WHERE
LEARNING COMES TO LIFE
EASTCONN Adult & Community Programs
ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE 2018-19
Early Childhood Initiatives
AGENCY GOALS & HIGHLIGHTS
Organizational Support
K-12 Student Services
Teaching & Learning Technology Solutions
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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2 3-4 5 EASTCONN Organizational Chart
District Map & Infographic
EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS EXECUTIVE BOARD
BOARD MEMBERS
Agency Goal 1 Highlights
Agency Goal 2 Highlights
Agency Goal 3 Highlights
Chairman, Mr. Herbert Arico, Willington Public Schools Vice-Chairman, Ms. Joan Trivella, Brooklyn Public Schools Secretary/Treasurer, Ms. Katherine Paulhus, Mansfield Public Schools Dr. Judy Benson Clarke Regional District #8
Mr. Michael Morrill Putnam Public Schools
Mr. Murphy Sewall Windham Public Schools
Ms. Terry Cote Eastford Public Schools
Mr. William Oros Coventry Public Schools
Ms. Valerie May Pomfret Public Schools
Ms. Mary Ellen Donnelly Hampton Public Schools
Mr. Walt Petruniw Canterbury Public Schools
Ms. Anne Stearns Scotland Public Schools
Cindy Alberts Woodstock Public Schools
Christi Haskell Plainfield Public Schools
Amy Blank Union Public Schools
MaryBeth Malin Griswold Public Schools
EASTCONN’S LEADERSHIP TEAM Gary S. Mala Executive Director Michael Akana Facilities John Baskowski Finance Kimberly Bush Transportation Services
1.
Diane Dugas Center for Educational Leadership & Talent Development Diane Gozemba Early Childhood Initiatives
Larisa Carr ECHIP Administrator
Christine Homa Research, Development & Innovation
Andrew DePalma Technology Solutions
Melanie Marcaccio Human Resources
Scott Nierendorf Teaching & Learning Services
Teddie Sleight Marketing & Communications
Heather Plourde Food & Hospitality Services
Rich Tariff Adult & Community Programs
Eric Protulis K-12 Special Education Services
Joni Weglein Grant Management
Don Skewes Security & Investigations
K-12 Student Services Team Diane Dugas, Scott Nierendorf, Eric Protulis
ADULT & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
• Adult Education & High School Completion • Community Education • Employment & Training Programs • English Learner Services • Parent & Family Programs
EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVES • Early Childhood Coaching & Consultation • Early Childhood Materials & Products • Programs for Young Children & Families
SCHOOLS & COMMUNITIES
K-12 STUDENT SERVICES EASTCONN EXECUTIVE BOARD
EASTCONN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
• Academic Enrichment Programs • Clinical Day Treatment Programs • Magnet High Schools • Programs for Students with Developmental Disabilities • Psychological & Behavioral Consultation Services • Related Services (AT, OT, PT, SLP) • School-to-Career Programs • Schools for Non-Traditional Learners • Summer, Vacation & After-School Programs • Other Student Services
ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES
• Administrative Support for Schools • Business Office Staffing & Employer Services • Conference Services • Cooperative Purchasing • Facilities Services • Finance & Business Office Support • Food & Hospitality Services • Human Resources Management • Marketing & Communication Services • Personnel & Staffing Solutions • Research, Development & Innovation • Security & Investigations • Transportation Services
TEACHING & LEARNING SERVICES • Center for Educational Leadership • Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment • Professional Learning • Regional EASTCONN Groups & Councils • School Improvement Strategies
TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS
• Data Solutions, Support & Training • Educational Technology Integration • Student Information Systems Support & Training • Technology Infrastructure Support • Technology Products & Services • Video Production Services • Web Application Development 2.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
EASTCONN Sites In The EASTCONN Region
EASTCONN’s Northeastern Connecticut Region Often called “The Quiet Corner” because of its deeply rural character, northeastern Connecticut is home to 33 towns, among which are some of the state’s smallest and most economically challenged. These are the towns that EASTCONN serves. Among the region’s farms, forests, small-town hamlets and villages are pockets of both affluence and poverty, including areas that are not only among the state’s poorest, but are also home to students scoring among the state’s lowest on standardized tests. Characteristics of this 240-square-mile region include small schools, a strong sense of community and a long history of voluntary collaboration and resource sharing. Challenges include longstanding, high unemployment rates, inadequate public transportation and limited access to things like local educational enrichment opportunities, social and recreational resources and health-related services. 3.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
Do you know
WHERE
LEARNING COMES TO LIFE?
370
ADULT & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 370 adult students have enrolled in our high school completion programs
3,270
TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Our staff-designed TEAM Collaborative, an online retention-and-support platform, was used by 3,270 new CT teachers
1,000
ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORT Approximately 1,000 job-seekers used the fingerprinting services at EASTCONN Hampton offices
225
BIRTH-TO-THREE PROGRAM EASTCONN’s program has quadrupled in the last 2 years and is serving a caseload of 225 children per month, with an average of 25 new evaluations conducted monthly
3,000
K-12 STUDENT SERVICES Our neuropsychological services, behavioral consultation and professional development services were accessed by 20 districts, benefiting more than 3,000 students
2.1M 750
TRANSPORTATION Each day, transports 648 students from 26 districts. This year, our fleet of 110+ specially-equipped vehicles drove 2.1 million miles
TEACHING AND LEARNING 750 educators in 18 districts received embedded, on-site professional development this year 4.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 1
AGENCY GOAL
Above: Inclusion is the ultimate goal of our Autism Program, which provides a range of best-practice, wrap-around supports for students.
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To provide exemplary programs and services for learners, especially those with significant barriers, so each can achieve individual success.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 1
2018-2019 HIGHLIGHTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS Young Children & Their Families Birth-to-Three Program
EASTCONN’s program has quadrupled in the last 2 years and is serving a record number of children and families across 32 towns in the EASTCONN region. Referrals have grown significantly, increasing the number of children and families receiving services to a caseload of 225 per month, plus an average 25 new evaluations conducted per month. Child outcomes: of the infants and toddlers with Individual Family Service Plans, 74% demonstrated improved positive social emotional skills. Family outcomes: 87% reported Birth-to-Three helped them effectively communicate their child’s needs; 96% reported Birth-to-Three helped their child develop and learn. We also serve children with significant needs, diagnosed medical conditions, autism and Down Syndrome.
Head Start & Early Head Start
We served a total of 398 low-income children and their families through our federally funded Head Start (215 children) and Early Head Start (183 children) child development programs, delivering comprehensive services, including health, nutrition education, dental, mental health and family support at 9 sites in Tolland and Windham counties. This year, 19% of children enrolled in our Head Start program had an IEP. Preliminary child outcome analyses using the COR assessment tool showed that 85% of our Head Start children will meet school readiness gauges. We now offer a home-based Head Start program for Tolland County families, and we opened a new classroom in Moosup Gardens after closing 2 Vernon sites.
• Dual Language: Early Head Start and Head Start programs have seen an increase in families that require Spanish translation services. We have 4 bilingual staff members who provide translation and interpretation for Spanish-speaking families during home visits and in center-based programs.
ACT’s popular dance program gives students a chance to perform multiple times throughout the school year.
School-Age Children & Their Families Schools of Choice
EASTCONN operates 2 regional, NEASC-accredited magnet high schools for grades 9-12 in collaboration with member public school districts in our region:
• Arts at the Capitol Theater (ACT): This
year, ACT enrolled 120 full-time students from 30 sending districts in its NEASC-accredited, rigorous, interdisciplinary and arts-infused academic program. ACT will graduate its 9th class in June, with 22 seniors representing 11 school districts; 64% of seniors have applied to college. Among student awards and recognitions in 2018-2019: 9 students were inducted into the ACT chapter of the National Honor Society; Creative Writing students won 8 regional awards, including 2 Gold Keys, in the prestigious 2018 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards contest; A/V students were invited to produce new training videos for the Connecticut DMV; A/V students also entered 4 videos in the DMV’s statewide DMV Teen Safe Driving Video contest.
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2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 1
QMC students focus on science, technology, engineering and math skills during classes in newly constructed science labs.
• Quinebaug Middle College (QMC):
QMC enrolled 178 high school students from 18 towns in its humanities-rich and STEM-integrated program. Intended for non-traditional students and located on the campus of Quinebaug Valley Community College, QMC enables students to earn free, transferable college credits at QVCC and UConn. In 2018-19, a record number of QMC students enrolled in free college courses; 104 took 139 classes at QVCC and achieved a passing rate of 94%. After the first semester, QMC students outperformed QVCC students with a cumulative GPA average of 3.24. Student enrollment was high (an average of 22 per course) in our UConn Early College Experience courses. Altogether, 80% of QMC’s seniors have applied to programs after high school, and many have been accepted into competitive schools like UConn, U. of Hartford, UMass-Amherst, UMass-Dartmouth, Penn State, Iowa State, ECSU and QVCC, among others.
Transportation Services We continued to assist districts, as well as other public agencies, in reducing the barriers faced by special needs individuals when accessing their programs. On a daily basis, we transported 347 special needs students and 301 regular education students from 26 districts, using our outplacement destinations database, which facilitates the use of cost-saving shared runs. Note: We transported 176 students daily from 16 districts to the region’s 3 public magnet schools, including EASTCONN’s ACT and QMC. Also provided transportation to Head Start children in Putnam, Killingly and Plainfield. Over the course of a year, our fleet of 110+ specially equipped vehicles traveled to 80 different sites, and drove 2.1 million miles. 7.
Regional Programs For Students With Special Education Needs K-12 Student Services offers a continuum of services throughout the region for students with a wide spectrum of challenging academic, behavioral and social/emotional needs. From on-site professional development, training and consultations for district professionals supporting in-district students, to our regional clinical day treatment programs, we build district capacity toward the ultimate shared goal of least-restrictive environments. Some examples:
• Clinical Day Treatment (CDT): Our 2 regional programs served 110 students, ages 5-19, from 28 different sending districts, with significant social, emotional and behavioral challenges, providing highly individualized and structured academic instruction and clinical support. About 10% of our students returned to less restrictive settings in their home districts. A total of 55 CDT students participated in last summer’s extended school-year program. We anticipate 5 seniors will graduate in June 2019.
178
High school students enrolled in our Quinebaug Middle College (QMC) magnet high school
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE • Regional Autism Programming: Our
inclusion-driven autism program provided comprehensive, center-based educational and behavioral services to 15 students from 11 districts, and we expanded our enrollment to include high school-age students, because several students have aged up since enrolling. We continued to develop new community-based experiences that support students’ individual needs and goals. Our multidisciplinary, wrap-around model followed best practices and staff provided in-district coaching for school personnel across the region.
• Related Services Group (RSG): Working with 30 districts to support more than 600 students from preschool to age 21, our professional staff provided direct and/or classroom-based therapy, including physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT) and/or speech-language (SL) services. More than 100 students received OT; 300+ got PT; and 180 received SL services.
• Assistive Technology (AT): AT provided
direct services to 62 students from 24 districts, as well as 20 adult clients from 2 statewide Bureau of Rehabilitative Services (BRS) adult services programs. AT provides technology tools and resources to lessen educational challenges that hinder students’ ability to access, participate in and advance in school. The AT team delivered 60 trainings to a total of 465 participants on a range of AT topics. Additionally, the AT team provided 14 device demonstrations to 33 participants.
AGENCY GOAL 1
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I have been impressed with the coordination among all team members at EASTCONN’s Regional Transition Services ... – Melissa Garbutt, parent of RTS student
presented outcomes from technical assistance, coaching and training at regional and national conferences as invited speakers. Members of PBCS continued to publish findings in prestigious peerreviewed journals.
• Regional Transition Services (RTS) for Young Adults: Located on the campus of QMC/
QVCC, the RTS program served 12 young adults, ages 18-21, with a broad range of disabilities, from 6 districts. RTS services offered socially appropriate settings, college supports and hands-on work experience with age-related peers. We anticipate 4 students exiting in June to pursue work or seek independent employment.
• Woodstock Academy Cooperative:
The collaborative program between Woodstock Academy and EASTCONN provided services to facilitate student growth in educational areas and transition planning for 10 high-school-age students from 4 districts (a 60% increase in enrollment) who have intellectual and other significant developmental disabilities.
• Psychological & Behavioral Consultation Services (PBCS): Our neuropsychological
assessment, behavioral consultation and professional development services were accessed by 20 districts, benefiting more than 3,000 students. Neuropsychological assessment and consultation services have continued to develop in response to requests from LEAs across our region with more than 50 assessments completed for each of the last 2 years. We also provided comprehensive indistrict supports for students with autism spectrum Woodstock Academy Cooperative continued its partnership disorders. We delivered 30+ PD sessions in 18 with EASTCONN to provide a unified and enriching districts for a variety of special education staff and academic environment for students with disabilities. 8.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 1
Our summer programs provide unemployed youths with summer jobs and a chance to develop their employment skills.
Regional After-School & Enrichment Programs Community Arts Connection After-School Program
Provided school literacy, tutoring and arts programs for more than 70 students in a small-city public housing complex, where they enjoyed weekly arts-themed programming; read books written by visiting guest artists; and participated in a wide variety of engaging arts, physical activities, academic supports and family field trips.
Interdistrict Grant Program
Received Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) Interdistrict Grant funding for EASTCONN’s “America, the Melting Pot” program to serve 500 students in grades 7 and 8 in Brooklyn, Hartford, Plainfield, Putnam and Windham. This enriched learning program is intended to improve students’ understanding and appreciation of diversity and increase their academic success.
Regional Education, Employment & Training Programs For In-School & Out-Of-School Youth LEAP: An Alternative High School
In response to the needs of our member LEAs, EASTCONN introduced LEAP (Learners Empowered to Achieve their Potential), an alternative high school for non-traditional learners who are over-aged and undercredited, relative to their graduation requirements. Intended for students who have completed at least one year of high school, and who demonstrate a commitment to earning their diploma, the LEAP program provides a personalized, student-centered 9.
learning environment that focuses on academics, skills-building, community service, paid internships and career readiness. The school will open its doors in fall 2019.
COOL Directions Program for In-School Youth
60 youth from 10 high schools received services throughout their junior and senior years and in their first year as post-graduates from this program, funded by the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB). EASTCONN collaborated with New London Youth Affairs and Norwich Human Services to provide students with a continuum of services, including assistance with post-high-school education and jobs. As a result, 58 graduated from high school or received their GED; and 1 year after high school, 71% of exited youth were employed, enrolled in the military, or attending a post-secondary school.
Summer Youth Employment
Our EWIB-funded regional employment and training programs for 315 youth involved numerous partners, including New London Youth Affairs and Norwich Human Services. Foundations, state funding, and federal funding supported a vibrant summer program. Of note: 97% of in-school youth returned to high school, obtained jobs or enrolled in post-secondary school after completing the program.
500
Students attended our Interdistrict Grant Program
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
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You’re the only person that’s stopping you from fulfilling your goals and dreams; get out there and achieve them. Don’t let life drag you down; you’re stronger than you think. – Evan D., EASTCONN GED Graduate, Class of 2018
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Adult Learners & Their Families
The Adult Education Programs division served a total of 2,911 adults, including 606 who attended free classes in high school credentialing, Englishas-a-Second-Language (ESL), American Citizenship preparation, life/basic skills instruction and employment/college transition support. A total of 531 EASTCONN-region adult residents participated in our Adult Community Education classes and trip events.
American Citizenship Preparation
English Learners who aren’t yet U.S. citizens benefit from our integrating Immigration and Naturalization Service test preparation into their EL classes.
AGENCY GOAL 1
2,911
Adults & youths participated in Adult Education Programs
Multi-Generational Learning Initiative
Provided multi-generational, regional programming with GED, Spanish GED, and/or ESL instruction for parents, including child care, through partnerships with Head Start, Early Head Start, Family Resource Centers, Windham Public Schools, other member districts and UConn. Partnerships in this familycentered model enabled parents and children to access essential educational services, while parents also developed work-readiness skills. This initiative also created opportunities for the delivery of services like transportation and credentialing classes.
Windham Parent Partnership
An evening ESL multi-generation initiative supported through a Program Enhancement Project (PEP) grant and Windham Head Start, enabled us to offer instruction to 13 higher-level English Learner adult students in need of childcare. While parents increased their English language skills, their children received high-quality childcare, supervised by Head Start staff and ECSU volunteers.
High School Credential
A total of 370 adult students pursued their high school diploma by participating in one of EASTCONN’s 3 high school credentialing options, which are designed to match students’ unique needs, life experiences and educational goals. Across all 3 programs, 75 are expected to graduate in June 2019.
English Learners (EL)
The English Learner population continued to increase across our region this year; 235 students took our English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) classes, and 75% of EL students improved their English reading and listening skills. EASTCONN Adult Education holds a graduation ceremony every June, attended by newly minted high school graduates.
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2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 1 – Integrated Education & Training: Through this manufacturing academy, 4 students are receiving vocational training and earning their GEDs, as well as a nationally recognized manufacturing certificate.
Workforce Development Basic Skills Education
Using federal funding through EWIB, EASTCONN provided basic skills education to help adult jobseekers develop and find new work skills and career paths. Highlights:
• Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG): 112 adults received person-centered Grants from generous funders provide supplementary funding for our Adult Education programs.
Employment & Vocational Training EASTCONN continued to be the largest provider of employment and training programs for economically disadvantaged adults in northeastern Connecticut through the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB). EASTCONN’s American Job Center services enabled 233 unemployed and underemployed, economically disadvantaged adults to obtain the educational and vocational skills and credentials needed to access further training and/ or get better-paying jobs. Through AJC services, 409 individuals were able to find jobs. Highlights:
• Program Enhancement Project (PEP) Grants: The CSDE awarded EASTCONN 7
competitive PEP grants, totaling $258,000. Through partnerships with EWIB, Quinebaug Valley Community College (QVCC), school districts, Family Resource Centers, libraries, and other non-profit and social service agencies, these funds provided specialized services to 150+ eligible students. PEP programs of note:
– Transition to Post-Secondary Opportunities: 15 students enrolled in a Credit Diploma Program (CDP) class held on the QVCC Danielson campus in order to bridge the transition from Adult Education to the community college experience. 11.
case management, support services and job development through HPOG. We piloted a Health Career Pipeline Initiative, involving a soft careerskills workshop.
• Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative (MPI):
16 adults attended basic skills boot camps in preparation for the Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative and HPOG. EASTCONN provided in-kind case management support to the MPI boot camp participants, connecting them with wrap-around services.
Walmart Grant Underwrites EASTCONN Customer Service Academy
Walmart awarded EASTCONN Adult Education programs a $477,595 grant to serve 150 adults who need short-term career training and basic reading skills. One of only 9 Walmart-funded programs nationwide, the Customer Service Academy provides basic-skills boot camps, integrated computer instruction and in-person training for Customer Service credentials, as well as access to Ed2Go online Sales and Marketing classes. The Academy offers its participants access to paid, post-graduation internships and wrap-around supports like stipends for transportation and child care.
150
Adults will benefit from a new Walmart training grant in NE CT
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
Testimonials from across our divisions… “To me, the most valuable part of my experience is that I learned there is nothing I can’t do.” – Elva P., adult Spanish GED student “In general, the program has helped me to develop my personal skills and feel more confident understanding a new language.” – Ana A., English-as-a-Second-Language student
“I do not know where we would be without the invaluable services early intervention has provided. I would whole-heartedly recommend EASTCONN Birth-to-Three to anyone with a child in need of services. Thank you so much for changing our lives!” – Annie and Patrick Hill, parents “We have seen such improvement with our 7-month- old and are very grateful for this program.” – Amber and Jon Mas, parents “ACT is not only a school but a community that embodies all of the things I want my child to see and learn about the world.” – Heather Nelson, parent of an ACT student “QMC is a special place where teens have the freedom and the opportunity to explore their dreams, achieve their goals, and find their voice. It is an honor and a blessing to be a member of this learning community.” – Jen E. Wilkosz, Quinebaug Middle College art teacher
“EASTCONN drivers have developed a rapport with students and their parents which supports the overall experience of specialized transportation. They have ready solutions to transportation concerns and seek rideshare opportunities, both in district and out-of-district to save Coventry on overall transportation costs. We thank EASTCONN for our continued partnership.” – Beth Giller, Ed.D., Director of Pupil and Staff Support Services, Coventry Public Schools
“EASTCONN After-School Program at Windham Heights has been an added bonus to my family. [The] program has given them access and great opportunities, such as public speaking [and] building skills, such as reading and understanding.” – Olga Cabrera, parent
“[EASTCONN has] worked with us to make [the] online application process accessible to all families through walk-in computer centers and guiding parents in English or Spanish to ensure everyone can apply. The improved efficiency has led the district to expand our relationship with EASTCONN beyond the [magnet] lottery.” – Dr. Patricia Garcia, Superintendent, Windham Public Schools 12.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 2
AGENCY GOAL
Our Quinebaug Middle College students use well-equipped science laboratories through a partnership with QVCC in Danielson.
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To engage in strategic collaborations that result in positive outcomes for learners.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 2
2018-2019 HIGHLIGHTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS Member District Partnerships & Collaborations Advocacy for Equitable State Funding
Hosted by EASTCONN, the URSA/NASA council of superintendents representing EASTCONN-region school districts collaborated to document cross-district partnerships and collaborations that demonstrate the many successful ways that schools and municipalities are sharing resources, staff and operational strategies. The research and data collection was led by superintendents, who have joined EASTCONN’s efforts to advocate at both the state legislature and with state education leaders for a more balanced approach to funding the Quiet Corner’s small towns and school districts, particularly as legislators are calling for increased regional partnerships among schools and towns to save the state money.
Cooperative Purchasing
While all 36 EASTCONN-member districts have access to our regional purchasing cooperative, our membership ranks have grown to more than 80 registered users this year. Collectively, members spent millions on discounted products through the Cooperative, with savings on items like custodial and cafeteria supplies, fuel, office supplies, copiers and food. For example, this year Cooperative members spent over $10 million on discounted food and cafeteria supplies. We anticipate that the Cooperative’s use of reverse auctioning will continue to grow.
Eastern Connecticut Health Insurance Program (ECHIP)
This regional health insurance collaborative of 4 municipalities, 4 school districts and EASTCONN produced an average savings of 5.7% for all ECHIP members, in a year with increases in regional medical and pharmacy costs averaging 12%.
Our Technology staff brings on-site IT supports and training into school districts, saving them time and money.
Regional Fingerprinting
A total of 1,000 job-seekers used HR’s fingerprinting services at our Hampton office, including applicants for district jobs, candidates in university-based teacher preparation programs and those seeking private employment.
Back Office Support
Our Finance Department continued to offer businessoffice staffing and support for school districts. This year, we provided a member district with budget management, accounts payable and payroll functions, resulting in enhanced services and district savings.
Information Technology (IT) Support for Member Districts & Municipalities
Provided on-site IT support to 7 school districts and municipalities, assisting them with network infrastructure and wireless projects. We offered a diverse range of affordable technology expertise that benefited smaller districts that either didn’t have IT staff, or that required specialized IT skills.
80
The number of members who access EASTCONN’s Cooperative Purchasing 14.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 2
Playing with homemade playdough generates multiple opportunities for executive function growth, as youngsters in our Head Start classrooms work with others, get creative, develop their verbal skills, and make connections with their teachers.
Truancy & Residency Services
This group partnered with member districts, the judicial system, students and their parents to implement strategies to address attendance and truancy issues. Provided truancy, residency and investigative services in 13 EASTCONN districts and supervised 2 full-time professionals and a part-time staffer to investigate 150 cases, resulting in district savings and improved student attendance. When requested, investigators participated in district student attendance meetings.
“
I like that I learn a lot of new things in each of my classes and that they are small, so I can have a lot of one-on-one time. – Harli Kettle, student, high school credential program
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Towns continued their membership in EASTCONN’s Adult Education Consortium to bring residents a wide range of free, basic adult education services
Adult Education Consortium
EASTCONN’s long-standing Adult Education Consortium of 21 northeastern Connecticut towns continued to offer residents a wide range of free, basic adult education services, ensuring that Consortium members were able to provide an extensive range of education programming that they could not afford to provide individually. This year, we were able to serve 2,911 individuals in programs throughout eastern Connecticut, including 370 in our high school credential programs and 235 in our ESL classes, 63 of whom participated in our community-partnership classes. Across our region, and in collaboration with 240 local businesses, we also served 60 In-School Youth, and 84 Out-of-School Youth with educational and work opportunities, as well as job-skills training. Locations for all Adult Programs ranged from local high schools, community centers and online platforms to our regional Community Learning Centers, which are co-located in partnership with EWIB’s American Job Centers in Danielson and Willimantic.
School Readiness
Our Early Childhood staff acted as School Readiness liaisons and monitors in 11 communities this year, working with School Readiness Councils to help communities meet Connecticut’s School Readiness Grant requirements. Our staff ensured that town grant submissions met the highest standards, and were submitted in a timely manner to the state Office of Early Childhood.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE Collaborative Clinical Day Treatment (CDT)
In partnership with member districts across the EASTCONN region, we continued to build our district-based, regional Clinical Day Treatment programs to accommodate the needs of 110 K-12 students with significant social, emotional and behavioral issues, from 28 districts. By locating our CDT programs in the western (Danielson) and eastern (Columbia) tiers of the EASTCONN region, we made it easier for students to join their non-disabled hometown peers in activities and community events.
Woodstock Academy Cooperative
This collaborative program between Woodstock Academy and EASTCONN provided services to facilitate student growth in educational areas and transition planning for 10 high-school-age students from 4 districts who have intellectual and other significant developmental disabilities. All students participated in regular education and unified courses, aimed at increasing their independent living skills and providing vocational and career experiences.
Regional Professional Development Consortia
We continued to facilitate regional consortia, providing member districts with access to funding they would not otherwise be eligible to receive and/or resources that they would not otherwise be able to afford. Among them:
• Perkins Consortium: 7 districts gained access
to $88,000 in federal PD funds, as we helped educators define goals for their Continuous Improvement Plans to strengthen their Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.
• Title III Consortium for English Learners: 23 districts participated in
our regional Consortium, providing $42,000 in extra resources and professional development to teachers of English learners; provided 3 workshops for 40 participants on instruction and resources for English Learner (EL) students.
AGENCY GOAL 2
110
Students, grades K-12, who attended our 2 Clinical Day Treatment programs, hailed from 28 school districts
Regional Community Collaborations Employment & Training
• Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB): Worked in close
collaboration with EWIB in the design and delivery of programs for both youth and adults who were economically disadvantaged and in need of vocational training and/or employment. Regionally, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act program (Adult/Dislocated Worker, In-School Youth, and Out-of School Youth) served 1,021 people; 308 have found jobs. EASTCONN also served Jobs First Employment Services (JFES) customers referred from the Department of Social Services, and helped 338 JFES-program adults build valuable employability skills. Specialized Human Services Navigators referred 250 adult job-seekers to community programs, 34 of them through Ticket to Work, a provision of the Social Security Administration.
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I am extremely grateful for the assistance of the American Job Center. I am now working full time and I am able to support my children and myself. – Amber L., American Job Center client
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2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
AGENCY GOAL 2
Funded by the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB), our Summer Youth Employment Program partners with area businesses to provide young adults with valuable job experience, and skills they will need to succeed at work.
• Community-Based Work Readiness Partnerships: Students over the age of 14 in
our Clinical Day Treatment Programs engaged in a variety of vocational activities that included building job skills, vocational tours and internships for high school credit; 43 students participated in paid community-based internships. We maintained relationships with more than 40 local and national employers, including Subway, Walmart, Carelot Children’s Center, Petco, Bousquet’s Appliances, WAIM, Windham Senior Center, Dunkin’ Donuts and Bowes Tires.
• Summer Youth Employment Program:
Our EWIB-funded regional employment and training program for 315 youth involved numerous collaborators, including New London Youth Affairs and Norwich Human Services. Of note: 97 % of the participants achieved an attendance rate of 80 % or better; and 97% of youth participants returned to high school, obtained jobs or enrolled in postsecondary school after completing the program.
Advocating for Mental Health Resources with N.E.A.R.
EASTCONN staff continued to participate in North East Connecticut Advocating for Resources (N.E.A.R.), a regional collaboration of families, schools, municipalities, state agencies and health and human services providers to advocate for resources in Hartford, and bring awareness to the shortage of mental health providers and services in northeastern Connecticut’s Quiet Corner.
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100
Parents, students and teachers participated in a Family Night
Community-Based Advocacy Partnership
EASTCONN’s Adult Programs collaborated with the Non-profit Alliance of Northeastern Connecticut (NANC), and donated EASTCONN buses so that state legislators and regional funding organizations could tour Willimantic’s numerous social services, nonprofits and public agencies, including EASTCONN. The tour familiarized legislators and funders with the sites, services and financial needs of local non-profit organizations.
Family Support & Education Family Nights at Schools Adult Programs
partnered with Plainfield Memorial School to provide a collaborative, family-friendly educational event, “Traveling Around the World with Reading” About 100 parents, students and teachers participated.
Social/Emotional Health The Connecticut Head
Start Collaboration Office funded our Early Childhood division’s statewide “Mind in the Making Institute” to train 8 Head Start programs and their collaborative partners on the Seven Essential Life Skills related to Executive Function, so that children and families will have better outcomes. An additional 12 community members were trained in regional sessions, including Family Resource Center staff.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE Windham Multi-Generational Learning Initiative Through partnerships with Head
Start, Early Head Start, Family Resource Centers, Windham Public Schools, other member districts and UConn, our Adult Programs group provided multi-generational, regional programming with GED, Spanish GED, and/or ESL instruction for parents, including child care. Partnerships in this familycentered model enabled parents and children to access essential educational services like credentialing classes and transportation, while parents also developed work-readiness skills.
Community Arts Connection After-School Program This popular EASTCONN
after-school program provided literacy and arts programming to 70 students in grades K-8, at Windham Heights, a large housing complex outside Willimantic. In collaboration with VESTA, which administers the complex, EASTCONN coordinates UConn and ECSU student tutors, who help youngsters do homework and improve their academic skills, while engaging them, and their families, in an enriching arts curriculum. A satellite library is located in the complex, thanks to a partnership with the Willimantic Public Library. This year, EASTCONN’s Mobile STEM Lab visited Windham Heights to share the wonders of science.
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AGENCY GOAL 2
Oh behalf of VESTA Corporation and the entire community at Windham Heights Apartments, we are profoundly grateful to have EASTCONN as a neighbor. We cannot thank you enough. – Mercedes Arroyo, Resident Service Coordinator & Cheryl Colbath, Area Manager
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Regional Early Childhood Planning
In collaboration with 6 member districts, our Early Childhood staff served on the Northeast Early Childhood Council Leadership Team, supported the Regional School Readiness Council and met regularly with Family Resource Centers. A regional approach to setting goals for developmental screenings, vision and hearing screenings, mental health and school readiness resulted in opportunities for communities to address issues that impact young children.
Community Education Programs
Adult Programs enrolled 531 adult participants and family members in dozens of non-credit enrichment classes that cover a broad spectrum of educational subjects, as well as job-skills training opportunities and out-of-region bus trips and travel opportunities.
Early Childhood Roundtable
Early Childhood staff continued to facilitate these networking meetings for administrators of public-school preschools to keep them informed about state and national policies and best practices, while also stimulating discussions about subjects of local interest, sharing resources and professional learning options.
EASTCONN’s Mobile STEM Laboratory visited Windham Heights to bring the wonder of science to youngsters.
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EASTCONN’s Transportation Department partners with 16 districts to transport 176 students daily to 3 area magnet schools.
176
Students transported daily to the region’s 3 public magnet schools
Pilot Study with Connecticut Children’s Medical Center
EASTCONN Early Head Start will participate in Bridging the Gap, a pilot study to provide autism screenings in Early Head Start, which is expected to lead to earlier referrals for Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (MCHAT) evaluations. We have seen an increase in children on the autism spectrum entering Head Start and we recognize the need for early screenings and referrals.
Regional Magnet School Transportation
Collaborated with 16 district partners to transport 176 students daily to the region’s 3 public magnet schools, including EASTCONN’s Arts at the Capitol Theater (ACT), Quinebaug Middle College (QMC), and Windham’s STEM Academy.
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Professionals who always listen to understand, resolve problems and teach ... are typically hard to find. You need look no further than EASTCONN. – Elizabeth McCaffery, New London Public Schools
RESC & RESC Alliance Partnerships Connecticut Documentation & Observations Teaching System (CT DOTS) EASTCONN’s Early Childhood Initiatives and Technology staff collaborated with the state OEC and the RESC Alliance to continue piloting the CT DOTS assessment system, which enables providers to make common observations in an electronic format. The system has created a process for monitoring critical steps in children’s developmental progress, defined by the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS).
Accreditation Quality Improvement System (AQIS)
EASTCONN holds the grant for the RESC Alliance, with which we must collectively provide supports to 45 programs seeking accreditation or re-accreditation through AQIS; each RESC provided training, selfstudy and portfolio supports and on-site supports to programs pursuing National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation.
Department of Health (DPH)/ Nutrition & Exercise
Our Early Childhood Initiatives and the RESC Alliance will provide Nutrition and Physical Activity SelfAssessment for Child Care technical assistance on nutrition and exercise for up to 50 programs statewide, in support of the Connecticut DPH’s grant from the Centers for Disease Control.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
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Early Childhood Training for Principals
The RESC Alliance Early Childhood group was engaged by the state Department of Education to develop and deliver trainings for principals who are new to early childhood settings and para-training for those working in inclusive settings.
Teacher Education And Mentoring (TEAM) Collaborative
Managed the EASTCONN-built-and-maintained online platform for the TEAM Collaborative, currently being used by 3,270 beginning teachers, 2,240 Mentors, 1,660 Reviewers and District Facilitators statewide. After state funding for TEAM activities was eliminated last fall, EASTCONN led a statewide initiative involving the RESC Alliance that enabled 190 districts/schools to enroll in this interactive induction, support and retention program for Connecticut’s new teachers.
Virtual High School (VHS)
The RESC Alliance maintained its statewide VHS partnership, offering online instructional opportunities to districts across the state. Coordinated the delivery of online VHS courses to 3 participating districts, providing their students with access to more than 200 semester-long and full-year online courses, in addition to AP courses.
Foundational Skills for Evaluators of Teachers
Continued our collaboration with RESC Alliance partners to deliver focused professional development for school administrators. Continued to use and refine our online platform that accommodated more than 115 registrants statewide, including scoring and feedback for participants. All components of the teacher evaluation guidelines were addressed and 95% of participants demonstrated proficiency in conducting observations.
RESC Alliance Conference
Collaboratively developed, promoted and implemented an event that attracted over 200 educators from across the state. Keynote sessions led by Ken O’Connor and Karin Hess were followed by
3,270
Beginning teachers are using EASTCONN’s TEAM online platform
district presentations on standards-based assessment and innovative approaches to measuring student academic progress. A follow-up “unconference” event is planned for May 2019, titled “Moving from a Culture of Grading to a Culture of Learning.”
Student Information Systems (SIS) Support
In collaboration with LEARN, EASTCONN continued to facilitate a PowerSchool users group in eastern Connecticut, serving 30+ districts and nearly 100 school personnel across the region. Among other services, provided on-site consultation and professional development for 7 Consortium districts, 6 regional districts and 1 out-of-state district for 2 SIS products.
Minority Teacher Recruitment (MTR)
We continued to work with our RESC Alliance partners to recruit, support and retain a racially, ethnically and culturally diverse workforce of teachers and administrators for schools across Connecticut.
State-Level Partnerships & Statewide Services Connecticut Department of Children & Families (DCF)
EASTCONN staff from Early Childhood Initiatives and Birth-to-Three worked closely with DCF to coordinate support for our region’s most vulnerable families, and establish joint goals for children under our mutual care. Staff attended quarterly DCF state-level Head Start meetings and collaborated with the liaison for DCF Birth-to-Five.
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An annual Transition Resource Fair for EASTCONN-enrolled high school and post-high school students provides them with introductions to area businesses and career opportunities that they might not have considered.
Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitative Services (BRS)
Our Assistive Technology (AT) team provided BRS adult programs with assessment services and support for 20 adult clients with disabilities who are seeking to obtain or maintain employment, and continued to provide assistance to persons with hearing and visual impairments.
Connecticut Department of Mental Health Services (DMHAS)
Our ongoing, successful collaboration with DMHAS provided educational support and oversight for more than 150 students who were admitted to 5 mental health facilities in the region. We assisted DMHAS in providing a continuum of educational services, while addressing students’ mental health needs.
Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS)
In close coordination with DDS, our Regional Transition Services (RTS) addressed the needs of RTS students who are transitioning to adult services. The RTS program serves young adults with a broad range of disabilities. We are hosting our second annual Transition Resource Fair where students with disabilities can gain experience in job search strategies and connecting with adult agency providers.
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Statewide Data Systems Support eObserve Observation Management
Our Technology Solutions staff developed eObserve, a universal platform for observation-based assessment of child development milestones. This system will ultimately support the Connecticut Documentation and Observation for Teaching System (CT DOTS) and the Connecticut Preschool Assessment Framework (CTPAF) by improving data-collection and reporting.
Magnet School Lottery Management Tool
EASTCONN programmers custom-designed a process and related enrollment lottery software portal to support online applications for a member district’s magnet school and dual-language program. The EASTCONN process and software assured accurate data-collection and complete equity and fairness in the lottery process, used by 675 students and their families.
Teacher of the Year (TOY) Applications
Technology Solutions, in collaboration with the Connecticut TOY Council and the CSDE, continued to provide a statewide online system for the submission and scoring of Connecticut’s TOY applications. Last year, the TOY system handled 88 applications and 723 scoring sessions, eliminating postage and paper, saving money and time.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
700
Preschool classrooms used the CTPAF reporting tool to track student progress
Connecticut Preschool Assessment Framework (CTPAF) Improvements
Technology staff maintained and supported the system of reporting tools for the EASTCONN-developed CTPAF system, used in 700 preschool classrooms to support 14,000 students in communities statewide. The tools provided access to detailed student and school reports.
Kindergarten Inventory
Continued to provide data management and system support for the CSDE’s annual online Kindergarten Inventory, in use in all Connecticut school districts. Twice a year, the Inventory provides the CSDE with critical developmental progress data for nearly 35,000 kindergarten students statewide.
Data Collection & Research Services
Technology Solutions provided technical and logistical support for survey delivery; provided analyses; and developed reports for resulting data. Surveys included:
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Connecticut School Health Profile:
On behalf of the CSDE, EASTCONN managed a statewide survey of 300+ schools on health education policies and practices, and submitted results to the CDC.
• Lighthouse Survey: In partnership with CSDE
and the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE), EASTCONN managed the online Lighthouse survey, which measures beliefs around student achievement potential in high-achieving and low-achieving districts and supports training for boards of education.
• School Climate Surveys: Provided 8 districts
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Higher Education Partnerships & Collaborations UConn Collaborations
• Early Childhood: Our Head Start staff continued its collaboration with UConn’s School of Human Development and Family Studies, together measuring the achievement of family-defined goals and stress factors. Results helped guide interventions, program improvements and staff professional development.
• Psychological & Behavioral Support:
Continued to support doctoral students in collaboration with UConn’s NEAG School of Education, enabling students, with supervision, to provide academic and behavioral consultation and coaching to school-based staff to improve outcomes for students. A partnership with the UConn Collaboratory on School and Child Health focused on trauma-informed service delivery in schools and fostering trauma-sensitive practices for students, families and staff.
College Opportunities For EASTCONN Students
• Quinebaug Middle College (QMC) Magnet High School: In 2018-19, more QMC
students than ever enrolled in free college courses; 104 took 139 classes at QVCC and achieved a passing rate of 94%. After the first semester, QMC students out-performed QVCC students with a cumulative GPA average of 3.24. Student enrollment was high (an average of 22 per course) in our UConn Early College Experience courses.
• Regional Transition Services (RTS): Located on QVCC’s Danielson campus, our RTS program enables 5th-year students to take a college class each semester that helps them develop the selfadvocacy skills needed to take college classes and seek learning accommodations.
throughout the state with a collection of student, parent and staff perceptions on issues related to their school environment.
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Building positive relationships between teachers and young students sparks trust and a love of learning at an early age.
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To enhance the knowledge and skills of educators and the whole community, so they can effect change and facilitate positive outcomes for learners.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
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2018-2019 HIGHLIGHTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS Professional Learning Support In-District Support & Training
EASTCONN staff provided 235 days of on-site, embedded professional development and support in 18 districts, for more than 750 educators. We implemented customized, local professional learning plans for a variety of education reform initiatives, including performance task development, differentiated instruction, applications of Connecticut Core, social studies and science standards.
Mathematics Learning
Provided district-embedded professional learning, modeling and coaching to 18 math educators in 3 districts, addressing Connecticut Core Standards for mathematics, and readiness for the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) assessment. A 4-day Math Recovery course in summer 2018 provided an overview of that model for 27 math educators from 17 districts.
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
Through a range of services, we supported 7 districts and 60 educators as they continued to adopt the NGSS. Activities included sessions on NGSS curriculum alignment, rubric development, assessments and administrator support.
Jason Learning Science PD
Again this year, we collaborated with Jason Learning to offer professional development sessions that addressed the “World of Waves: Waves and their Applications.” The partnership enables EASTCONNarea educators to attend for free, and to get “takeaway” resources. Over 25 teachers participated.
KnowledgeWorks
New this year, a partnership with the innovative education organization, KnowledgeWorks, will enable EASTCONN magnet schools and 6 area districts to engage in a multi-year partnership to advance a personalized, competency-based model for learning.
Science teachers attended the popular Jason Learning Science workshop,“World of Waves,” at EASTCONN.
Based on the review of a needs assessment in the 10 areas of conditions for readiness, a series of collaborative learning sessions and individual school coaching will be provided.
Minority Teacher Recruitment (MTR)
EASTCONN continued its work on the MTR program in collaboration with Connecticut’s RESC Alliance, whose goals are to recruit, hire, develop, support and retain a racially, ethnically and culturally diverse teaching and administrative workforce for Connecticut schools. EASTCONN is a member of the RESC Alliance.
750
Educators in 18 school districts received embedded, on-site professional development this year 24.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
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Educators & community members learned more about the importance of “Resilience” after viewing the documentary
EASTCONN’S Center for Educational Leadership (CEL)
The CEL continued to provide deeply reflective professional learning experiences for educators as they examined the characteristics of leadership in the world today. Through research-based professional learning approaches and experiential activities that are dedicated to evidence-based practices and personal reflection, the CEL supports administrators and district leaders as they consider and analyze a range of leadership options, actions and instructional methods.
• Leadership Coaching: Using the Connecticut Leadership Framework to guide discussions, the CEL provided customized coaching to 11 school and district leaders, addressing the unique needs and challenges in their schools.
AGENCY GOAL 3 • Strategic Advancement Planning:
Facilitated strategic planning in 2 districts, leading to customized action plans for district advancement. Also led focus groups that included 60+ district stakeholders from across the region and generated 3-year advancement plans for both districts.
• Focusing Community Conversations on Resilience: Using the documentary “Resilience”
as a starting point, CEL staff led community conversations to examine the impact of adverse childhood experiences and trauma on student learning. After showing “Resilience” in several EASTCONN-region communities, CEL staff facilitated conversations with 90 educators, parents and community service professionals, who discussed strategies for fostering social-emotional learning in children and adults.
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The partnership between EASTCONN and CCSU brings CCSU’s highly regarded program into the Quiet Corner’s back yard. – Dr. Sheldon Watson, CCSU professor
CCSU/EASTCONN Sixth-Year Cohort Collaboration
Our Center for Educational Leadership brings customized coaching and professional learning opportunities to schools and administrators across the EASTCONN region.
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EASTCONN Educational Services and Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) continued their collaboration to offer a second cohort of the CCSU Sixth-Year Certificate in Educational Leadership. Currently, 11 Sixth-Year cohort members are working both online and in person with CCSU faculty and EASTCONN professional staff to prepare for their Intermediate Administrator 092 certificate. The program is delivered at EASTCONN’s Hampton Conference Center, creating easier regional access to the highly regarded CCSU program, eliminating long-distance travel to CCSU’s New Britain campus. Program content is customized to meet the needs of future administrators in small, resource-strapped school districts.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
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Statewide Professional Learning & Support EASTCONN collaborated with its 5 sister RESCs (ACES, C.E.S., CREC, EdAdvance and LEARN) to organize, host and present the Second Annual RESC Alliance Thinkshop, which drew 225 educators from across Connecticut to a Meriden conference site. Attendees considered “Rethinking How We Measure Student Growth,” with presenters Karin Hess (competency-based assessment) and Ken O’Connor (standards-based grading).
Educator Evaluation Support & Training Foundational Skills for Evaluators of Teachers
Nine (9) educational leaders from 7 districts attended this 3-day series, which provided them with details of the educator evaluation and support system and helped them make connections to their own district plans. More than 97% of participants demonstrated proficiency in conducting observations.
Professional Development & Evaluation Committee (PDEC)
EASTCONN’s Center for Educational Leadership (CEL) continued to support the PDEC in 3 districts, contributing to increased coherence between teacher evaluation, student performance data and professional development, leading to better alignment of strategic initiatives across the districts.
Teacher Education And Mentoring (TEAM) Collaborative
We continued to manage the EASTCONN-builtand-maintained online platform for the TEAM Collaborative, used this year by 3,270 beginning teachers, 2,240 Mentors, 1,660 Reviewers and District Facilitators statewide. With the loss of state funding last year, EASTCONN led a statewide initiative involving the RESC Alliance that has enabled 190 districts and schools to enroll their beginning teachers in this important induction, support and retention program for educators across Connecticut.
The 6th Annual Infant/Toddler Conference shared important teaching and learning insights with attendees.
Statewide Early Childhood Professional Development Our Early Childhood Initiatives staff supported numerous regional and statewide early childhood initiatives this year, delivering workshops and coaching on a broad range of topics, including instructional strategies; Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS); Connecticut Documentation and Observations Teaching System (CT DOTS); social-emotional competence; collaboration and team-building; Executive Function; standardsbased IEPs, and more. Some highlights:
6th Annual Infant/Toddler Conference
EASTCONN’s Early Head Start and Birth-to-Three programs co-sponsored the statewide, 6th Annual Infant/Toddler Conference, held at EASTCONN’s Conference Center in Hampton and attended by 110 early childhood educators, mental health professionals, administrators and state officials. Presenters and breakout sessions concentrated on regulatory disorders and their impact on behavior in infants/toddlers. Presenters used research-based knowledge of infant/toddler development to help providers better understand, reframe and guide behavior, as they also used family input to gain a more complete picture of a child’s behavior. 26.
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In collaboration with Connecticut’s Head Start and Office of Early Childhood, EASTCONN educators are fanning out across the state to train Head Start programs and their partners on the “Mind in the Making” Seven Essential Life Skills to create better outcomes for educators as well as students.
Quality Rating & Improvement System (QRIS)
Staff revised QRIS, which is the tool used by programs and quality raters; it will be used in Connecticut’s early childhood programs. We added evidence and developed rubrics to be used during the rating process. The RESC Alliance is the only entity in Connecticut that receives funding to support NAEYC accreditation.
Coaching Future Pedagogical Leaders
Collaborated with Connecticut’s Office of Early Childhood (CT OEC), and leveraged resources through the Federal Preschool Development Grant to coordinate training expertise from the McCormick Institute for 100 participants across the state for “The Leader in You: Embracing Your Role as a Pedagogical Lead.”
“Mind in the Making”
The Connecticut Head Start Collaboration Office funded Early Childhood Initiatives’ statewide “Mind in the Making Institute” to train 8 Head Start programs and their collaborative partners on the Seven Essential Life Skills related to executive function, to generate better outcomes for children. An additional 12 community members were trained in regional sessions, including Family Resource Center staff.
1,280 27.
Children got help with their executive function and social skills
Improving Executive Function, Language, Literacy & Math Skills
As a result of the trainings and on-site coaching we delivered to educators and providers in 80 classrooms in 11 communities, 1,280 children received focused attention aimed at increasing their executive function and social skills. We continued to see increases in executive function, social skills, literacy and math in our collaborative programs, where integrated curricular approaches and strategies are being used to support positive child outcomes.
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[EASTCONN early childhood staff] have a very professional way of approaching adult learners. They have been able to successfully motivate our staff. – John Briody, Andover Public Schools
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Professional Learning for Community-Based Early-Care Providers
Provided 27 different workshops for 788 community-based, early-care providers, on a wide variety of content and pedagogical topics. Attendees included preK and kindergarten teachers, paraprofessionals, teacher assistants, curriculum coordinators, early childhood administrators, infant/ toddler teachers and paraprofessionals, Birth-to-Three providers, program administrators and related services staff, as well as social workers, DMHAS and DCF workers.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE
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Also of note this year, EASTCONN Early Childhood Initiatives staff: • Continued to support and collaborate on the development of the Connecticut Core Knowledge & Competency (CT CKCs) Framework, an online self-assessment tool for professionals working with young children and their families. The framework provides a foundation for PD and quality improvement efforts. • Continued to roll out the EASTCONN-developed, preschool-student assessment system, Connecticut Documentation & Observation Teaching System (CT DOTS), which gives early childhood providers and teachers an improved, common format to monitor, analyze and report child observations.
Playful Learning Pilot
With a focus on the cognitive benefits of play, 19 schools used Purposeful Play and executive function methodologies to inform PD for early care/teaching professionals, and other materials used in preschool through 1st grade. With funding from the Lego Community Foundation, teachers implemented Purposeful Play aligned with standards, including science and social studies, in their classrooms, positively impacting more than 1,000 youngsters.
120
Early childhood educators benefited from the Preschool Development Grant
Other Regional Professional Learning Initiatives EASTCONN Mobile STEM Lab
The EASTCONN Mobile STEM Lab provides authentic learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) for K-12 teachers and students. This year, 5 organizations and more than 175 students benefited from the opportunity to work on our mobile laboratory, which houses state-of-the-art scientific tools like on-board microscopes, an electron microscope, computer screens, iPads, and more.
Preschool Development Grant
EASTCONN Early Childhood Initiatives staff collaborated with the state Office of Early Childhood (OEC) and the Early Childhood Consultation Partnership (ECCP) to develop and coordinate statewide PD and coaching services for 13 communities involved in the Preschool Development Grant, reaching nearly 120 early childhood educators and paraprofessionals in 54 classrooms. Formative assessment and pedagogical leadership emerged as priorities in the fourth year of this 4-year federal grant. EASTCONN provided a framework for professional guidance and support to coaches.
788 community-based early-care providers gained new insights during the 27 workshops our staff provided across the state.
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EASTCONN’s highly regarded Psychological and Behavioral division provided consultation and PD in 30 school districts this year, helping educators improve their practice when supporting students with special needs.
Psychological & Behavioral
Consultation Services (PBCS)
Our neuropsychological assessment, behavioral consultation and professional development services were accessed by 30 districts, benefiting thousands of students and their teachers across the EASTCONN region. PBCS conducted comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations in districts, as demand for neuropsychological services has continued to grow. Highlights this year:
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Community of Practice/CEU opportunity: Coordinated a quarterly Community of Practice to share topical and relevant research and practices, enabling the region’s school-based BCBAs to network and learn about best practices and ethical considerations, which they shared with their districts.
• Professional Learning Sessions: Delivered
30+ professional learning sessions in 15 districts for paraprofessionals, special education teachers and other school-based mental health providers and administrators. Many PBCS staff were invited by prestigious regional and national conferences to present their research outcomes on topics ranging from technical assistance and coaching to training.
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EASTCONN programs have a great strength in their use of data to assess progress and support academic and
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behavioral interventions. – Kim Wilson, Director of Student Services, Woodstock Public Schools
PowerSchool/Student Information System (SIS) Support
Provided on-site consultation and professional development for 7 Consortium districts, 6 regional districts and 1 out-of-state district for 2 SIS products. Provided weekly on-site support for 1 district, and flexible, value-added support in 4 others. Improved skills of nearly 100 personnel in 30 districts through workshops and user-group meetings. Our in-house experts continued to provide design input for both the CSDE and PowerSchool corporate development.
In-District Professional Development
Technology Solutions provided in-district PD for 22 districts, and staff from 2 private schools, on topics like Student Information Systems (SIS), the Connecticut Documentation and Observation for Teaching System (CT DOTS), STEM Robotics Instruction and Google Classroom.
2018-2019 ANNUAL BOARD UPDATE Safety & Security
Our Director of Security and Investigations, a certified Governor’s Task Force on Justice for Abused Children instructor, trained 35+ EASTCONN staff, as well as young residents at Natchaug Hospital, in American Red Cross CPR/First-Aid. He co-taught 35+ Head Start staff, as well as 40 Adult Education and Job Corps staff in de-escalation tactics. The director meets regularly with staff at all EASTCONN sites to review security protocols, safety measures and conduct regular drills.
De-Escalation Training
This spring, EASTCONN introduced a new, researchbased, de-escalation training program for schools, businesses, health care providers and others to provide practical strategies for effectively responding to verbally aggressive individuals. Designed in collaboration with mental health and law enforcement professionals, the program includes training and review of de-escalation principles, and provides an opportunity to practice specific skills.
Assistive Technology (AT) & Related Services
Our AT and Related Services staff provided professional learning for educators, as well as direct services to disabled students, improving their access to the general curriculum, and helping them realize their potential.
• Professional Learning & Site-Based Support: AT supported 14 districts with
Consortium packages, providing them with priority scheduling, access to our AT Lending Library and Consortium trainings. The AT team delivered 75 trainings to 443 participants on a range of AT topics, and provided 18 device demonstrations to 40 participants, and provided information and assistance to 97 individuals.
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36
of EASTCONN’s member districts attended one or more of our free councils this year.
Regional Groups & Councils
Each of EASTCONN’s 12 free, regional councils is designed to provide EASTCONN-region district staff with opportunities to explore a wide variety of content areas, as they connect with job-alike peers, share resources, learn about state requirements and increase their professional learning. Educators representing nearly all 36 of EASTCONN’s member districts attended one or more of our councils this year.
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This was a very informative week. I learned a lot and am going away with new knowledge, ideas and a renewed purpose ... THANKS!” – Michelle Beauregard, teacher, Plainfield Public Schools
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• Related Services staff worked with 30 districts to support more than 600 students, preschool to age 21. Related Services include assistive technology, occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language therapies.
EASTCONNN’s Regional Staff Development Council offers school administrators the latest developments in education.
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I am a true believer in the expertise and supports that our RESCs can provide to the local districts.
Therefore, when I first started working in the region as a special
education director, I reached out to EASTCONN for support from their behavioral and psychological services.
I have never looked back. Since then I have used the services of
their clinical day programs, related services, educational learning
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services and talent development, early childhood education, transportation and more. Their goal is to help districts help students.
– Gail Lanza, Superintendent, Sterling Public Schools
www.eastconn.org 376 Hartford Turnpike, Hampton, CT 06247 860-455-0707 inforequest@eastconn.org /wherelearningcomestolife