Teaching & Learning Today: June 2023
June 12, 2023
June 12, 2023
Welcome to Teaching and Learning TODAY. We encourage you to monitor this newsletter regularly and respond to those areas that interest you. We facilitate the development of professional learning by members, for members and are grateful for the opportunity to do so. Allow us to assist you to learn, grow professionally, and impact others.
As you wind down the school year, we wish you a safe, relaxing, and fun summer!
The Virginia Department of Education is offering five, half-day, in-person regional training events this spring and summer focused on special education evaluations using a trauma lens and engaging families in the special education process. Attendees will view a recorded presentation by Dr. Eric Rossen and Dr. Katie Eklund offering guidance and considerations for special education evaluations, using a trauma-informed lens. The training will also include an activity and discussion of current practices in Virginia.
This training is free and open to school psychologists and school social workers employed by Virginia Public Schools. Registration is required. Registered attendees will receive a copy of Dr. Rossen’s and Dr. David Bateman’s book, Creating Trauma-Informed Individualized Education Programs.
The Regional Training Event Flyer contains more information and registration links!
From VCASE, check out updates from the Family and Engagement Office HERE.
Whether you are a new candidate for National Board Certification or a current NBCT ready to maintain your certification, you will not want to miss our Jump Start event this summer. At this hands-on workshop, NBCT facilitators guide candidates through unpacking their National Board Standards and component instructions. Participants gain strategies for tackling the certification process and leave Jump Start with a deeper understanding of the National Board fundamentals and a plan for achieving or maintaining their certification. Jump Start is available to both members and non-members. Read on for more information.
For Candidates Pursuing Initial National Board Certification: This multi-day workshop meets Thursday-Saturday, July 13-15 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A continental breakfast and lunch will be provided each day. On Friday, candidates will enjoy networking with current NBCTs and hearing from a special guest during lunch. Lodging is available upon request. Click here to learn more and register. Registration closes June 30.
For NBCTs beginning the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) Process: This full-day workshop meets from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, July 14. A continental breakfast will be provided, and NBCTs will network with candidates over lunch. Lodging is available upon request. Please note that the MOC process must be completed in one year during one of the final two years of the certificate’s life. For NBCTs whose certificate expires in 2024, the 2023-24 cycle is the final opportunity to maintain certification. The 2023-24 cycle will be the first of two opportunities for NBCTs whose certificate expires in 2025. Click here to learn more and register for MOC Jump Start. Registration closes June 30.
As VEA works to increase the number and diversity of NBCTs in Virginia, we are finding ways to support candidates and break down barriers to access.
VEA Teaching & Learning is offering a limited number of grants to qualified applicants to cover the registration and lodging costs of attending Jump Start this summer. Applicants must be current VEA members in good standing, must meet candidate eligibility criteria set by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, and must commit to completing at least one component as a National Board candidate in the 2023-2024 school year. For more information and to apply for a grant, click here. Grant applications are due by June 1.
At a time when school librarians are caught in the political crosshairs, let’s celebrate all they do for our students. From NEA News, In Appreciation of School Librarians.
The work of the Department of Teaching and Learning extends out of headquarters and works directly with members. This month, we will be featuring one of our Retirees:
Name: Amy Lamb
Local: Retired
Role(s) that you have completed with VEA:
Local President, Trainer, Course Writer, Member of Fitz Turner Commission, Member of the Professional Rights and Responsibilities Commission, Member of the Resolutions Committee, USAC member, Legislative Committee Member
# of years in education: 34
# of years in VEA: 31
How has being a union member helped you?
Being a union member has offered me opportunities to develop leadership skills. VEA has provided me with experiences to grow as a teacher leader. It has opened doors to allow me to network and cultivate both professional connections and deep friendships with other members across the state. Additionally, by VEA has offered me training in topics I am deeply passionate about to bring positive changes to my classroom, school, and my division.
If you could give 1 piece of advice to someone in education, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to someone in education, it would be to connect with fellow VEA members. Within VEA, you will find mentors, leaders, social justice advocates, and committed teacher leaders who want fair working environments and optimal learning conditions for their students. VEA will offer you a safe harbor so that you know you are not alone in advocating for your students.
Virginia is a top 10 state in median household income, but ranks 36th in the US in state per pupil funding of K-12 education.
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