Durham Public Schools PL

Presenters: Emily Ericson | emily_ericson@dpsnc.net | High School English Teacher
Location: Riverside High School Room B220
Description: Introduces direct instruction strategies and techniques. Participants will learn the definition of direct instruction, when to use it, and its importance. The session includes practical planning exercises, a template for direct instruction, and strategies for student check-ins and differentiation. Be prepared to design and share a lesson with other attendees, implementing skills from the session.
Subject Area(s): Arts, Global Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, CTE, ELA , Healthful Living
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction, Explicit Teaching, Increased Rigor (DOK), Reading‚ Writing‚ Thinking‚ Speaking‚ Listening
Targeted Instructional Grades: 7th Grade, 9th Grade, 11th Grade, 6th Grade, 8th Grade, 10th Grade, 12th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Principals, Principals, Instructional Coaches, Teachers

Presenters: Makenzie Yarborough | makenzie.yarborough@hmhco.com | HMH Coach
Location: Riverside High School Room C238
Description: This session is designed for teachers who may not know how to effectively utilize some of the components HMH. The facilitator will provide an overview of Structured Literacy for K-2 teachers and foundational literacy skills for grades 3-5.
Subject Area(s): ELA
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction, DPS Adopted Resources, Explicit Teaching, Assessment for Learning, Beginning Teacher Support, Differentiation/Scaffolding, Standards Aligned Instruction, Student-Centered Learning
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Principals, Instructional Assistants, Principals, Mentors, Teachers

Presenters: Amanda Watson | amanda_watson@dpsnc.net | Pre K/K teacher; Christie Pennell | christie_pennell@dpsnc.net | Pre K/ K teacher
Location: Riverside High School Room C239
Description: This professional learning series explores the foundational principles of the Science of Reading (SoR), focusing on integrating evidence-based instructional practices into classroom instruction. Each session targets key components of skilled reading using Scarborough’s Reading Rope and The Simple View of Reading as frameworks.
Subject Area(s): ELA
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction, DPS Adopted Resources, Reading‚ Writing‚ Thinking‚ Speaking‚ Listening, Assessment for Learning, Beginning Teacher Support, Differentiation/Scaffolding, Standards Aligned Instruction, Student-Centered Learning
Targeted Instructional Grades: Pre-K, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Instructional Assistants, Interventionists

Presenters: Jasmine | jasmine_holloway@dpsnc.net | Instructional Coach
Location: Riverside High School Room C233
Description: This session is designed to help teachers confidently access and implement ARC lessons by deepening their understanding of how Common Core Standards are embedded throughout each unit. Participants will explore how ARC aligns instructional tasks with grade-level expectations, unpack key standards, and learn how to navigate ARC resources effectively. Through hands-on planning and discussion, teachers will gain clarity on the instructional purpose behind each lesson and leave better equipped to deliver standards-based literacy instruction with fidelity and confidence.
Subject Area(s): ELA
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Teachers

Presenters: Jewel Barnwell | jewel_barnwell@dpsnc.net | Teaching & Learning Coach
Location: Riverside High School Room C234
Description: In this session, teachers will learn to use mCLASS data to create targeted small groups for improving literacy in K-5 ELA classrooms. Participants will explore how to interpret data, group students, plan effective lessons, and monitor progress to drive student growth.
Subject Area(s): ELA
Topic(s): Explicit Teaching, Beginning Teacher Support, Data Analysis, Differentiation/Scaffolding, MTSS
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Teachers

Presenters: Colleen Robinson | colleen_robinson@dpsnc.net | Instructional Coach
Location: Riverside High School Room C232
Description: Target Audience: K-5 Educators (AI beginner) interested in leveraging AI to enhance classroom instruction and data analysis. K-5 instructional leaders looking to enhance data driven practices. In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an essential tool for enhancing instruction, streamlining tasks, and personalizing learning experiences. Join us for a professional development session where we will explore the power of AI in the classroom and how educators can leverage it to make data-driven decisions, differentiate instruction, and engage students in innovative ways. What to Expect: Understanding AI in Education: A brief overview of AI and its applications in the classroom. Streamlining Administrative Tasks: Discover how AI can assist with grading, generating lesson plans, and providing real-time feedback on student work. Personalizing Learning: Learn how AI tools can adapt content to meet diverse learner needs and provide individualized practice. Data-Driven Instruction: Analyzing student performance data efficiently to identify strengths and areas for growth. Enhancing Student Engagement: Creating interactive and adaptive content, including AI-powered simulations and problem-solving exercises. Hands-On Exploration: Try out AI tools tailored for education and discuss practical applications with peers. By the end of this session, you’ll walk away with practical strategies and resources to seamlessly integrate AI into your teaching practice, making data analysis more efficient and instruction more impactful.
Subject Area(s): Mathematics, Science, ELA
Topic(s): Assessments-Data-Accountability, Curriculum and Instruction, Digital Teaching and Learning, Data Analysis, Differentiation/Scaffolding, Standards Aligned Instruction, Student-Centered Learning
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Principals, Principals, Instructional Coaches, Interventionists, Teachers

Presenters: Krystle Bradley | krystle_bradley@dpsnc.net | Teaching and Learning Coach; Rhonda Bradley | rhonda_bradley@dpsnc.net | Assistant Principal
Location: Riverside High School Room D241
Description: Unlock the power of data to uncover the hidden clues behind student achievement! In this engaging and hands-on professional development session, educators will step into the role of “Data Detectives” to explore how to effectively collect, interpret, and act on student data. Participants will analyze real-world scenarios, collaborate to identify patterns and root causes, and develop actionable strategies to support all learners. Whether you're new to data analysis or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will equip you with the tools to transform raw numbers into meaningful insights that drive student growth and success.
Subject Area(s): Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, ELA
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction, Assessment for Learning, Student-Centered Learning
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Instructional Coaches, Interventionists, Teachers

Presenters: Tonya Enoch | tonya_enoch@dpsnc.net | Teaching & Learning Coach; Maekrisha Jones | maekrisha_jones@dpsnc.net | Teaching & Learning Coach
Location: Riverside High School Room C236
Description: K-2 Teachers and IAs will learn the basics of how to teach the HMH Structured Literacy Lessons and how to maneuver through the HMH structured literacy materials.
Subject Area(s): ELA
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction, Explicit Teaching
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade
Targeted Roles: Instructional Assistants, Instructional Coaches, Teachers

Presenters: Dr. Temperance Tobe | temperance.tobe@dpsnc.net | CIMC; Lucretia Smith | lucretial_smith@dpsnc.net | CIMC; Jennifer Watson | jennifer_watson@dpsnc.net | CIMC
Location: Riverside High School Room D242
Description: Supporting beginner teachers through creative lesson planning, and utilizing technology and resources.
Subject Area(s): Arts, Digital Learning Standards, Global Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, CTE, ELA
Topic(s): Building Learning System Capacity, Communication Skills, Curriculum and Instruction, Digital Teaching and Learning, Effective Feedback Strategies, Explicit Teaching, Beginning Teacher Support, Coaching and Mentoring, Information Technology
Targeted Instructional Grades: 9th Grade, 11th Grade, 10th Grade, 12th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Coordinators, Assistant Principals, Directors, Instructional Coaches, Interventionists, Mentors, Teachers

Presenters: Dr. Temperance Tobe | temperance.tobe@dpsnc.net | CIMC; Dr. Vimbainashe Chanakira | vimbainashe.chanakira@dpsnc.net | teacher
Location: Riverside High School Room C234
Description: Veteran teachers mentoring and supporting beginner teachers. Why veteran teachers are vital to the retention and success of new teachers.
Subject Area(s): Arts, Global Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, CTE, ELA
Topic(s): Communication Skills, Curriculum and Instruction, Explicit Teaching, Social Emotional Learning, Beginning Teacher Support, Coaching and Mentoring, Leadership
Targeted Instructional Grades: 7th Grade, 9th Grade, 11th Grade, 8th Grade, 10th Grade, 12th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Principals, Directors, Assistant Directors, Coordinators, Instructional Coaches, Mentors, Teachers

Presenters: Emily Ericson | emily_ericson@dpsnc.net | High School English Teacher
Location: Riverside High School Room B220
Description: Introduces direct instruction strategies and techniques. Participants will learn the definition of direct instruction, when to use it, and its importance. The session includes practical planning exercises, a template for direct instruction, and strategies for student check-ins and differentiation. Be prepared to design and share a lesson with other attendees, implementing skills from the session.
Subject Area(s): Arts, Global Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, CTE, ELA , Healthful Living
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction, Explicit Teaching, Increased Rigor (DOK), Reading‚ Writing‚ Thinking‚ Speaking‚ Listening
Targeted Instructional Grades: 7th Grade, 9th Grade, 11th Grade, 6th Grade, 8th Grade, 10th Grade, 12th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Principals, Principals, Instructional Coaches, Teachers

Presenters: Justine Daniel | justine_daniel@dpsnc.net | Teaching & Learning Coach
Location: Riverside High School Room B223
Description: In this session strategies and classroom activities to build classroom culture, trust and a sense of belonging will be shared and modeled. Activities range from Week 1 activities to build a positive learning environment to strategies on how to engage learners through reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Subject Area(s): Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, ELA
Topic(s): Communication Skills, Reading‚ Writing‚ Thinking‚ Speaking‚ Listening, Beginning Teachers
Targeted Instructional Grades: 5th Grade, 7th Grade, 9th Grade, 4th Grade, 6th Grade, 8th Grade, 10th Grade
Targeted Roles: Instructional Assistants, Teachers

Presenters: Amanda Watson | amanda_watson@dpsnc.net | Pre K/K teacher; Christie Pennell | christie_pennell@dpsnc.net | Pre K/ K teacher
Location: Riverside High School Room C239
Description: This professional learning series explores the foundational principles of the Science of Reading (SoR), focusing on integrating evidence-based instructional practices into classroom instruction. Each session targets key components of skilled reading using Scarborough’s Reading Rope and The Simple View of Reading as frameworks.
Subject Area(s): ELA
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction, DPS Adopted Resources, Reading‚ Writing‚ Thinking‚ Speaking‚ Listening, Assessment for Learning, Beginning Teacher Support, Differentiation/Scaffolding, Standards Aligned Instruction, Student-Centered Learning
Targeted Instructional Grades: Pre-K, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Instructional Assistants, Interventionists

Presenters: Diana Franklin | Diana_franklin@dpsnc.net | TLC
Location: Riverside High School Room A216
Description: We speak about rigor frequently but do all educators completely understand what this means or how we can help all students think at higher levels? In this session we will synthesize a workable definition of what rigor is based on several sources as well as our own background knowledge. We will analyze the level of thinking required for different activities based on both Bloom's Taxonomy and Webb's Depth of Knowledge. We will also discuss how to provide the appropriate scaffolding to guide academically diverse students to be able to complete higher level tasks and questions. We will then explore how to use different AI tools to easily increase the DOK level in different tasks and questions. Finally, teachers will have time to create a learning activity to implement their new understanding. We will use different higher thinking level activities and strategies throughout the workshop as exemplars for the participants.
Subject Area(s): Global Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, CTE, ELA , Healthful Living
Topic(s): Advanced Academics-AIG, Increased Rigor
Targeted Instructional Grades: 7th Grade, 6th Grade, 8th Grade
Targeted Roles: Teachers

Presenters: Colleen Robinson | colleen_robinson@dpsnc.net | Instructional Coach
Location: Riverside High School Room C232
Description: Target Audience: K-5 Educators (AI beginner) interested in leveraging AI to enhance classroom instruction and data analysis. K-5 instructional leaders looking to enhance data driven practices. In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an essential tool for enhancing instruction, streamlining tasks, and personalizing learning experiences. Join us for a professional development session where we will explore the power of AI in the classroom and how educators can leverage it to make data-driven decisions, differentiate instruction, and engage students in innovative ways. What to Expect: Understanding AI in Education: A brief overview of AI and its applications in the classroom. Streamlining Administrative Tasks: Discover how AI can assist with grading, generating lesson plans, and providing real-time feedback on student work. Personalizing Learning: Learn how AI tools can adapt content to meet diverse learner needs and provide individualized practice. Data-Driven Instruction: Analyzing student performance data efficiently to identify strengths and areas for growth. Enhancing Student Engagement: Creating interactive and adaptive content, including AI-powered simulations and problem-solving exercises. Hands-On Exploration: Try out AI tools tailored for education and discuss practical applications with peers. By the end of this session, you’ll walk away with practical strategies and resources to seamlessly integrate AI into your teaching practice, making data analysis more efficient and instruction more impactful.
Subject Area(s): Mathematics, Science, ELA
Topic(s): Assessments-Data-Accountability, Curriculum and Instruction, Digital Teaching and Learning, Data Analysis, Differentiation/Scaffolding, Standards Aligned Instruction, Student-Centered Learning
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Principals, Principals, Instructional Coaches, Interventionists, Teachers

Presenters: Krystle Bradley | krystle_bradley@dpsnc.net | Teaching and Learning Coach; Rhonda Bradley | rhonda_bradley@dpsnc.net | Assistant Principal
Location: Riverside High School Room A210
Description: Unlock the power of data to uncover the hidden clues behind student achievement! In this engaging and hands-on professional development session, educators will step into the role of “Data Detectives” to explore how to effectively collect, interpret, and act on student data. Participants will analyze real-world scenarios, collaborate to identify patterns and root causes, and develop actionable strategies to support all learners. Whether you're new to data analysis or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will equip you with the tools to transform raw numbers into meaningful insights that drive student growth and success.
Subject Area(s): Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, ELA
Topic(s): Curriculum and Instruction, Assessment for Learning, Student-Centered Learning
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Instructional Coaches, Interventionists, Teachers