Teachers of the Year Celebration

The 2023-2024 Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year Celebration is on September 21, 2023 at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek at 6:00 p.m. VIP Donor Reception will take place at 4:00 p.m. on September 21, 2023 at The Garden in Walnut Creek. Ticket prices increase after Labor Day.

SF Giants Educator Appreciation Night @ Oracle Park

Educator Appreciation Night returns to Oracle Park, honoring all teachers, administrators, and faculty for their exemplary work. Whether you are an educator yourself, related to, a friend of an educator or just want to give thanks, the Giants invite you to celebrate on September 29 to watch the Giants take on the Dodgers at 7:15 p.m. PT. We have reserved a special area for Bay Area educators and fans to sit together and celebrate your county’s Teachers of the Year. Your Special Event ticket includes an Educator Appreciation Block Calendar, perfect for any member of the education sector!

Visual and Performing Arts Curriculum & Videos for 4th & 5th Grade Teachers

Thanks to funding from the Lesher Foundation, and in collaboration with the Center for Community Arts teaching artists, CCCOE has produced four videos and lesson plans for all 4th and 5th grade teachers in the county. The lesson library is accessible to all teachers on the CCCOE VAPA Webpage. The first lesson is called Picasso Face. Videos are designed to be student-facing and easy for teachers to implement with simple supplies. The lessons are aligned to the California Arts Framework and Visual and Performing Arts Standards. We will release four lessons throughout this school year.

September is Attendance Awareness Month

Help parents/caregivers make the connection between attendance and opportunities for social, emotional, and academic growth by building a welcoming school environment. Attendance Works has some great tools for raising awareness about attendance at school and ways to connect with families about this important topic.

English Learner Professional Development Opportunities

New to your role coordinating EL and ML Programs? 

Need a refresher on topics related to EL Programs? 

Join us virtually for networking and office hours! 

Dates: September 29, October 27, December 15, February 2, March 15, & April 26

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., virtual  

 Registered participants will receive calendar invitations with the Zoom link closer to the session dates. We look forward to seeing you! Questions? Please contact Multilingual Learner Leadership Network at MLLN@cccoe.k12.ca.us. 

More Professional Development Opportunities

CPIN – California Preschool Instructional Network  

CPIN invites you to attend our regional professional development sessions for PK/TK teachers, IAs, home based providers and others in the early learning field – virtually and in person.    

Topic: Social Emotional Learning: Relationships, Drama, and Building Resiliency Through Play

Audience: PK and TK teachers, assistants, administrators, coaches, family day care providers and other early learning professionals. 

Date(s) and Time: September 7, 14, 21, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.  

Location: Virtual 

Cost: Free 

Registration and Information

Topic: Social Emotional Development – Social Interactions in Spanish and English   

Audience: PK and TK teachers, assistants, administrators, coaches, family day care providers and other early learning professionals. 

Date(s) and Time: September 16, 2023, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 

Location: CCCOE - Las Trampas and Briones Conference Rooms

Cost: $27

Registration and Information

Topic: CPIN Symposium – Building the Bridge: Best Practices for Planning Curriculum For Young Children and Families Experiencing Homelessness 

Audience: PK and TK teachers, assistants, administrators, coaches, family day care providers and other early learning professionals. 

Date(s) and Time: October 5, 2023, 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.  

Location: The Brazilian Room, Tilden Park, Berkeley 

Cost: $85 Early Bird Registration  

Registration and Information

A Workforce Registry (WFR) is not required to attend the Symposium. 

 *Participants need a Workforce Registry (WFR) Number to enroll in these sessions. More information about the WFR can be found at caregistry.org.  

Registration for all sessions closes one week prior to each session. 

Dyslexia Community of Practice

Join our monthly meetings during the 2023-2024 school year as we build our knowledge around dyslexia and discuss strategies to support students struggling to learn to read. Facilitated by author, dyslexia practitioner, and reading clinician Dr. Katherine Casey Spengler. 

Audience: TK-12 Educators and Administrators 

Cost: Free 

Virtual Meeting Dates/Time: September 7, October 19, November 16, & December 7 at 3:45 p.m. - 5:15 p.m

Registration

Reading Instruction and Intervention Workshop Series  

Come and learn about the Science of Learning and Whole Child Design, Foundational Skills in literacy and how to use systems of support for students with literacy. Contra Costa County Office of Education invites you to a three-part Fall Workshop. Each workshop will be hosted by one of our educational partners. Sign up for one, two, or all three.

Audience: TK-12 Educators and Administrators 

Cost: Free 

Virtual Meeting Date(s): September 14, 21, 28, 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Registration

Computer Science Horizons - A Journey Through the Seasons of Computer Science

The Seasons of CS monthly workshop series is launching statewide for educators, administrators, and counselors. The interactive session will provide a taste of what will be offered throughout the school year. CA educators who participate and complete asynchronous work may be eligible for $125 stipend. 

Audience: All K – 12 educators 

Date/Time: September 19, 2023, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Virtual 

Cost: FREE 

Registration

Flyer

Community Resources for Science Education Resource Fair  

Discover how science museums and environmental education organizations have updated their exhibits, field trips, programs, and other offerings. Learn about what’s available for your students this year, in one efficient morning of sharing. Plus, free admission, snacks and prizes! Thanks to Chabot Space and Science Center for hosting the back-to-in-person Science Education Resource Fair for Teachers. Special teachers-only time 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Grab a cup of coffee, chat with program providers, ask questions and come away with some great plans for the new school year! 

Audience: All TK – 12 educators 

Date/Time: Saturday September 23, 2023, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: Chabot Space and Science Center, Oakland

Cost: FREE  

Registration

Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics Book Study

Based on the book Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics, Grades K-12: 14 Teaching Practices for Enhancing Learning by Peter Liljedahl, this five-session book study provides a collaborative learning space for you to discuss what you are reading and connect with colleagues. In breakout rooms with peers, reflect on how to engage ALL students in rich mathematics discourse and learning, while exploring and connecting these 14 practices to the “how” of the math framework and content standards. 

Audience: All K – 12 educators 

Date(s): 5 sessions, August 2023 - October 2023, 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m., Virtual 

Cost: FREE 

Registration & Flyer 

CCLA Mathematics Community of Practice

Collaborate on practical ways to integrate learning acceleration approaches to support student success! The Mathematics Community of Practice (CoP) is a space for learning and collaboration. Together, we will leverage the expertise of each other to gain knowledge and deepen understanding of learning acceleration in mathematics utilizing evidence-based practices and the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Social Emotional Learning (SEL), and Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy (CSP). 

Audience: TK-12 Educators   

Date(s): 5 sessions, August 2023 - April 2024, 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Virtual 

Cost: FREE 

Registration

Flyer 

CCLA Online Courses for Learning Acceleration

The California Collaborative for Learning Acceleration (CCLA) offers access to free self-paced courses that provide evidence-based strategies to boost learning acceleration in the classroom. 

Available Online Courses: 

·        Learning Acceleration Introduction Course: This course provides an understanding of what learning acceleration is and why we need it. It introduces the five components of CCLA: mastery of priority content, evidence-based strategies, Universal Design for Learning, culturally sustaining pedagogy, and social-emotional learning practices. 

·        Online Content Courses: These courses support evidence-based strategies to accelerate learning in math, literacy, and language development. 

Audience: All TK – 12 educators 

Cost: FREE 

Date: Asynchronous Online Courses

Website & Online Course Access 

CCLA Literacy Community of Practice:

The intent of this Community of Practice (CoP) is to leverage the expertise of others, to gain knowledge and deepen understanding of learning acceleration in foundational literacy skills and reading comprehension utilizing evidence-based practices and elements of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Social Emotional Learning (SEL), and Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy (CSP). 

Audience: TK-12 Educators   

Date(s): 5 sessions, September 2023 - May 2024, 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Virtual  

Cost: FREE

Registration & Flyer 

Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (PASC)  

Are you an aspiring administrator? CCCOE offers an 11-month program that results in earning a preliminary administrative credential. We also partner with National University to provide an option to earn a master’s degree. The application window opens June 2, 2023, for the cohort starting February 2024. For more information, please visit our PASC website and complete our interest form.  

Audience: TK-12 educators 

Start Date: February 3, 2024 

Cost: $8,000 for the 11-month credential program 

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month 

Kids are back in school and one of the most important school supplies they can have is a library card. Make sure your school-aged children have a Contra Costa County Library card so they can enjoy all the free benefits that come with having one. From borrowing books, eBooks, and museum passes to getting homework help, learning new skills, or attending storytime, a library card provides access to something for everyone. September is Library Card Sign-up Month, and you can help us celebrate by encouraging your friends and family to sign-up for library cards, too. Library cards can help you find a new hobby, learn to tinker in a maker space and spark your creativity. Sign up online at ccclib.org or visit your local branch to sign-up for a full-service library card today.

Contra Costa Reads Coming Soon

Contra Costa is an annual event that encourages all county residents and library users to share in the experience of reading and discussing the same book at the same time. It runs in October and November each year and offers several in-person and virtual programs including an interview with the author. The book is available in hardback, eBook or eAudiobook formats. The winning book for this year’s countywide read will be announced in early October. Stay tuned.

TumbleBook Library

This resource is an online collection of animated talking picture books, which teach kids the joy of reading in a format they love. It features interactive, animated stories, puzzles, and games. There are stories by well-known authors, original stories, classic fairy tales, puzzles, and games in English, Spanish, French, and a mobile version. Some bilingual stories are also available. You can have stories play automatically or click through at your own pace. Visit ccclib.org/digital-resources/ to get started.

Kanopy Kids

Stream a collection of educational and entertaining movies and shows for kids. Kanopy Kids is appropriate for children ages 2 and up, with a focus on kids ages 2-8. Kids can browse for content and parents can set-up controls to ensure only appropriate content is available. Visit kanopy.com/en/ccclib/kids to get started.

National Geographic Kids

Get access to the National Geographic Kids magazine, more than 500 National Geographic Kids books, 900 kid-friendly, downloadable images, and more than 200 videos. Enjoy endless opportunities for kids to explore amazing adventures in science, nature, culture, archaeology, and space. Best for children aged 6–14. Visit the digital resources page at ccclib.org.

More Info

For more information on all Contra Costa County Library programs, resources and events, visit ccclib.org.

Apply for California National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Certification Incentive and Subsidy Awards

Applications are now being accepted for the California National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certification Incentive Program and Candidate Subsidy Program for the third year. The application deadline for submission is January 10, 2024. Any teacher who initiates the process of pursuing a certification from the NBPTS when teaching at a high-priority school is eligible to receive an award of up to $2,500. Program information and a link to the application can be found on the CDE CA NBPTS Candidate Subsidy Program and CDE NBCT Certification Incentive Program web pages. Additionally, the Educator Effectiveness Funds Annual Reporting Database is now open for reporting. All local educational agencies (LEAs) must submit their expenditure reports on or before September 30.

California Grant Portal

The California State Library has launched a new website that streamlines all available state agency grants for education, small businesses, nonprofits, individuals, tribal governments, and more!

Artificial Intelligence for Transforming California Schools (Session 1: September 13 at 4 p.m.)

What is the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in California schools? Educational leaders, technology directors, and teachers are invited to the launch of CDE's AI for Transforming California Schools webinar series. At the first session, attendees will explore fundamental skills for safety, efficiency, and ethics as featured speakers discuss the capabilities and limitations of AI. Register via Zoom for the AI Skills for Educators & Students webinar. Send questions to Katherine Goyette, Computer Science Coordinator, Information and Technology Branch, at kgoyette@cde.ca.gov.

Dysgraphia and Writing Supports (September 14 at 3 p.m.)

The CDE Diagnostic Center North (DCN) invites all participants to a virtual Dysgraphia and Writing Supports training event. Participants will discuss the elements of dysgraphia, explore which evaluation tools assess for dysgraphia, and practice reading data and using that data to determine which area of dysgraphia the student may need the most support with, and more. There is no cost for this training, and it is open to the public. Register via the DCN Dysgraphia and Writing Supports web page. Email contactus@dcn-cde.ca.gov or call 510-794-2500 with any questions.

High School Voter Education Weeks (September 18–29)

Schools are encouraged to participate in the 2023 High School Voter Education Weeks from September 18–29, 2023. The purpose of High School Voter Education Weeks is to bring awareness to our young and future voters and set them on the pathway for continued civic engagement. Eligible students ages 16 and 17 can be civically engaged by pre-registering to vote. If students pre-register to vote, they will automatically be registered to vote when they turn 18. The California Secretary of State’s Office can provide resources and county elections officials can serve as partners to make it easy for schools to participate in the democratic process. Read more in the August 17 letter from State Superintendent Thurmond and California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber.

Strengthening Social–Emotional Learning, Well-being, Mindfulness, and Resilience (September 20 from 2 to 4:30 p.m.)

Attend this webinar to learn about new communities of practice, funding, and tools available to strengthen Multi-Tiered System of Support/Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Tier 1 strategies for student behavioral health and well-being, including insights from partnership approaches with health insurance plans. Additional information is available through the CYBHI website. Visit the CYBHI Events and Funding Opportunities web page for more information and to register for upcoming webinars.

2024–25 Student Board Member Applications Open for State Board of Education (Due September 22)

 The California State Board of Education (SBE) is accepting applications for the 2024–25 Student Board Member. Any student who is a California resident and enrolled in a public high school, will be a senior in good standing in the 2024–25 school year, and will be available to attend a statewide student leader conference in Sacramento on November 5–8, 2023, is eligible to apply. For more information, please visit the CDE Student Board Member Recruitment web page or email sbe@sbe.ca.gov. Completed applications must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, September 22.

Instructional Quality Commission (IQC) and 2024–25 IQC Student Member (Due September 29)

The SBE will appoint four members for a four-year term from currently practicing teachers or leaders with experience and expertise in English language arts/English language development, health/physical education, and mathematics and one student member to serve a one-year term on the Instructional Quality Commission (IQC). Any student who is a California resident enrolled in a public high school for a minimum of two consecutive years and will be a senior in good standing in the 2024–25 school year is eligible to apply. Apply today before the Friday, September 29 deadline. More information can be found on the CDE IQC web page.

2024 United States Senate Youth Program

Nominations are open for the 2024 U.S. Senate Youth Program (USSYP). Geared for juniors or seniors interested in pursuing careers in public service, two student delegates from each state will be selected to attend a unique program in Washington, D.C., from March 2–9, 2024, and each will receive a $10,000 college scholarship. To apply, students must be nominated by their high school principal and currently serve in an elected or appointed leadership capacity in a student government, civic, or educational organization for the entire 2023–24 school year. Application and scholarship information are available on the California Department of Education USSYP web page. The deadline to apply is Monday, October 9, 2023, at 4 p.m.

California Green Ribbon Schools Program Request for Applications

The CDE is pleased to announce the opportunity for LEAs to honor their environmental literacy and sustainability efforts while spotlighting replicable best practices through the California Green Ribbon Schools recognition program. Applications are now available for the eleventh cycle of the program. Interested applicants should first complete the 2023–24 Application Interest Survey. The survey and the online application period will close at noon PST on October 27. Email greenribbonschools@cde.ca.gov with any questions or to request more information.

Preparedness Ambassadors Program Open

Disasters such as wildfires, floods, and earthquakes can strike at any moment, but are your students prepared? Schools are encouraged to share with students information about the Preparedness Ambassadors program, which was created by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services in partnership with the CDE, CalRecycle, and the Sacramento County Office of Education. This free program offers a curriculum designed to engage fourth-grade students to develop and promote disaster preparedness guidelines for their homes, school, and the local community. All classroom curriculum is available on the Preparedness Ambassadors web page.

Mental Health Resources

Recent events can be tough on children’s overall mental wellness and make access to resources even more important. Resources to help support children who have experienced these events are available on the California Health and Human Services Children's Mental Health Resource Hub web page. Additional resources for students and staff are available on the CA Safe Schools for All Mental Health: Student and Staff Support web page and on the CDE Mental Health web page.

Educational Programming of edTV 

Looking for some additional quality Monday-Friday educational programming at home or in the classroom? Check out the latest edTV broadcasts here.

Programs scheduled include (times are approximate):

• Library Storytime, 8:30 a.m.
• Betty McPeek's Circle Time, 8:45 a.m.
• Number Talk, presented by the Khan Academy and CCCOE , K-5 math lessons in English and Spanish: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
• Farm to Taste, Mother-daughter culinary arts teachers at Mt. Diablo High School host healthy cooking show: 12:00-12:30 p.m.
• STEM in 30, Emmy-nominated program produced by the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum: 12:30 -1:00 p.m.
• National Arts Gallery, outstanding stories about artists and art movements from around the world: 1:00-2:00 p.m.
• Classic Arts Showcase, performances, visual arts, and films that change every week: Airs most nights, depending on programming, 5:00 p.m.

edTV can be found in most of Contra Costa County on cable channels 32 (Comcast) or 99 (AT&T U-Verse). For info: Daily schedule can be found here.