All About Literacy
This workshop spans at least 20 hours and focuses on the development of literacy skills. It incorporates the Orton-Gillingham and Romalda Spalding methods for literacy development. Teachers will practice strategies and activities related to phonetic awareness, spelling and vocabulary, comprehension, guided reading and writing, as well as oral language skills.
Participants also have the opportunity to plan and rehearse their own class lessons.
1. Phonemic Awareness: The ability to recognize and manipulate individual sounds (phonemes) in spoken words. This foundational skill helps learners understand how sounds form words and is essential for effective decoding and spelling.
2. Phonics: The relationship between letters and sounds. Phonics instruction teaches students how to connect written letters (graphemes) with their corresponding sounds (phonemes), which supports reading and spelling accuracy.
3. Vocabulary Development: Building a broad and deep knowledge of word meanings. A robust vocabulary enhances comprehension, communication, and the ability to express ideas effectively in both spoken and written language.
4. Comprehension: The process of understanding and interpreting what is read. Comprehension strategies enable students to derive meaning from text, make inferences, and engage critically with reading material.
5. Fluency: The ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression. Fluency bridges the gap between word recognition and comprehension, allowing readers to focus on the meaning of the text rather than decoding each word.
6. Spelling and Writing: Applying knowledge of phonics and language patterns to accurately spell and construct written text. Writing activities reinforce literacy by integrating spelling, grammar, and composition skills.
7. Oral Language Skills: Developing the ability to listen, speak, and communicate effectively. Oral language forms the foundation for literacy, supporting both reading and writing development through discussion and verbal expression.
8. Fundamentals of Reading: Building on the foundational skills in phonics, phonological awareness, spelling, and vocabulary to develop reading comprehension and fluency.
9. Stimulus Write: The process of writing, from inspiration and getting ideas to actually writing. It’s about cultivating habits and getting your thoughts onto the page. A few different readers have requested that I write about this recently, but it is a topic I’ve been wary of touching upon for a number of reasons.
These elements work together to support the development of strong literacy skills, enabling learners to decode, understand, and use language proficiently in academic and real-life contexts.
Effective Instruction
Cooperative Learning and Project-Based Instruction
This one-week, 30-hour workshop prepares teachers to deliver instruction that actively involves learners. The program covers models of instruction, lesson planning, classroom management, motivational theory, retention theory, and the distinction between discipline and punishment, among other topics.
Cooperative Learning: Cooperative learning is an instructional strategy where students work together in small groups to achieve shared learning goals. Each member is responsible not only for their own learning but also for helping their peers succeed, fostering collaboration, communication, and accountability. By engaging in structured group activities, students develop social skills and deepen their understanding through discussion and mutual support.
Project-Based Instruction: Project-based instruction is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by investigating and responding to complex questions, problems, or challenges over an extended period. This approach emphasizes hands-on learning, creativity, and critical thinking as students complete meaningful projects that connect classroom content to real-world situations. The process encourages autonomy, collaboration, and the practical application of academic “What is Project-Based Instruction?”
Practical Application: Workshops and practice sessions enable catechists to apply new strategies, develop lesson materials, and gain hands-on experience in teaching and mentoring.
Catechist Training
Catechist training is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation necessary to teach and nurture faith within their communities. This specialized instruction focuses on preparing catechists to effectively communicate religious teachings, foster spiritual growth, and create engaging learning environments for learners of all ages.
Theological Foundations: Catechists receive education in core doctrines, scripture, and the traditions of their faith. This ensures a strong understanding of religious content and the ability to answer learners’ questions with accuracy and depth.
Pedagogical Skills: Training covers teaching methods, lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment techniques adapted for religious education. Emphasis is placed on age- appropriate instruction and engaging learners through storytelling, discussion, and activities.
Spiritual Formation: Catechists participate in prayer, reflection, and community-building exercises to deepen their personal faith and commitment. This spiritual foundation supports their effectiveness as role models and mentors.
Communication and Leadership: Elements include developing clear communication skills, facilitating group discussions, and leading prayer or worship. Catechists learn to foster respectful, inclusive environments and support diverse learners.
These elements collectively ensure that catechists are well-prepared to guide learners in faith, promote understanding, and support spiritual development within their communities.
Cognitive Coaching: For Administrators and Faculty Coaches
Cognitive Coaching is a professional development model that supports educators in reflecting on and improving their instructional practices. Through guided conversations, coaches help teachers identify goals, analyze thinking, and develop strategies for problem-solving. This process is rooted in fostering self-directed learning and building trust between coach and teacher.
Elements of Cognitive Coaching: The approach includes structured dialogue, active listening, questioning techniques, and feedback. Coaches use frameworks such as planning, reflecting, and problem-resolving conversations to encourage teachers to examine beliefs, set intentions, and evaluate outcomes. The process emphasizes metacognition, autonomy, and continuous growth.
Benefits of Cognitive Coaching: Cognitive Coaching empowers teachers to become more reflective and adaptive in their practice. It enhances professional relationships, increases instructional effectiveness, and promotes a culture of collaboration. Teachers gain confidence in decision-making, deepen their understanding of teaching and learning, and are better equipped to meet diverse student needs.
Cybersecurity and AI Training
Cybersecurity training for educators typically focuses on building awareness and practical skills to protect school data, devices, and online interactions. Sessions cover topics such as recognizing phishing attempts, managing passwords securely, understanding safe browsing practices, and responding to potential cyber threats.
Educators learn how to safeguard student information, maintain compliance with data privacy regulations, and foster a culture of digital responsibility within their classrooms. AI for Educators: The “AI for Educators" initiative is designed to equip teachers with foundational knowledge and practical strategies for integrating artificial intelligence into their teaching practice. This training explores how AI tools can enhance lesson planning, personalize student learning, and support alternative instructional approaches. Educators gain hands-on experience with AI-powered resources, discover ways to use technology to streamline classroom tasks, and learn the eWorkshop Structure and AI for Teachers. New workshops are introduced based on teacher interest. “AI for Teachers” is one such offering, added in Summer 2025. This session helps teachers develop knowledge, skills, and practical applications for using AI in lesson planning, student activities, and alternative learning strategies.