EASTCONN ANNUAL REPORT 2021-2022

ABOUT EASTCONN

Established in 1980, under Connecticut General Statute 10-66a, EASTCONN is one of Connecticut’s six, public, non-profit, Regional Educational Service Centers (RESC). EASTCONN was formed when two small, eastern Connecticut public service agencies merged in order to more effectively provide regional, affordable education programs and services to the region’s smaller, often under-resourced, schools and communities. Initially, EASTCONN started with a small staff, but quickly grew as it demonstrated its expertise across a range of programs and services, including K-12 professional learning, special education, adult education and early childhood. Today, EASTCONN employs more about 720 staff who work in specialties like early childhood, K-12 student programs (magnet high schools; autism; clinical, developmental and therapeutic programs; psychological-behavioral consultation; related services; transition programs), adult education, employment and training, leading and learning, organizational support services, technology solutions and student transportation. Entrepreneurial by design, EASTCONN provides high-quality, competitively priced educational and related services to the 33 towns and 36 school districts in northeastern Connecticut that comprise the EASTCONN region. The agency is governed by a Board of Directors, who are also members of locally elected Boards of Education.

Front cover picture and page 3 taken at EASTCONN Headstart Westcott Location in Danielson

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to submit EASTCONN’s 2021-2022 Annual Report — my first such report as the agency’s new Executive Director. Within this report are highlights and accomplishments from the past year that support our agency goals, our 36 member school districts and the communities we serve across northeastern Connecticut and beyond.

As the reach of COVID-19 winds down, we continue to meet district needs through connections and collaborations. EASTCONN’s Agency Goal 2 is more important than ever before: To engage in strategic collaborations that result in positive outcomes for learners. Here are some examples:

• In partnership with member districts across the EASTCONN region, our Clinical Developmental & Therapeutic treatment programs accommodated the needs of approximately 100 K-12 students with significant social, emotional and behavioral issues from 28 sending districts. Tailored curricula and responsive, social-emotional approaches were employed to continue students’ in-person, educational progress. CDT program locations in Danielson and Columbia make it easier for local students to join their non-disabled hometown peers in activities and community events.

• EASTCONN’s 21-town, northeastern Connecticut Adult Education Consortium continued to offer residents a wide range of free, basic adult education services, ensuring that members could collectively afford to provide mandated adult education programs. Also, our collaboration with the Eastern Workforce Investment Board (EWIB) provides us the opportunity to offer programs that build workforce skills for people throughout the EASTCONN region and beyond.

Eric S. Protulis Executive Director of EASTCONN

• Representing nearly all 36 of EASTCONN’s member districts, educators from a range of disciplines attended one or more of our free professional learning councils this year, led by our education and technology specialists. These councils offer opportunities to network and share experiences and perspectives, as well as to discuss emerging trends and best practices within their fields.

• EASTCONN is using funding from Quality Improvement Grants to collaborate with RESC Alliance early childhood partners in areas that include CT Core Knowledge and Competency Frameworks Support; Fiscal Management Training; NAEYC Accreditation Support; Standards, Curriculum and Assessment Support; and Trauma and Insecure Housing Training Support.

These examples illustrate the power of regional educational service delivery.

Throughout this report you’ll find many other accomplishments that highlight the significant, positive role EASTCONN plays in the support of school districts of the northeastern regions of the state and beyond.

On behalf of everyone at EASTCONN, I thank you for your partnership and support. We look forward to supporting the needs of learners of all ages.

Sincerely, Eric S. Protulis, EASTCONN Executive Director eprotulis@eastconn.org

EASTCONN BOARD & LEADERSHIP

BOARD

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS:

Chairperson: Joan Trivella Woodstock Academy Vice-Chairperson: Terry Cote Eastford Public Schools

Secretary/Treasurer: Katherine Paulhus Mansfield Public Schools

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MEMBERS:

Herb Arico Willington Public Schools Dr. Judy Benson Clarke Regional District #8 Amy Blank Union Public Schools

Maryellen Donnelly

Hampton Public Schools

Sonia Green Woodstock School District

Jamie Kleinman Canterbury Public Schools

Susan Lannon Killingly Public Schools

Michael Morrill Putnam Public Schools

Rod Perry Scotland Public Schools

Justin Phaiah Brooklyn Public Schools

John Rauh Pomfret Public Schools

Diane Summa Plainfield Public Schools

LEADERSHIP:

Eric Protulis

Executive Director

Shawn Brodeur Facilities

Kimberly Bush Transportation Services

Larisa Carr ECHIP Administrator

Andrew DePalma CTO/Technology Solutions

Diane Dugas K-12 Student Services; Leading & Learning Services

Diane Gozemba Early Childhood Initiatives

Kristin Hempel

Adult & Community Programs

Melanie Marcaccio Human Resources

Amy Margelony K-12 Special Education Services

Heather Plourde

Food & Hospitality Services

Dona Prindle Marketing & Communications

Patricia Proctor CFO/Finance

SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW EASTCONN LEADERSHIP TEAM BIOS

EASTCONN Annual Report 2021-2022 5. 2021-2022 ANNUAL REPORT The invaluable commitment of EASTCONN’s Board of Directors ensures the agency’s ongoing success. Representing EASTCONN-region boards of education, each director helps guide and approve agency programs and services, and assists the agency in its mission to serve the learning needs of all northeastern Connecticut’s public schools and communities.

EASTCONN’S MISSION

EASTCONN will initiate, support and facilitate partnerships, collaborations and regional solutions that are responsive to the needs of all learners through exemplary programs, products and services.

MISSION, VISION, AGENCY GOALS

EASTCONN’S VISION

When the vision of EASTCONN is realized, schools and communities will collaborate effectively to provide opportunities for learners of all ages.

All community members will have expanded life choices as a result of higher levels of learning and training.

EASTCONN employees will consistently anticipate and meet the changing needs of schools and communities. As lifelong learners ourselves, we will continually increase our skills, particularly those that contribute to greater teamwork and problem solving.

Open communication and the inclusion of diverse perspectives will drive decision-making, which will be based on the broadest available data.

We will be valued for the originality of our leadership and the quality of our service.

#1

To provide exemplary programs and services for learners, especially those with significant barriers, so each can achieve individual success.

AGENCY GOALS

#2

To engage in strategic collaborations that result in positive outcomes for learners.

#3

To enhance the knowledge and skills of educators and the whole community, so they can effect change and facilitate positive outcomes for learners.

THE

RESC ALLIANCE

THE CONNECTICUT RESC ALLIANCE

EASTCONN is one of Connecticut’s six public, non-profit, Regional Educational Service Centers (RESC), RESCs were established by state statute in 1972 to provide costeffective, high-quality, education-related programs and services that respond to public school districts’ needs. While each RESC is responsible for offering education services in their own region, membership in the statewide REAC Alliance effectively augments their capacity to serve not only their region’s needs, but also more broadly, those of the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) education system.

Alliance membership encourages RESCs to collaborate, share critical expertise and resources, and expand their service-providing capacity. The power of the RESC Alliance lies in its focus on excellent outcomes for all Connecticut students and staff, and on its devotion to saving local taxpayer dollars. EASTCONN and its RESC Alliance partners continue to advocate at the state level for adequate education funding for towns and increased financial support for public schools.

Connecticut’s 6 RESC Alliance members, including EASTCONN, identified a number of legislative Alliance priorities in 2021-2022, including:

• Addressing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for all districts while supporting workforce development and designating annual funding to support the effort of districts partnering with a Residency Program committed to certifying teachers of color.

• Incentivizing increased regional collaboration among local schools and supporting sustainable funding formulas for magnet schools of choice.

• Requesting increased funding to the Office of Early Childhood, supporting the OEC’s initiative to address the issues of accessibility, quality and affordability of early childhood education across the state.

MEMBER TOWNS & REGIONAL DISTRICTS

Andover Ashford Bozrah Brooklyn Canterbury Chaplin Colchester Columbia Coventry Eastford Franklin Griswold Hampton Hebron Killingly Lebanon Lisbon Mansfield

Marlborough Plainfield Pomfret Putnam Scotland Sprague Stafford Sterling Thompson Tolland Union Voluntown Willington Windham Woodstock Regional District 8 Regional District 11 Regional District 19

Columbia

Hampton

Putnam

Windham

Killingly Plainfield

CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION

Eric Protulis, Executive Director 860-455-0707

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES & CONFERENCE CENTER

376 Hartford Turnpike, Hampton, CT 06247 860-455-0707; 860-455-8026 FAX

Adult Programs, Assistive Technology, Conference & Food Services, Early Childhood Initiatives, Facilities, Finance, Human Resources, K-12 Student Services, Leading & Learning Services, Marketing & Communications, Organizational Support Services, Technology Services

ADULT & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Kristin Hempel, Director of Adult & Community Programs 860-423-2591

• COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER Tyler Square. 1320 Main Street, Suite #25 Willimantic, CT 06226 860-423-2591; 860-450-0853 FAX

• NORTHEAST LEARNING CENTER 562 Westcott Road, Danielson, CT 06239 860-779-3770; 860-779-3384 FAX

EARLY LEARNING INITIATIVES

Diane Gozemba, Early Childhood Initiatives Director 860-455-1518

• EARLY HEAD START HOME VISITING & HEAD START AT MOOSUP GARDENS 10B Gorman Street, Moosup, CT 06354 860-564-7199; 860-564-2630 FAX

• KILLINGLY EARLY HEAD START & HEAD START 562 Westcott Road, Danielson, CT 06239 860-779-0410; 860-779-1377 FAX

• KILLINGLY HEAD START AT KILLINGLY HIGH SCHOOL 226 Putnam Pike, Dayville, CT 06241 860-779-6793; 860-774-0846 FAX

• PLAINFIELD EARLY HEAD START & HEAD START 482 Norwich Road, Plainfield, CT 06374 860-933-3694

• PUTNAM HEAD START 33 Wicker Street, Putnam, CT 06260 860-928-0004; 860-963-6922 FAX

• TOLLAND COUNTY HEAD START HOME-BASED PROGRAM 860-455-1586; 860-455-1005 FAX

• WINDHAM EARLY HEAD START 729 Main Street, Willimantic, CT 06226 860-455-1586; 860-455-1005 FAX

LOCATION DIRECTORY

SCHOOLS & PROGRAMS

CLINICAL, DEVELOPMENTAL & THERAPEUTIC PROGRAMS (CDT)

Amy Margeloney, Director of Pupil Services 860-377-7650

• EASTCONN BRIDGES COMMUNITY SCHOOL 10 Commerce Drive, Columbia, CT 06237 860-228-3240; 860-228-3206 FAX

Erin Crosby, Principal

• EASTCONN TRANSITION ACADEMY 1320 Main Street, Suite 27, Willimantic, CT 06226 860-931-0250

Nicole Constantine, Principal

• EDUCATIONAL & VOCATIONAL CENTER (EVC)

14 Route 66, Columbia, CT 06237 860-228-4317; 860-228-1147 FAX

Gregory Biggs, Principal

• NORTHEAST REGIONAL PROGRAM (NRP)

79 Westfield Avenue, Danielson, CT 06239 860-779-6794; 860-774-0006 FAX

Kurt Mias, Principal

• EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY, EMPLOYMENT AND LIFE SKILLS (EXCELS)

79 Westfield Avenue, Danielson, CT 06239 860-933-1257; 860-774-0006 FAX

Christine DiGiacomo, Coordinator

MAGNET SCHOOLS

Diane Dugas, Program Director 860-455-1569

• ARTS AT THE CAPITOL THEATER (ACT) MAGNET HIGH SCHOOL 896 Main Street, Willimantic, CT 06226 860-465-5636; 860-465-8115 FAX

Sarah Mallory, Principal

• QUINEBAUG MIDDLE COLLEGE (QMC) MAGNET HIGH SCHOOL

742 Upper Maple Street, Danielson, CT 06239 860-932-4100; 860-932-4950 FAX

David S. Brown, Principal

TRANSPORTATION

109 Route 6, Columbia, CT 06237 860-228-6751; 860-228-6756

Kimberly Bush, Transportation Director

COLLABORATIONS

PARTNERSHIPS & COLLABORATIONS

STATE AGENCIES

Camp Quinebaug

CT Commission on Culture & Tourism

CT Department of Higher Education

CT Dept. of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)

CT Distance Learning Consortium

CT Adult Virtual High School

CT Quality Council

CT State Collaborations: Alternative Sanctions

Bureau of Rehabilitation, Children and Families

Commission for Educational Technology

Department of Corrections

Department of Education (CSDE)

Department of Labor, Energy & Environmental Protection

Health, Income Maintenance, Justice, Labor, Developmental Services, Mental Health, Policy and Management, Public Health & Addiction Services, Social Services, Teaching & Learning, Workers’ Compensation & Rehabilitation

CT State Library

CT Tech Act Project

CT Virtual Learning Center

Court Support Services Division Juvenile Residential Services

DCF Willimantic, Norwich, Manchester & Hartford Offices

Eastern Highlands Health District

Northeast District Department of Health (NDDH)

North Central District Health Department Office of Early Childhood

Office for Workforce Competitiveness Birth To Three System

HIGHER EDUCATION

Center for Legal Studies

Charter Oak ARC

The Consultation Center at Yale University

Eastern Connecticut State University

Emerson College Ed2Go

Gateway Community College

Mitchell College

Neag School of Education/UConn

NOVA Southeastern University

Quinebaug Valley Community College

Three Rivers Community College

University of Connecticut

UConn Center for Applied Research in Human Development

UConn Extension Food & Nutrition Program

UConn Health Disparities Institute (HDI), UConn Jumpstart

University of Missouri

University of St. Joseph

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

American Association for Adult and Continuing Education (AAACE)

American Cancer Society

American Job Centers

Association of Educational Service Agencies (AESA)

Commission on Adult Basic Education (COABE)

CT Association for Adult and Continuing Education (CAACE)

CT Associations of: Boards of Education (CABE), Public School Superintendents (CAPSS), School Nurses, School Personnel Administrators, Schools (CAS), Secondary Schools, Supervision and Curriculum & Development

ConnCASE

CT Educators Computer Association (CECA)

CT Educators Network

CT Reading Association

CT School Public Relations Association (ConnSPRA)

CT Society of Health-System Pharmacists Learning Resources Network (LERN)

National Association for Music Education National & CT Associations for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC/CAEYC)

Nonprofit Alliance of Northeast CT (NANC)

Northeast Area Superintendents’ Association (NASA)

Research for Better Teaching

University Region Superintendents’ Association (URSA)

LEGISLATIVE

CT General Assembly

LOCAL AND REGIONAL AGENCIES

ACCESS Agency

AHM FRC

All Our Kin Backus Hospital Benton Museum

Capital Workforce Partners

Center for Latino Progress

CLiCK Willimantic Colebrook Village at Hebron Community Health Center of Middletown Community Foundation of Eastern CT

CT Audubon

CT Center for Advanced Technologies, Inc.

CT Children’s Medical Center

CT Fair Housing Center

CT Historical Society

CT Legal Services

CT Parent Advocacy Center (SPAC)

CT United Way

Davis Place

Day Kimball Hospital Dempsey Center Douglas Manor

Early Childhood Consultation Partnership

Eastern Area Health Education Center (AHEC)

Eastern CT Health Network

Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB)

Even Start

Family Center for Natural Wellness

Family Resource Centers

Family Service Coordination Centers Food, Resources, Education Security & Health (FRESH) of New London

4-H LIFT After-School Program

Generations Family Health Center Goodwill Norwich GROW Windham

Hale YMCA

Hartford Foundation Head Start Head Start State Collaboration Office Health Education Center

Heart Life CPR

Historic New England Holy Family Shelter Horizons InCord Infoline

Institute for Community Research Joshua’s Trust KnowledgeWorks

The Last Green Valley LEGO Foundation

Mansfield Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation Natchaug Hospital, Joshua Program

NECCOG Regional Animal Shelter

NECHEAR

NELRC

New Britain Museum of Art

New England Office of the College Board

New England Science and Sailing (NESS)

New Haven Chamber of Commerce

New Life Residential Services

New London Adult Education

New London County 4-H Program

New London Youth Affairs

Northeast Alliance for Economic Development

NE CT Chamber of Commerce

Northeast Opportunities for Wellness

Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board

Norwich Adult Education Norwich Youth & Family Services

OSA Foundation Ossen Foundation PAWS

Pediatrician Offices throughout the Region

Plainfield FRC

PPI

Prevent Child Abuse CT ProLiteracy

Prudence Crandall Museum

Putnam Chamber

Putnam FRC

Root Center Willimantic

St. Joseph Living Center

Salvation Army

Senior Resources Agency on Aging Special Education Resource Center

Step-Up New London Sturbridge Village

SUEZ Foundation

Thames Science Center Tri-County ARC

TVCCA

United Connection Action for Neighborhoods, Inc. (UCAN)

United Labor Agency (ULA) United Services

United Social and Mental Health Services

Vanderman Place

Villa Maria Nursing & Rehabilitation Villages at Killingly Visiting Nurses Association

WAIM

Waterbury Adult Education Westview Health Center

The Wheeler Clinic

Wilderness School

Willimantic River Alliance

Windham Arts

Windham Region Chamber of Commerce

Windham Heights

Windham Regional Arts Council

Windham Region Community Council

Windham Region Health Council

Windham Rotary

Windham School Readiness Council

Windham Textile and History Museum WorkForce Alliance

Youth Engagement Team Initiatives

FEDERAL (U.S.) AGENCIES

Library of Congress

Retired Seniors Volunteer Program

U.S. Departments: Education, Health & Human Services, HUD, Labor

RETAIL & BUSINESS

Ampersand Consulting

Big Y Bob’s Discount Furniture

The Cake Lady Carelot Daycare

Career Step Chelsea Groton Bank Chili’s Conway Tours Discovery Education Discovery Zone Day Care FedEx Friendship Tours Giant Pizza JASON Learning Liberty Bank

Linda’s House Pediatric Daycare & Preschool

Mansfield Discovery Depot Milltown Grill

Morgan Corporations

Papa Gino’s Pleasant Pizza Price Chopper Princeton Review Putnam Cyclery Putnam Supermarket Quiet Corner Grooming & Doggie Daycare Renaissance Learning Sabor Latino Radio

Silver Mill Tours Smith and Walker Funeral Home SPIROL Subway T&A Tours

COLLABORATIONS

T.J. Maxx Tsunami Tsolutions Valley View Riding Stables

VESTA Corporation Village Heights Walgreen’s Walmart Westminster Tool

Willimantic Weed & Seed WILI Radio

Windham Early Childhood Center (WECC)

WINY Radio

RESCS

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES)

Cooperative Educational Services (CES)

Capitol Region Education Council (CREC) EdAdvance

LEARN

Alliance of Regional Educational Service Centers

TOWNS, SCHOOL DISTRICTS, LIBRARIES & CHURCHES

Abington Social Library American School for the Deaf Bolton Public Schools Town of Bolton Town of Columbia Douglas Library (Hebron) Eastern CT Libraries

E.O. Smith

Federal Church of Christ, Brooklyn Goodwin Conservation Center

Interdistrict Grant Partner Schools Town of Norwich Park Church Preston Public Schools

36 School Districts in the EASTCONN Region St. Mary St. Joseph School

Stafford Library

Thompson Public Works Thompson Recreation Department

Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group (TEEG)

Thread City Development (WilliNext)

Town of Willington Willimantic Public Library

Windham Family & Community Partnership Windham Recreation Department

MEMBER NEEDS ASSESSMENT

MEMBER NEEDS ASSESSMENT

EASTCONN leaders meet regularly, either in person or remotely, with member district leadership and staff, to assess how well we are meeting their needs and to identify areas where we can provide added support. We solicit feedback and analyze data to identify regional trends, and respond as quickly as possible to districts’ educational and operational needs.

REGIONAL FORUMS

Regional forums provide another critical source of data. We host and facilitate free, regional meetings and councils across a range of pedagogical, job-alike and school-related topics, including: URSA/NASA with our region’s Superintendents, the Regional Staff Development Council, ConnCASE, English Learners Roundtable, Increasing Educator Diversity Consortium, Language Arts Council, Math Council, Regional Library Council, Regional Transition Network, Science Council, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Council, Social Studies Council and Technology Council. These groups explore regional challenges and solutions, as well as opportunities to collaborate in cost-effective, efficient ways in response to a range of needs (mental health services, improved public transportation, distance-learning strategies and early childhood programs, for example). Agendas are designed both to identify and address the needs of members. EASTCONN uses these data to expand its regional needs profile.

INDIVIDUAL DISTRICT NEEDS

Each request for service reveals a district need. Program staff are trained to work in collaboration with EASTCONN customers to define and articulate the need that underlies each request for service. These data are then used to refine our understanding of regional needs. When additional data are required, needs assessments are conducted, using focus groups, regional forums, surveys, benchmarking and best-practice research.

RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT & INNOVATION

Agency division leaders work together to develop new products and services and to recommend their phase-out when no longer needed. Staff collect and interpret regional data, identify new service needs, recommend the allocation of resources and ensure the open flow of information with stakeholders and member districts.

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Our Leadership Team oversees the strategic interests of EASTCONN and the customers we serve. The team includes: the Executive Director; the Chief Financial Officer; the Director of Human Resources; and the Directors of Adult & Community Programs; Conference Office and Food & Hospitality Services; Early Childhood Initiatives; Facilities; K-12 Special Education Services; K-12 Student Services; Leading & Learning; Marketing & Communications; Technology Solutions; Transportation; and the Administrator of ECHIP, the agency’s northeastern Connecticut regional, collaborative health insurance program. Each member of the Leadership Team develops annual program goals that respond to an assessment of our customers’ needs, as well as to federal, state and regional mandates, best practices and research in their respective fields. Collectively, the Leadership Team monitors progress toward both agency and program goals and ensures that we are collaboratively meeting our district member needs.

BOARD & MEMBER DISTRICTS

BOARD & MEMBER DISTRICTS

ANDOVER

Gerard Creme, Chair

Valerie Bruneau, Superintendent

ASHFORD

John Lippert, Chair

Cynthia Ford, Superintendent

BOZRAH

Jeanne Goulart, Chair

Debbie Grant, Superintendent

BROOKLYN

Mae Lyons, Chair

• Justin Phaiah

Patricia Buell, Superintendent

CANTERBURY

Nancy Duvall, Chair

• Jamie Kleinman

Steve Rioux, Superintendent

CHAPLIN

Jaclyn Chancey, Chair

Ken Henrici, Superintendent

COLCHESTER

Mary Tomasi, Chair

Tym McDowell, Superintendent

COLUMBIA

Michael Maziarz, Chair, Marie Geryk, Superintendent

COVENTRY

Jennifer Beausoleil,Chair

David Petrone, Superintendent

EASTFORD

Stephen Bowen, Chair

• Terry Cote, EASTCONN Vice-Chair

Donna Leake, Principal/Superintendent

FRANKLIN

Scott Tracey, Chair

Greg Keith, Superintendent

GRISWOLD

Mary Beth Malin, Chair

Sean McKenna, Superintendent

HAMPTON

Rose Bisson, Chair

• Maryellen Donnelly

Samantha Sarli, Superintendent

HEBRON

Heather Petit, Chair

Thomas Baird, Superintendent

KILLINGLY

Normand Ferron, Chair

• Susan Lannon

Robert Angeli, Superintendent

LEBANON

Sarah Haynes, Chair

• Sarah Haynes

Andrew Gonzalez, Superintendent

LISBON

Judy Jencks, Chair

Sally Keating, Interim Superintendent

MANSFIELD

Kathleen Ward, Chair

• Katherine Paulhus, EASTCONN Secretary/Treasurer

Peter Dart, Superintendent

MARLBOROUGH

Wesley Skorski, Chair

Holly Hageman, Superintendent

PLAINFIELD

Christi Haskell, Chair

• Diane Summa

Paul Brenton, Superintendent

POMFRET

Kathleen Cerrone, Chair

• John Rauh

Mike Cummings, Superintendent

PUTNAM

Jeannie Dodd, Chair

• Michael Morill

Daniel Sullivan, Superintendent

SCOTLAND

Gracie Martin, Chair

• Rod Perry

Valerie Bruneau, Superintendent

SPRAGUE

Megin Sechen, Chair

William Hull, Superintendent

STAFFORD

Sonya Shegogue, Chair

Steve Moccio, Superintendent

STERLING

Frank Blood, Chair

Theodore Friend, Superintendent

THOMPSON

Kathleen Herbert, Chair Melinda Smith, Superintendent

TOLLAND

Ashley Lundgren, Chair

Walter Willett, Superintendent

UNION

Andrea Estell

• Amy Blank

Steve Jackopsic, Superintendent

VOLUNTOWN

Kate Beauparlant, Chair

Adam Burrows, Superintendent

WILLINGTON

Michelle Doucette Cuningham, Chair

• Herb Arico

Phil Stevens, Superintendent

WINDHAM

Lynne Ide, Chair

Tracy Youngberg, Superintendent

WOODSTOCK

Hans Frankhouser, Chair

• Sonia Greene Viktor Toth, Superintendent

WOODSTOCK ACADEMY

Christine Swenson, President

• Joan Trivella, EASTCONN Chair

Chris Sanford, Superintendent

REGIONAL DISTRICT #8

Michael Morris Chair

• Dr. Judy Benson Clarke

Colin McNamara, Superintendent

REGIONAL DISTRICT #11

Dennis LaBelle, Chair

Ken Henrici, Superintendent

REGIONAL DISTRICT #19

James Mark, Chair

Sharon Cournoyer, Superintendent

• EASTCONN Board Members

AGENCY SERVICE AREAS

EASTCONN provides a wide variety of products, programs and services to a customer base that range from young children to senior citizens. There are six (6) service divisions, plus Transportation:

ADULT & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS includes three divisions: Adult Education; Workplace Education; and Employment and Training. We offer a range of free adult education classes to residents, ages 17+, from our 21 Adult Education Consortiummember towns. Classes include high school completion, English Language Learners (ELL), American Citizenship, life and basic skills, and college transition support. Community Education offers certificate training and workplace education. Employment and Training manages two regional American Job Centers, provides free employment assistance and training for job-seekers, oversees the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, and administers job-training programs for the region’s youth.

EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVES focuses on children from birth to grade 3, offering a wide array of consultation, professional learning (PL), technical assistance, coaching and direct services to the region’s early-care and education programs, school districts and communities. Our agency leads the early childhood RESC Alliance in developing professional learning initiatives statewide. PL includes support for strategic planning, special education, program development, accreditation and professional learning on standards, curriculum, assessment and instruction. Parent education is also provided to the communities we serve. ECI administers and provides direct services to children and their

families as the grantee for the statefunded Birth to Three program and the federally-funded Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Windham and Tolland counties.

K-12 STUDENT SERVICES offers a comprehensive continuum of services for students with a wide range of challenging learning needs and/or academic interests. From magnet and alternative high school options to services for students with social-emotional or behavioral issues or those on the autism spectrum, the focus is on serving each individual student. We strive to achieve success by building our capacity, running programs that are financially sound and producing outstanding educational results that satisfy parents, students, teachers, administrators and our regional partner school districts.

LEADING & LEARNING integrates learning opportunities for educators so that professional learning is embedded in district culture and is no longer limited to events that occur periodically each year. We create opportunities for administrators and teachers to participate in regional professional learning communities, and have expanded our capacity to provide coaching to districts that are engaged in personalized, competency-based learning. We support the implementation of systems and structures to provide deep and impactful learning.

ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORT services are delivered by agency departments that support not only day-to-day EASTCONN operations, but also supply assistance wherever needed to member school districts and other external partners, including governmental, non-profit and select organizations. Organizational Support includes: Conference Services; Cooperative Purchasing; Facilities; Finance; Food & Hospitality Services; Human Resources; Marketing & Communications and Security & Investigations.

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS provides member districts with a comprehensive array of services that support and enhance the effective implementation of technology in teaching and learning. Technology Solutions also provides infrastructure and network support and develops customized, cloud-based software solutions for efficient data collection and analysis.

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES provides school districts and agencies with safe, cost-effective means of transporting their students and clients. Transportation is available for students with special needs, other public school students and adult clients traveling to job training sites. Transportation focuses on individualized and specialized transport solutions.

ADULT & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

• Adult Education & High School Completion

• Community Education

• Employment & Training Programs

• English Language Services & Citizenship

• Parent & Family Programs

EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVES

• Birth to Three General Program

• Development & Coordination of Statewide Professional Learning Services

• Early Childhood Coaching & Consultation

• Head Start/Early Head Start

• Programs for Young Children & Families

• School Readiness Support to Districts & Region

SCHOOLS & COMMUNITIES

EASTCONN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

K-12 STUDENT SERVICES

• Academic Enrichment Programs

• Clinical, Developmental & Therapeutic Programs

• Magnet High Schools & Other Student Options

• Programs for Students with Developmental Disabilities

• Psychological & Behavioral Consultation Services

• Related Services (AT, OT, PT, SLP)

• School-to-Career Programs

• Student Transportation

• Summer, Vacation & After-School Programs

LEADING & LEARNING SERVICES

• Center for Educational Leadership

• Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment & Interventions

• Professional Learning

• EASTCONN Regional Groups & Councils

• School Improvement Strategies

CHART

EASTCONN EXECUTIVE BOARD

ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES

• Business Office & Employer Services

• CFO/Finance Office

• Conference & Hospitality Services

• Cooperative Purchasing

• Driver Education

• Facilities Services

• Human Resources & Staffing Solutions

• Marketing & Communications & Website

• Security & Investigations

• Student Food Services

• Transportation Services

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

• Data Solutions, Support & Training

• Educational Technology Integration

• Student Information Systems Support & Training

• Technology Infrastructure Support

• Technology Products & Services

• Video Production Services

ORGANIZATIONAL • Web Application Development

AGENCY GOAL

1. QMC students interested in STEM can take classes that focus on manufacturing, engineering and allied health careers.

2. EASTCONN's Head Start program returned to a full range of comprehensive services this year.

3. EASTCONN Technology Solutions served as technical lead for the OEC's ambitious GEER project.

HIGHLIGHTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

YOUNG CHILDREN & THEIR FAMILIES

Birth to Three Program

Building on the support and skills of families, this early-intervention program was designed to meet the developmental and health-related needs of infants and toddlers who qualify for services, based on delays or a diagnosis that impacts development. Intensive services are also provided for children with more significant needs, such as medical complications, autism and Down Syndrome. Staff help families and caregivers support children’s learning and development, using practical strategies, research-based and evidence-based practices. Birth to Three continues to serve children and families across 21 towns in the EASTCONN region. Visits are provided in-person to families in their home, childcare location or a community setting. Our monthly, program-wide caseload averaged 225 children and families, with 400+ participants receiving services within the last year. An annual family survey showed 97% of parents felt the program helped their child develop and learn, while 80% of children with Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP) demonstrated positive social-emotional skills and 82% improved their knowledge and skills.

Head Start & Early Head Start

Our federally funded Head Start (215 children) and Early Head Start (177 children) child development programs ended the year serving 386 incomeeligible children and their families. Head Start returned to a full range of comprehensive services, including health, nutrition education, dental, mental health and family support at nine sites in Tolland and Windham counties. Our enrollment has decreased due to family choice and some staffing needs in the fall. This year ending in Early Head Start, we saw 21.6% of our enrollment on an IFSP and 42% of our enrollment had either an open concern or an IFSP. Head Start saw 19.5% of our enrollment on an Individual Education Plan ( IEP,) with State of Connecticut average data at 15.9% on an IEP (as of 2020-21 data) and 35% of our enrollment had either an open concern or an IEP. Head Start continued to see an increase in children who are experiencing dysregulation as well as decreased social skills. This can be correlated to the population we work with, and even more so due to the increased stress of the pandemic. Staff will continue to receive trauma-informed and positive supports training, coaching and mental health support in order to better serve families and the children in their care.

GEER Fund Partnership Supporting Connectivity Statewide

The Office of Early Childhood’s (OEC) work under the Governor’s Education Emergency Relief (GEER) Fund project is a statewide initiative to support connectivity for families with preschoolage children by providing them with an iPad, digital resources and other supports. EASTCONN Technology Solutions served as technical lead for the project, overseeing the OEC’s ambitious, logistically challenging, statewide technology roll-out. Working with the OEC Commissioner’s project team, our tech staff supported the purchasing, inventorying, physical preparation, configuration and distribution of thousands of devices. Tech staff also provided statewide Help Desk support mechanisms for families and hosted the GEER website on behalf of the OEC. EASTCONN prepared and distributed 624 iPads and 244 hotspots to families. We distributed 83 Chromebooks to educators for GEER and 238 iPads to educators using the Connecticut Documentation & Observation for Teaching System (CT DOTS) for use in classrooms.

“ We are truly grateful that our daughter went to EASTCONN [Educational & Vocational Center] to help her become as successful as she can and we highly recommend this therapeutic, yet pleasant, environment to others.”

– Mary Lou F., Parent of EVC Student

SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN & THEIR FAMILIES

Schools of Choice

EASTCONN operates two regional, NEASC-accredited magnet high schools for grades 9-12 in collaboration with member public school districts in our region. The magnet schools have focused on supporting students' social and emotional needs throughout the pandemic to ensure that students could continue their educational journeys despite COVID-19 challenges. Of note this year:

• Arts at the Capitol Theater (ACT) Magnet High School: 135 full-time students (grades 9-12) attended from 38 sending districts. This June, ACT graduated its 12th class of full-time students with 24 seniors from 13 districts accepting their diplomas. Among awards and recognitions in 2021-2022: three students were inducted into the ACT chapter of the National Honor Society; Media Arts students continued their strong collaboration with the Willimantic Public Library; and many creative writing students participated in the scholastic writing competition.

• Quinebaug Middle College (QMC) Magnet High School: 159 students from 18 towns enrolled in QMC’s humanities-rich and STEM-integrated program on the campus of QVCC. Students had free access to QVCC and UConn

college courses, and could earn transferable credits. In 20202021, 29 students took 89 classes at QVCC with a passing rate of 91%. Thirty-eight (38) students enrolled in our UConn Early College Experience (ECE) courses and QVCC CCP courses, earning a total of 165 credits; 75% of QMC’s seniors have applied to postsecondary programs.

Member District Child Nutrition Services

During the school year, EASTCONN Food Services managed six member districts under the National School Lunch Program sponsorship agreement. EASTCONN’s Director of Food Services was also acting director in one member district and one non-member district, as well as for all EASTCONN schools and programs. Of note:

• School Meals: EASTCONN Food Services planned, prepared, packaged and served more than 589,200 fully reimbursable meals July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022. The extension of the Seamless Summer Option has enabled the child nutrition programs to provide two meals daily, at no cost, for those who attend school in-person or remotely, as well as any child under the age of 18 in our communities when school is operating.

Technology Support for EASTCONN Schools & Programs

Our technology support team maintains and supports the technology needs for all EASTCONN schools and programs. Services include: network and wireless management; digital security; troubleshooting peripherals, desktop and laptops; networks; wireless access points; set-up for technology labs; preventive maintenance; desktop and server support; technology equipment repair; IT diagnostic services and audio/visual equipment support; and end-user support for staff and students.

Transportation Services

We transported on a daily basis 323 special-needs students and 1,705 general education students from 43 districts, using our cost-saving, outplacement destinations database. We helped districts and other public agencies reduce barriers for special-needs individuals who attended their programs, using a fleet of 150 vehicles, among them wheelchair-accessible buses and vans.

Note: We transported 238 students daily from within EASTCONN’s 36-district region to three public magnet schools, including EASTCONN’s ACT and QMC and Windham’s STEM middle school. Staff also provided transportation to Head Start children in Putnam, Killingly and Plainfield. Over the course of the year, our 150-vehicle fleet traveled to over 90 different sites in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

“ When we started, my son was completely nonverbal and now we have well over 50+ words. Thank you and your staff for all your hard work, dedication and compassion for my son and [for] wanting the best for him. We are forever grateful.”

– Nicole K., Parent of Birth to Three Participant

Youth

1.

students responded to the pandemic by creating "The Lemon Tree," a large, mixed-media artwork.

continuously recruited new drivers throughout 2021-2022.

Services celebrated its 10th year in 2022.

EXCELS program teamed up with Assistive Technology for an all-inclusive Thanksgiving activity.

& Community Programs served over 2,300

this year.

“ I was able to integrate into society and find my future career path by learning and developing my language [skills].”

– Karim Almoor, Adult Education ELL student

The

in

Young students connected through the Interdistrict Grants programs

“

Many times when students go to a traditional public education, they really don't see themselves on a college campus. They don't see themselves being successful in academics. Here, they have that direct exposure, and that changes them."

- David S. Brown, QMC Principal

REGIONAL PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS

Our K-12 Special Education group offered a continuum of regional programs and services for students with a wide range of challenging academic, behavioral and social-emotional needs. Staff also continued to work to build district capacity toward the ultimate shared goal of least-restrictive environments and returning students to their hometown schools. Of particular note:

• Clinical, Developmental & Therapeutic (CDT) Programs: Two regional programs served over 100 students, ages 5-19, from 36 different sending districts, with significant social, emotional and behavioral challenges, providing highly individualized and structured academic instruction and clinical support. This year, 14 of our students returned to less restrictive settings in their home districts.

Approximately 36 CDT students were recommended for our 2022 extended-school-year program. We anticipate that 11 seniors will graduate in June 2023.

• Regional Autism Program: (Renamed in Summer 2022 to EASTCONN Bridges Community School) This inclusion-driven program provided comprehensive, center-based and remote-learning educational and behavioral services

to 17 students from eight districts. The multidisciplinary, wrap-around model followed best practices. Our Autism Program and Psychological and Behavioral Consultation (PBC) staff provided coaching accessed by thousands of professionals across the region and state.

• Related Services Group (RSG): Our Related Services staff worked with 28 districts to support 645 students, preschool to age 21. Related Services includes Assistive Technology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and SpeechLanguage Therapy.

• Psychological & Behavioral Consultation Services (PBC): Our neuropsychological assessment, behavioral consultation and professional development services were accessed by 30 districts, benefitting 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 three years. We also provided comprehensive in-district support for students with autism spectrum disorders.

• Regional Transition Services (RTS) for Young Adults: (Renamed in Summer 2022 to EASTCONN

Transition Academy) Located on the campus of QVCC in EASTCONN’s Quinebaug Middle College classrooms, the RTS program served young adults from four districts, ages 18-21, with a broad range of disabilities. RTS provided students with socially appropriate settings, college supports and hands-on work experience with age-related peers.

Assistive Technology (AT): AT provided direct services to 77 students from 27 districts; 10 Bureau of Rehabilitative Services (BRS) adult consumers through Home to Work and Workplace AT Assessments, Consultations and Trainings; and two adult consumers through the Connecticut Tech Act Project’s Access Through Technology Program, which is funded by the FCC and focuses on the telecommunications needs of the deaf-blind population. With the addition of the HIIAT Grant, which focused on supporting two medical facilities by helping them select the best technologies for spinal-cord-injury patients, virtual demonstrations were provided for 9 consumers.

“ Access to college classes has fueled [my daughter] to apply to 4-year universities and pursue a degree in medical science. Without QMC, she would have likely given up and dropped out of high school. Now she is earning enough credits to cover one year of college and it is completely free.”

– John, Plainfield, Parent of QMC Student

1. EASTCONN facilitated five Interdistrict Grants in 2021-2022.

2. Our Assistive Technology (AT) team in Hampton.

3. ACT dancers presented FOUR: DanceFest 2022 in April.

4. AT provided direct services to 67 students from 25 school districts.

REGIONAL AFTER-SCHOOL & ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS

Community Arts Connection After-School Program

This program, which is housed at the Learning Center in Windham Heights in Willimantic, is led by our professional staff, who offer homework help, dramatic arts productions, and outdoor nature adventures for the complex’s young, school-aged residents. Attendance has significantly increased this year as inperson programming resumed. We have resumed community partnerships with UConn, Adult Services, Goodwin Forest, Windham Library and local storytellers. Through a partnership with EASTCONN's ACT Magnet school, students performed on stage for their families and the community.

Interdistrict Grant Programs

This year, our professional grant

facilitators led five state-funded Interdistrict grant programs that provided enriching, interactive grants, including “America’s Mosaic,” “Faces of Culture,” “Farming Our Land and Sea,” “Forensic Detectives” and “Mindful Transformations.” More than 1,400 students participated, representing grades 2-7, from Andover, Ashford, Brooklyn, Coventry, Eastford, Franklin, Griswold, Hartford, Hebron, Plainfield, Putnam, Voluntown and Windham. Interdistrict programs are designed to improve students’ understanding and appreciation of diversity and increase their academic success.

EASTCONN collaborated with New London Youth Affairs and Adult Education and Norwich Human Services and Adult Education to provide 160 youth from nine high schools, three Adult Education offices and various community partners with a continuum of services, including assistance with post-high-school education and securing and retaining employment. Funded by the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB), the program offered services to youths for a year after high school graduation. Data showed that 60 graduated or earned their GED; one year after graduation, 76% had jobs, were enrolled in the military, or were attending a post-secondary school. A total of 150 youths received supportive services, such as transportation and technology assistance, food and tuition payments.

REGIONAL EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR IN-SCHOOL & OUT-OF-SCHOOL YOUTH COOL Directions & JET Programs for In-School & Out-of-School Youth

Adults sought their free high school diploma through one of EASTCONN's three credentialing options

Of parents surveyed felt that Birth to Three helped their child develop and learn

2021 Youth Employment & Training Program

Our EWIB-funded regional employment and training programs for 342 youth, ages 14-24, involved numerous partners, including New London Youth Affairs and Norwich Human Services. Additional funding came from local foundations and state and federal grants, including the municipalities. Of note: 95% of youth returned to school, obtained jobs or enrolled in post-secondary school after completing the program.

ADULT LEARNERS & THEIR FAMILIES

Adult and Community Programs served 2,327 adults, including 433 who attended free classes in high school credentialing, English Language Learners (ELLs), American Citizenship, life/basic skills instruction and employment/college transition support. Our adult Workplace Education classes served 84 adults.

American Citizenship Preparation

Among participants who aren’t yet U.S. citizens, English Language Learners (ELLs) benefitted from classes that included preparation for the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service test.

High School Credential

Altogether, 218 adults sought their free high school diploma through one of EASTCONN’s three high school credentialing options, which are designed to match students’ unique needs, life experiences and educational goals.

English Language Learners (ELLs)

Participation in our English Language Learner classes rebounded this year, reflecting a statewide trend after the pandemic slump. Of the 212 students who took advantage of our English Language Learners (ELLs) classes, 75% improved their English reading and listening skills.

Distance Learning Initiative

To support our region’s learners, we continued to offer a full range of online and virtual instruction supported by certified staff. These distance learning opportunities provided access to high quality instruction for those who otherwise would not be able to enroll in classes due to barriers such as transportation, child care, or work schedules. In order to set our distance learners up for success, we continued to provide both a Distance Learning Orientation and a Technology Bootcamp as well as a technology loan program for students without adequate technology.

JFES Workshops

EASTCONN was contracted by the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board ( EWIB) to offer workshops for Jobs First Employment Services (JFES) participants in order to help participants earn credentials and prepare for (re)entry into the workplace. We offered two virtual workshops, both of which included employability skills necessary for today’s workforce and

provided successful completers with a Chromebook: Customer Service, which prepared participants for the National Retail Foundation’s Customer Service credential, and Technology for the Workplace, which prepared participants for Northstar Digital Badge assessments and Google Applied Skills.

Multi-Generational Learning Initiative

This regional, multi-generational program combines academic instruction, workreadiness, and positive parenting strategies for parents with high-quality educational programming for children. This year, we collaborated with Head Start and Quinebaug Valley Community College ( QVCC) to provide evening programming and dinner in the LEAP building in downtown Willimantic. In total, this program allowed us to provide instruction to 18 English Learner parents.

EMPLOYMENT & VOCATIONAL TRAINING

EASTCONN, in partnership with (EWIB), continued to provide employment and training services in northeastern Connecticut.

Program Enhancement Project (PEP) Grants

The CSDE awarded EASTCONN seven competitive PEP grants totaling $330,000. Through partnerships with EWIB, QVCC, school districts, Family Resource Centers, libraries, and other non-profit and social services agencies, these funds provided

“ This is my 14th year teaching at ACT. I live about 40 minutes away, yet every morning I wake up and am excited to get into the building as if it were my first day! The dedication from staff and students has been a real testament to the commitment ACT is making to the arts.”

– Dan Boisvert, ACT Media Arts Teacher

1. EASTCONN collaborated with Head Start and QVCC to provide evening programming and dinner in the LEAP building in downtown Willimantic.

2. EASTCONN offers three high school credentialing options designed to match students' unique needs.

3. Our regional Youth Employment & Training program involved numerous partners including GROW Windham.

4. EASTCONN's Jobs First Employment Services (JFES) offered two virtual workshops this year.

specialized services to 106 eligible students. Highlights included:

• Integrated English Language and Civics Education: Through a collaboration with Norwich Adult Education, we increased access for high-level ELL students to a rigorous curriculum that integrates workforce readiness skills, citizenship preparation, leadership and college preparation. Between the two locations, 21 students are participating, including 15 students who are also enrolled in certificate programs for either Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Manufacturing Safety.

• Transitions to Post-Secondary:

Through a partnership with QVCC, adult education students can now co-enroll in college level courses and earn credits while completing their high school diploma or ELL program with EASTCONN Adult Education. In its pilot year, we anticipate students completing six classes and earning 18 credits.

Workforce Development Basic Skills Education

With federal funding through EWIB, EASTCONN provided basic skills education to help adult job-seekers develop new work skills and find new career paths. Highlights included:

• Health Pipeline Initiative (HPI): 31 adults received person-centered

case management, support services and job development through HPI and the American Job Centers. Also offered was access to a Health Career Pipeline that provided a soft-career-skills workshop, both in-person and virtually.

• Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative (MPI): 35 adults attended basic skills bootcamps in preparation for the Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative.

Income-eligible children and their families participated in EASTCONN Head Start programs

English Learner parents received instruction through the Multi-Generational Learning Initiative

AGENCY GOAL

1. HR staff provided fingerprinting services for 820+ individuals.

2. EASTCONN's Finance staff provides comprehensive fiscal management services for member districts.

3. More than 160 adults participated in EASTCONN's Adult Workplace Education certificate classes and worksite training programs.

THAT RESULT IN POSITIVE OUTCOMES FOR LEARNERS.

HIGHLIGHTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

MEMBER DISTRICT PARTNERSHIPS & COLLABORATIONS

Advocacy for Equitable State Funding

Throughout the year, as it has done for decades, EASTCONN continued to host meetings for northeastern Connecticut’s University Region Superintendents Association/Northeast Area Superintendents Association (URSA/NASA) council. Representing EASTCONN-region school districts, this high-powered group collaborates with EASTCONN’s leaders, as they share valuable resources and strategies for managing common challenges across a range of topics. With EASTCONN’s assistance, URSA/NASA advocates in Hartford for more equitable state funding for northeastern Connecticut schools; the group also demonstrates the many longstanding, cross-district and municipal collaborations and partnerships that already exist to save resources.

Cooperative Purchasing

All 36 EASTCONN-member districts have access to EASTCONN’S regional Cooperative Purchasing (CP) program, along with other non-profit organizations and municipalities statewide. This year, thanks to rates negotiated by EASTCONN, more than 120 schools and non-profits collectively spent millions of

dollars and saved an average of more than 20% on a range of discounted products, including copiers, fuel, technology equipment, food, custodial, cafeteria and office supplies. CP also purchased hundreds of thousands of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) items and supplies for EASTCONN sites, saving the agency tens of thousands of dollars.

Eastern Connecticut Health Insurance Program (ECHIP)

This regional health insurance collaborative of four municipalities, four school districts and EASTCONN is entering its 10th year of partnership. The collaborative continues to help its members maintain stability as employee health insurance costs move up and down. Working together, and with a common insurance carrier, ECHIP’s nine northeastern Connecticut members have been able to cost-effectively navigate the healthcare and pharmaceutical rating systems to save taxpayer resources.

Regional Fingerprinting

Human Resources staff implemented and provided new and enhanced electronic fingerprinting services for approximately 820 individuals; both employees and job-seekers used our fingerprinting services, including individuals hired by area Boards of Education and employees of organizations beyond Connecticut’s school districts.

Back Office Fiscal Management & Support

Staff provided comprehensive fiscal management services for several member districts, including budget management, accounts payable and payroll, resulting in enhanced services, increased effectiveness and cost-savings over each district’s prior in-house provision of comparable services.

Shared Staffing Services

Human Resources provided 30 alternative staffing solutions for three-member districts this year, eliminating the need for school personnel to manage the complexities of hiring critical staff.

Human Resources Consulting & Training Services

Human Resources provided virtual mandated training solutions and tracked mandated training requirements for employees. We also provided HR consulting services/information upon request to member districts in the areas of confidential personnel issues, training and related technical assistance.

Information Technology (IT) Support for Member Districts & Municipalities

Technology Solutions regularly delivers on-site technology support to school districts and municipalities, offering a range of expertise that would be difficult to find in a single, full-time IT person.

“ Utilizing EASTCONN for School Readiness support has been instrumental in helping our preschool stay at the forefront of the state legislative changes in preschool and making sure our program adheres to the requirements. It also has provided us ways to further engage our community and explore ways to increase parent participation. It has been a wonderful experience in supporting our preschool and administration!”

– Rita Quiles-Glover, Lebanon Public Schools Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment

Adult Education Consortium

EASTCONN’s 21-town, northeastern Connecticut Adult Education Consortium continued to offer residents a wide range of free, basic adult education services, ensuring that Consortium members could collectively afford to provide mandated education programs. Programming was held virtually and supported by on-site services at our regional Community Learning Centers, co-located in partnership with EWIB’s American Job Centers in Danielson and Willimantic. This year, EASTCONN served 2,327 individuals in programs throughout the region, including 433 in our high school credential programs and 215 in our ELL and citizenship classes. In collaboration with community partners, we also served 342 youth with educational and work opportunities and job-skills training.

School Readiness

EASTCONN Early Childhood staff members were School Readiness Liaisons and monitors in 14 communities this year. The work included School Readiness Council facilitation to help communities continue to meet Connecticut Office of Early Childhood’s School Readiness Grant requirements, council membership legislation and Quality Enhancement Grant activities. In addition, School Readiness Programs were monitored to ensure quality standards and requirements were met.

Clinical Developmental & Therapeutic (CDT) Program Collaboratives

In partnership with member districts across the EASTCONN region, our district-based, regional Clinical Developmental & Therapeutic Treatment programs accommodated the needs of approximately 100 K-12 students with significant social, emotional and behavioral issues from 28 sending districts. CDT program locations in Danielson and Columbia can make it easier for local students to join their non-disabled hometown peers in activities and community events, although the pandemic curtailed most of those opportunities this year. Google Classrooms, tailored curricula and responsive, social-emotional approaches were employed to continue students’ inperson, educational progress during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regional Consortia

EASTCONN’s Leading & Learning group continued to facilitate regional consortia, providing member districts with access to funding and resources that they would not otherwise be eligible to receive.

Among them:

• Perkins Consortium: six districts gained access to $75,000 in federal funds, as we surveyed industries to gather insight into workforce success skills. Findings were used to help educators define goals for their Continuous Improvement Plans, strengthening their Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.

• Title III Consortium for English Learners: 25 districts participated in our regional Consortium, providing over $50,000 in resources and PD to teachers of English Learners.

• CSDE Homeless Grant: nine districts participated in a newly released grant providing funds to support educators in understanding and building capacity to help homeless students and their families.

FAMILY SUPPORT & EDUCATION

Social-Emotional Health

The Connecticut Head Start Collaboration Office funded our State Head Start grant proposal to offer “Mind in the Making” trainings to Head Start staff. Workshops focused on the Seven Essential Life Skills connected with Executive Function, so that children and families can realize better outcomes. Family support and education in the areas of social-emotional health was also addressed through Pyramid Model implementation. The NCPMI website houses hundreds of resources that are developed specifically for families. Teachers were encouraged to review and share those resources with families as they expressed a need for support and as part of an intentional process related to goals the classroom is addressing.

“ Because of the EASTCONN partnership, the [Executive Function and Purposeful Play] work is now spreading into other grade levels. The programming that we are working on with EASTCONN has led to significant momentum in building a foundation for play-based learning in all grades.”

– Joe Macrino, Principal, Oswegatchie Elementary School, Waterford

1. Youth Employment and Training participants show off their work at the Willimantic Public Library.

2. Cat in the Hat wannabees take a break from working on reading skills in a Head Start classroom.

3. A proud graduate of EASTCONN's Clinical, Developmental and Therapeutic programs.

4. QMC student Nevaeh Ivory harvests hydroponic lettuce under special lights in her Service Learning group.

– John Fortunato, Windham BOE member and AQIS Client

K-12 students from

sending districts

by EASTCONN CDT programs

The average amount saved on products like fuel, food & office supplies through the Cooperative Purchasing program

“

Participating in the monthly study groups provided a chance to see how other programs were addressing issues related to accreditation. We have been able to accurately define and improve best practices in our program.”

“ We really need to take care of the earth [for Earth Day], and these kids [from Windham Heights] really love what they're doing."

- Kevin Segar, After-School Program Facilitator at Windham Heights Learning Center

REGIONAL COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS

Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB)

EASTCONN collaborated with EWIB in the design and delivery of remote 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 1,013 people; 216 have found jobs. EASTCONN also served 298 Jobs First Employment Services (JFES) customers referred from the Department of Social Services, helping them to build valuable employability skills. EASTCONN served 12 adult job-seekers with disabilities through Ticket to Work, a provision of the Social Security Administration

Youth Employment and Training Program

Our EWIB-funded, regional employment and training program for 342 youth involved numerous partners, including New London Youth Affairs and Norwich Human Services; 93% of the participants achieved an attendance rate of 80% or better, and 95% of youth participants returned to school or found jobs.

Community-Based Clinical, Developmental & Therapeutic Work-Readiness Partnerships

Students from the Clinical, Developmental & Therapeutic (CDT) Programs, ages 14 and older, were able to participate in internships and vocational opportunities that built their work skills and earned them high school credit. Approximately 30 students engaged in paid, communitybased internships. We maintained relationships with more than 40 local and national employers, including Subway, Walmart, Carelot Children’s Center, Bousquet’s Appliances, Windham Senior

Center, Dunkin’ and Bowes Tires, where students will continue their in-person internships. We developed push-in vocational skills groups for all high school students to supplement their learning, along with virtual tours and outside speakers, enabling students to explore programs and interventions.

Workplace Education Programs

Adult Programs enrolled 163 adults who participated in our Adult Workplace Education certificate classes and worksite education and training programs.

Program Enhancement Project (PEP) Grants

A total of seven competitive PEP grants were awarded to EASTCONN from the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE). Through partnerships with the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB), Quinebaug Valley Community College (QVCC), school districts, Family Resource Centers, libraries, and other non-profit and social services agencies, these funds provided specialized education and training services to 106 eligible adult students across the eastern Connecticut region.

Early Childhood Public School Administrators Networking Meeting

Early Childhood staff continued to facilitate network meetings for EASTCONN-region administrators of public-school preschools to keep them informed about state and national policies, best practices and professional learning options for program staff.

Regional Early Childhood Planning

In collaboration with seven member districts, our Early Childhood staff served on the Northeast Early Childhood Council Leadership Team, supported the Regional School Readiness Council and ensured the structure of the council was meeting

new legislative requirements. This work provided a regional approach to setting goals for improving transition to kindergarten; improving overall preschool experiences in our communities; closing the preparation gap for birth to age three; continuing to provide opportunities to attend the Mental Health Task Force meetings; advocating for equitable access to preschool, and providing professional development for faculty, staff and families. Regional programs were encouraged to apply for Gov. Ned Lamont’s pandemic-related GEER funding opportunities.

Regional Magnet School Transportation

During the school year, EASTCONN’s Transportation group collaborated with 38 district partners to transport 264 students on hybrid days to the region’s three public magnet schools, including EASTCONN’s Arts at the Capitol Theater (ACT), Quinebaug Middle College (QMC) and Windham’s middle school STEM Academy.

RESC & RESC ALLIANCE PARTNERSHIPS

Advocacy in Support of Public School Funding

EASTCONN continued to partner with its RESC Alliance colleagues to advocate at the state level for adequate education funding for towns and increased financial support for public schools. Connecticut’s six RESC Alliance members, including EASTCONN, identified a number of legislative Alliance priorities in 2022, reaching out to legislators to make a compelling case for each. Priorities included supporting diversity, equity and inclusion for all districts while supporting workforce development; sustainable funding formulas for magnet schools; continuing to invest in early childhood programs; and providing equitable,

1. EASTCONN's Regional Transition Services (RTS) helps young adults transition to community, career and college.

2. Early Childhood Initiatives staff members gather for professional development in Hampton.

3. An EASTCONN van transports students to QMC in Danielson.

4. CT DOTS provides online tools for early childhood education providers statewide.

sustainable funding for Education Cost Sharing, special education and related services.

Connecticut Documentation & Observations Teaching System (CT DOTS)

EASTCONN’s Early Childhood Initiatives (ECI) staff and their RESC Alliance colleagues worked with the state Office of Early Childhood to provide training and technical assistance to participants statewide, using the CT DOTS online platform. CT DOTS provides online tools that help early-care and early-education providers monitor and document children’s progress across criteria defined by the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS).

Early Childhood Quality Improvement Grants

EASTCONN is using funding from Quality Improvement Grants to collaborate with RESC Alliance early childhood partners in the following areas:

• Connecticut Core Knowledge and Competency Frameworks Support

• Fiscal Management Training

• National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Accreditation Support

• Quality Assurance and Technical Provider Support

• Standards, Curriculum and Assessment Support

• Trauma and Insecure Housing Training Support

GEER Fund Partnership in Support of Virtual Access for Young Families Statewide

To help fill the remote-learning connectivity gap being experienced by underserved families with preschool children during the pandemic, the Office of Early Childhood (OEC) GEER Fund initiated a statewide effort to provide thousands of families with an iPad and related supports. Last year, the OEC asked EASTCONN to serve as

technical lead for this ambitious goal. EASTCONN worked directly with the OEC Commissioner’s project team to support the purchasing, inventorying, physical preparation, configuration and distribution of devices. EASTCONN also provided statewide Help Desk mechanisms for partnering RESC Alliance members, who prepared and distributed GEER devices to families in their respective regions. EASTCONN also designed and hosted the GEER website for the OEC. This program increased in breadth this past year, providing CT DOTS Online funding for all state-funded early childhood programs.

Nutrition & Physical Activity Initiative

RESC Alliance early childhood partners are collaborating on Go NAPSACC (Nutrition and Physical Activity SelfAssessment for Child Care) and PALS (Physical Activity Learning Session),

Youth and adults found jobs after participating in WIOA-sponsored programs

CDT Students engaged in paid, community-based internships that build work skills

funded through a contract with the state Department of Health (DOH) to emphasize nutrition and increase physical activity in early childhood programs. Alliance early childhood staff also provided the DOH with technical assistance on nutrition and exercise for 58 programs statewide.

Professional Learning for Early Childhood Special Education Programs

The RESC Alliance continued partnering to provide professional learning for dozens of early childhood special education programs statewide.

Special Education Professional Learning

On behalf of the CSDE, the RESC Alliance continued partnering to provide professional learning for dozens of early childhood special education programs statewide.

Accreditation Quality Improvement System (AQIS)

EASTCONN’s Early Childhood division holds the RESC Alliance grant for providing “intensive supports” to 108 programs seeking accreditation or reaccreditation through AQIS. Each RESC provided training, self-study, portfolio supports and limited on-site supports to programs pursuing accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). In addition, facilitators offered studygroup discussions based on the NAEYC Early Learning Program Accreditation Standards and Assessment Items; over 300 participa nts took part.

Teacher Education And Mentoring (TEAM)

Staff are continuing to make system and program improvements for 20222023 in conjunction with the CT Dept of Education. We are currently serving 2,900+ active beginning teachers, 6,100+ mentors, and 1,500+ regional reviewers. Over 1,800+ beginning teachers have completed their TEAM program in 20212022. We are currently in an upgrade phase of the TEAM Modules site. This will allow us to provide a better environment for our users in the years to come.

Virtual High School (VHS)

In collaboration with the RESC Alliance, EASTCONN coordinated the delivery of online VHS courses to two participating districts, providing students with access to semester-long and full-year online courses in addition to AP courses and labs, which have been valuable with remote learning during the pandemic.

Foundational Skills for Evaluators of Teachers

RESC Alliance partners joined EASTCONN to continue delivering focused Foundational Skills professional learning to school administrators statewide. This year, the partners accommodated more than 100 registrants through virtual offerings, providing scoring and feedback. All components of the teacher evaluation guidelines were addressed as participants demonstrated proficiency in conducting observations.

Increasing Educator Diversity Consortium

Through a partnership with the CSDE and the RESC Alliance, EASTCONN improved their knowledge and application of equity practices. EASTCONN provided assistance to public schools in our region to recruit, support and retain a diverse educator workforce.

STATE-LEVEL PARTNERSHIPS & STATEWIDE SERVICES

State of CT Judicial Branch REGIONS Program

Adult and Community Programs continued to provide work readiness instruction, certificate programming and customized training for youth at three residential programs across the state. This year, we served almost 55 youth through this collaboration.

Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitative Services (BRS)

Our Assistive Technology (AT) team provided BRS with assessment services and support for nine adult consumers with disabilities who want to obtain or maintain employment.

Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

In close coordination with DDS, our Regional Transition Services (RTS) group addressed the needs of RTS students who were transitioning to adult services. RTS serves young adults with a broad range of disabilities.

“

At our Early Head Start program, having an [EASTCONN] Early Childhood Specialist has come as such a positive and well-accepted support. When the teachers are excited because she's coming in, this demonstrates the relationship she has developed with our teams.”

– Joyleen Albarracin, EHS Coordinator, WECC Early Head Start, Willimantic

1. Director of Early Childhood Initiatives Diane Gozemba (left) works with Technology Specialist Briana Patriarca (right).

2. EASTCONN's Virtual High School (VHS) served more than 200 students in two districts.

3. Early Head Start and Head Start staff members enjoy an appreciation day in Hampton.

EASTCONN is entering its 10th year of partnership with ECHIP, the regional health insurance collaborative

STATEWIDE DATA SYSTEMS SUPPORT

eObserve Platform (CT DOTS

Online Delivery Mechanism)

EASTCONN Technology Solutions has continued the expansion & improvement of the eObserve platform by adding a parent-accessible student profile, a teacher/parent communications feature, an expansion of available Report Templates, with more enhancement on the way. We’ve also welcomed 27 new programs with 291 classrooms and 3,155 new students. eObserve is continuously being updated to maintain compatibility with today’s latest web browsers & devices.

Student Information System (SIS) Support

Technology Solutions provided nine districts with on-site consultation, Professional Development, and support

for PowerSchool and Tyler SIS, serving as the primary SIS support for four districts. Staff continued to provide local and regional training, custom reports, and setup assistance.

Teacher of the Year (T.O.Y.) Application

EASTCONN has provided a web portal for the CT Teacher of the Year application/selection process since 2015. Every year approximately 80 district teachers of the year use this portal to apply and be selected for the CT Teacher of the Year. New software is currently in the development stage for the 2023 application/selection process.

Kindergarten Inventory

Technology Solutions provided data management and system support for the CSDE’s Kindergarten Inventory, which is used by all Connecticut school districts.

➋

300 95%

The inventory system provides CSDE with critical developmental progress data for nearly 35,000 kindergarteners statewide.

Data Collection & Research Services

Technology Solutions provided technical and logistical support for collection of School Climate surveys of students, parents and staff for three districts, including survey delivery, results analyses and comprehensive summative data. Custom survey work, statistical analysis and reporting services are available.

Participants took part in Early Childhood's study groups to help districts with NAEYC accreditation processes

Of participants in EWIB-sponsored Youth Employment & Training Program returned to school or found jobs

HIGHER EDUCATION PARTNERSHIPS & COLLABORATIONS

UConn Collaborations

Each year, EASTCONN professional staff collaborate on research projects with UConn faculty in order to contribute to education-related advances. Of note this year:

• Early Childhood: Head Start staff continued to measure the achievement of family-defined goals through its collaboration with the University of Connecticut’s Center for Applied Research in Human Development. Results helped guide referrals, program improvements and staff professional development. Head Start also worked to establish a partnership with QVCC; this included staff support for CDA portfolios and coordinating to have student teachers in our classrooms.

• Psychological & Behavioral Support: In collaboration with UConn’s NEAG School of Education, we continued to support their graduate students, enabling them (with supervision) to provide academic and behavioral consultation and coaching to school-based staff to

improve outcomes for students. A partnership with UConn’s 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

Throughout the school year, academically qualified EASTCONN magnet high school students are welcome to take collegelevel courses and earn free, transferable college credits. Of note:

• Quinebaug Middle College (QMC): In 2021-2022, 79 students in EASTCONN’s QMC magnet high school enrolled in 126 free college courses at Quinebaug Valley Community College (QVCC), collectively achieving an average passing rate of 97% for the first semester. This is a 64% increase of students enrolled in QVCC courses over last year. Furthermore, this academic year college courses were made available to students in grades 9 and 10, building an Early College model. Seventy percent (70%) of the freshman (grade 9) class were directly enrolled in QVCC college courses. QMC expanded its UConn Early College Experience

(ECE) course offerings with three new college credit-bearing courses this year. Across all college experiences, QMC students earned more than 418 free, transferable college credits.

• Regional Transition Services (RTS): Located on the Danielson campus of QVCC, our RTS program enabled fifth-year students with developmental disabilities to take a QVCC class each semester to help them develop the self-advocacy skills needed to take college classes and secure special learning accommodations, for use once they enter a post-EASTCONN world.

“ Our involvement with EASTCONN [for NAEYC reaccreditation] has benefited our school immensely. Staff have provided many months of help, guidance and support and were always willing to help, explain and go the extra mile to make sure our questions were answered and that we understood completely."

– Stephanie Cote, Preschool Education Teacher at Griswold Elementary School

1. Quinebaug Middle College is co-located on the campus of Quinebaug Valley Community College (pictured) in Danielson.

2. EASTCONN provided data management and system support for the CSDE's Kindergarten Inventory.

3. Three districts utilized EASTCONN's technical and logistical support for collecting School Climate surveys.

Students at EASTCONN's QMC enrolled in college classes at QVCC

Adult job-seekers with disabilities received services through Ticket to Work, a provision of the Social Security Administration

EASTCONN's Transportation group collaborated with 38 district partners to transport students on hybrid days to the region's three public magnet schools

Virtual online courses, AP courses and labs were provided to high school students in collaboration with the RESC Alliance

– Kayleigh Brousseau,

AGENCY GOAL

1. Modeling, coaching and professional learning was provided to mathematics educators in three districts.

2. Adult & Community Programs Facilitator Elizabeth Acosta.

3. EASTCONN staff provided 377 days of professional learning and support in 18 districts for more than 600 educators.

TO ENHANCE THE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS OF EDUCATORS AND THE WHOLE COMMUNITY, SO THEY CAN EFFECT CHANGE AND FACILITATE POSITIVE OUTCOMES FOR LEARNERS.

HIGHLIGHTS &

MEMBER DISTRICT PARTNERSHIPS, COLLABORATIONS & PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SUPPORT

Teaching & Learning During a Pandemic

Professional learning during 2021-2022 once again focused on the safe reopening of schools and developing the capacity of educators, students and families to work and learn in a shifting model. We focused on establishing connections and building student self-agency. Educators deepened their knowledge and skills through an emphasis on and implementation of SEL integration, the use of student profiles and goals-setting, and the identification and use of essential standards and learning targets for acceleration. Additional weekly and monthly crossschool collaboration time was set aside to provide peer reflection, collaboration and planning time.

Psychological & Behavioral Consultation (PBC) Services

Educators and school specialists in 30 districts across the EASTCONN region used our neuropsychological assessment, behavioral consultation and PD services this year to support and enhance learning outcomes for thousands of students. Staff provided comprehensive virtual support early in the pandemic and returned to hybrid and in-person support in the fall of 2021. Staff delivered high-quality

and direct student/family services and professional learning for colleagues at the regional and state level. Of note:

• PBC staff facilitated Communities of Practice for hundreds of schoolbased BCBAs in the EASTCONN region and statewide.

• Through RESC Alliance projects, staff expanded support to districts in the areas of pandemic-focused, trauma-sensitive practices and engagement efforts for all learners.

• As invited speakers at regional and national conferences, PBC staff presented outcomes from technical assistance, coaching and training, and continued to publish research in prestigious, peer-reviewed journals.

• Staff designed and provided employee self-care and wellness initiatives, both within EASTCONN programs and via district training

• Training and development of social-emotional learning (SEL) frameworks across districts guided expanded support for students and staff during and beyond the pandemic.

EASTCONN’S Center for Educational Leadership (CEL)

Both before and during COVID-19, CEL staff offered educators an ongoing series of deeply reflective professional learning experiences, as they examined the characteristics of leadership in today’s world. The 2021-2022 focus specifically emphasized leading during a crisis.

Through research-based professional learning approaches and experiential activities 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. Of note:

• Leadership Coaching: CEL educators used the Connecticut Leadership Framework to guide discussion and provide customized coaching to more than 50 school and district leaders as they addressed the unique needs and challenges of leading during a pandemic.

• Strategic Advancement Planning: Staff facilitated strategic planning support in one district, resulting in customized plans for district advancement; staff also provided 25+ leaders with coherence planning for COVID-19-related funding.

“ EASTCONN's professional development offerings are always timely and worthwhile. Our teaching staff is provided with many opportunities for free or at a reasonable cost. Thank you for this opportunity to boast about the quality of our collaboration!”

– Rena Cadro, Director of Curriculum and Grants for Plainfield Public Schools

In-District Support & Training

EASTCONN staff provided 377 days of on-site, embedded professional development and support in 18 districts for more than 600 educators. Staff also implemented customized, local, professional learning plans for a variety of education reform initiatives and leadership work, including personalized competency-based teaching, Readers/ Writers Workshop, SRBI, social studies and math curriculum.

Mathematics Learning

Modeling, coaching and districtembedded professional learning was provided to math educators in three districts addressing curriculum needs and math program updates including pilot and adoption process, ensuring alignment to CCSS Connecticut Common Core Standards for mathematics

Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

During the 2021-2022 school year, our Educational Specialist provided training and professional development on Project-Based Learning, connecting the work back to NGSS and inquiry-based instruction.

Social Emotional Learning & Restorative Practices

EASTCONN established partnerships with CASEL, IIRP and Aperture to create in-depth knowledge and support to districts to integrate SEL into academics and create a positive culture through

restorative programs. Eight districts engaged in deep learning and leadership coaching.

Increasing Educator Diversity Consortium

EASTCONN continued its work on its equity program in collaboration with the RESC Alliance, whose collective goals are to recruit, hire, develop, support and retain a racially, ethnically and culturally diverse teaching and administrative workforce for Connecticut schools.

ATDN Technology Grant

EASTCONN was contracted by the CT Adult Training and Development Network (ATDN), managed by EdAdvance, to offer technology training assistance to adult education programs statewide. This new initiative has three parts: statewide virtual PDs, live technical support for teachers, and targeted training videos for teachers and students to access at any time.

EDUCATOR EVALUATION SUPPORT & TRAINING

Professional Development & Evaluation Committee (PDEC)

EASTCONN’s Center for Educational Leadership (CEL) supported PDEC in two districts, contributing to increased coherence between teacher evaluation, student performance data and professional development. In turn, this led to better alignment of strategic initiatives across both districts.

Teacher Education And Mentoring (TEAM) Collaborative

Our Technology group continued to manage the EASTCONN-built-andmaintained online platform for the TEAM Collaborative, used this year by 2,900+ beginning teachers, 6,100+ mentors and 1,500+ regional reviewers statewide. State funding has enabled teachers in 224 districts and schools to participate.

Early Childhood Training Workshops

EASTCONN Early Childhood staff supported numerous regional and statewide early childhood initiatives this year, delivering workshops and coaching on a broad range of topics, including Meaningful Curriculum: What is it? Why Does it Matter?; Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS); Connecticut Documentation and Observations Teaching System (CT DOTS); Using Data to Improve Child Outcomes; Family Engagement in the Cycle of Intentional Teaching socialemotional competence; executive function; standards-based IEPs; exploring social and emotional learning through the lens of equity and bias; and more.

“

A piloting process for a math program is no easy task due to the fear of change, costs and time. EASTCONN staff quickly created a positive partnership with our staff and administration to help ease the process. The organization, support, passion for student learning, modeling and follow-through was greatly appreciated in helping us make a decision that fit our district needs.”

– Rita Quiles-Glover, Curriculum Director at Lebanon Public Schools

1. EASTCONN Early Childhood staff delivered workshops and coaching on a broad range of topics this year.

2. Early Childhood Specialist Teresa Surprenant (left) with Director of Early Childhood Initiatives Diane Gozemba (right).

3. Clinical, Developmental and Therapeutic Programs staff members outside Hampton offices.

4. EASTCONN offered technology training assistance to adult education programs statewide as part of the CT Adult Training and Development Network (ATDN).

Macrino, Principal

Educators participated in EASTCONN staffprovided,

embedded professional development and support

Professionals attended

"Anti-bias Education in Action: The Early Years"

Educators in participating districts gained priority scheduling and access to the AT Lending Library

“

It is through the continued partnership between EASTCONN and the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) Talent Office that the TEAM program continues to flourish and grow. [We] value the strong collaborative partnership with EASTCONN and will continue to look to EASTCONN as a critical partner in supporting Connecticut's educators and students.”

EARLY CHILDHOOD STATEWIDE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

State Coaching Coordination

EASTCONN’s Early Childhood staff are coordinating and delivering professional learning to state-funded programs, including trainings, coaching related to content and technical assistance. With the proper supports in place, research shows that coaching and Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) work best for increasing the likelihood that a positive change in practice will occur over time.

Professional Learning for Community-Based Early-Care Providers

Staff provided workshops, both inperson and online, for hundreds of community-based, early-care providers on a wide variety of content and pedagogical topics. Attendees included pre-K 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.

Also of note this year, Early Childhood Initiatives staff:

• Contributed to the development of exemplars for a CT DOTS Reliability Study with Partnership for Early Education Research (PEER) for OEC

and recruited expert raters for this project. They are also involved in training the participants in the study on how to rate and score.

• Piloted the Technical Assistance Framework for Quality Assurance.

• Facilitated statewide Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) for principals and preschool special education teachers.

• Provided a showing of the film “Anti-bias Education in Action: The Early Years” to 130 participants.

OTHER REGIONAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING INITIATIVES

Windham School Readiness

The Windham School Readiness system is an online portal that accepts applications, provides processing, and stores results for School Readiness programs offered by Windham Public Schools. Hundreds of student applications have been processed using this software.

The Science of Reading

We are supporting districts in learning about new state legislation on the sciences of reading. In partnership with the RESC Alliance, a statewide book club was offered to our region on “Shifting the Balance” by Jan Miller Burkins and Kari Yates.

Regional Groups & Councils

Representing nearly all 36 of EASTCONN’s member districts, educators from a range of disciplines attended one or more of our nine virtual, professional learning councils this year, led by our education and technology specialists. Our free councils offer EASTCONN-region districts with opportunities to network and explore a wide variety of content areas, such as technology, English language arts, science, social studies, math, and more. Participants connected with peers, shared strategies and new resources, and learned about new developments at the state level and in their respective fields.

Student Information System (SIS) Support

Technology Solutions provided nine districts with on-site consultation, Professional Development (PD), and support for PowerSchool and Tyler SIS, serving as the primary SIS support for four districts. Staff continued to provide local and regional training, custom reports, and setup assistance.

IN-DISTRICT TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT FOR PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

Technology Trainings & Consultation

EASTCONN’s Technology Solutions staff provided in-person, virtual, and in-district PD sessions around the

– Christopher M. Todd, Former Bureau Chief, Talent Office, Connecticut State Department of Education

Different training units have been created using the EASTCONN-developed HABILIS Learning tool; nearly 3,000 users have completed training using HABILIS

Districts received Related Services (AT, OT, PT & SLT) to support 645 students, preschool to age 21

– State Representative and Deputy Majority Leader Susan Johnson

1. EASTCONN's online technical training continued for teachers and participants in the TEAM program during the pandemic.

2. Participants read and discussed "Shifting the Balance" as part of the RESC Alliance's statewide book club.

3. EASTCONN Psychological & Behavioral Consultation Services staff members.

application of classroom technologies to improve learning and instruction. Online technical training continued for in-district cybersecurity and for teachers and participants in the TEAM Program, including Mentor training, using EASTCONN’s in-house-developed HABILIS Learning Suite. Staff also provided CT DOTS Online onboarding and training; and consultation PD to QMC and ACT schools on digital accessibility and software compliance.

HABILIS Learning Suite

The HABILIS Learning tool was developed during 2020-2021 and is now used to provide training for TEAM

beginning teachers, mentors and regional reviewers. HABILIS has also been used internally to provide training on email security threats and cybersecurity. Approximately 16 different training units have been developed using HABILIS and approximately 3,100 users have completed various trainings using this tool.

Assistive Technology (AT) & Related Services

• Professional Learning & SiteBased Support: EASTCONN AT staff supported 15 districts with Consortium packages, providing them with priority scheduling and

access to our AT Lending Library and Consortium training. Within the consortium districts, AT provided 16 AT and/or AAC Assessments. AT Consortium Packages and Fee-for-Services options for our districts impacted 79 students, 250 educators and 25 family members.

• Related Services: Related Services staff worked with 28 districts to support 645 students, preschool to age 21. EASTCONN Related Services include Assistive Technology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and SpeechLanguage Therapy.

“ Thank you, EASTCONN, for all you do to support our educational efforts for our children in eastern Connecticut.”

ADULT and COMMUNITY

COLUMBIA COVENTRY EASTFORD FRANKLIN GRISWOLD HAMPTON HEBRON KILLINGLY LEBANON LISBON MANSFIELD MARLBOROUGH

POMFRET PUTNAM

STAFFORD STERLING THOMPSON

PARTICIPATION

EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVES

BROOKLYN CANTERBURY CHAPLIN COLCHESTER COLUMBIA COVENTRY EASTFORD FRANKLIN GRISWOLD HAMPTON HEBRON KILLINGLY LEBANON LISBON MANSFIELD MARLBOROUGH PLAINFIELD POMFRET PUTNAM REGION

REGION

REGION

SCOTLAND SPRAGUE STAFFORD STERLING THOMPSON TOLLAND UNION VOLUNTOWN WILLINGTON WINDHAM

PARTICIPATION

BOZRAH BROOKLYN CANTERBURY CHAPLIN COLCHESTER COLUMBIA COVENTRY EASTFORD FRANKLIN GRISWOLD HAMPTON HEBRON KILLINGLY LEBANON LISBON MANSFIELD MARLBOROUGH PLAINFIELD POMFRET PUTNAM REGION #8 REGION #11 REGION #19 SCOTLAND SPRAGUE STAFFORD STERLING THOMPSON TOLLAND UNION VOLUNTOWN WILLINGTON WINDHAM WOODSTOCK

ANNUAL

DISTRICT PARTICIPATION

LEADING & LEARNING SERVICES

ANDOVER ASHFORD BOZRAH BROOKLYN CANTERBURY CHAPLIN COLCHESTER COLUMBIA COVENTRY EASTFORD FRANKLIN GRISWOLD HAMPTON HEBRON KILLINGLY LEBANON LISBON MANSFIELD MARLBOROUGH PLAINFIELD POMFRET PUTNAM REGION #8 REGION #11 REGION #19 SCOTLAND SPRAGUE STAFFORD STERLING THOMPSON TOLLAND UNION VOLUNTOWN WILLINGTON WINDHAM WOODSTOCK

CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP (CEL)

CONFERENCE & MEETING SUPPORT

COUNCILS & REGIONAL GROUPS

CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT

DISTRICT & SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANNING

EDUCATOR SUPERVISION, EVALUATION & PROFESSIONAL DEV. PLANS

ENGLISH LEARNERS (EL) PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT

INCREASING EDUCATOR DIVERSI TY CONSORTIUM

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

LITERACY PROFES SIONAL LEARNING

MATHEMATICS PL

PERSONALIZED, COMPETENCYBASED INSTRUC TION/ASSESSMENT

PERSONALIZED, STUDENT-CENTERED LEARNING

PRINCIPALS’ COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE

PROJECT-BASED LEARNING COACHING

REGIONAL STAFF DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

RESTORATIVE PRACTICES

SCIENCE/STEM/ NGSS PL & CURRIC ULUM ALIGNMENT

SEAD COACHING, SUPPORT

TEACHER EDUCA TION & MENTORING PROGRAM (TEAM)

ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORT

DISTRICT PARTICIPATION

ANDOVER ASHFORD BOZRAH BROOKLYN CANTERBURY CHAPLIN COLCHESTER COLUMBIA COVENTRY EASTFORD FRANKLIN GRISWOLD HAMPTON HEBRON KILLINGLY LEBANON LISBON MANSFIELD MARLBOROUGH PLAINFIELD POMFRET PUTNAM REGION #8 REGION #11 REGION #19 SCOTLAND SPRAGUE STAFFORD STERLING THOMPSON TOLLAND UNION VOLUNTOWN WILLINGTON WINDHAM WOODSTOCK

PERSONNEL

STATE

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

ANDOVER ASHFORD BOZRAH BROOKLYN CANTERBURY CHAPLIN COLCHESTER COLUMBIA COVENTRY EASTFORD FRANKLIN GRISWOLD HAMPTON HEBRON KILLINGLY LEBANON LISBON MANSFIELD MARLBOROUGH PLAINFIELD POMFRET PUTNAM REGION

REGION

REGION

SCOTLAND SPRAGUE STAFFORD STERLING THOMPSON TOLLAND UNION VOLUNTOWN WILLINGTON WINDHAM WOODSTOCK