SERC - The State Education Resource Center of CT Events

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Student Support Series: Professional Learning for Youth Mental and Behavioral Health- Anxiety-Based School Avoidance: SPACE-Informed Strategies to Support Students and Strengthen Engagement

The Student Support Series offers webinar-based learning opportunities that provide practical strategies, evidence-informed practices, and connections to resources that help schools support student well-being and foster safe, inclusive, and connected learning environments. Topics are informed by trends in youth mental and behavioral health, feedback from schools, and the evolving needs of students and families.   Pending approval, each 90-minute webinar will provide 1.5 Continuing Education Credits (CEC) by the Connecticut chapter of the National Associate of Social Workers and meet the CEC criteria for licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), licensed master social workers (LMSW), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed professional counselors (LPC) and licensed psychologists.     Thursday, September 17, 2026, Via Zoom Online Platform, 9:00am – 10:30am   Anxiety-Based School Avoidance: SPACE-Informed Strategies to Support Students and Strengthen Engagement  In the years following the… Topic: Mental Health. Behavior. CSDE Events. Activity Code: 27-55-122-000. Registration Link: https://studentsupportseries26-27.eventbrite.com. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Kate Bohannan, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Kate Bohannan, CSDE, (860) 713-6932 or Kate.Bohannan@ct.gov. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; Educators and Support Personnel. Thursday, September 17, 2026, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM.

IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 – State Application and Subrecipient Application (SA) Overview Training for New School Administrators: AM Session

The CSDE Bureau of Special Education (BSE), with support from the State Education Resource Center (SERC), is offering a virtual statewide IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 – State Application and Subrecipient Application (SA) Overview Training for New Administrators. The session will provide an overview of the IDEA Part B Grant State Application and the SA process, the SA Sections within the electronic grant management system (eGMS), and the BSE’s fiscal monitoring process. New (on the job for 1-3 years) Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, and all 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 session. This training is virtual and free of charge. This training is for 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon time slots offered (participants need to attend only one session). Online registration is available on the SERC Events webpage. Advance registration is requir… Topic: IDEA. CSDE Events. Activity Code: 27-15-010-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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: New Special Education Directors, New Administrators, New IDEA Grant Managers, New Business Managers. Friday, September 25, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 – State Application and Subrecipient Application (SA) Overview Training for New School Administrators: PM Session

The CSDE Bureau of Special Education (BSE), with support from the State Education Resource Center (SERC), is offering a virtual statewide IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 – State Application and Subrecipient Application (SA) Overview Training for New Administrators. The session will provide an overview of the IDEA Part B Grant State Application and the SA process, the SA Sections within the electronic grant management system (eGMS), and the BSE’s fiscal monitoring process. New (on the job for 1-3 years) Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, and all 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 session. This training is virtual and free of charge. This training is for 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon time slots offered (participants need to attend only one session). Online registration is available on the SERC Events webpage. Advance registration is requir… Topic: IDEA. CSDE Events. Activity Code: 27-15-011-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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: New Special Education Directors, New Administrators, New IDEA Grant Managers, New Business Managers. Friday, September 25, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Dyslexia in Connecticut: Definitions, Profiles, and Misconceptions

This session provides educators, administrators, support professionals, and caregivers with a foundational understanding of dyslexia within the context of Connecticut's educational framework. Participants will explore the established definition of dyslexia, examine the wide range of characteristics and cognitive profiles associated with the disorder, and address the most common misconceptions that continue to shape and sometimes hinder identification and support in schools. A central focus of the session is the continuum of presentation: recognizing that dyslexia does not look the same in every learner, and that its impact can range from mild to significant across different individuals and contexts. Participants will also examine the critical connection between dyslexia and reading development, deepening their understanding of how foundational literacy skills are affected and why early, evidence-based intervention matters. By the end of this session, participants will be better equipped to recognize dyslexi… Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 27-58-074-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Margie Gillis, Literacy How, Inc. 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: Birth-21: Educators, Administrators, Support Professionals, and Caregivers. Tuesday, September 29, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Community of Practice (CoP)

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Community of Practice (CoP) is a monthly, virtual gathering designed for current and aspiring PPT chairpersons across Connecticut. Facilitated by trainers with PPT Leadership experience and guest speakers, each one-hour session offers an opportunity to explore key concepts from the PPT Leadership curriculum, engage in collaborative dialogue, and strengthen PPT chair practices. The CoP creates space for networking, shared problem solving, and deepening understanding of compliant, student-centered PPT practices. Join colleagues statewide in building relationships, fostering best practices, and supporting each other in leading effective PPT meetings. The PPT Leadership CoP is supported by the CT State Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education, Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center, RESC Alliance and Connecticut’s State Education Resource Center (SERC). Topic: IDEA. Leadership. Activity Code: 27-15-014-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nitza Diaz, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 394 or diaz@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; Educators who lead PPTs, including Special Education Teachers, Principals, Assistant Principals, Out-of-District/Program Coordinators, or others serving as PPT Chairs. Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) Full Series - Day 1

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI) is a FREE, year-long professional learning experience for Connecticut educators who chair Planning and Placement Teams. The institute equips PPT leaders with the skills to build strong, trust-based relationships, foster collaboration among team members, and confidently facilitate PPT meetings that are both compliant and student-centered. This is a statewide initiative. Practices are designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants will learn to: Confidently facilitate effective PPT meetings. Engage in collaborative problem solving that strengthens relationships; Partner with district leaders on a capstone project to improve compliance and collaboration. Build support networks to share and implement best practices for students with disabilities. Program Details: The PPT LI includes blended learning experiences including in-person sessions, online activities, coaching, and communities of practice… Topic: IDEA. Leadership. Activity Code: 27-15-075-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Clarisa Rodrigues, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 254 or rodrigues@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Klingberg Nexus 370 Linwood Street New Britain, CT 06052.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series-Topic #1: Goals and Budgets - 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 trainings within this series are virtual and free of charge. Each training is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Online registration is available on the SERC Events webpage. Advance registration is required. Topic #1: Goals and Budgets This 2-hour virtual training review the critical components of the IDEA… Topic: IDEA. CSDE Events. Activity Code: 27-15-020-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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 PreK-12: Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, October 9, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series-Topic #1: Goals and Budgets - 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 trainings within this series are virtual and free of charge. Each training is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Online registration is available on the SERC Events webpage. Advance registration is required. Topic #1: Goals and Budgets This 2-hour virtual training review the critical components of the IDEA Part B… Topic: CSDE Events. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-021-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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 PreK-12: Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, October 9, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Preschool Special Education Forum - Day 1

These virtual sessions are designed to support preschool special education administrators/supervisors/program coordinators. The first part of these sessions will focus on a topic and/or any state updates followed by a roundtable discussion. Topics that people are interested in discussing at these forums will be collected ahead of time. People can bring questions as well to pose to their colleagues for support and ideas. * All sessions are Via Zoom Online Platform Day 1: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 2: Thursday, November 12, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 3: Wednesday, December 9, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 4: Wednesday, January 13, 2027- 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 5: Thursday, February 11, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 6: Thursday, March 11, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 7: Thursday, April 29, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 8: Wednesday, May 26, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm. Topic: IDEA. Early Childhood. Activity Code: 27-46-029-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Pre-K-Age3-5. Presenters: Renee Kleinman, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Renee Kleinman, CSDE Consultant, at Renee.kleinman@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-Age 3-5: Preschool special education administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Community of Practice (CoP)

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Community of Practice (CoP) is a monthly, virtual gathering designed for current and aspiring PPT chairpersons across Connecticut. Facilitated by trainers with PPT Leadership experience and guest speakers, each one-hour session offers an opportunity to explore key concepts from the PPT Leadership curriculum, engage in collaborative dialogue, and strengthen PPT chair practices. The CoP creates space for networking, shared problem solving, and deepening understanding of compliant, student-centered PPT practices. Join colleagues statewide in building relationships, fostering best practices, and supporting each other in leading effective PPT meetings. The PPT Leadership CoP is supported by the CT State Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education, Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center, RESC Alliance and Connecticut’s State Education Resource Center (SERC). Topic: Leadership. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-014-001. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nitza Diaz, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 394 or diaz@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; Educators who lead PPTs, including Special Education Teachers, Principals, Assistant Principals, Out-of-District/Program Coordinators, or others serving as PPT Chairs. Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Making a Difference Through Co-Teaching-Fall 2026 - Day 1 of 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. Co-teachers will also discuss ways to establish parity and enhance collaboration with their co-teaching partner. Teams will have the opportunity to plan together during the afternoon, as well as 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 co‐teaching 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. Day 1 - October 21, 2026 Day 2 - November 5, 2026. Topic: Co-Teaching. Activity Code: 27-09-064-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Sophia Diamantis, 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 Penfield-Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: General and Special Educators/Student Support Services Professionals. Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) Full Series - Day 2

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI) is a FREE, year-long professional learning experience for Connecticut educators who chair Planning and Placement Teams. The institute equips PPT leaders with the skills to build strong, trust-based relationships, foster collaboration among team members, and confidently facilitate PPT meetings that are both compliant and student-centered. This is a statewide initiative. Practices are designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants will learn to: Confidently facilitate effective PPT meetings. Engage in collaborative problem solving that strengthens relationships; Partner with district leaders on a capstone project to improve compliance and collaboration. Build support networks to share and implement best practices for students with disabilities. Program Details: The PPT LI includes blended learning experiences including in-person sessions, online activities, coaching, and communities of practice… Topic: IDEA. Leadership. Activity Code: 27-15-075-001. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Clarisa Rodrigues, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 254 or rodrigues@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

The Reading Brain: Why Understanding Dyslexia and its Intervention Matters

Reading is a remarkable feat of brain wiring. This session explores the neuroscience behind how we learn to read, why that process unfolds differently for people with dyslexia, and how outdated perceptions of dyslexia still shape classrooms, homes, and self-image. We'll close with an understanding of multi-componential intervention and its ability to provide targeted differentiated instruction for the heterogeneity of dyslexia. This information is key for educators, parents, and individuals themselves in changing outcomes for dyslexic readers. Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 27-58-076-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Maryanne Wolf, Ed.D. Director, Center for Dyslexia, Diverse Learners, and Social Justice, UCLA. 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-Grade 12: K-12 educators. Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.

Introduction to Restorative Practices – Fall Session

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. This will be an in person session. Activity Code: 27-75-126-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. 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 Penfield-Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades K-12: School Staff. Friday, October 23, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Student Support Series: Partnering with Families to Support Student Mental Health

The Student Support Series offers webinar-based learning opportunities that provide practical strategies, evidence-informed practices, and connections to resources that help schools support student well-being and foster safe, inclusive, and connected learning environments. Topics are informed by trends in youth mental and behavioral health, feedback from schools, and the evolving needs of students and families.   Pending approval, each 90-minute webinar will provide 1.5 Continuing Education Credits (CEC) by the Connecticut chapter of the National Associate of Social Workers and meet the CEC criteria for licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), licensed master social workers (LMSW), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed professional counselors (LPC) and licensed psychologists. Friday, October 23, 2026, Via Zoom Online Platform, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.  Partnering with Families to Support Student Mental Health,   Families and schools both play a critical role in supporting the mental health… Topic: Mental Health. Behavior. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-55-122-001. Registration Link: https://studentsupportseries26-27.eventbrite.com. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Kate Bohannan, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Kate Bohannan, CSDE, (860) 713-6932 or Kate.Bohannan@ct.gov. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; Educators and Support Personnel. Friday, October 23, 2026, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM.

Family Day College Tour

Join us and bring your family for a welcoming and informative day on the Southern Connecticut State University campus! The Family Day College Tour is designed to help students and their loved ones explore college life together. Families will have the chance to walk the campus, learn about academic programs, meet staff and current students, and discover the many supports available to help students succeed. This event is perfect for families of high school students who want to understand the college journey. Online Location: Please register at https://FamiliesCollegeTour.eventbrite.com. Topic: Youth. Families. Activity Code: 27-70-092-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 9-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nicole Vitale, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 234 or vitale@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades 9-12; Families of HS students/HS students. Saturday, October 24, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Southern Connecticut State University 10 Wintergreen Avenue New Haven, CT 06515.

Multi‐Tiered Systems of Support for Behavior - Day 1 of 6

Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) is a framework for implementing a continuum of academic and social-emotional and behavioral supports to meet students’ needs and enhance 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 training, participants will explore the core features of tier 1 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. Day 1: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 Day 2: Wednesday, December 2, 2026 Day 3: Tuesday, February 9, 2027 Day 4: Friday, March 5, 2027 Day 5: Thursday, March 25, 2027 Day 6: Tuesday, May 11, 2027. Topic: Multi-Tiered System of Supports. Activity Code: 27-75-106-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Featured Event: Yes. 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 Penfield-Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School Staff. Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The Lyceum 227 Lawrence Street Hartford, CT 06106.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) for General Educators: Day 1 - Establishing Trust Panels and Legal Foundations*

We are excited to announce that the Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI) has expanded to provide a FREE series, tailored specifically for general education administrators and their designees. Through experiences that build your technical knowledge of laws, policies, and procedures and by developing skills that foster strong relationships, you’ll finish the series with confidence to lead teams in developing IEPs that are compliant and collaborative. This is a statewide initiative. Practices are designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. This institute will cover such topics as: Facilitating PPT meetings, Fostering positive relationships among all team members, Problem solving and negotiating collaboratively to resolve conflict, Fostering implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities, Requirements: Obtain approval to participate from your supervisor to ensure adequate release time for all scheduled activities. … Topic: Leadership. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-015-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nitza Diaz, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 394 or diaz@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; General educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

IDEA Part B Grant Components: Meaningful Assembly

The CSDE Bureau of Special Education (BSE), with support from the State Education Resource Center (SERC), is offering a statewide IDEA Part B Grant Meaningful Assembly for Districts and Nonprofit, Nonpublic/Private Schools within their boundaries to connect through an in-person meeting. This session will provide a review of Parentally Placed Private School Children, elements of Proportionate Share, Individualized Services Plans (ISPs) and PPPSS within the Connecticut Special Education Data System (CT-SEDS), and the Timely and Meaningful Consultation meeting to address equitable services. Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers, as well as representatives from Nonprofit, Nonpublic/Private Schools are encouraged to attend this session. This 3-hour assembly is in-person and free of charge. Online registration is available on the SERC Events webpage. Advance registration is required. For content questions, please contact: Alycia M. Trakas, CSDE Education Consultant/IDEA… Topic: CSDE Events. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-012-000. 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 K-12: Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, October 30, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Goodwin University 211 Riverside Drive East Hartford, CT 06118.

AI Supports for General and Special Education Teachers- Day 1

The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) has recognized that artificial intelligence (AI) can play a vital role in education by enhancing personalization, accessibility, and efficiency. In their guidance on AI, the CSDE acknowledges that educators will need a baseline understanding of AI technology and how it applies to their subject area and grade levels. These two day in-person professional development trainings and one day of on-site coaching, will support school teams to: Understand the potential benefits of AI, Understand and evaluate the potential risks of AI, Evaluate ethical and practical considerations of AI in education Use AI to personalize learning Use AI to enhance accessibility, Understand the benefits of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) when working with students who have intersecting linguistic and disability needs Understand AI and its educational applications, Examine subject specific AI chatbots, Create differentiated materials and lesson plans. Topic: Assistive Technology. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-28-038-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Featured Event: Yes. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 6-12. Presenters: Claire Conroy, Ed.D. and Smita Worah, Ph.D. SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Smita Worah, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 319 or worah@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades 6-12: Teams of 6 or 7; Teams comprised of Special Education teacher, General Education teacher, Administrator, School/district information technology coordinator; ESL coach, ESL teacher. Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) Full Series - Day 3

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI) is a FREE, year-long professional learning experience for Connecticut educators who chair Planning and Placement Teams. The institute equips PPT leaders with the skills to build strong, trust-based relationships, foster collaboration among team members, and confidently facilitate PPT meetings that are both compliant and student-centered. This is a statewide initiative. Practices are designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants will learn to: Confidently facilitate effective PPT meetings. Engage in collaborative problem solving that strengthens relationships; Partner with district leaders on a capstone project to improve compliance and collaboration. Build support networks to share and implement best practices for students with disabilities. Program Details: The PPT LI includes blended learning experiences including in-person sessions, online activities, coaching, and communities of practice… Topic: IDEA. Leadership. Activity Code: 27-15-075-002. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Clarisa Rodrigues, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 254 or rodrigues@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

What Literacy Screening Data Tells Us and What It Doesn’t

This session takes a balanced and critical look at literacy screening and its relationship to the identification of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD)/Dyslexia. As universal screening is standard practice across Connecticut, it is essential that educators understand how to interpret results with nuance and intention. Participants will examine the core purpose of literacy screening: identifying students who may be at risk for reading difficulties, early enough to make a significant impact. Equally important, the session addresses the limitations of screening data (what it cannot diagnose, predict, or replace) and the critical role of professional judgment in making sense of the numbers. A practical focus of the session is navigating the tension between over- and under-referral. Participants will explore how to use screening results in ways that cast a wide enough net to catch students who need support, without drawing conclusions that go beyond what the data can reliably tell us. The session also examines t… Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 27-58-115-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Fumiko Hoeft, Ph.D. Dean/Chief Administrative Officer, UCONN. 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-Grade 12: General and Special Educators. Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.

CT Transition Community of Practice (CoP)

CoP VisionAll students, families, and other key players in the transition planning process will have access to current information necessary to plan for, develop, and implement annual and postsecondary goals and annual transition goals with short-term objectives to achieve the student’s individualized vision of life after school. CoP MissionThe CoP will bring multiple stakeholders together to collaborate and share ongoing postsecondary transition information, resources, activities, and events in a centralized location that is accessible to all students, families, and statewide transition teams. The resources will assist students, families, and others in making informed decisions to achieve personal success including education, meaningful employment, self-sufficiency, and community access and involvement. Online Location: Click Register to Sign up. Topic: Transition. Activity Code: 27-20-077-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 9-12. Presenters: To Be Announced. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Clarisa Rodrigues, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 254 or rodrigues@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades 9-12: 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 5, 2026, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Goodwin University One Riverside Drive East Hartford, CT 06118.

Making a Difference Through Co-Teaching-Fall 2026 - Day 2 of 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. Co-teachers will also discuss ways to establish parity and enhance collaboration with their co-teaching partner. Teams will have the opportunity to plan together during the afternoon, as well as 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 co‐teaching 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. Day 1 - October 21, 2026 Day 2 - November 5, 2026. Topic: Co-Teaching. Activity Code: 27-09-064-001. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Sophia Diamantis, 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 Penfield-Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: General and Special Educators/Student Support Services Professionals. Thursday, November 5, 2026, 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) - 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 trainings within this series are virtual and free of charge. Each training is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Online registration is available on the SERC Events webpage. Advance registration is required. Topic #2: Set-Aside Funds – Proportionate Share and Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) This… Topic: IDEA. CSDE Events. Activity Code: 27-15-032-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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 PreK-12: Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, November 6, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

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 trainings within this series are virtual and free of charge. Each training is 2 hours, with convenient morning and afternoon sessions offered (participants need to attend only one session per training). Online registration is available on the SERC Events webpage. Advance registration is required. Topic #2: Set-Aside Funds – Proportionate Share and Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) This… Topic: CSDE Events. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-033-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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, November 6, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Designing Academic Instruction for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities

Students with significant cognitive disabilities who take the CT Alternate Assessment (CTAA), take assessments that align to their grade level content. Beyond getting students "ready for the test" we need to think about our daily academic instruction aligned to their grade-level appropriate standards that will set them up for successful life outcomes. In this professional learning, participants will explore topics about making grade level content accessible for students with significant cognitive challenges including Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the Core Content Connectors, Common Augmentative Communication Devices, and lesson planning. Topic: IDEA. Assistive Technology. Activity Code: 27-17-124-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Nicole Hendry and Smita Worah Ph.D. SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nicole Hendry at hendry@ctserc.org or Smita Worah at worah@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades K-12: Educators working with students with significant cognitive disabilities, APSEPs. Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. SERC 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Special Education Bits & Tricks for Charter Schools: Session 1 of 4

The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) and the State Education Resource Center (SERC) will partner to host a bimonthly Special Education Bits & Tricks meeting for charter schools for the 2026-2027 school year (4 total). The meetings will be open to special education administrators, teachers, and related service providers from charter schools in the state. Each meeting will be one hour long and will focus on a trending topic in special education for charter schools. Each meeting will highlight a training area and provide participants with the opportunity to share best practices, ask questions, and discuss topics between the charter schools in attendance. Session 1: Thursday, November 12, 2026 Session 2: Thursday, December 10, 2026 Session 3: Thursday, February 11, 2027 Session 4: Thursday, April 8, 2027 * All virtual sessions from 10:00am -11:00am. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 27-36-121-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Christine Kuehlewind, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 371 or kuehlewind@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12: Special education administrators, teachers, service providers of charter schools, only open to charter schools. Thursday, November 12, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Preschool Special Education Forum - Day 2

These virtual sessions are designed to support preschool special education administrators/supervisors/program coordinators. The first part of these sessions will focus on a topic and/or any state updates followed by a roundtable discussion. Topics that people are interested in discussing at these forums will be collected ahead of time. People can bring questions as well to pose to their colleagues for support and ideas. * All sessions are Via Zoom Online Platform Day 1: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 2: Thursday, November 12, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 3: Wednesday, December 9, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 4: Wednesday, January 13, 2027- 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 5: Thursday, February 11, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 6: Thursday, March 11, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 7: Thursday, April 29, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 8: Wednesday, May 26, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm. Topic: IDEA. Early Childhood. Activity Code: 27-46-029-001. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Pre-K-Age3-5. Presenters: Renee Kleinman, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Renee Kleinman, CSDE Consultant, at Renee.kleinman@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-Age 3-5: Preschool special education administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. Thursday, November 12, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Community of Practice (CoP)

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Community of Practice (CoP) is a monthly, virtual gathering designed for current and aspiring PPT chairpersons across Connecticut. Facilitated by trainers with PPT Leadership experience and guest speakers, each one-hour session offers an opportunity to explore key concepts from the PPT Leadership curriculum, engage in collaborative dialogue, and strengthen PPT chair practices. The CoP creates space for networking, shared problem solving, and deepening understanding of compliant, student-centered PPT practices. Join colleagues statewide in building relationships, fostering best practices, and supporting each other in leading effective PPT meetings. The PPT Leadership CoP is supported by the CT State Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education, Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center, RESC Alliance and Connecticut’s State Education Resource Center (SERC). Topic: Leadership. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-014-002. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nitza Diaz, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 394 or diaz@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; Educators who lead PPTs, including Special Education Teachers, Principals, Assistant Principals, Out-of-District/Program Coordinators, or others serving as PPT Chairs. Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) for General Educators: Day 2 - Meeting Preparation, Process, and Data**

We are excited to announce that the Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI) has expanded to provide a FREE series, tailored specifically for general education administrators and their designees. Through experiences that build your technical knowledge of laws, policies, and procedures and by developing skills that foster strong relationships, you’ll finish the series with confidence to lead teams in developing IEPs that are compliant and collaborative. This is a statewide initiative. Practices are designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. This institute will cover such topics as: Facilitating PPT meetings, Fostering positive relationships among all team members, Problem solving and negotiating collaboratively to resolve conflict, Fostering implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities, Requirements: Obtain approval to participate from your supervisor to ensure adequate release time for all scheduled activities. … Topic: Leadership. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-015-001. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nitza Diaz, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 394 or diaz@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; General educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

From Data to Action: Advancing Learning-Turning Assessment Results into Individualized Reading and Written Expression IEP Goals for K-5

This expanded professional learning opportunity for elementary school educators builds on prior Connecticut Dyslexia Awareness Campaign (CT-DAC) sessions to offer educators a deeper, hands-on approach to using assessment data to drive meaningful outcomes for students with dyslexia and related reading difficulties. Designed for educators, specialists, and administrators, this multi-session learning experience will move beyond theory to application, guiding participants in analyzing assessment data, developing clear and defensible present levels of performance, and crafting measurable, individualized goals and objectives in the areas of reading and written expression. Through guided practice, real-world case examples, collaborative problem-solving, and opportunities to apply learning to authentic student data, participants will strengthen their ability to translate assessment findings into targeted instructional and intervention decisions. This professional learning experience aims to increase educator confiden… Online Location: Virtual Session. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 27-58-083-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-5. Presenters: Kristin Allen, Office of Dyslexia & Reading Disabilities Associate Education Consultant and Claire Conroy, 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-Grade 5: Special Educators. Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) for General Educators: Day 3 - IEP Development, Implementation, & Specific Meeting Types**

We are excited to announce that the Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI) has expanded to provide a FREE series, tailored specifically for general education administrators and their designees. Through experiences that build your technical knowledge of laws, policies, and procedures and by developing skills that foster strong relationships, you’ll finish the series with confidence to lead teams in developing IEPs that are compliant and collaborative. This is a statewide initiative. Practices are designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. This institute will cover such topics as: Facilitating PPT meetings, Fostering positive relationships among all team members, Problem solving and negotiating collaboratively to resolve conflict, Fostering implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities, Requirements: Obtain approval to participate from your supervisor to ensure adequate release time for all scheduled activities. … Topic: Leadership. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-015-002. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nitza Diaz, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 394 or diaz@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; General educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair PPT meetings in Connecticut. Thursday, November 19, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series -Topic #3: LEA Maintenance of Effort (MOE) - 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. Topic #3: LEA Maintenance of Effort (MOE) This 2-hour virtual training review the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 LEA MOE, including an in-depth review of LEA MOE Calculator 2.0v, a review of the principles for LEA MOE to establish the foundation of the eligibility and compliance standards, and a discussion around methods and allowable exceptions available for LEAs to meet LEA… Topic: IDEA. CSDE Events. Activity Code: 27-15-034-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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 PreK-12: Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, November 20, 2026, 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 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. Topic #3: LEA Maintenance of Effort (MOE) This 2-hour virtual training review the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 LEA MOE, including an in-depth review of LEA MOE Calculator 2.0v, a review of the principles for LEA MOE to establish the foundation of the eligibility and compliance standards, and a discussion around methods and allowable exceptions available for LEAs to meet LEA… Topic: CSDE Events. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-035-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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 PreK-12: Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, November 20, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Multi‐Tiered Systems of Support for Behavior - Day 2 of 6

Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) is a framework for implementing a continuum of academic and social-emotional and behavioral supports to meet students’ needs and enhance 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 training, participants will explore the core features of tier 1 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. Day 1: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 Day 2: Wednesday, December 2, 2026 Day 3: Tuesday, February 9, 2027 Day 4: Friday, March 5, 2027 Day 5: Thursday, March 25, 2027 Day 6: Tuesday, May 11, 2027. Topic: Multi-Tiered System of Supports. Activity Code: 27-75-106-001. 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 Penfield-Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School Staff. Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The Lyceum 227 Lawrence Street Hartford, CT 06106.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) Full Series - Day 4

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI) is a FREE, year-long professional learning experience for Connecticut educators who chair Planning and Placement Teams. The institute equips PPT leaders with the skills to build strong, trust-based relationships, foster collaboration among team members, and confidently facilitate PPT meetings that are both compliant and student-centered. This is a statewide initiative. Practices are designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. Participants will learn to: Confidently facilitate effective PPT meetings. Engage in collaborative problem solving that strengthens relationships; Partner with district leaders on a capstone project to improve compliance and collaboration. Build support networks to share and implement best practices for students with disabilities. Program Details: The PPT LI includes blended learning experiences including in-person sessions, online activities, coaching, and communities of practice… Topic: IDEA. Leadership. Activity Code: 27-15-075-003. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Clarisa Rodrigues, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 254 or rodrigues@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; Educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair, PPT meetings in Connecticut. Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

IDEA Part B Section 611/619 – Virtual Grant Training Series-Topic #4: Excess Cost Calculation Sheet - 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. Topic #4: Excess Cost Calculation Sheet This 2-hour virtual training review the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 Excess Cost Calculation Sheet, including an in-depth training of the formula, discussion around elementary and secondary levels, and testing year to year. A review of the principles will be completed to establish the foundation of the “supplement not supplant“… Topic: CSDE Events. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-036-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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 4, 2026, 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 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. Topic #4: Excess Cost Calculation Sheet This 2-hour virtual training review the critical components of the IDEA Part B Grant Section 611/619 Excess Cost Calculation Sheet, including an in-depth training of the formula, discussion around elementary and secondary levels, and testing year to year. A review of the principles will be completed to establish the foundation of the “supplement not supplant“… Topic: CSDE Events. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-037-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. 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 PreK-12: Special Education Directors, Administrators, IDEA Grant Managers, Business Managers. Friday, December 4, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Community of Practice (CoP)

The Planning and Placement Team Leadership Community of Practice (CoP) is a monthly, virtual gathering designed for current and aspiring PPT chairpersons across Connecticut. Facilitated by trainers with PPT Leadership experience and guest speakers, each one-hour session offers an opportunity to explore key concepts from the PPT Leadership curriculum, engage in collaborative dialogue, and strengthen PPT chair practices. The CoP creates space for networking, shared problem solving, and deepening understanding of compliant, student-centered PPT practices. Join colleagues statewide in building relationships, fostering best practices, and supporting each other in leading effective PPT meetings. The PPT Leadership CoP is supported by the CT State Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education, Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center, RESC Alliance and Connecticut’s State Education Resource Center (SERC). Topic: Leadership. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-014-003. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nitza Diaz, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 394 or diaz@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; Educators who lead PPTs, including Special Education Teachers, Principals, Assistant Principals, Out-of-District/Program Coordinators, or others serving as PPT Chairs. Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Preschool Special Education Forum - Day 3

These virtual sessions are designed to support preschool special education administrators/supervisors/program coordinators. The first part of these sessions will focus on a topic and/or any state updates followed by a roundtable discussion. Topics that people are interested in discussing at these forums will be collected ahead of time. People can bring questions as well to pose to their colleagues for support and ideas. * All sessions are Via Zoom Online Platform Day 1: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 2: Thursday, November 12, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 3: Wednesday, December 9, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 4: Wednesday, January 13, 2027- 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 5: Thursday, February 11, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 6: Thursday, March 11, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 7: Thursday, April 29, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm Day 8: Wednesday, May 26, 2027 - 1:00pm - 2:00pm. Topic: IDEA. Early Childhood. Activity Code: 27-46-029-002. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Pre-K-Age3-5. Presenters: Renee Kleinman, CSDE Consultant. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Renee Kleinman, CSDE Consultant, at Renee.kleinman@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-Age 3-5: Preschool special education administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

Special Education Bits & Tricks for Charter Schools: Session 2 of 4

The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) and the State Education Resource Center (SERC) will partner to host a bimonthly Special Education Bits & Tricks meeting for charter schools for the 2026-2027 school year (4 total). The meetings will be open to special education administrators, teachers, and related service providers from charter schools in the state. Each meeting will be one hour long and will focus on a trending topic in special education for charter schools. Each meeting will highlight a training area and provide participants with the opportunity to share best practices, ask questions, and discuss topics between the charter schools in attendance. Session 1: Thursday, November 12, 2026 Session 2: Thursday, December 10, 2026 Session 3: Thursday, February 11, 2027 Session 4: Thursday, April 8, 2027 * All virtual sessions from 10:00am -11:00am. Topic: CSDE Events. Activity Code: 27-36-121-001. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Christine Kuehlewind, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 371 or kuehlewind@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12: Special education administrators, teachers, service providers of charter schools, only open to charter schools. Thursday, December 10, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Building a Secondary Transition Assessment Toolkit - Session A

Assessment data serves as the common thread in the transition process and forms the basis for defining goals and services to be included in an individualized education program (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. (If you do not know your Team Lead's Name, please list your Supervisor), It is recommended the team include transition coordinators/specialists, special education teachers (grades 6-12), and other staff responsible for writing transition goals. This will be a full-day in-person session. This learning experience will be offered twice during the 2026-2027 school year. Topic: Transition. Activity Code: 27-20-090-000. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades 6-12. Presenters: Claire Conroy, Ph.D. and Clarisa Rodrigues, Ph.D. SERC Consultants. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Clarisa Rodrigues, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 254 or rodrigues@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Lauren Johns, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 256 or johns@ctserc.org. Audience: Team Members (Grades 6–12): Teams should consist of 3–5 members and include: Transition Coordinators/Specialists, Special Education Teachers (Grades 6-12), and Special Education Administrators. Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM. SERC Classroom 175 Union Street Waterbury, CT 06706.

Developing Secondary Systems of Supports for Students - Day 1 of 4

This training is designed for a cohort of districts/schools to implement changes in 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. Just over three-quarters (77%, n=122) of schools had a Tier 1 scale score of at least 70% (the standard benchmark for implementation at criterion), followed by 56% (n=88) of schools and 46% (n=72) of schools at Tier 2 and Tier 3, respectively. The Tier 2 training will include the essential steps: the hexagon tool development; team composition and operating procedures,… Activity Code: 27-75-107-000. 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 Penfield-Dawes, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 263 or dawes@ctserc.org. Audience: K-12 School Staff. Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The Lyceum 227 Lawrence Street Hartford, CT 06106.

Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPTLI) for General Educators: Day 4 - Inclusive Leadership for School Improvement*

We are excited to announce that the Planning and Placement Team Leadership Institute (PPT LI) has expanded to provide a FREE series, tailored specifically for general education administrators and their designees. Through experiences that build your technical knowledge of laws, policies, and procedures and by developing skills that foster strong relationships, you’ll finish the series with confidence to lead teams in developing IEPs that are compliant and collaborative. This is a statewide initiative. Practices are designed to support compliance with state and federal special education regulations. This institute will cover such topics as: Facilitating PPT meetings, Fostering positive relationships among all team members, Problem solving and negotiating collaboratively to resolve conflict, Fostering implementation of best practices in the education of students with disabilities, Requirements: Obtain approval to participate from your supervisor to ensure adequate release time for all scheduled activities. … Topic: Leadership. IDEA. Activity Code: 27-15-015-003. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Multi-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-12. Presenters: Various Presenters. Content Info: For content questions, please contact Nitza Diaz, SERC, (860) 632-1485 ext. 394 or diaz@ctserc.org. Registration Info: For registration questions, please contact Linda Adorno, SERC, (860) 632-1485, ext. 241 or adorno@ctserc.org. Audience: Grades PreK-12; General educational professionals who chair, or have the potential to chair PPT meetings in Connecticut. Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. ACES 205 Skiff Street Hamden, CT 06517.

Strength in Learning Differences

Mat Heagerty was once the kid who couldn't keep letters straight, who dreaded reading out loud, who felt like school was working against him. Today, he's a published author, and in this session, he shares exactly how they got from one to the other. Drawing on his own journey as a dyslexic student who once saw his differences as obstacles, Mat shows how those same differences became his greatest strengths. Using student suggestions, he'll illustrate a scene live, while breaking down how to turn perceived failures into stepping stones toward success. The talk gets honest about what it really takes to get there: advocating for your own needs, even when it's uncomfortable, and accepting help without shame when you need it. This session is appropriate for elementary and middle school students, but all are welcome. Mr. Heagerty's presentation is sponsored by the Office of Dyslexia and Reading Disabilities. Topic: Dyslexia. Activity Code: 27-58-089-000. Registration Link: Virtual Session. Single-Day/Multi-Day: Single-Day. Cost: No Fee. Grade Level: Grades K-8. Presenters: Mat Heagerty, Comic Book Writer. 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-Grade 8: Elementary, middle school students. Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.