TRACK 3

10:50 - 11:50 a.m.

Track 3 Sessions

• Session A (Room 12) - Targeted Teaching: Decodable Texts in Action
• Session B (Room 13) - Creating a Buzz: Transforming Learning Through WIN
• Session C (Room 14) - Center for Connecticut Education Research Collaboration (CCERC)
• Session D (Room 15) - Bridging the Gap: Innovative Internships and Credentials
• Session E (Room 16) - See, Reflect, Grow: Empowering K-5 Teachers
• Session F (Room 17) - Strengthening School Climate: A Data-Driven Approach

Targeted Teaching: Decodable Texts in Action

This session will focus on maximizing the impact of small group reading instruction using decodable texts. Together, we'll explore effective strategies for organizing groups based upon data, establishing efficient routines, and implementing supportive systems for both teachers and administrators.

Presenters: Angela Buccheri and Jenna Velardi - Wallingford School District

Creating a Buzz: Transforming Learning Through WIN

Discover how a schoolwide WIN (What I Need) block can transform learning by ensuring every student receives targeted support or enrichment based on data. This session will highlight how structured small-group intervention time can be implemented for all students, creating opportunities to reinforce essential skills, build confidence, and extend learning. Participants will learn practical strategies for organizing a WIN block, using data to drive instruction, and fostering a culture where every learner gets the right support at the right time.

Presenters: Andrea Foligno, Jessica Kamens and Suzanne Lincoln - New Britain School District

Center for Connecticut Education Research Collaboration (CCERC): Supporting Connecticut Schools through Research

In these uncertain times, CCERC continues to conduct high quality research that helps evaluate innovative programming and investigate the most pressing issues for Connecticut schools. In this session, we will discuss current projects and new findings that can help schools use their resources for high quality and effective initiatives.

Presenters: Dr. Morgaen Donaldson, Ajit Gopalakrishnan and Dr. Alexandra Lamb - CSDE/CCERC

Bridging the Gap: Innovative Internships and Credentials for Career Success

Join us for an engaging session focused on workforce development initiatives that emphasize the importance of internships and the attainment of industry-recognized credentials. Panelists from Norwalk and Waterbury Public School districts will discuss their innovative strategies for creating meaningful internship and credentialing opportunities that empower students to gain practical experience. They will also highlight the importance of industry and higher education partnerships in helping students enhance their skills and readiness for the workforce.

Presenters: Dr. Vira Boatright, Waterbury; Jon DeBenedictis, CT State Community College; Dina Natalino, New Haven; and Carol Wiltshire-Toth, Norwalk

See, Reflect, Grow: Empowering K-5 Teachers and Students in Lab Classroom Settings

This session invites K-5 teachers into a dynamic lab classroom experience, where collaboration with content instructional coaches sparks curiosity and deep reflection on teaching practices. Lab classroom teachers work alongside coaches to identify effective strategies and refine instructional approaches. We will explore how this collaborative model empowers teachers to make data-driven decisions that directly impact and accelerate student growth and engagement.

Presenters: Carrie Allen, Karen Bosco, Holly Hollander and Michelle Klee - New Milford School District

Strengthening School Climate: A Data-Driven, Systemic Approach

During this professional learning session, we will explore key components of a systemic approach to school climate, with a focus on using data to drive decision-making and continuous improvement. Participants will engage in discussions on aligning current efforts and will receive valuable resources to strengthen positive environments in their schools. District representatives will also participate in a panel discussion to share insights on implementation and lessons learned from their own school communities. You will leave with practical strategies, data-informed practices, and actionable insights to enhance the climate at your school.

Presenters: Cheryl Gustafson, East Windsor; Dr. Gerald Hairston, Newington; Tasonn Haynes, Avon; and Amanda Pickett, CSDE