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Performance Matters Forum 2025

Performance Matters Forum 2025 (In-Person) Friday, November 7, 2025 Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (Check-in will begin at 7:45 a.m.)The 2025 Performance Matters Forum is a half-day conference being held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. This year’s conference features sessions on a wide range of topics, including assessment, multi-tiered systems of support, instructional coaching, college and career readiness, small group instruction, school leadership development, multilingual learners, and school climate, all with an eye toward improving student learning outcomes. Please note: This year’s format will not include a large general session; however, we will offer session tracks to allow participants to maximize their learning while attending four different mini sessions throughout the day. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-19-099-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: CSDE and District Colleagues. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: School PreK - 12 Educators. Friday, November 7, 2025, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Connecticut Convention Center 100 Columbus Blvd. Hartford, CT 06103.

CT Transition Community of Practice - November (In-Person)

CT Transition Community of Practice (CoP) - November (In-Person), November 13, 2025 (9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) Connecticut has created the CT Transition Community of Practice (CoP) to centralize all activities, resources, and initiatives related to secondary transition and to provide information and support to students, families, and professionals. The CoP is comprised of multiple stakeholder groups that have come together with a single focus: enhancing the transition of youth with disabilities to adult life. Come learn what we are all about! See how your ideas fit into Connecticut’s overall plans and help us plot our course for improving student outcomes. Online Location: Click Register to Sign up. Topic: Transition. Activity Code: 26-20-016-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Birth-21. Presenters: To Be Announced. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Chelsea Barone, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 229 or barone@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: Birth-21: Parents/Families, Students/Youth, School Professionals, Transition Coordinators and Directors, Employers, and Representatives of other state agencies related to transition (DDS, ADS/BRS, BESB, DOL, DCF). Thursday, November 13, 2025, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Goodwin College Auditorium 1 Riverside Drive East Hartford, CT 06118.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI)- Cohort 1- Day 4: IEP Processes and Procedures

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) is a one-year intensive experience for professionals who chair PPT meetings in Connecticut, with the purpose of training leaders to facilitate PPT meetings that meet legal requirements, foster positive school/parent partnerships, and result in high-quality individualized programming for students with disabilities. This statewide initiative is designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants in the institute will learn to: facilitate team meetings; create and write clear and effective individualized education programs (IEPs); foster positive relationships with parents; partner with district leaders to identify and implement a capstone project that addresses a needed change or enhancement in practice, and; develop support networks to foster the implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities. All topics are addressed with the framework of compliance and collaboration but… Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-020-003. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, the RESC Alliance, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Thursday, November 13, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series: Topic #2- Set-Aside Funds – Proportionate Share and Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) - AM Session

The CSDE Bureau of Special Education (BSE), with support from the State Education Resource Center (SERC), is offering an IDEA Part B Section 611/619 Virtual Grant Training Series. The series includes four 2-hour training opportunities related to critical elements in the IDEA Part B Subrecipient Application (SA) and aspects of the electronic grant management system (eGMS). Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, and local education agency (LEA) staff who contribute to the IDEA Part B SA Grant or who have access to the eGMS are encouraged to attend this series. All training within this series is virtual and free of charge. Each session is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Topic #2: Set-Aside Funds – Proportionate Share and Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) This 2-hour virtual training reviews the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 Set… Topic: CSDE Events. Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-040-000. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Alycia Trakas, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Alycia Trakas, CSDE, (860) 713-6932 or Alycia.Trakas@ct.gov. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k-12; Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, November 14, 2025, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Making a Difference through Co-Teaching: Fall 2025 - Day 1

In this two‐day session, co-teaching teams will explore how co‐teaching can effectively meet the needs of students with and without disabilities in the general education classroom. On day one, six co‐teaching approaches will be shared, with a review of the advantages and disadvantages of each. Teams will also discuss ways to establish parity and enhance collaboration with their co-teaching partners. They will have the opportunity to plan together during the afternoon, as well as to apply their learning between the two sessions by planning and teaching a co‐taught lesson. As a result of this professional learning activity, co-teaching teams will be able to enhance the quality of their partnerships; make decisions about which co‐teaching approach will best help improve student access and outcomes, and collaboratively plan co‐taught lessons that maximize instructional intensity and include specially designed instruction. Topic: CSDE Events. Co-Teaching. Activity Code: 26-09-073-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Nikki Hendry and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nikki Hendry, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 255 or hendry@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Teams of General and Special educators/Related Service Providers. Friday, November 14, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series: Topic #2- Set-Aside Funds – Proportionate Share and Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) - PM Session

The CSDE Bureau of Special Education (BSE), with support from the State Education Resource Center (SERC), is offering an IDEA Part B Section 611/619 Virtual Grant Training Series. The series includes four 2-hour training opportunities related to critical elements in the IDEA Part B Subrecipient Application (SA) and aspects of the electronic grant management system (eGMS). Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, and local education agency (LEA) staff who contribute to the IDEA Part B SA Grant or who have access to the eGMS are encouraged to attend this series. All training within this series is virtual and free of charge. Each session is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Topic #2: Set-Aside Funds – Proportionate Share and Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) This 2-hour virtual training reviews the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 Set… Topic: CSDE Events. Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-042-000. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Alycia Trakas, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Alycia Trakas, CSDE, (860) 713-6932 or Alycia.Trakas@ct.gov. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k -12. Friday, November 14, 2025, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI)- Cohort 2: General Educator- Day 1: Establishing Trust Panels and Legal Foundations

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) is a one-year intensive experience for general education professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Participants will be trained to facilitate PPT meetings that meet legal requirements, foster positive school/parent partnerships, and move toward high-quality individualized programming for students with disabilities. This statewide initiative is designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants in the institute will learn to: facilitate team meetings; create and write clear and effective individualized education programs (IEPs); foster positive relationships with parents; partner with district leaders to identify and implement a capstone project that addresses a needed change or enhancement in practice, and; develop support networks to foster the implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities. Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-011-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, EastConn, ACES, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k-12; General educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Tuesday, November 18, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

PPT Leadership Community of Practice

To expand the reach of the Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) relational content and philosophy, a PPT Leadership Community of Practice (CoP) has been developed. This initiative is designed to bring together both current and prospective PPT chairpersons to network, discuss challenges in practice, and explore key concepts from the PPTLI curriculum. The PPT Leadership CoP provides a monthly, virtual, one-hour gathering facilitated by PPTLI trainers. Each session fosters collaborative learning, shared problem-solving, understanding of PPT leadership and facilitation, and professional growth in a supportive environment. Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-015-002. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, EastConn, ACES, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-K-12; Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM.

Using Data and Protocols to Determine Effective Behavior - Day 1

In these sessions, participants will use Initial Line of Inquiry and Prevent-Teach-Respond Protocols in targeting effective behavior supports to reduce exclusionary school discipline practices that have a disproportionately adverse effect on students with disabilities, students of color, and low-income students. Participants are asked to come with sample class or grade-level data for analysis, as well as prepared thoughts regarding common student behaviors and accompanying data to support them. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-054-000. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Claire Conroy and Christine Kuehlewind, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC Project Specialist, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School staff. Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM.

Dream Day: Youth Leading the Way

This is a transformative half-day retreat designed for students with and without an IEP, to build community with one another, to ignite youth passion, awaken purpose and empower participants’ journeys toward their dreams. Through a unique blend of meditation, music, inspiring speeches and interactive activities, this experience will leave students energized and ready to chase their dreams with renewed clarity and confidence. Enjoy our guest presenters, breakfast and lunch, giveaways and more! Online Location: https://26-70-094.eventbrite.com. Topic: CSDE Events. Youth. Activity Code: 26-70-094-000. Registration Link: Click the link to Register https://26-70-094.eventbrite.com. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 6-12. Presenters: Matthew Rivera, Executive Director, Dream Support Network. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nicole Vitale, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 234 or vitale@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Emma Velasquez, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 218 or velasquez@ctserc.org. Audience: Middle and High School Students. Thursday, November 20, 2025, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM. For more info visit 26-70-094.eventbrite.com.

Making a Difference through Co-Teaching: Fall 2025 - Day 2

In this two‐day session, co-teaching teams will explore how co‐teaching can effectively meet the needs of students with and without disabilities in the general education classroom. On day one, six co‐teaching approaches will be shared, with a review of the advantages and disadvantages of each. Teams will also discuss ways to establish parity and enhance collaboration with their co-teaching partners. They will have the opportunity to plan together during the afternoon, as well as to apply their learning between the two sessions by planning and teaching a co‐taught lesson. As a result of this professional learning activity, co-teaching teams will be able to enhance the quality of their partnerships; make decisions about which co‐teaching approach will best help improve student access and outcomes, and collaboratively plan co‐taught lessons that maximize instructional intensity and include specially designed instruction. Topic: CSDE Events. Co-Teaching. Activity Code: 26-09-073-001. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Nikki Hendry and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nikki Hendry, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 255 or hendry@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Teams of General and Special educators/Related Service Providers. Friday, November 21, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Using Assessment Data to Develop Present Levels of Performance and IEP Goals and Objectives in the Areas of Reading and Written Expression - (Elementary School)

Using Assessment Data to Develop Present Levels of Performance and IEP Goals and Objectives in the Areas of Reading and Written Expression - (Elementary School) November 25, 2025 2 - 3 p.m. Unlock Student Potential: Transform Assessment Data into Targeted Goals Are you looking to bridge the gap between assessment data and meaningful student progress? Join us for an insightful seminar on "Using Assessment Data to Develop Present Levels of Performance and Goals and Objectives in the Areas of Reading and Written Expression." This session will equip Elementary school educators and specialists with practical strategies to analyze assessment data effectively, craft precise present levels of performance, and set measurable, individualized goals. Learn how to translate data into actionable steps that drive student success in reading and writing. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your instructional planning and create impactful learning experiences! Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 26-58-102-000. Registration Link: Click Register to Sign Up. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-5. Presenters: Kristin Allen, Associate Education Consultant; Claire Conroy, SERC Consultant & Elisa Palmieri Laudati, SERC Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Claire Conroy, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 326 or conroy@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: K-5: Elementary School Special Educators, Administrators. Tuesday, November 25, 2025, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Increasing Access to ELA for Students Utilizing the Principles of UDL ‐ Session B (Grades 6‐12)

In this professional learning opportunity, educators will examine their own standards‐based English language arts curricular units and identify ways to implement the principles and strategies of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), technology and accessible educational materials. Participants will identify resources and strategies that will enable them to increase access to literacy skills for all students within the framework of tiered intervention. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-09-071-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 6-12. Presenters: Claire Conroy and Nikki Hendry, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nikki Hendry, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 255 or hendry@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades 6-12: General and Special Education Teachers. Tuesday, December 2, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI)- Cohort 2: General Educator- Day 2: Meeting Preparation, Process, and Data

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) is a one-year intensive experience for general education professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Participants will be trained to facilitate PPT meetings that meet legal requirements, foster positive school/parent partnerships, and move toward high-quality individualized programming for students with disabilities. This statewide initiative is designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants in the institute will learn to: facilitate team meetings; create and write clear and effective individualized education programs (IEPs); foster positive relationships with parents; partner with district leaders to identify and implement a capstone project that addresses a needed change or enhancement in practice, and; develop support networks to foster the implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities. Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-011-001. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, EastConn, ACES, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k-12; General educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Tuesday, December 2, 2025, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

Part C (Early Intervention Svcs) to Part B (PreK SpEd) Lunch & Learn - Day 1 of 3

Part C (Early Intervention Svcs) to Part B (PreK SpEd) Lunch & Learn - Day 1 of 3 *This is a three (3) day event from 12:00 p.m.- 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Wednesday, February 11, 2026 Thursday, April 30, 2026 *Please choose the dates you are able to attend. Location: Zoom. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link two hours before the start time on the day of the session. The Lunch and Learn Forum is designed to be a collaborative learning opportunity for Part C and Part B directors, administrators, program coordinators, and providers/educators to come together to support transition. The first half of the meeting will focus on a topic and/or any updates, followed by a roundtable discussion. Providers can bring questions to these sessions related to early childhood transition and pose them to their colleagues for support, insight, and ideas. Topic: Early Childhood. Activity Code: 26-46-041-000. Registration Link: Click the link to Register https://26-46-041.eventbrite.com. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Pre-K-Age3-5. Presenters: Nicole Cossette, Part C Director (OEC) and Renee Kleinman, Early Childhood Special Education Consultant (CSDE). Content Info: For content questions, please contact Chelsea Barone, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 229 or barone@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Emma Velasquez, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 218 or velasquez@ctserc.org. Audience: Early intervention (Part C) and early childhood special education (Part B, 619) providers. Wednesday, December 3, 2025, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.

Deepening Collaboration: The Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF) to Support Students with Mental Health Needs

The Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF) may be utilized to expand PBIS/MTSS frameworks to integrate mental health, community, school and families into a larger system of support. This session recognizes the challenges schools face in providing holistic support for students with mental health needs including siloed approaches. ISF is introduced as a comprehensive way to connect schools, families, mental health professionals, and community resources. The session dives deeper into the core components of the ISF as well as leveraging existing systems and data collected through these systems to inform intervention strategies that support wellbeing. Participants will engage in activities to identify and prioritize individual student needs and explore strategies for collaboration with mental health professionals and families. Tools and resources will be provided to guide the development of individualized intervention plans within the ISF framework. Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: CSDE Events. Mental Health. Activity Code: 26-75-058-000. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Elisa Palmieri Laudati and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 teachers, school psychologists, social workers, school counselors, interventionists, administrators. Wednesday, December 3, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM.

Dyslexia Awareness Collaborative: Ignite Your Curiosity & Celebrate the Brilliance of Your Dyslexic Mind

Dyslexia Awareness Collaborative: Ignite Your Curiosity & Celebrate the Brilliance of Your Dyslexic Mind, December 4, 2025 9 - 10 a.m. Join zoologist, wildlife presenter, and conservationist Megan McCubbin for a one-hour virtual session highlighting her journey as a scientist with dyslexia. Best known for her work on BBC Television’s "Springwatch," and her advocacy for wildlife conservation, Megan shares how dyslexia has shaped her perspective, resilience, and communication style in the sciences. Through personal stories and professional insights, she will explore both the challenges and the creative strengths of dyslexic thinking in zoology and beyond. This session offers inspiration for students, educators, families, and anyone interested in the power of diverse minds in STEM and conservation. Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 26-58-110-000. Registration Link: Click Register to Sign Up. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Megan McCubbin, Zoologist, BBC Springwatch, author of Atlas of Endangered Species. England, UK. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Claire Conroy, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 326 or conroy@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: K - 12 Educators -Administrators -Parents -Students -Legislators -Advocates -Community Agencies/ Organizations. Thursday, December 4, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Serie- Topic #3: LEA Maintenance of Effort (MOE) - AM Session

The series includes four 2-hour training opportunities related to critical elements in the IDEA Part B Subrecipient Application (SA) and aspects of the electronic grant management system (eGMS). Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, and local education agency (LEA) staff who contribute to the IDEA Part B SA Grant or who have access to the eGMS are encouraged to attend this series. All training within this series is virtual and free of charge. Each session is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Topic #3: LEA Maintenance of Effort (MOE) This 2-hour virtual training reviews the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 LEA MOE. Topic: CSDE Events. Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-043-000. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Alycia Trakas, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Alycia Trakas, CSDE, (860) 713-6932 or Alycia.Trakas@ct.gov. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k-12; Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, December 5, 2025, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series: Topic #3: LEA Maintenance of Effort (MOE) - PM Session

The series includes four 2-hour training opportunities related to critical elements in the IDEA Part B Subrecipient Application (SA) and aspects of the electronic grant management system (eGMS). Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, and local education agency (LEA) staff who contribute to the IDEA Part B SA Grant or who have access to the eGMS are encouraged to attend this series. All training within this series is virtual and free of charge. Each session is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Topic #3: LEA Maintenance of Effort (MOE) This 2-hour virtual training reviews the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 LEA MOE. Topic: CSDE Events. Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-044-000. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Alycia Trakas, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Alycia Trakas, CSDE, (860) 713-6932 or Alycia.Trakas@ct.gov. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k-12; Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, December 5, 2025, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI)- Cohort 1- Day 5: Mock PPT

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) is a one-year intensive experience for professionals who chair PPT meetings in Connecticut, with the purpose of training leaders to facilitate PPT meetings that meet legal requirements, foster positive school/parent partnerships, and result in high-quality individualized programming for students with disabilities. This statewide initiative is designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants in the institute will learn to: facilitate team meetings; create and write clear and effective individualized education programs (IEPs); foster positive relationships with parents; partner with district leaders to identify and implement a capstone project that addresses a needed change or enhancement in practice, and; develop support networks to foster the implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities. All topics are addressed with the framework of compliance and collaboration but… Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-020-004. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, the RESC Alliance, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Preschool Special Education Virtual Forum - Day 2

Preschool Special Education Forum *This is a four (4) day event - Thursdays from 1:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m. Thursday, September 25, 2025 Thursday, December 11, 2025 Thursday, March 26, 2026 Thursday, May 14, 2026 *Please choose the dates you are able to attend. Location: Zoom. Once registered, you will recieve a Zoom link two hours before the start time on the day of the session. This virtual forum, designed for early childhood special education administrators, supervisors and program coordinators, will include four one-hour sessions held between September 2025 and June 2026. Each session will feature a presentation on a pre-selected topic followed by a roundtable discussion. Participants are encouraged to bring questions for peer feedback and idea sharing, as well as to exchange relevant resources. A pre-forum survey will be distributed to help guide the selection of discussion topics for the year. Topic: Early Childhood. Activity Code: 26-46-021-001. Registration Link: Click the link to Register https://26-46-021.eventbrite.com. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Pre-K-Age3-5. Presenters: Chelsea Barone, SERC Consultant & Renee Kleinman, MSW, CSDE Early Childhood Special Education Consultant, CSDE. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Chelsea Barone, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 229 or barone@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Emma Velasquez, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 218 or velasquez@ctserc.org. Audience: Preschool special education administrators, supervisors, and program coordinators. Thursday, December 11, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

Introduction to Restorative Practices - Session B

This overview session will offer participants the opportunity to understand Restorative Practices as key components of building a class-wide and school-wide sense of community. Participants will understand the core principles and an overview of the continuum of approaches and review the skills necessary to introduce proactive and preventative strategies in their classrooms. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-106-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Dwight Sharpe and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 teachers, school psychologists, social workers, school counselors, interventionists, administrators. Friday, December 12, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Dyslexia Awareness Collaborative: Engineering Designs as a Dyslexic

Dyslexia Awareness Collaborative: Engineering Designs as a Dyslexic, December 15, 2025 10 - 11 a.m. Join us for a virtual visit with London-based industrial designer Jim Rokos. As a dyslexic individual, Jim is a founding member of Dyversity Lab, a collective of people who naturally think differently. Our audience will learn that dyslexia can make someone successful, rather than being only something to overcome. Jim Rokos sees dyslexics as game-changers; thinking outside the box comes naturally to them. This session will be especially appealing to students who are thinking about their postsecondary plans, as well as their teachers and families. All are welcome. Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 26-58-109-000. Registration Link: Click Register to Sign Up. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Jim Rokos, creator of Rokos Design, founder of Dyslexic Design. England, UK. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Claire Conroy, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 326 or conroy@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: K - 12 Educators -Administrators -Parents -Students -Legislators -Advocates -Community Agencies/ Organizations. Monday, December 15, 2025, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Understanding Disproportionality in School Discipline Series - Day 1

In this three-day series of professional learning opportunities, teachers will come to better understand their role in creating inclusive classroom environments for all learners. Schools across the United States and in Connecticut often report higher suspensions, expulsions and other punitive consequences for certain groups of students. These sessions will encourage self-reflection in order to better understand approaches to managing and addressing the day-to-day behavioral expectations and routines that will ensure consistent and compassionate responses school-wide as well as provide participants with skills to define implicit bias and understand how it negatively affects educators and their students, and understand developmentally appropriate approaches to discuss race and disabilities in the classroom using case scenarios. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-052-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Elisa Palmieri Laudati and Eben McKnight, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Prek-12 School staff. Tuesday, December 16, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM.

PPT Leadership Community of Practice

To expand the reach of the Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) relational content and philosophy, a PPT Leadership Community of Practice (CoP) has been developed. This initiative is designed to bring together both current and prospective PPT chairpersons to network, discuss challenges in practice, and explore key concepts from the PPTLI curriculum. The PPT Leadership CoP provides a monthly, virtual, one-hour gathering facilitated by PPTLI trainers. Each session fosters collaborative learning, shared problem-solving, understanding of PPT leadership and facilitation, and professional growth in a supportive environment. Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-015-003. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, EastConn, ACES, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-K-12; Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Tuesday, December 16, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

Building a Secondary Transition Assessment Toolkit

Building a Secondary Transition Assessment Toolkit, December 17, 2025 (8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.) "Assessment data serves as the common thread in the transition process and forms the basis for defining goals and services to be included in the IEP" (DCDT Position Statement, Sitlington, et al. 1996) To write relevant goals that support successful student outcomes, we need to develop a comprehensive assessment process. During this professional learning session, district teams will define and begin to create a comprehensive secondary transition assessment process by developing a secondary transition assessment toolkit. This session requires registration by teams of 3-5 district representatives. It is recommended the team include transition coordinators/specialists, special education teachers (grades 6-12), and other staff responsible for writing transition goals. This is a full-day, in-person session. Topic: Transition. Activity Code: 26-20-023-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 6-12. Presenters: Chelsea Barone, Ed.D. & Clarisa Rodrigues, Ph.D. SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Chelsea Barone, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 229 or barone@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: TEAMS in Grades 6-12: Transition Coordinators/Specialists, Special Education Teachers (Grades 6-12), and Special Education Administrators, in Teams of 3-5. Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Multi‐Tiered Systems of Support for Behavior - Day 1

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) is a framework for implementing a continuum of academic and social-emotional and behavioral supports meeting students’ needs and enhancing opportunities for achievement while reducing exclusionary school discipline practices that have a disproportionately adverse effect on students with disabilities, students of color and low-income students. During this multi-day training, participants will explore the core tier 1 features necessary to establish an effective, efficient system for school-wide behavior support. Target audience: School-wide team required to check with presenters for more information. Topic: CSDE Events. Multi-Tiered System of Supports. Activity Code: 26-75-121-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Eben McKnight and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School Staff. Thursday, December 18, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. West Hartford Conference Center 50 South Main Street West Hartford, CT 06107.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series: Topic #4: Excess Cost Calculation Sheet- AM Session

The series includes four 2-hour training opportunities related to critical elements in the IDEA Part B Subrecipient Application (SA) and aspects of the electronic grant management system (eGMS). Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, and local education agency (LEA) staff who contribute to the IDEA Part B SA Grant or who have access to the eGMS are encouraged to attend this series. All training within this series is virtual and free of charge. Each session is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Advance registration is required. Topic #4: Excess Cost Calculation Sheet This 2-hour virtual training reviews the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 Excess Cost Calculation Sheet. Topic: CSDE Events. Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-045-000. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Alycia Trakas, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Alycia Trakas, CSDE, (860) 713-6932 or Alycia.Trakas@ct.gov. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k-12; Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, December 19, 2025, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series: Topic #4: Excess Cost Calculation Sheet- PM Session

The series includes four 2-hour training opportunities related to critical elements in the IDEA Part B Subrecipient Application (SA) and aspects of the electronic grant management system (eGMS). Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, and local education agency (LEA) staff who contribute to the IDEA Part B SA Grant or who have access to the eGMS are encouraged to attend this series. All training within this series is virtual and free of charge. Each session is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Advance registration is required. Topic #4: Excess Cost Calculation Sheet This 2-hour virtual training reviews the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 Excess Cost Calculation Sheet. Topic: CSDE Events. Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-046-000. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Alycia Trakas, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Alycia Trakas, CSDE, (860) 713-6932 or Alycia.Trakas@ct.gov. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k-12; Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, December 19, 2025, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Using Data and Protocols to Determine Effective Behavior - Day 2

In these sessions, participants will use Initial Line of Inquiry and Prevent-Teach-Respond Protocols in targeting effective behavior supports to reduce exclusionary school discipline practices that have a disproportionately adverse effect on students with disabilities, students of color, and low-income students. Participants are asked to come with sample class or grade-level data for analysis, as well as prepared thoughts regarding common student behaviors and accompanying data to support them. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-054-001. Registration Link: Click Sign up to Register. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Claire Conroy and Christine Kuehlewind, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC Project Specialist, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School staff. Friday, December 19, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM.

Using Assessment Data to Develop Present Levels of Performance and IEP Goals and Objectives in the Areas of Reading and Written Expression - (Middle School)

Using Assessment Data to Develop Present Levels of Performance and IEP Goals and Objectives in the Areas of Reading and Written Expression - (Middle School) January 6, 2026 2 - 3 p.m. Unlock Student Potential: Transform Assessment Data into Targeted Goals Are you looking to bridge the gap between assessment data and meaningful student progress? Join us for an insightful seminar on "Using Assessment Data to Develop Present Levels of Performance and Goals and Objectives in the Areas of Reading and Written Expression." This session will equip Middle school educators and specialists with practical strategies to analyze assessment data effectively, craft precise present levels of performance, and set measurable, individualized goals. Learn how to translate data into actionable steps that drive student success in reading and writing. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your instructional planning and create impactful learning experiences! Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 26-58-104-000. Registration Link: Click Register to Sign Up. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 6-8. Presenters: Kristin Allen, Associate Education Consultant; Claire Conroy, SERC Consultant & Elisa Palmieri Laudati, SERC Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Claire Conroy, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 326 or conroy@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: Grade 6-8: Middle School Special Educators, Administrators. Tuesday, January 6, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Understanding Disproportionality in School Discipline Series - Day 2

In this three-day series of professional learning opportunities, teachers will come to better understand their role in creating inclusive classroom environments for all learners. Schools across the United States and in Connecticut often report higher suspensions, expulsions and other punitive consequences for certain groups of students. These sessions will encourage self-reflection in order to better understand approaches to managing and addressing the day-to-day behavioral expectations and routines that will ensure consistent and compassionate responses school-wide as well as provide participants with skills to define implicit bias and understand how it negatively affects educators and their students, and understand developmentally appropriate approaches to discuss race and disabilities in the classroom using case scenarios. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-052-001. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Elisa Palmieri Laudati and Eben McKnight, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Prek-12 School staff. Wednesday, January 7, 2026, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM.

CT Transition Community of Practice (CoP) - January

CT Transition Community of Practice (CoP) - January, January 8, 2026 (9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.) Connecticut has created the CT Transition Community of Practice (CoP) to centralize all activities, resources, and initiatives related to secondary transition and to provide information and support to students, families, and professionals. The CoP is comprised of multiple stakeholder groups that have come together with a single focus: enhancing the transition of youth with disabilities to adult life. Come learn what we are all about! See how your ideas fit into Connecticut’s overall plans and help us plot our course for improving student outcomes. Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Transition. Activity Code: 26-20-017-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Birth-21. Presenters: To Be Announced. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Chelsea Barone, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 229 or barone@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: Birth-21: Parents/Families, Students/Youth, School Professionals, Transition Coordinators and Directors, Employers, and Representatives of other state agencies related to transition (DDS, ADS/BRS, BESB, DOL, DCF). Thursday, January 8, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Designing for Belonging to Strengthen School Communities - Day 1

The session will explore belonging, delving deeper than just physical presence in a school to celebrating This session will explore belonging, exploring more than just physical presence in a school by celebrating identities, establishing meaningful connections between and among students and educators, and creating the felt experience of being valued and mattering. Participants will understand common barriers to belonging and analyze potentially unique challenges within their respective school communities. The session will equip educators with practical, evidence-based tools and practices to strengthen their school communities. Time will be dedicated to group discussions and/or brainstorming sessions. Using a design thinking framework and evidenced-based tools, educators will engage in a guided exercise of identifying levers for change in their school community and actionable steps to cultivate belonging. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-059-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Elisa Palmieri Laudati and Clarisa Rodrigues, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 teachers, school psychologists, social workers, school counselors, interventionists, administrators. Thursday, January 8, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Pyramid Model Practices - Day 1

This three-day series is designed to assist districts and early childhood education programs in their implementation of sustainable systems for the implementation of the Pyramid Model for Supporting Social Emotional Competence in Infants and Young Children (Pyramid Model practices) within early intervention and early education programs. There is a focus on promoting the social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes of young children birth to five, reducing the use of inappropriate discipline practices, promoting family engagement, and using data for decision-making. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-115-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-5. Presenters: Chelsea Barone and Christine Kuehlewind, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Early Childhood Educators and Administrators. Friday, January 9, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Person-Centered Planning (PCP): MAPS/PATH Train the Trainer

Person-Centered Planning (PCP): MAPS/PATH Train the Trainer January 13, 2026 (8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.) MAPS (Making Action Plans) and PATH (Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope) are person‐centered planning options bringing together the significant people in a student's life to create a plan for an inclusive future in school, community, and life. MAPS is an especially effective decision‐making tool as students transition from public school to college and/or career. PATH draws on an individual’s capacities to imagine different futures and to think backwards from that future possibility to how they are going to get there. Both MAPS and PATH support individuals, families, groups and/or organizations. Providing this person-centered planning experience within districts will help students, families, and educators identify a student’s postsecondary outcome goals and determine the services needed to achieve those goals. The Train the Trainer Course will be a full day, in-person, professional learning… Online Location: Click Register to Sign up. Topic: Transition. Activity Code: 26-20-022-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 6-12. Presenters: Chelsea Barone & Nitza Diaz, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Chelsea Barone, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 229 or barone@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: Teams of 2-4 Special Education Teachers, Transition Coordinators/Specialists, and a family member if available (maximum 10 teams). Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM. Goodwin University 3 Pent Road East Hartford, CT 06118.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI)- Cohort 2: General Educator- Day 3: IEP Development, Implementation, & CT SEDS

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) is a one-year intensive experience for general education professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Participants will be trained to facilitate PPT meetings that meet legal requirements, foster positive school/parent partnerships, and move toward high-quality individualized programming for students with disabilities. This statewide initiative is designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants in the institute will learn to: facilitate team meetings; create and write clear and effective individualized education programs (IEPs); foster positive relationships with parents; partner with district leaders to identify and implement a capstone project that addresses a needed change or enhancement in practice, and; develop support networks to foster the implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities. Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-011-002. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, EastConn, ACES, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-k-12; General educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

Providing Access to Math for All through UDL Session A ‐ Grades K‐5

In this professional learning activity, teachers of elementary math will be exposed to strategies and skills that will assist them in developing math skills for students, including students with disabilities. By incorporating Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles into their instruction, teachers will provide better access to the Connecticut Core Standards for Mathematics to all learners. Topic: CSDE Events. Universal Design for Learning. Activity Code: 26-09-073-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-5. Presenters: Nikki Hendry and Dwight Sharpe, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nikki Hendry, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 255 or hendry@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: General and Special Education Teachers. Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Multi‐Tiered Systems of Support for Behavior - Day 2

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) is a framework for implementing a continuum of academic and social-emotional and behavioral supports meeting students’ needs and enhancing opportunities for achievement while reducing exclusionary school discipline practices that have a disproportionately adverse effect on students with disabilities, students of color and low-income students. During this multi-day training, participants will explore the core tier 1 features necessary to establish an effective, efficient system for school-wide behavior support. Target audience: School-wide team required to check with presenters for more information. Topic: CSDE Events. Multi-Tiered System of Supports. Activity Code: 26-75-121-001. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Eben McKnight and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School Staff. Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. West Hartford Conference Center 50 South Main Street West Hartford, CT 06107.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI)- Cohort 1- Day 6: Capstone: From Conflict to Collaboration

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) is a one-year intensive experience for professionals who chair PPT meetings in Connecticut, with the purpose of training leaders to facilitate PPT meetings that meet legal requirements, foster positive school/parent partnerships, and result in high-quality individualized programming for students with disabilities. This statewide initiative is designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants in the institute will learn to: facilitate team meetings; create and write clear and effective individualized education programs (IEPs); foster positive relationships with parents; partner with district leaders to identify and implement a capstone project that addresses a needed change or enhancement in practice, and; develop support networks to foster the implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities. All topics are addressed with the framework of compliance and collaboration but… Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-020-005. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, the RESC Alliance, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Developing Secondary Systems of Supports for Students - Day 1

This four day series is designed to assist a cohort of districts/schools in implementing changes to school-wide and classroom supports. An analysis of suspension rates overall and disaggregated data by students with disabilities and race/ethnicity was conducted to identify schools in need of support. The Connecticut State Department of Education conducted a comprehensive statewide needs assessment (170 schools) of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) implementation using the SWPBIS Tiered Fidelity Inventory (TFI). The TFI results showed that SWPBIS implementation fidelity is relatively sound at Tier 1, with more room for improvement at Tier 2. The Tier 2 training will include the essential steps; the Hexagon Tool development; team composition and operating procedures, screening and interventions; professional development; evaluation, and; fidelity data. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-064-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Nikki Hendry and Elisa Palmieri Laudati, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School Staff. Friday, January 16, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Relevant Restorative Practices Practitioner Training (R2P2) (Session A) - Day 1

SERC Special Events Join us for a transformative two-day, in-person journey into Restorative Practices, where you'll deeply explore the foundational principles of this framework through a culturally relevant and responsive lens. Discover how these practices can be seamlessly integrated into your existing MTSS structure to foster a strong sense of community across classrooms, schools, and districts. Deepen your understanding and leave equipped with tools to build inclusive, supportive learning environments. Online Location: Click here to register: https://25-75-107.eventbrite.com. Activity Code: 26-75-107-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: $150 per person. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Dwight Sharpe and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Dwight Sharpe, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 324 or sharpe@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Pre-K: Elementary, Secondary, and Collegiate educators, administrators, counselors, and pupil services staff. Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Relevant Restorative Practices Practitioner Training (R2P2) (Session A) - Day 2

SERC Special Events Join us for a transformative two-day, in-person journey into Restorative Practices, where you'll deeply explore the foundational principles of this framework through a culturally relevant and responsive lens. Discover how these practices can be seamlessly integrated into your existing MTSS structure to foster a strong sense of community across classrooms, schools, and districts. Deepen your understanding and leave equipped with tools to build inclusive, supportive learning environments. Online Location: Click here to register: https://25-75-107.eventbrite.com. Activity Code: 26-75-107-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: $150 per person. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Dwight Sharpe and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Dwight Sharpe, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 324 or sharpe@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Pre-K: Elementary, Secondary, and Collegiate educators, administrators, counselors, and pupil services staff. Thursday, January 22, 2026, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

PPT Leadership Community of Practice

To expand the reach of the Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) relational content and philosophy, a PPT Leadership Community of Practice (CoP) has been developed. This initiative is designed to bring together both current and prospective PPT chairpersons to network, discuss challenges in practice, and explore key concepts from the PPTLI curriculum. The PPT Leadership CoP provides a monthly, virtual, one-hour gathering facilitated by PPTLI trainers. Each session fosters collaborative learning, shared problem-solving, understanding of PPT leadership and facilitation, and professional growth in a supportive environment. Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-015-004. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, EastConn, ACES, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades Pre-K-12; Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Thursday, January 22, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

Pyramid Model Practices - Day 2

This three-day series is designed to assist districts and early childhood education programs in their implementation of sustainable systems for the implementation of the Pyramid Model for Supporting Social Emotional Competence in Infants and Young Children (Pyramid Model practices) within early intervention and early education programs. There is a focus on promoting the social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes of young children birth to five, reducing the use of inappropriate discipline practices, promoting family engagement, and using data for decision-making. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-115-001. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-5. Presenters: Chelsea Barone and Christine Kuehlewind, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Early Childhood Educators and Administrators. Friday, January 23, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Classroom Practices for Improving Student Learning and Behavior - Day 1

In this series of professional learning opportunities, teachers will come to a better understanding of their role in creating inclusive classroom environments for all learners. In the sessions, participants will cover 10 evidence-based strategies of proactive behavior management in a flexible system that can be adapted to any classroom environment. Participants will learn about strategies in building relationships in the classroom, embedding the language of expectations into praise and correction, escalation and de-escalation, and classroom implementation of behavior support plans. High-leverage instructional practices to support academic progress, along with specific literacy strategies, will also be covered. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-057-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Nikki Hendry and Elisa Palmieri Laudati, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Prek-12 Classroom Teachers. Tuesday, January 27, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Developing Secondary Systems of Supports for Students - Day 2

This four day series is designed to assist a cohort of districts/schools in implementing changes to school-wide and classroom supports. An analysis of suspension rates overall and disaggregated data by students with disabilities and race/ethnicity was conducted to identify schools in need of support. The Connecticut State Department of Education conducted a comprehensive statewide needs assessment (170 schools) of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) implementation using the SWPBIS Tiered Fidelity Inventory (TFI). The TFI results showed that SWPBIS implementation fidelity is relatively sound at Tier 1, with more room for improvement at Tier 2. The Tier 2 training will include the essential steps; the Hexagon Tool development; team composition and operating procedures, screening and interventions; professional development; evaluation, and; fidelity data. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-064-001. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Nikki Hendry and Elisa Palmieri Laudati, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School Staff. Wednesday, January 28, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Designing for Belonging to Strengthen School Communities - Day 2

The session will explore belonging, delving deeper than just physical presence in a school to celebrating This session will explore belonging, exploring more than just physical presence in a school by celebrating identities, establishing meaningful connections between and among students and educators, and creating the felt experience of being valued and mattering. Participants will understand common barriers to belonging and analyze potentially unique challenges within their respective school communities. The session will equip educators with practical, evidence-based tools and practices to strengthen their school communities. Time will be dedicated to group discussions and/or brainstorming sessions. Using a design thinking framework and evidenced-based tools, educators will engage in a guided exercise of identifying levers for change in their school community and actionable steps to cultivate belonging. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-059-001. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Elisa Palmieri Laudati and Clarisa Rodrigues, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 teachers, school psychologists, social workers, school counselors, interventionists, administrators. Thursday, January 29, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Aligning and Integrating Practices Using an MTSS Framework - Day 1

This two-day training course will provide an overview of aligning/integrating SEL and/or Restorative Practices into a multi-tiered framework. Using the Hexagon Tool with a race and special education equity lens, teams will be prompted to consider potential impacts of the program or practice on the focus population and whether or not the implementation of the program or practice could advance equitable outcomes for all individuals and families. Topic: CSDE Events. Multi-Tiered System of Supports. Activity Code: 26-75-056-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Eben McKnight and Elisa Palmieri Laudati, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Directors of Pupil Services Indicator 4 and 4B Districts Tiered Intervention Coordinators, School/District Administrators, Coaches. Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Secondary Transition Planning at the Middle School Level

Secondary Transition Planning at the Middle School Level, February 4, 2026 (8:30am - 2:30pm) Transition Planning in Connecticut: “Beginning not later than the first individualized education program (IEP) to be in effect when the student turns 14, or younger if determined appropriate by the planning and placement team (PPT), and updated annually, thereafter…” [CGS § 10-76d(a)(9), as amended by PA No. 21-144*] This regulation requires middle school special education teachers to begin the transition planning process with their students. That process needs to include transition assessments, postsecondary goals, annual goals and objectives, and the provision of specific transition services needed for each transition-age student. During this session, participants will: become familiar with IDEA and state regulations concerning Secondary Transition Services, understand the various components of the Secondary Transition Planning Process, and receive a variety of strategies and resources to support transition… Topic: Transition. Activity Code: 26-20-024-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 6-12. Presenters: Chelsea Barone & Clarisa Rodrigues, Ph.D. SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Chelsea Barone, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 229 or barone@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades 6-12: Special Education Teachers and Transition Coordinators. Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Multi‐Tiered Systems of Support for Behavior - Day 3

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) is a framework for implementing a continuum of academic and social-emotional and behavioral supports meeting students’ needs and enhancing opportunities for achievement while reducing exclusionary school discipline practices that have a disproportionately adverse effect on students with disabilities, students of color and low-income students. During this multi-day training, participants will explore the core tier 1 features necessary to establish an effective, efficient system for school-wide behavior support. Target audience: School-wide team required to check with presenters for more information. Topic: CSDE Events. Multi-Tiered System of Supports. Activity Code: 26-75-121-002. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Eben McKnight and Christina Simms, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School Staff. Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI)- Cohort 1- Day 7- Capstone: From Data to Action

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) is a one-year intensive experience for professionals who chair PPT meetings in Connecticut, with the purpose of training leaders to facilitate PPT meetings that meet legal requirements, foster positive school/parent partnerships, and result in high-quality individualized programming for students with disabilities. This statewide initiative is designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants in the institute will learn to: facilitate team meetings; create and write clear and effective individualized education programs (IEPs); foster positive relationships with parents; partner with district leaders to identify and implement a capstone project that addresses a needed change or enhancement in practice, and; develop support networks to foster the implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities. All topics are addressed with the framework of compliance and collaboration but… Topic: Leadership. Activity Code: 26-15-020-006. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: A team from CSDE, SERC, the RESC Alliance, CPAC & CES. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Elisa Laudati, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 372 or laudati@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Pyramid Model Practices - Day 3

This three-day series is designed to assist districts and early childhood education programs in their implementation of sustainable systems for the implementation of the Pyramid Model for Supporting Social Emotional Competence in Infants and Young Children (Pyramid Model practices) within early intervention and early education programs. There is a focus on promoting the social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes of young children birth to five, reducing the use of inappropriate discipline practices, promoting family engagement, and using data for decision-making. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 26-75-115-002. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-5. Presenters: Chelsea Barone and Christine Kuehlewind, SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Eben McKnight, SERC Consultant, (860) 632-1485 ext. 365 or mcknight@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Heather Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Early Childhood Educators and Administrators. Thursday, February 5, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.