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Leading & Learning Services
LEADING & LEARNING
EASTCONN works in partnership with educators from across northeastern Connecticut to continuously improve instruction with the goal of increased learning outcomes for all children. From curriculum design and leadership development to professional learning and data-driven school improvement, our specialists offer a broad range of expertise & support.
Leading & Learning Offers: • Center for Educational Leadership • Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment & Interventions • Professional Learning • Regional Groups & Councils • School Improvement Strategies
Contact any of our staff, or Diane Dugas, Director of Leading and Learning, at 860-455-1569 or ddugas@eastconn.org • www.eastconn.org/l&l
CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP Center for Educational Leadership
The EASTCONN Center for Educational Leadership offers educators professional learning communities, cohorts, coaching and customized learning opportunities that examine the nature of leadership in today’s world. Through research-based professional learning experiences, the Center supports district leaders as they consider and analyze a range of leadership options, actions and instructional methods. Administrators and other district leaders benefit from interactive, experiential activities that are dedicated to evidencebased practices and personal reflection. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 Anna Forlenza-Bailey, aforlenza-bailey@eastconn.org, 860-455-1571 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Leadership Development
We provide professional learning opportunities that are grounded in the Connecticut Standards for School Leaders and Standards for Teachers. Through a variety of administrator groups, teacher-leader cohorts, online learning and job-embedded leadership coaching, we can provide customized support to district administrators as they develop leadership capacity within their own district learning communities. Online collaboration and on-site coaching contribute to this work, minimizing time out of your building. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 Anna Forlenza-Bailey, aforlenza-bailey@eastconn.org, 860-455-1571 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Personalized, Student-Centered Learning
EASTCONN offers districts support through multiple entry points as they pursue a personalized, student-centered learning system. We can facilitate and engage the school community in the development of your Portrait of a Graduate; measurement and reporting of student knowledge skills and habits of mind; student agency; competency-based instruction and project-based learning. As districts seek to prepare learners for the ever-changing life they will lead, EASTCONN’s highly qualified staff have been trained with leading professional organizations in the field to bring you innovative practices. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Principals’ Community of Practice
We offer a consortium for principals in the EASTCONN region to network and meet the unique needs of small district leaders. Specific areas for collaboration and sharing are identified by the group and can include “Instructional Rounds.” Face-to-face and online collaboration opportunities support this collegial exchange. David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Social, Emotional & Academic Development
We offer districts a variety of coaching and support options as they pursue the vital task of addressing the growing social and emotional needs of students. Understanding SEL is not an add-on, rather it is an integrated component of academic instruction. Our staff is nationally trained in SEL practices and can assist you with a system self-assessment, identification of needs, coherence planning, professional development training in SEL programs, processes and systems to address needs and advance supporting educators, students and families. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Strategic Planning for School Communities
Long-range planning involving the entire school community is essential for district coherence and continued advancement. Strategic planning is a process that engages multiple stakeholders in identifying priorities and developing an action plan to accomplish specific goals and outcomes. In this multiple component process, including focus group conversations, surveys, a scan of current data and work group sessions, a shared vision and road map are accomplished to achieve identified outcomes. Led by EASTCONN’s trained facilitators, the development of a coherent plan supports districts in allocating resources and serving as a communication tool for advancement. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
CURRICULUM, INSTRUCTION, ASSESSMENT & INTERVENTIONS Blended Learning Models of Instruction
All our initiatives in Leading and Learning align with personalized, competency-based learning. EASTCONN provides a tailored approach to professional learning and coaching with Blended Learning Models. Outcomes include an understanding of the “why” we instruct with blended learning; what the various models are as well as how to implement them; and who will most benefit from the models. Topics and coaching can be personalized to your needs and direction. Gary Petersen, gpetersen@eastconn.org, 860-455-1551 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Curriculum Development
Our expert staff can help you research, design and develop curricula in a variety of content areas. Our staff have extensive experience with state and national standards, and can assist you with developing a quality, comprehensive curriculum. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
As schools and districts move towards personalized, student centered learning, EASTCONN can provide professional learning and support in developing your Portrait of a Graduate (or Learner); competency-based curriculum; instruction and assessment. Foundational work includes learning targets, learning progressions and standards-based grading practices for mastery reporting. Advancing the integration of SEL and Academics is a key focus. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 Anna Forlenza-Bailey, aforlenza-bailey@eastconn.org, 860-455-1571 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Project-Based Learning Coaching NEW
Project Based Learning (PBL) is a teaching method that supports Critical Thinking Skills. Through PBL, students gain such skills by working over a period of time to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging, and complex question, problem, or challenge. Are you interested in learning more about Project-Based Learning and bringing it to your school/district? EASTCONN can help support you on this exciting journey. Kelly Francis, kfrancis@eastconn.org, 860-455-1508
EASTCONN science specialists can provide a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) professional learning and support, including curriculum alignment, instructional strategies and assessment. Our science specialists will customize services to meet your district needs. Kelly Francis, kfrancis@eastconn.org, 860-455-1508
Professional conference staff can help you plan and manage your event, either virtual events or at one of our facilities. From initial event planning to assisting with on-site logistical support, we offer comprehensive event management to include online and onsite registration, sourcing facilitators and presenters, materials production and mailing, registrant fees and event fiscal management, sourcing and supplying support materials, catering and vendor exhibit management. Paula Hanlon, phanlon@eastconn.org, 860-455-1589
Educator Supervision, Evaluation & Professional Development Plans - Consultation & Support
EASTCONN provides training, workshops and on-site support working with leaders, teams or individuals to develop quality supervision, evaluation and professional learning plans. Grounded in the high-yield practices of reflection and feedback, we can provide assistance for educators at all levels. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
English Learners (EL) Professional Support
Training and technical assistance are available to school districts with low-incidence English learners (EL), including EL Consortium members receiving Title III funding. Services include policy development, program design, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) testing requirements, identification, testing support and professional learning. Faith Fisher, ffisher@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Executive Consulting & Technology Updates
Do you or members of your leadership team need to come up to speed on technology topics before making critical decisions? Do you need to discreetly improve your understanding of administrative or educational technology? Technology Solutions can provide smallgroup and individual briefings and updates on request, giving you the edge you need to succeed with technology. Content can address any topic, historical or current, at the location of your choice. Andrew DePalma, adepalma@eastconn.org, 860-455-1620
Literacy Professional Learning
Professional development and technical assistance are available for schools seeking to align their literacy curriculum, instruction, assessment and intervention with the Connecticut Common Core Standards, and strengthen their literacy program. EASTCONN provides support developing the capacity of educators and leaders to meet the needs of all learners, implement best practices, administer and analyze literacy assessments and use data to inform instruction and interventions decisions. Gary Petersen, gpetersen@eastconn.org, 860-455-1551
Mathematics Professional Learning
Professional development and technical assistance are available for schools seeking to align their mathematics curriculum, instruction, assessment and intervention with the Connecticut Common Core Standards, and strengthen their mathematics program. EASTCONN provides support developing the capacity of educators and leaders to meet the needs of all learners, implement best practices, administer and analyze mathematics assessments and use data to inform instruction and interventions decisions. Anna Forlenza-Bailey, aforlenza-bailey@eastconn.org, 860-455-1571 Kelly Francis, kfrancis@eastconn.org, 860-455-1508
Reading & Writing Workshop Services
EASTCONN provides in-depth coaching in the TC Reader/Writer workshop model of instruction for all levels. Professional learning, coaching and planning are available to support implementation of Readers & Writers Workshop. EASTCONN can lead on-site professional development, and provide coaching strategies such as fishbowl demonstrations, modeling and gradual release. We work alongside teachers to demonstrate different teaching methods and structures. Additional topics focus on developing effective mini-lessons, unpacking units of study and using the conferring process to elevate the level of student work. Gary Petersen, gpetersen@eastconn.org, 860-455-1551
Restorative Practices
We offer a full range of Restorative Practices aligned with the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP), designed to enhance community and build relationships. Topics include the full scope of Restorative Practices: The Fundamental Hypothesis, Social Discipline Window, Fair Process, the RP Continuum, Affective Statements and Questions, Circle Applications and formal conferencing. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Social, Emotional & Academic Development
We offer districts a variety of coaching and support options as they pursue the vital task of addressing the
growing social and emotional needs of students. Understanding SEL is not an add-on, rather it is an integrated component of academic instruction. Our staff is nationally trained in SEL practices and can assist you with a system self-assessment, identification of needs, coherence planning, professional development training in SEL programs, processes and systems to address needs and advance supporting educators, students and families. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Teacher Education and Mentoring (TEAM)
EASTCONN provides regional and in-district professional learning support to districts implementing the Teacher Education and Mentoring (TEAM) program. The TEAM Collaborative provides support and professional learning for beginning teachers and mentors, along with district and school leaders. This model enables districts to continue using the online TEAM workspaces to meet statutory requirements, and facilitates support for beginning teachers. Briana Patriarca, bpatriarca@eastconn.org, 860-455-1521
Technology Lunch ‘n’ Learn
Choose a topic and we’ll provide the lunch. Our Conference Center in Hampton is the perfect place to host your Lunch ‘n’ Learn. Our experts in technology can present a short, focused learning experience for your staff on a variety of topics related to your current technology needs. Topics include, but are not limited to: Google Apps for Education; Microsoft Office Suite; Protecting Your Hardware; Security; Becoming Internet Savvy; and Quick Tips/Shortcuts. Join us in Hampton, or our technology experts will bring a session to the location of your choice. If buildings are temporarily closed due to external circumstances, learning experiences will be conducted virtually. Andrew DePalma, adepalma@eastconn.org, 860-455-1620 Briana Patriarca, bpatriarca@eastconn.org, 860-455-1521
REGIONAL GROUPS & COUNCILS
Diversity Educator Consortium
This council provides assistance to public schools in our region to recruit, support and retain a diverse educator workforce. Research confirms that all students benefit from interacting with teachers of diverse racial, ethnic and linguistic backgrounds and the Diversity Educator Consortium explores opportunities and challenges that districts confront in their efforts to create a diverse learning environment for students. Anna Forlenza-Bailey, aforlenza-bailey@eastconn.org, 860-455-1571
English Learners (EL) Title III Consortium
EASTCONN’s English Learners (EL) Title III Consortium provides a forum for regional EL educators to come together around emerging trends and practices in EL. Practitioners share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide current information on curriculum, assessment, effective instruction and the latest developments from the state and federal levels pertaining to the Title III Grant. Faith Fisher, ffisher@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Language Arts & Social Studies Council
EASTCONN’s free Language Arts and Social Studies Council provides area teachers with a collaborative forum for networking with colleagues and learning about emerging trends and practices across both disciplines. Facilitated by EASTCONN staff, this council offers current information on curriculum, assessment and effective instruction. Participants help determine the group’s direction. Well-regarded outside educators and CSDE consultants attend regularly to share inspiring new teaching and learning perspectives. Gary Petersen, gpetersen@eastconn.org, 860-455-1551
Math Council
Our Math Council provides a forum for area math teachers to meet regularly to discuss emerging trends and practices in mathematics. Practitioners share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide current information on curriculum, assessment and effective instruction. Often featured are CSDE guest speakers, who share information on current education trends and developments. Anna Forlenza-Bailey, aforlenza-bailey@eastconn.org, 860-455-1571
Regional Staff Development Council
The Regional Staff Development Council at EASTCONN brings district and school leaders together in a collegial forum to discuss current educational issues in Connecticut. Topics include curriculum, assessment, the state’s educator evaluation model, professional development, legislation and other relevant educational topics. Speakers from the CSDE regularly attend sessions to discuss new developments in education, both statewide and national. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 Faith Fisher, ffisher@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Science Council
Our Science Council provides area science teachers with a forum for networking with colleagues and learning about emerging trends and practices in science. Practitioners share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide current information on curriculum, assessment and effective instruction. Outside education and science experts attend regularly to share important information. Kelly Francis, kfrancis@eastconn.org, 860-455-1508
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Council NEW
As we return from experiencing a pandemic year the emphasis on reconnection and addressing the social emotional learning (SEL) needs of students, staff and families is essential. Our new SEL council will provide a forum for teachers, counselors, social workers and others who address SEL needs to meet regularly to discuss emerging trends and best practices in the integration of SEL. Practitioners will share best practices and EASTCONN staff will provide current information on curriculum, assessment and effective instruction. David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1632
Technology Council
Our Technology Council provides technology educators with a forum where they can network with peers in a collegial environment, while learning about the latest trends and best practices in technology. Experts in the field and outside consultants regularly attend meetings and provide valuable insights into the latest developments. Andrew DePalma, adepalma@eastconn.org, 860-455-1620 Jessica Jordan-Guilbeault, jguilbeault@eastconn.org, 860-455-1507
District & School Improvement Planning
Access our menu of planning services to develop a data-driven improvement plan. We can provide facilitation for your team in the analysis of multiple sources of district and school data and assist in identifying key areas for improvement. Your plan will include measurable goals, effective strategies and indicators of success. We will assist you in developing a monitoring plan to evaluate your progress. Some districts are using this process to create a 3-year professional learning plan to guide professional development (PD) activities. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Early Childhood Program Monitoring & Evaluation
Our early childhood specialists can help to create or improve early childhood programs, birth through grade 3. Consultation can include program and curriculum design, as well as facility and learning environment design and evaluation with feedback loops, reports, or technical assistance. Diane Gozemba, dgozemba@eastconn.org, 860-455-1518
Educator Supervision, Evaluation & Professional Development Plans - Consultation & Support
EASTCONN provides training, workshops and on-site support working with leaders, teams or individuals to develop quality supervision, evaluation and professional learning plans. Grounded in the high-yield practices of reflection and feedback, we can provide assistance for educators at all levels. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
NAEYC Accreditation Consultation
Our expert Early Childhood staff will provide information, consultation and training to preschool and kindergarten programs that want to pursue accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Sheri Lambert, slambert@eastconn.org, 860-455-1585
Network Management
Supplement your in-house staff with our networking experts. Our on-site or remote support services can ensure your networking equipment and servers stay running and optimized to your needs, while improving your network’s availability and overall performance. We can provide support for Windows and Mac networks, servers, switches, routers, WAN connections and wireless networks. We are available for long-term assignments as well as ad-hoc projects including server and networking equipment upgrades, server migrations and wireless network upgrades. Thomas Schenking, tschenking@eastconn.org, 860-455-1548
Strategic Planning for School Communities
Long-range planning involving the entire school community is essential for district coherence and continued advancement. Strategic planning is a process that engages multiple stakeholders in identifying priorities and developing an action plan to accomplish specific goals and outcomes. In this multiple component process, including focus group conversations, surveys, a scan of current data and work group sessions, a shared vision and road map are accomplished to achieve identified outcomes. Led by EASTCONN’s trained facilitators, the development of a coherent plan supports districts in allocating resources and serving as a communication tool for advancement. Diane Dugas, ddugas@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569 David Howes, dhowes@eastconn.org, 860-455-1569
Technology Strategic Planning
Strategic planning for educational technology can ensure that your district’s instruction and curriculum meet the demands of the 21st century. Our technology planning experts can help your district evaluate, create and implement a systemic and long-term technology plan to meet your goals. Facilitation and support are available for all types of planning, from small projects to district-wide initiatives. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation support are available. We can also assist with reviewing your current technology infrastructure and provide Information Technology (IT) staff to supplement your existing staff. Andrew DePalma, adepalma@eastconn.org, 860-455-1620
