision for the future.
In today’s demanding financial times, it is important to instill confidence and creditability in our District’s financial reports. The ASBO COE in Financial Reporting Program recognizes school districts which achieve a high standard of financial reporting. The award is the highest recognition for school district financial operations offered by ASBO and it validates the credibility of the district’s operations while measuring the integrity and technical competence of the staff. The presentation will focus on the requirements of the program and the benefits a Board can receive if awarded the certificate.
We will introduce the origin, mission and structure of the Odyssey of the Mind program. It is a low cost, effective way to bring creativity, problem solving, and differentiated instruction to a school district. Its alignment to State Standards will be made available.
The private sector has always recognized the importance and value of a strong corporate “brand.” Many school districts are now also realizing that shaping a positive school brand is essential for community support and student success.
Participants in this session will examine the message their schools send to their communities, students and staff. They will explore Neptune High School’s commitment to it’s brand “Excellence: No Excuses” and the impressive results it has produced.
