MƒA Winter/Spring 2024 Professional Development Course Catalog by mathforamerica

Professional Development Catalog Winter/Spring Semester: February 2024 - June 2024

Contents General Information & Registration

MƒA Programming

Summary of Core Learning Opportunities

Summary of Additional Learning Opportunities

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

Mini-Courses

Single Session Workshops

Affinity Groups

Interest Groups

MƒAdventures

Thursday Thinks

Equity Webinars

Community Contributions

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

FELLOWSHIP REQUIREMENTS AND GENERAL INFORMATION In winter/spring 2024, MƒA will offer a variety of in-person and virtual programming sufficient for all teachers to meet attendance requirements comfortably. For the 2023-2024 school year, teachers can satisfy their minimum attendance requirements of seven Core Learning workshops with any mix of in-person and virtual programming. We encourage you to sign up for more than the minimum in the event of unforeseen circumstances to ensure you meet your attendance requirement. We understand scheduling conflicts occur for various reasons and may sometimes interfere with your ability to attend a workshop. Occasional absences do not reflect poorly on your participation in the fellowship. However, if you will be absent from a workshop, we ask that you notify MƒA at pdprogram@mathforamerica.org as soon as possible.

IN-PERSON COURSE INFORMATION Most in-person programming occurs at the MƒA office, 915 Broadway, on the 14th and 17th floors. Some workshops take place at other locations throughout the city. Please carefully check course listings for details before registering to ensure you can attend the specified location. In-Person Norms and Attendance All MƒA workshops run from 5:30-7:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted). The MƒA lounge is available for teachers starting at 4:30 p.m. Pizza arrives by 4:30 p.m., and workshops begin promptly at 5:30 p.m. We suggest coming by 5:15 p.m. for a few minutes to eat and socialize before your course starts. Teachers must attend and actively engage in more than 75% of the workshop to be marked present. Please follow all community agreements for your workshop and ensure a productive and respectful experience for all teachers by reviewing and abiding by the standard in-person and virtual MƒA Community Agreements found here and any norms or agreements set with your facilitator(s). In case of a citywide NYC DOE public school closure, MƒA will hold in-person programming virtually or reschedule the session.

VIRTUAL COURSE INFORMATION All MƒA workshops run from 5:30-7:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted). Please refer to the course details on the Small-World Network. Virtual MƒA courses will continue to take place on the Zoom platform. Accessing Zoom Workshops Registered teachers will receive an automated email reminder both one week and two days in advance, including the Zoom link and the password needed to join the workshop. Zoom links for upcoming workshops are also on the Small-World Network in the yellow box on the lefthand side of the home page.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Virtual Norms and Attendance We track virtual attendance using the Zoom participant record. To be marked present, teachers’ Zoom screen names must match the name MƒA has on file1, and teachers must attend and actively engage in more than 75% of the workshop. Active engagement includes, but is not limited to: • keeping your camera on as much as possible, • listening attentively, • participating in discussions and activities, • asking relevant questions, • sharing your thoughts by unmuting yourself, • typing into the chat, and • contributing to the community’s digital activities as appropriate. If you share your screen, please stop sharing when transitioning to whole group discussion to build more meaningful virtual interaction. Likewise, please ensure your technology works correctly before the workshop begins, including testing your microphone and camera and having a stable internet connection and background environment. We encourage you to find a safe, comfortable, and appropriate space2 to participate actively. Please follow all community agreements for your virtual workshop and ensure a productive and respectful experience for all teachers by reviewing and abiding by the standard in-person and virtual MƒA Community Agreements found here and any norms or agreements set with your facilitator(s).

ACCESSIBILITY MƒA strives to make programming inclusive and accessible, enabling all individuals, including those with disabilities, to engage fully. Our office is located in a multi-elevator building with temperature control, air filtration systems, all-gender bathroom options, a wellness/prayer room, and ample seating. We provide gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian food options and snacks. MƒA’s COVID safety policies are based on current evidence and expert recommendations and are subject to change. Current policy, requirements, and logistical information are updated here. Facilitators have been informed of closed captioning in our virtual courses and may already have it enabled. If not, you can anonymously request it during the session by clicking on “Live Transcription” and then “Request.” To request additional accommodations or inquire about accessibility or safety, please contact Courtney Ginsberg, MƒA’s Director of Programming.

1 2

If you would like to update your name, please do so on the Small-World Network. As your safety is imperative, we ask you NOT to join a Zoom course while driving.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

REGISTRATION Registration is required for all MƒA professional development and must be done through the Small-World Network. Please refer to your school and DOE calendars before signing up for courses. January 30, 6 p.m. - Limited Registration During the two-day limited registration period, you may register for two credit-bearing courses from the Core Learning section of the catalog and add yourself to two waitlists. You are free to register for as many non-credit bearing courses as you can commit to attending. February 1, 6 p.m. - Open Registration When open registration begins, you may register for as many additional courses as you can commit to attending in full.

Parent/Caregiver-Teacher Conferences

Elementary School

March 7 & May 9

Middle School

March 14 & May 16

High School

March 21 & May 23

EQUITY AND INCLUSION p At MƒA, we believe equity and inclusion should be acknowledged and considered in every professional development experience, regardless of the focus of the course. MƒA also provides many options for teachers who want to take workshops explicitly focusing on equity and inclusion in the classroom. To highlight these opportunities and make them easier for teachers to find, we include this icon p next to courses generally aligning with the TRU dimensions of equitable access and agency, ownership, and identity. Specifically, such courses should directly address the needs of students of color, queer and gender-expansive students, students with disabilities, or multilingual learners. The icon is also placed next to courses and affinity groups addressing the unique challenges faced by educators who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPoC); educators within the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) community; and white antiracist co-conspirators.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

MƒA Core Learning Opportunities The following types of professional development satisfy fellowship minimum attendance requirements. They are the primary way MƒA teachers learn and grow during their fellowship. Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) are a series of four connected workshops that meet monthly over the course of the semester and consist of small teams of MƒA teachers who come together to explore a specific problem of practice in depth. Learn more about PLTs and our facilitator resources here. Mini-Courses are a series of three connected workshops in which experts from academic institutions, local organizations, and within the MƒA Master Teacher community engage MƒA teachers in a topic at the cutting edge of their content area and/or pedagogical practice. Extended Length Courses are a series of six to eight connected workshops that meet throughout a semester or school year. Experts from academic institutions, local organizations, and within the MƒA Master Teacher community engage MƒA teachers in topics at the cutting edge of their content area and/or pedagogical practice. Single Session Workshops are one-time workshops in which experts from the MƒA Master Teacher community, academic institutions, and local organizations engage MƒA teachers in a topic at the cutting edge of their content area and/or pedagogical practice. Affinity Groups are a series of workshops in which teachers with shared identities grapple with how their particular identities intersect and inform their role as STEM educators, their classroom practice, and their engagement with the broader MƒA community. Thursday Thinks are monthly STEM talks open to MƒA teachers, their colleagues, and guests from the wider STEM community. This speaker series features engaging and accomplished experts who delve into cutting-edge mathematics, science, computer science, and education topics. For the winter/spring 2024, MƒA is piloting in-person Thursday Think attendance as credit-bearing, meaning it will count towards your fellowship minimum attendance requirements. Equity Webinars are virtual workshops open to MƒA teachers, other Master Teacher programs, and people interested in learning more about MƒA. Each webinar leads with a nationally recognized STEM educator talk, followed by breakout sessions, where small groups discuss how they can apply these powerful ideas in their classrooms. For the winter/spring 2024, MƒA is piloting Equity Webinar attendance as credit-bearing, meaning it will count towards your fellowship minimum attendance requirements. To receive credit, teachers are expected to stay for the entire session, including the talk and the small group discussion.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

MƒA Additional Learning Opportunities The following meetings and events do not count towards fellowship attendance requirements. They are opportunities for MƒA teachers to expand their professional network, develop leadership skills, and explore their personal and professional passions. Interest Groups are one-time workshops in which small groups of teachers meet informally around a common interest or identity. They provide opportunities to make connections and begin conversations with MƒA colleagues. MƒAdventures are offsite events organized by MƒA teachers that allow teachers to explore shared interests. They are a great way to meet MƒA community members outside the MƒA office. Community Contributions are leadership opportunities for MTII+ (teachers in their second, third, fourth, or fifth Master Teacher Fellowship) to deepen their connections within the MƒA community by becoming involved with admissions, recruitment, communications, facilitation, supporting new MƒA teachers, and other leadership activities. Please review each contribution for its unique structure and requirements.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Annual MƒA Events Mid-Fellowship Check-In takes place on February 6, 2024. The Mid-Fellowship Check-In is a time for teachers approaching the end of their fellowship to reflect on their journey and consider goals for the remainder of their fellowship and their next. Teachers will learn about different leadership and community opportunities at MƒA, network with members of their cohort and MƒA staff, engage with program survey data, and learn from experienced fellows. Teachers will leave with a deeper understanding of the MƒA community, inspiration about future leadership roles they may want to take, and a holistic view of their fellowship so far. 2021 Fellows can register here. MƒA Family Day is tentatively set for June 1, 2024. In honor and celebration of our community of MƒA Master Teachers, MƒA plans to host an engaging and interactive family day for MƒA Master Teachers and their families. We will share more information this spring. End of Year Celebration & Muller Award Ceremony takes place June 18, 2024, as MƒA teachers come together to mark the end of the school year. During this event, we honor the winners of the MƒA Muller Award for Professional Influence in Education, an annual honor given to two extraordinary teachers from within the MƒA Master Teacher community who influence the teaching profession in exceptional ways. 2024 MƒA Summer Think is a three-day, teacher-designed, teacher-focused, and teacher-led conference held each July. This year the Summer Think will take place July 9-11, 2024. The MƒA Summer Think empowers teachers to explore and collaborate over the summer, from hands-on events to deep dives into specific topics. Registering today on the Small-World Network serves as pre-registration. By mid-June, those registered will receive an email with a link that will guide them through signing up for Summer Think workshops. More details are coming soon.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Summary of Core Learning Opportunities COMMUNITY

Educational Scaffolds p (SSW)

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Affinity Group p (AG)

The Return of Myspace (SSW)

Black, Latinx, and PoC Affinity Group p (AG)

Virtual Reality With AFrame.io (MINI)

RoboExpo (SSW)

LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group p (AG)

Justice: Applications in Our Communities p (PLT)

(SSW)

An Even Deeper Look at ASD and ADHD: Advocacy and Allyship p (PLT) From String to Art: Practices in Textile Crafts and Mindfulness (MINI)

Space to Breathe: Women of Color Affinity Group p (AG)

INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Get Out of Your Dreams, Get Into My Boxcar! (SSW)

White Antiracist Educators Affinity Group p (AG)

Academic Mindfulness: Implementing Executive Function Support for Students (MINI)

Help Me Rhonda: Implementing the Learning Routines of Dr. Bondie p

Adapting Socratic Seminars for Mathematics and Science Classrooms

Interaction of Color (SSW)

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

(SSW)

(PLT)

Joyful Re-Engagement: Fix a Flopped Lesson (SSW)

3D Printing and Laser Cutting: Enhance Your Classroom With Models and Swag (SSW)

Advocating for Immigrant Students Affected by Accuplacer Placement Exam p (SSW)

Länkuntuwakàn: Lenape Wellbeing and Ecological Consciousness p

ChatGPT and Coding: A Teacher’s Guide (MINI)

Alleviating Assessment Anxiety in Mathematics and Science Classrooms p (PLT)

Learning With Doodle Notes (SSW)

Creating Student Portfolios in Github and Replit Teams (MINI) Creative Coding: The Intersection of Art and Technology (MINI) Design and Code Interactive SelfPortraits With p5.js (MINI) Do You Want to Excel at Excel? (SSW) From “Hello World” to “Hello Success”: Unleash Your Code-Tential With Us! (MINI) If You Can’t Beat It... Using AI in the Classroom (MINI) Integrating Computer Science Into Your STEM Classroom Using a Micro:bit (SSW)

All Gas, No Brakes: Supporting Adolescents With Self-Management (SSW)

Art and Myco-Materials: Creating Paper With Mushrooms (SSW) The Art of Co-Teaching: Building Positive and Productive Relationships p (PLT) Avoiding Equity Traps and Tropes: A Street Data Book Study p (PLT) Between Zero Consequences and Zero Tolerance: Challenging Discipline Norms p (MINI)

iPad Master Class (SSW)

The Brain, the Classroom, the IEP: Going Beyond Checklist Accommodations p (MINI)

Let’s Roll: Sphero Robots as an Introduction to Programming (MINI)

A Day in the Life of a Multilingual Student p (SSW)

Leveraging ChatGPT to Create

Equity, Identity, and Restorative

(MINI)

Let’s Get Motivated About Motivation p (SSW) Let’s Tell a Story: Using Excel to Write Student Narratives (SSW) Let Them Figure It Out! Designing Tasks That Increase Cognitive Demand (PLT)

Supporting Academic Honesty in an AI Landscape (PLT) Teacher as Team Player: Using Improv to Build a Collaborative Classroom (SSW)

Teacher as Writer (PLT) Teacher Leadership for Impactful School Change (MINI) Teaching Creativity: Ideas From the Bauhaus (SSW) Teaching Students With Disabilities in Inclusive Mathematics and Science Classes p (MINI) They’ve Got the Power: Empowering Students to Create Shifts in Our Classrooms p (PLT) Transforming Conflict Into a Generative Experience (MINI) What is Happening?! Processing Current Events in Class (SSW) What’s Learned Here Leaves Here: Cultivating Linguistic Diversity in Schools p (MINI) Where Does It All Fit In?! (MINI)

Light and Art: Full STEAM Ahead (MINI) Optimized Co-Teaching: Two Experts in the Classroom p (SSW) Reflective Practices for Resilience and Restoration (MINI) Research-Based Strategies for Supporting MLLs in STEM p (PLT) Seeing Others and Being Seen: Strategies for Representation in STEM p (SSW)

KEY Professional Learning Teams (PLT) Mini-Courses (MINI) Extended Length Courses (ELC) Single Session Workshops (SSW)

Speaking Up in the Moment: Role Playing Against Microaggression p

Affinity Groups (AG)

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Summary of Core Learning Opportunities cont. MATHEMATICS Activities and Projects in Algebra II: Building Blocks for Accessible Learning p (PLT) Adulting 101: Integrating Financial Literacy into the Algebras (PLT) Advanced Desmos Activity Builder (MINI)

Are You Ready to Teach Calculus? (MINI)

Book Club: Mathematics for Human Flourishing p (PLT)

Finding Factors of Large Numbers Using the Pollard P-1 Algorithm (SSW)

Modifying Mathematics for Students With Dyscalculia and Dysgraphia p

Anchor Your Teaching in Roller Coasters and Project-Based STEAM

Focus On the Process: Opening Up Questions in the Mathematics Classroom (SSW)

(PLT)

(MINI)

Modular Origami: Geometric Solids From Paper (MINI)

Astronomy Teachers: Take a NAAP!

Games and Puzzles for Teaching Mathematics (MINI)

Not Just Homework: In-Class Formative Assessment With DeltaMath (SSW)

Beyond Cookie Cutter Labs: An Inquiry Based Physics Classroom (PLT)

Gamification and Playfulness in the Mathematics Classroom (MINI) Geometry for All: Interactive Tasks to Encourage Deep Learning for Every Student p (PLT)

(SSW)

Beyond the Event Horizon: A Journey Into Black Holes (MINI)

Paper Folding With Snapology Origami (SSW) Patterns of Policing: NYC Arrests, Data, and Social Justice p (MINI)

Building Thinking Classrooms in Science (PLT) Building Thinking Classrooms in Science: Part II (PLT)

The Geometry of Statistics (SSW)

Polypad: Virtual Manipulatives for All

Holistic Geometry (PLT)

(MINI)

A Changing Climate in a Resilient NYC

Hyperbolic Functions and the Catenary: A Beautiful History (SSW)

Precalculus for All: To AP or Not AP

(MINI)

(PLT)

Chem Gems: Chemistry Demo Derby

Incorporating Rough Draft Math Into Our Classrooms (PLT)

Reasoning and Proving: Building Student’s Critical Thinking (SSW)

(SSW)

Can Markov Chains Help Us Win at Blackjack? (SSW)

Investigating the Mathematical Explorations of Young Children (MINI)

Rubik³s Cube: An Introduction (MINI)

Can We Construct This? (MINI)

It’s a Mod Mod Mod Mod World! (SSW)

Cryptography: Developing a Mathematically Complex Encryption Method (SSW)

It’s Normal! Proving the Central Limit Theorem (MINI)

Supporting Multilingual Learners in the Mathematics Classroom p (PLT)

Data and Discipline: Investigating Systemic Racism in Schools p (SSW)

(SSW)

Learn About Logs (SSW)

To Infinity and Beyond (MINI)

Decolonizing Our Minds Through Ancestral and Indigenous Mathematics p (SSW)

Learning From Thinking Classrooms in Algebra: A “Traveling” Course (MINI)

True Origins of the Pythagorean Theorem (MINI)

A “Lill” Magic (MINI)

Visual Data Exploration Through Online Applets and Simulations (SSW)

Book Club: The Crest of the Peacock: Non-European Roots of Mathematics p (PLT) Building Thinking Elementary Mathematics Classrooms (PLT) Calculus Connections (PLT)

Discrete Mathematics in the K-8 Classroom (MINI) Elementary Procedural Fluency Routines for Students With Disabilities p (SSW) Equity, Joy, and Genius: Creating Community Responsive Mathematics Activities p (SSW)

KenKen Meditation and Exploration

The Mathematics of Investing With Practical Applications (MINI) Math Games With Bad Drawings (PLT) Math Trails: Exploring Mathematics in the Real World (PLT) Mind the Gap!: Data Exploration to Address Misconceptions (SSW)

Strategy…It’s In the Game (SSW)

Taking the Subway to School: Motivating Mathematics Ideas With Public Transit (SSW)

Citizen Science by Birding in the Concrete Jungle (PLT) Climate Cuisine Meltdown: Navigating Earth’s Changing Menu (SSW)

Culturally Responsive Chemistry p (PLT)

Designing Student-Led Lab Investigations Through an ADI Lens (PLT)

Voting Systems (MINI)

KEY

Where To Go From Here? Teaching Toward Social Justice in Mathematics Classrooms p (MINI)

Professional Learning Teams (PLT) Mini-Courses (MINI) Extended Length Courses (ELC)

SCIENCE

Single Session Workshops (SSW)

Addressing NGSS With the New Visions Biology Curriculum (PLT)

Affinity Groups (AG)

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Summary of Core Learning Opportunities cont. Double (Helix) Feature: Uncover Mysteries With Forensic DNA Identification (MINI)

Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My!: Teaching With March Mammal Madness (SSW)

Earth Day Activities to Inspire Your Students (SSW)

Live, Laugh, Larva: Soldier Flies, Decomposition, and the Trash Problem (SSW)

Eclipse!: A New Yorker’s Guide to April 8, 2024 (SSW) Eclipses and Beyond: Navigating Astronomy With Wonder (MINI) Electrify the Grid With Tabletop Games! (SSW) Epigenetics and the Inheritance of Experience (MINI) The Expanding Universe With the Perimeter Institute (SSW) Exploring Molecular Machines Through Electron Microscopy (SSW) Exploring the Geology of Central Park (MINI)

Lyme Disease: Modeling the Ecology of Infectious Disease (MINI) Messy Science, Clean Learning: Unleash Science Skills With Primary Article Data (PLT) Navigating the New NYS Elementary Science Assessment and Investigations (PLT) Place-Based Marine Ecology Aboard the SUNY Maritime Research Vessel (SSW)

Promoting Student-Developed Questions With HHMI BIoInteractive (SSW)

Exploring the Microbiome: Guardians of Your (Inner) Galaxy (MINI)

Quantum Crystals: Innovations to Save the World (SSW)

The Fungus Among Us: How to Grow Mushrooms in the Classroom (MINI)

Raptors in NYC: Eagles, Osprey, and Hawks, Oh My! (MINI)

Getting Cheesy: The Microbial Analysis of Cheese (MINI)

Ready for Regents: Earth Science Preparation for June 2025 (PLT)

Getting Kids to Care About Climate Change (PLT)

Reverse Engineering Classic Experiments for the Advanced Biology Classroom (PLT)

Harnessing the Power of Model Organisms to Ignite Curiosity (SSW) Horseshoe Crabs: Rendezvous With Living Fossils (SSW) Illuminating COVID Testing With miniPCR (SSW)

Science Game Jam (SSW) A Speciation Story: Investigating Lizard Evolution With HHMI BioInteractive (SSW)

Using Scientific Phenomenon to Develop MLLs’ Language Skills p (SSW)

“We Are Fighting”: Teaching Climate Change and Indigenous Rights p (SSW)

Digital Technologies and the Future of Learning How Statistics Can Solve the Mysteries of the Microbiome

Designing for Robust STEAM Learning: Everyday Worldmaking in Gaming Ecologies p

KEY Professional Learning Teams (PLT)

Optimal Resource Placement: From Disneyland to Dominating Sets

(MINI)

Teaching Science to Newly Arrived Multilingual Learners p (PLT)

Strategies for Engaging Everyone in Computer Science p

Let’s Talk About Sex (Ed): How to Teach Inclusive Sex Education p (PLT)

Using Biology Class to Promote Racial Justice p (MINI)

Creating New Rules: Better Mathematical Experiences Through Narrative Change p

THURSDAY THINKS

Tackling the New Middle School Science Investigations (PLT)

It’s an Addiction: Unlocking the Science Behind Sugar and Cancer

EQUITY WEBINARS

When Mollusks Attack: Harnessing the Power of Venom in Labs and Classrooms

Mini-Courses (MINI) Extended Length Courses (ELC) Single Session Workshops (SSW) Affinity Groups (AG)

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Summary of Additional Learning Opportunities INTEREST GROUPS Abolish the College Board Agriculture in the Classroom? You Bet! All-Levels Vinyasa Yoga AP Biology Meetup Brainstorm and Build: MƒA Course Proposal Support Carbon Connections: Collaboration in Organic Chemistry A Crash Course on the New Middle School Science Investigations Creating Math Teams and Clubs! Cricut It Out: Making a Card With a Cricut Machine Department Facilitators Designing Innovative Research Projects Through Effective Grants Earth Science Teacher Meetup Fiber Arts Interest Group Film Screening: Fireball Gender Equity in STEM: A Student Panel p JupiterGrades Success Let’s Do...Calculus!

Practice Your Poker Face for the MƒA Poker Tournament Solve a Rubik’s Cube! Sound Meditation: Exploration and Experience Special Education Teacher Meetup Think Tank for MƒA Course Proposals Tutoring: Growing Your Side Gig

Community Builder and Event Planner Course Proposal Support: Brainstorm and Build and Think Tank Facilitators Information Session Host

Bowling Happy Hour

MƒA Orientation Host

Breaking Bread

Praxis Prep Session Facilitator

Bronx and Upper Manhattan Meetup

Professional Development Catalog Builder

Brooklyn Elementary Teacher and Prospective Fellow Meetup

Shared Knowledge Materials Screener Small-World Network Mobilizers

Brooklyn Math Teacher Meetup Day at the American Museum of Natural History Geocaching: A Treasure Hunt in Your Own Backyard Horseshoe Crab Walk Hydroponic Farm Tour and Tasting

Met Sketch: Night at the Museum

Mindful Yoga

MƒA Family Day

Moms at Work

MƒA Pride March

Neuroscience Interest Group

MƒA Summer Softball

New Visions Biology Scaffolds and Materials Exchange p

MƒA Teachers Climb!

Post-Regents Mathematics Interest Group

Applicant Screener

MƒADVENTURES

MƒA Teacher Poker

Planning for Retirement as a NYCDOE Teacher

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS

Equity Webinar Series Facilitator p

May the Odds Be Ever in Your Favor: March Mammal Madness

Overbooked

Teachers, Take a Hike!

Side Hustles: Ways to Supplement Your Income

MƒA Board Game Night

One No Trump: Play Bridge!

Star Party in East Harlem

MƒA United: Soccer Club MƒAle: A Brewery Adventure Prospect Park Ice Skating Spring is Coastal Clean-Up Time! Stained Glass Creations: Advanced Stained Glass Creations: Beginner

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) are a series of four connected workshops that meet monthly over the semester and consist of small teams of teachers who come together to explore a specific problem of practice in depth.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

the New Visions Biology curriculum—join us to build

literacy. This PLT is best for Algebra I, Algebra II,

on our work from the fall as we collaboratively think

Economics, or Applied Mathematics teachers.

through and make implementation plans. In our first session, we will introduce and share our experiences

Activities and Projects in Algebra II: Building Blocks for Accessible Learning p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Sarah Van Etten-Thomas and Christina Varghese, Ph.D. MONDAYS, FEB 12, FEB 26, MAR 11, MAY 6 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

with the New Visions framework, which uses storylines and anchoring phenomena to engage students in three-dimensional learning. We will also form working groups for the six New Visions Biology units based on

TUESDAYS, FEB 27, MAR 26, MAY 7, JUN 4

content and interest. In the second and third sessions,

MƒA & ONLINE

we will create and adapt curricular materials, discuss

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

ideas, and reflect on our progress. In our final session,

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A HYBRID COURSE. SESSIONS 1 AND 4 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 2 AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

we will share and reflect on classroom implementation.

How might we create Algebra II activities with multiple

Teachers will leave with concrete materials ready for

entry points? Sometimes, Algebra II tasks can be

the classroom and the confidence to implement this

lengthy and complicated or assume students already

curriculum successfully. This PLT is intended for any

have a strong understanding of concepts. How can

Biology or Living Environment teacher, new or returning

using short tasks and projects ensure this conceptual

to the PLT, who is interested in using the New Visions

understanding? In this PLT, we will build on pre-existing

Biology curriculum.

tasks, create new ones, use the TRU framework to support teacher learning and growth, and appropriately scaffold activities for our diverse learners, including students of color, transgender and gender-expansive students, students with disabilities, and multilingual

Adulting 101: Integrating Financial Literacy Into the Algebras Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Alex Chanysheva and Amal Cummings

learners. We will develop activities and projects,

TUESDAYS, MAR 5, APR 2, MAY 14, JUN 11

implement them in our classrooms, reflect on our

MƒA

experiences, and share feedback as we modify studentvetted tasks. By the end of this PLT, we will have a toolbox of activities, projects, and rubrics for Algebra II units that challenge students, foster creative discussions, and maintain individual accountability. This PLT is best suited for Algebra II teachers.

Addressing NGSS With the New Visions Biology Curriculum Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ben Lewin and Bill Rodriguez TUESDAYS, MAR 5, APR 2, MAY 14, JUN 11 MƒA  SCIENCE

How might we support each other during the upcoming transition from Regents-based Living Environment to NGSS (NYSSLS) Biology? Many schools are mandating 14

Alleviating Assessment Anxiety in Mathematics and Science Classrooms p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Tony Ma and Josh Paugh

 MATHEMATICS

How might we reduce our students’ anxiety related to assessments in mathematics and science classes to provide them with opportunities to focus on content understanding? Testing anxiety can be debilitating to students, especially MLLs and those with IEPs, and can prevent them from demonstrating their true content knowledge. Join us in this PLT as we discuss why students have test anxiety and consider ways to create more accessible assessments for all students. In each session, we will model specific strategies that aim to reduce anxiety related to grades and adapt or create assessments to increase student comfort in demonstrating mastery. In session one, we will focus on tiered assessments and corrections. In session two, we

How might we teach students to take charge of their

will discuss collaborative and take-home assessments.

financial futures? How often do adults say, “I wish they

In session three, we will concentrate on benchmarks

taught us about taxes in high school!”? In this PLT, we

and assessment retakes. Finally, we will end with safety

will dive deep into activities and projects that engage

nets in session four. In between sessions, teachers will

students in the Algebra I and II curricula through

be encouraged to try at least one new assessment

the exciting and relevant world of financial literacy

strategy in their classrooms, to reflect on their work, and

and economics. We will look at and adapt pre-made

to give each other feedback. This course is best suited

curricula, tasks, activities, and projects. Our explorations

for high school mathematics and science teachers.

will include, but not be limited to, a financial literacy project that models and solves exponential and compound interest equations, the FiCycle curriculum, games from Next Gen Personal Finance, a Shark Tank business plan project, and more! We will also plan new activities and projects that teach content from these curricula through the lens of economics or financial

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) The Art of Co-Teaching: Building Positive and Productive Relationships p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Helen Haritos and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Jake Leibold TUESDAYS, FEB 27, MAR 26, MAY 7, JUN 4 ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How might we utilize the strengths of every adult in the classroom to meet the needs of our diverse learners? Co-taught classrooms come in all shapes and sizes. In some, the teachers work together seamlessly, and students cannot distinguish between the content and the special education teacher. In others, there are apparent differences between the teachers, but each leverages their strengths to support every student. In others still, the co-teaching relationship isn’t productive at all, leaving students without support. In the first session, we will focus on various co-teaching dynamics while reflecting on our own experiences. We’ll identify the characteristics of a positive and productive coteaching relationship and create a road map for success, regardless of who our co-teacher is. In the following sessions, we will focus on successful co-teaching strategies and make plans to implement new ones with our co-teachers. Throughout, we will review resources on co-planning and co-teaching to inform our practice. Teachers’ experience in co-teaching is important in all sessions; any mathematics, science, or special education teachers who have co-taught classes in the past, are open to sharing their co-teaching glows and grows, and are determined to improve their co-teaching practice are welcome.

Avoiding Equity Traps and Tropes: A Street Data Book Study p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lena Cosentino and Jennifer Toner

their own questions. Each session will include handson exploration requiring minimal materials and based on physics labs about gravity, flying pigs, and the solar system. In our first session, we will come to a shared

TUESDAYS, FEB 13, MAR 19, APR 16, MAY 28

understanding of inquiry-based physics labs and their

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benefits. During sessions two and three, teachers

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will investigate different elements of inquiry through

+PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF STREET DATA: A NEXT-GENERATION MODEL FOR EQUITY, PEDAGOGY, AND SCHOOL TRANSFORMATION BY SHANE SAFIR AND JAMILA DUGAN, AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM. THE BOOK IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON SORA.

modeled lab activities and develop their own labs in

How might we use Street Data to develop meaningful

for high school physics teachers, but any science

understandings of our students? Join us in this PLT to

teacher interested in designing an inquiry-based lab

work toward developing an understanding of holism,

curriculum is welcome.

small unit-based working groups. In our concluding session, teachers will present their finalized inquirybased labs to peers for feedback. This PLT is best suited

a concept explored in the book Street Data: A NextGeneration Model for Equity, Pedagogy, and School Transformation by Shane Safir and Jamila Dugan, and connect it to our teaching, our understanding of equity, and our abilities to drive change in our school community. In session one, we will introduce holism and how looking at students and our school communities through a more complete lens can help increase equity. In session two, we will examine traps and tropes around improving equity in schools and identify strategies to avoid them. In session three, we will look at ways to view equity as a tool for transformation, and in our final session, we will examine ways to use Street Data to improve agency and school culture. This PLT is relevant to all grade bands and all subject areas.

Beyond Cookie Cutter Labs: An Inquiry Based Physics Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rachel Jun and Joseph Moll, Ph.D. WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, MAR 13, APR 17, MAY 22 MƒA  SCIENCE

Book Club: Mathematics for Human Flourishing p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Andy Deegan and Mary Ellen Tyrrell TUESDAYS, FEB 13, MAR 19, APR 16, MAY 28 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF MATHEMATICS FOR HUMAN FLOURISHING BY DR. FRANCIS SU AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

How might we move toward a more humanist and inclusive approach to teaching mathematics? In his book, Mathematics for Human Flourishing, mathematician Dr. Francis Su contends that “math is intimately tied to being human.” In this PLT, we will read Dr. Su’s book to uncover a more human approach to teaching mathematics—one that helps our students build hope, joy, compassion, ingenuity, and confidence. Most importantly, we will consider how to create classrooms that are inclusive and accessible to all. We will also reflect on our current practices and work collaboratively to develop new activities, routines, and shifts for our instruction. Each session will begin with a

How might we build a physics lab curriculum based

discussion around the reading followed by collaborative

on student design, agency, and curiosity? Join us

exploration and development of opportunities to

in this PLT to encourage student ownership as we

amplify these virtues in our classrooms. This course is

challenge students to design procedures to answer

open to all mathematics teachers.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) Book Club: The Crest of the Peacock: NonEuropean Roots of Mathematics p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rayhan Ahmed, Jeffrey Knafelc, and Brandon Lotti THURSDAYS, MAR 7, APR 11, MAY 16, JUN 13 MƒA  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF THE CREST OF THE PEACOCK: NON-EUROPEAN ROOTS OF MATHEMATICS BY GEORGE GHEVERGHESE JOSEPH AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

Building Thinking Classrooms in Science Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Christine Kola, Stephanie Palumbo, and Julie Wood

thinking science classrooms by creating Thinking Tasks—highly engaging non-curricular tasks—in working content groups. Then, we will present our tasks, give

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, APR 3, MAY 15, JUN 12

and receive feedback from peers, and implement our

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tasks with students. Finally, we will share student work

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(photos and/or video) produced during our Thinking

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF BUILDING THINKING CLASSROOMS BY DR. PETER LILJEDAHL, AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

Classroom routines. We will share our successes and challenges with the routines and discuss the next steps to advance our practice.

How might we reimagine and rebuild our science classrooms to prioritize thinking? Join us in this PLT to develop thinking tasks and assessments aligned to the routines outlined in Dr. Peter Liljedahl’s book, Building

Building Thinking Classrooms in Science: Part II Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Aida Rosenbaum and Andrew Wallace

Thinking Classrooms. While the book describes routines

THURSDAYS, MAR 7, APR 11, MAY 16, JUN 13

through a mathematics lens, they have relevance in

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How might we widen our perspectives on the diverse

all subject areas. In the first session, we will review

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cultural history of mathematics to promote a stronger

Dr. Liljedahl’s 14 strategies (including using vertical

sense of mathematical belonging and ownership

non-permanent surfaces, visually random groupings,

amongst our students? We often teach mathematics

and defronting the classroom) by watching videos of

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF BUILDING THINKING CLASSROOMS BY DR. PETER LILJEDAHL, AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

through a Eurocentric lens, ignoring the larger

students doing the work and discussing the rationale

How might we continue reimagining and rebuilding

world’s wonderful and substantial mathematical

behind these instructional shifts. Next, we will discuss,

our science classrooms to prioritize thinking? Have you

insights and contributions. When we do this, we are

collaborate, and reflect on ways to start our own

tried vertical non-permanent surfaces, visibly random

shaping and reinforcing our students’ exclusionary perception about who belongs in mathematics and what it means to do mathematics. In this PLT, we will read and discuss selections from The Crest of the Peacock: Non-European Roots of Mathematics by George Gheverghese Joseph to learn about the rich and diverse history of mathematics, explore related mathematics problems, and discuss curricular and pedagogical implications. We will collaborate to bring into our classrooms the mathematics students can see themselves in. Any teacher interested in learning more about the non-European origins of mathematics is welcome.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

learning in K-5 classrooms by experiencing these practices ourselves and determining their rationale. Then, we will collaborate to start, develop, implement, and strengthen our own thinking classrooms to support

grouping, and some thinking tasks and seen the positive results? Join us as we level up to build strategies and methods of evaluation specific to a science classroom based on Dr. Peter Liljedahl’s book, Building Thinking Classrooms. In the first session, we will discuss how to generate co-created rubrics for collaboration, persistence, and academic risk-taking. In session two and three, we will work to develop strategies to maintain flow with hints and extensions, incorporate thin-slice questions in assessments, and create homework assignments for students to check their understanding. We will end by sharing our successes and lessons learned from our implementation. This PLT is best suited for teachers who either have taken the “Building Thinking Classrooms in Science” PLT in fall 2023 or have

students’ learning. Finally, we will share the successes and challenges of our curricular adaptations in our classrooms and plan how we can further incorporate strategies to engage our youngest learners. While this course is best suited to elementary mathematics teachers, any elementary teacher curious and enthusiastic about building a thinking classroom is encouraged to join.

Calculus Connections Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lisa Bueno and Ben Morgenroth WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, MAR 20, APR 3, MAY 15 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

implemented the first cycle of Dr. Liljedahl’s practices in

How might we support our calculus students in building

their science classrooms.

connections between conceptual understanding and algebraic fluency? This PLT will explore calculus content

Building Thinking Elementary Mathematics Classrooms Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lauren Anderson, Laurie Matthews, and Meera Zucker

and effective pedagogy through resource sharing, collaborative task design, and presentations. We will consider the conceptual understanding and problem-

Citizen Science by Birding in the Concrete Jungle Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Crystal Thiele and Jordan Wolf

solving skills needed to design focused calculus

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 20, APR 17, MAY 1, MAY 29

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, APR 3, MAY 15, JUN 12

tasks. Sessions will include introducing concepts,

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pacing, cognitive demand, formative and summative

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assessments, and preparing for the AP exam. We

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF BUILDING THINKING CLASSROOMS BY DR. PETER LILJEDAHL AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

will collaborate to form an agenda based on teacher

How might we support and expand student thinking

leave with access to the wealth of resources built in past

in our elementary mathematics classrooms? In this

calculus PLTs and this iteration. Both AP and non-AP

PLT, we will reflect on our current teaching practices

calculus teachers are welcome, and no experience

and consider how to adapt our K-5 curriculum to

teaching calculus is necessary.

interest and need, and folks will choose groups based on interest, experience level, and topic. Teachers will

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How might we use birding as a citizen science tool to engage students in inquiry-based learning? Birds are all around us, even in our highly developed city—and with surprising diversity! If you can tell a pigeon from a starling, you’re halfway to being able to do species counts and population studies. In session one, we will conduct activities that teach students and teachers how to be better bird identifiers. In session two, we’ll take our

incorporate some of the 14 teaching practices in Dr.

work outside as we collect real bird and environmental

Peter Liljedahl’s book Building Thinking Classrooms.

data using the eBird and iNaturalist apps. In session

First, we will explore how Liljedahl’s ideas—vertical

three, we’ll explore eBird databases and learn how

non-permanent surfaces, visually random groupings,

our students can contribute their own data as citizen

thin-slicing, leveling to the bottom, etc.—impact student

scientists. Finally, in session four, we’ll share and refine

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) activities for future use. Throughout, teachers will contribute to a shared database of topics and resources to take back to their classrooms. Any teacher interested in birding, citizen science, or guiding their students into the concrete jungle is welcome.

Culturally Responsive Chemistry p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Denice Gamper and Jamie Kubiak THURSDAYS, FEB 29, APR 4, MAY 2, MAY 30 MƒA  SCIENCE

Designing Student-Led Lab Investigations Through an ADI Lens Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Grace Hu and Pravesh Shiwnarain

First, we will briefly explore the historical context of restorative justice (RJ), including its roots in indigenous practices and its evolving role in the NYCDOE. Then, teachers will use storytelling and personal reflection to

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, MAR 13, APR 17, MAY 22

explore how individual identities and perceived power

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can positively or negatively affect RJ implementation.

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We will flesh out specific challenges in our communities,

How might we design student-led investigations

identify relevant restorative and transformative practices

with scaffolds for all students in the classroom? As

to strategize around improvements, and ultimately

teachers, we have to juggle covering all the content

create sustainable shifts in our systems, making

with providing authentic opportunities for our students

practices more equitable in our learning communities.

to engage in student-driven scientific investigations.

Throughout, we will use working groups to generate

Join us in this PLT as we strengthen our knowledge and

actionable intervention plans to bring back to our

implementation of this science and engineering practice

classroom and school communities. This course is

using NSTA’s Argument-Driven Inquiry (ADI) resources!

best suited for all STEM teachers interested in building

We will open by discussing the concept and how to

community and responding to harm in their classrooms.

scaffold the process for all learners. Then, teachers will

Experience with RJ is welcome, but not necessary.

How might we make our chemistry classrooms more

work in small groups to brainstorm possible experiments

culturally responsive, creating learning environments

they want to implement in their classrooms. In the

that represent and respect our students? In this PLT,

second and third sessions, we will co-create and adapt

we will begin by articulating the need for a culturally

experimental instructions, slideshows, kits, and rubrics

responsive curriculum in chemistry, describing what

to optimize student leadership. In our final session,

this could look like, and the potential challenges for

we will present our experiments and give and receive

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, MAR 13, APR 17, MAY 22

implementation. In session two, we will use culturally

feedback for further improvement and iteration. Finally,

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responsive principles to collaboratively plan or adapt

we will develop a shared folder of resources to bring

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

a lesson or unit. In sessions three and four, we will

back to our science departments and classrooms

How might we best accommodate our students with

share and reflect on the implementation of our ideas

for broad use. All high school science teachers are

autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention-deficit/

and work on tweaking or changing materials for

welcome.

hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? This PLT aims to support

future implementation. We will reference ideas from Dr. Gholdy Muhammad’s Unearthing Joy: A Guide to Culturally and Historically Responsive Teaching and Learning, the American Chemical Society, and other outside resources. This PLT is best suited for high school

An Even Deeper Look at ASD and ADHD: Advocacy and Allyship p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Laura Brando and Laura Ralph

educators in creating inclusive learning environments

Equity, Identity, and Restorative Justice: Applications in Our Communities p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Naomi Hawkins and Shanua Rodriguez

that promote a culture of respect and acceptance for all learners. First, we will delve into research on ASD and ADHD to better understand and gain a greater awareness of these conditions and how they affect

chemistry teachers, but other physical science teachers

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, APR 3, MAY 15, JUN 12

our students. Then, we will identify effective teaching

of any level are welcome.

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strategies and routines for accommodating students

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

with ASD and/or ADHD, including modifying lessons

How might we use circles and other collaborative

to meet students’ specific needs. Our work will be

practices to build resiliency and respond to harm in

grounded in texts and resources from ASD and ADHD

our communities? How can we ensure students have

experts. All teachers, both new to this PLT and returning,

multiple opportunities to feel connected to classes and

of any grade level or content area are welcome. No

schools, both academically and socio-emotionally?

prerequisite knowledge is required.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) Geometry for All: Interactive Tasks to Encourage Deep Learning for Every Student p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kenya Heard, Azikiwe Peters, and Eileen Prunty WEDNESDAYS, FEB 28, MAR 27, MAY 8, JUN 5 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

How might we create interactive tasks to encourage access and depth for all Geometry students? In this PLT, we will collaborate to make content accessible

students to push themselves deeper into geometric

minutes. Her routines inspire us, but implementing

connections and extensions. This PLT is best suited for

them in our classrooms is not always easy. Join us in

high school geometry teachers who want to improve

this PLT as we immerse ourselves in her philosophy by

accessibility for diverse learners, including multilingual

reading, journaling, enacting, and reflecting. We will use

learners and students with IEPs, and to continually

her book and website, Differentiated Instruction Made

challenge all students to push their geometric

Practical and The Agile Teacher, to guide our work. In

understanding.

session one, we will examine how and why classroom routines can be a powerful tool for inclusive classrooms.

Getting Kids to Care About Climate Change Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Shakira Provasoli and Adam Zaid

In session two, we will enact and explore some of Dr. Bondie’s most accessible and valuable techniques and plan to implement them in our classrooms. By session

TUESDAYS, FEB 6, MAR 19, APR 9, MAY 21

three, we will have engaged in action research by trying

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these practices in our classrooms, and we will reflect on

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how they helped support our most vulnerable students.

and engaging to all learners as we create innovative,

How might we cultivate a community of student activists

interactive, and cognitively demanding tasks. As we

with the knowledge and desire to change the world? In

adapt and develop materials, we will share feedback

this PLT, elementary, middle, and high school teachers

to refine tasks, improve geometric comprehension

will share best practices for educating and inspiring

for struggling students, and challenge more confident

students to energize and educate others about climate change. In each session, we will spark a discussion with a guest speaker followed by planning time. In session one, a Youth Climate Leader will demonstrate how to develop a mindset of independence and activism. In session two, Cafeteria Culture will share their success with enacting

In the final session, we will set intentions for further exploring and adapting Dr. Bondie’s routines. This PLT is appropriate for longtime Rhonda Bondie fans and those hearing her name for the first time.

Holistic Geometry Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ricardo Estrada and Mimi Ong Ante TUESDAYS, FEB 13, MAR 19, APR 16, MAY 28 MƒA

change. In sessions three and four, we will focus on

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discussion starters, planning time, and sharing the work

How can we thoughtfully curate geometry activities

of our students taking action. Throughout, we’ll use a

encouraging students to tinker and experience rigor

variety of resources to help guide our work, including

holistically? Join this PLT to collaboratively offer and

the Student & Educator Toolkit developed by the Climate

develop strategies to enrich geometry instruction by

Resilience Education Task Force. All STEM teachers are

cultivating critical thinking, problem-solving, and deep

welcome.

conceptual understanding within a broader context. First, we will analyze and deconstruct geometry questions

Help Me Rhonda: Implementing the Learning Routines of Dr. Bondie p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Snigdha Das and Yvette Silver

understanding. Then, we will leverage diverse resources to adapt our geometry curricula, incorporating a multifaceted, holistic approach to rigor. This approach

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 14, MAR 20, MAY 1, MAY 29

will draw from shared instructional routines and

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pedagogical strategies, including Desmos activities,

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How might we “Bondify” our teaching practices? There’s a reason why Rhonda Bondie’s workshops fill up in 19

and integrate problems and strategies to deepen our

write-pair-share, and contemplate then calculate. This PLT is best suited for geometry teachers aiming to holistically enhance their instructional strategies and

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) curriculum.

Incorporating Rough Draft Math Into Our Classrooms Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Samantha O’Connor and Sheana Powell

PLT is open to mathematics teachers of any grade level.

from our own experiences. In sessions two and three,

Let’s Talk About Sex (Ed): How to Teach Inclusive Sex Education Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kristen Brown and Sage Hunter

willing to share their mathematical thinking in class if certain they have the “correct answer,” which can lead to low participation and missed opportunities to discuss inprocess and unfinished ideas. We know these ideas are crucial to learning and understanding mathematics, so how do we get students to become more comfortable sharing their thoughts, right or wrong? How can we get students to value process over product? This PLT will explore the five steps of rough draft mathematics from

strategies from our own experiences. Teachers will leave ready to implement transformative teaching in

How might we create a curriculum for comprehensive,

series? The goal of this PLT is to design a flexible sex ed curriculum that focuses on equity and inclusivity and can be used in a sex ed, biology, health, or advisory curriculum. In session one, we will build a safe space and

will learn that even “correct work” can be revised, and teachers can gain greater access to student thinking. Teachers will learn how to create opportunities and honor student revision processes practically. First, we’ll discuss Rough Draft Math, the “5 Steps of Enacting Rough Draft Math,” and its application to our classroom

their classrooms with a toolkit of strategies and ideas promoting productive struggle and growth mindset. While the facilitator shared resources for this PLT will be science-focused, the emphasis will be on pedagogical strategy, and all middle and high school teachers invested in enhancing their students’ analytical thinking skills are welcome.

discuss the current state of sex ed in our schools, in New York State, and in the broader U.S. In our second session, we will explore resources from GLSEN, Advocates for Youth, and Sex Ed for Social Change to help us

Math Games With Bad Drawings Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jeffrey Lowenhaupt and Brian Palacios

develop our curriculum as well as share any relevant

TUESDAYS, FEB 27, MAR 26, MAY 7, JUN 4

and successful sex ed lessons we currently use. In the

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third and fourth sessions, we’ll work on creating a lesson

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series that teachers can take back to their schools and

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF MATH GAMES WITH BAD DRAWINGS BY BEN ORLIN AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

classrooms. This PLT is open to middle and high school teachers who are or will be teaching sex ed and want to make their course more inclusive and equitable.

How might we use mathematical games to encourage play, engagement, and friendly classroom competition?

Dr. Amanda Jansen’s book, Rough Draft Math: Revising to Learn. Through rough draft mathematics, students

our craft. Throughout, we’ll discuss the importance

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part of an existing course or as a limited advisory course

mathematical thinking? Many of our students are only

experiences and feedback with each other to fine-tune of the NGSS and TRU frameworks and share practical

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How might we build revision into our students’

our classrooms. In the final session, we will share our

THURSDAYS, FEB 29, APR 4, MAY 2, MAY 30

inclusive sex education (sex ed) that can be taught as

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF ROUGH DRAFT MATH: REVISING TO LEARN BY DR. AMANDA JANSEN AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

we’ll collaboratively revise and create tasks to try in

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TUESDAYS, FEB 13, MAR 19, APR 16, MAY 28  MATHEMATICS

of these frameworks and share practical strategies

Let Them Figure It Out! Designing Tasks That Increase Cognitive Demand Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jesse John, Ph.D., and Andy Nissinboim

Join us as we immerse ourselves in a game-playing mathematics atmosphere anchored in Ben Orlin’s fascinating book, Math Games with Bad Drawings. Each session of the PLT will find us lost in one or more of

TUESDAYS, FEB 13, MAR 19, APR 16, MAY 28

75 games spanning five different sections of the book:

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(1) spatial games, (2) number games, (3) combination

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games, (4) games of risk and reward, and (5) information

teaching and culture. Then we will brainstorm, explicitly

How might we empower students to tackle challenges

games. We will guide each other through gameplay,

plan, and implement specific mathematics revision

and enhance their cognitive skills? Join our PLT to delve

investigate the underlying mathematical structure of

moves during our lessons. Next, we’ll bring in student

into innovative strategies that center student learning

the games, dig into deeper historical and mathematical

work, reflections, and ideas for iteration. We will finish

and elevate the cognitive demand of learning tasks

roots of the games, and explore implications for our

with individual plans to continue incorporating Rough

through analytical thinking, guided by the NGSS and

instructional practice and our classrooms. A joyful

Draft Math in our classrooms throughout the year. This

TRU framework. First, we will discuss the importance

experience awaits! All teachers are welcome.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

creating missed opportunities to challenge them with the complexity needed to sharpen their scientific skills. Our goal is to co-create a collection of activities anchored in primary source data. First, we will share our

Math Trails: Exploring Mathematics in the Real World Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj and Andrea Kung THURSDAYS, APR 11, MAY 2, MAY 16, MAY 30 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

collective expertise on finding and adapting primary research for our students. In the next two sessions, we will work in interest-based groups to create activities to test in our classrooms. Finally, we will reflect on our work to improve our activities for future use. This PLT is best suited for any science teacher wishing to incorporate more data analysis into their lessons.

How might we use math trails and field-based education to explore mathematics in our environment? Join us in this PLT to focus on how we can use field-based instruction in mathematics classrooms through math trails—outdoor education discovery walks aimed at uncovering and solving mathematical problems around natural objects, providing students with real world mathematical experiences. First, we will practice a math

Modifying Mathematics for Students With Dyscalculia and Dysgraphia p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kendra Din and Maureen Stewart WEDNESDAYS, FEB 28, MAR 27, MAY 8, JUN 5 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

trail at Madison Park. In subsequent sessions, we will

How might we replace fear and anxiety in mathematics

create our own trails, modify existing ones, or plan field

with joy and appreciation in students who struggle with

trip trails for our students. Throughout, we will reflect

dyscalculia and dysgraphia? Students with dyscalculia

on our work, examine student artifacts, and collaborate

and dysgraphia want to engage with mathematics

to improve our activities for future use. Any mathematics

joyfully and simply need instructional support that

teacher interested in outdoor education and field-based

some teachers may not be equipped with. In this PLT,

instruction is welcome.

we will differentiate our teaching techniques to meet the needs of students with mathematics-specific

Messy Science, Clean Learning: Unleash Science Skills With Primary Article Data Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Gilbert Papagayo and Marisa Wagner, Ph.D. WEDNESDAYS, FEB 28, MAR 27, MAY 8, JUN 5 MƒA  SCIENCE

learning disabilities while maintaining a positive learning environment for all students. Using Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, OWL LD, and Dyscalculia by Berninger and Wolf to steer our work, we will learn how these learning disabilities develop, how they affect learning styles and needs, and how to modify lessons and classes using researchbased methods to meet students where they are. Finally, we will try out our modified lessons, share what we’ve

How might we give students more latitude to struggle

learned, and offer feedback for future instructional

with and embrace the messiness of authentic data?

modifications. All mathematics teachers are welcome!

Navigating the New NYS Elementary Science Assessment and Investigations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Constance Clark and JoEllen Schuleman WEDNESDAYS, FEB 28, MAR 27, MAY 8, JUN 5 MƒA  SCIENCE

How might we ensure equitable access for all elementary learners through continued exploration of the new New York State (NYS) Science Investigations and Assessment? This past fall, our PLT worked together to support the transition to this new exam. During this continuation, we will deepen our work by creating instructional resources and classroom administrative procedures to further prepare elementary

Unleash your students’ inner scientists! Authentic

teachers and students. Join us to support the effective

science is messy and data interpretation is not

implementation of the investigations and create

always straightforward. Students are often provided

meaningful experiences to set all students up for

oversimplified data representations and models,

success on the NYS Science Assessment. In session one, we will review all the released information pertaining

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) to the new exam (including sample questions) and introduce ideas for preparing our students. In session two, we will revisit the investigations and assess student work from various groups (MLLs, students with IEPs, etc.) within our classrooms. In session three, we will identify and collaboratively work on projects for future implementation. During our last session, we will present and create an action plan to share our work with the larger NYCDOE network. This PLT is best suited for elementary teachers overseeing the new NYS Science Assessment and NYC Elementary Investigations; new and returning teachers are both welcome.

Ready for Regents: Earth Science Preparation for June 2025 Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Carolina Castro-Skehan and Constance Giannakakis

us to unpack strategies to better leverage the assets of MLLs and provide them with access to grade level content in both mathematics and science classes.

THURSDAYS, FEB 29, APR 4, MAY 2, MAY 30

During our first session, we will discuss data from

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current research and the Division of Multilingual Learner

 SCIENCE

resources to deepen our understanding of the urgency

How might we best prepare students for the June 2025

to improve instruction to MLLs. In our second and third

administration of the new Earth Science Regents exam,

sessions, we will create scaffolded and differentiated

aligned to the new NYS Learning Standards? Join this

lessons designed to provide access to grade level

PLT to collaborate on how to effectively implement

content to try in our classrooms. In our last session, we

these standards within your classroom. During our first

will share outcomes and refine our work based on peer

session, we will thoroughly explore the performance

feedback. All teachers are welcome.

standards and, if available, analyze sample field

Grace Bennett is a former MƒA Master Teacher and currently serves as

questions released by NYSED to compare and contrast

the Director, Science and Technology K-12 in the NYC Department of

this assessment to previous Earth Science Regents

Education Division of Multilingual Learners.

exams. In the second session, we will review the Earth and Space Science Performance Level Descriptors, and

Precalculus for All: To AP or Not AP Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Arup Mukherjee and Dustin Shutes, and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Christa Nilsen

(MLLs) in science and mathematics classrooms? Join

collaborate on creating formative assessments with aligned student learning goals. We will also deep dive into the New Visions for Public Schools curriculum to

Reverse Engineering Classic Experiments for the Advanced Biology Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Tracy LaGrassa, Ph.D., and Elese Lau

compare their assessments to the Performance Level

TUESDAYS, FEB 27, MAR 26, MAY 7, JUN 4

THURSDAYS, MAR 7, APR 11, MAY 16, JUN 13

Descriptors, and adapt the assessments to meet our

MƒA

needs. In the third session, we will continue working

 SCIENCE

 MATHEMATICS

on our assessments and collaboratively create student-

How might we make historical scientific discoveries

How might we design a precalculus course that

and teacher-facing rubrics. We will conclude the PLT

come to life in an advanced biology classroom? What

meets the wide variety of all of our students’ needs?

by peer reviewing each other’s work, incorporating

if students could put themselves in the role of the

The College Board will offer an AP Precalculus exam

feedback, adapting various differentiation techniques,

scientists making the groundbreaking discoveries we

for the first time this school year. In this PLT, we will

and collaboratively designing next steps. This PLT is best

teach about? In this PLT, we will co-create inquiry-based

work to set students up for success in both AP and

suited for Earth Science teachers preparing students for

case studies that challenge students to make scientific

non-AP precalculus classrooms, regardless of their

the June 2025 Regents exam.

claims, propose experimental designs, and analyze data. Students will gain a deeper understanding of

prerequisite skills. First, we will identify the essential skills needed to succeed in precalculus and best prepare students for calculus. Next, we will think through the sequencing of units and key topics. Then, we will form small groups to dig deeper into a unit of choice and

Research Backed Strategies for Supporting MLLs in STEM p Facilitated By: Grace Bennett and MƒA Master Teacher Thera Lewis

develop and refine an arc of activities. We will also

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, MAR 13, APR 17, MAY 22

consider what technology and tools will best aid student

ONLINE

understanding. Finally, we will reflect on our work and set goals for further iteration. This PLT is best suited for any precalculus teacher.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How might we provide culturally responsive and high quality equitable instruction to multilingual learners

foundational scientific concepts and, more importantly, come to appreciate how scientific knowledge is built. In our first session, we will examine an inquiry-based case study that simulates the original experiments mapping the cell’s secretory pathway. Then, we will collaboratively choose historical experiments to adapt and reverse engineer for our classrooms. In the second and third sessions, we will create interactive data sets and generate case study activities to implement with our students. In our final session, we will share our activities MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) and experiences in the classroom. This PLT is best suited for any biology teacher aiming to make advanced scientific thinking a greater part of their practice.

Supporting Academic Honesty in an AI Landscape Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Joe Grogan, Ph.D., and Devin Sprague

generative artificial intelligence tools make academic

and resources with TRU and consider which language

dishonesty even more tempting. Plagiarism may be easy

features they fall under. Finally, teachers will collaborate

for teachers to spot, but it is often difficult and time-

to develop and implement instructional routines in

consuming to prevent, confront, and educate students

their classrooms. Our work will be grounded in texts on

about. In this PLT, we will work towards modifying

CALS from various linguistic experts, and will culminate

classroom structures to explicitly teach academic

in a teacher-generated bank of instructional routine

honesty and incentivize students to use social and

resources for this PLT and the MƒA community at large.

technological tools responsibly. To anchor our work,

This PLT is best for middle and high school mathematics

we will use James Lang’s four guiding principles from

teachers working with MLLs.

Cheating Lessons: (1) fostering student motivation; (2) emphasizing learning for mastery; (3) lowering the stakes of assessments; and (4) instilling self-efficacy.

TUESDAYS, MAR 5, APR 2, MAY 14, JUN 11

In our first session, we will work together to define

MƒA

academic honesty in 2024 and articulate our current

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF CHEATING LESSONS: LEARNING FROM ACADEMIC DISHONESTY BY JAMES LANG AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

Tackling the New Middle School Science Investigations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Chereese Gardner and Napoleon Knight

struggles and goals. In the second and third sessions,

TUESDAYS, FEB 6, MAR 12, APR 9, MAY 21

we will examine Lang’s case studies of how teachers

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have developed and implemented routines to promote

 SCIENCE

academic honesty. In our final session, teachers will

How might we structure our learning environments

How might we best prepare students for the

synthesize their academic honesty strategies, routines,

so students feel empowered to practice academic

updated 8th grade New York State Assessment in

and policies from the ideas and examples we have

honesty? Cheating is a common response to a learning

Science this spring? Teachers will need to assess a

studied in sessions two and three. This course is for any

environment unsuitable for students who still want to

student’s knowledge and skill through a series of four

teacher interested in cultivating a more academically

do well, while the current widespread availability of

investigations. Each session of this PLT will be dedicated

honest learning environment.

to one of the four investigations: (1) Cool It!; (2) All Mixed Up; (3) It’s Alive!; and (4) How’s the Weather Up

Supporting Multilingual Learners in the Mathematics Classroom p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Cesar Ebonia and Rachel Mushell TUESDAYS, FEB 6, MAR 12, APR 9, MAY 21

There? We will use our time in each session to look over materials, complete the investigation as students, and brainstorm modifications and possible scaffolds to support student success. This PLT is best suited for middle school science teachers.

MƒA  MATHEMATICS

How might we develop strategies to address our multilingual learners’ (MLLs) mathematical and literacy needs? Join us as we design instructional and language

TUESDAYS, MAR 5, APR 2, MAY 14, JUN 11

routines for MLLs reflective of the TRU framework and

ONLINE

Core Academic Language Skills (CALS). First, we will explore academic language, familiarize ourselves with the seven language features introduced by the NYC Division of Multilingual Learners, and review the TRU framework to brainstorm and reflect on the specific needs of our PLT. In the following sessions, teachers will share and cross reference language strategies 23

Teacher as Writer Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lauren Brady and James Kostka

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How might we create space to nurture our creativity and unique voices while also mastering the art of feedback and revision? As teachers, we do a lot of obligatory writing—lesson plans, emails, letters of recommendation—and we are constantly trying to

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) improve our feedback delivery. In this PLT, we will approach writing as a restorative practice and means for creative expression. Join us in this brave and supportive community as we nurture communication skills by refining our written work and providing feedback to others. In our first session, we will break down the elements of strong writing based on our favorite works, establish the norms of a writing workshop, introduce a feedback protocol, and share our first original piece of writing (on any subject). In sessions two and three,

a workshopped product we can implement in our

classrooms can be structured to center the joy and

classroom. Ultimately, we will build a shared bank of

empowerment of students, so they can be drivers of

resources for MLLs for use during and after the end of

their own learning while teachers take on supportive

the PLT. This PLT is best suited for science teachers of

facilitation roles. Using the collective brilliance in the

any grade level in any class setting (ESL, Transitional

room and texts such as Unearthing Joy by Gholdy

Bilingual, SIFE, etc.) who want to engage their MLLs.

Muhammad and Street Data by Shane Safir and Jamila Dugan, we will work toward envisioning and

They’ve Got the Power: Empowering Students to Create Shifts in Our Classrooms p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Vielca Anglin and Zachary Itzkowitz

building truly student-led classrooms. We will begin implementing shifts in our classrooms and bring anecdotes and learnings back to the group for the next session to share, debrief, and receive feedback. By the

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 14, MAR 20, MAY 1, MAY 29

end of the PLT, we will have begun our journey toward

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creating a classroom that is for the students and by

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

we will start with a theme of interest (e.g., publishing

How might we begin to shift the dynamics in our

or revision strategies), then continue to share work and

classrooms so students are guiding the classroom

implement our feedback protocol, all while refining

decision-making process? Are you looking for a space

the workshop process. In our final session, we’ll use

to consider what genuine and authentic student-led

the feedback protocol on a fourth original work and

classrooms look like? In this PLT, we will consider how

the students. Any teacher wanting to reimagine the classroom experience, prioritize collective joy, and work towards building an authentically student-led classroom is welcome.

close with an “open mic” to celebrate our progress. We will not only improve our writing, but also elevate our classroom practice by refining our delivery of feedback as well as our process of revision. All genres of writing and experience level are welcome.

Teaching Science to Newly Arrived Multilingual Learners p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Francisco J. Perez Martinez and Will Russell THURSDAYS, FEB 29, APR 4, MAY 2, MAY 30 MƒA  SCIENCE

How might we support newly arrived multilingual learners (MLLs) and provide them with the tools for learning rigorous science content? The PLT will be organized into the following sessions according to modality: (1) vocabulary; (2) reading and using texts; (3) writing; and (4) facilitating student discussions. Each session, we will introduce highly effective models, strategies, and tools, adapt what we learn toward our classroom goals, and leave each session with 24

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses Mini-Courses are a series of three connected workshops in which experts from academic institutions, local organizations, and within the MƒA Master Teacher community engage MƒA teachers in a topic at the cutting edge of their content area and/or pedagogical practice.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses

checking screens, and multiple inputs. We will learn how each skill is used, create and troubleshoot our own activities using that skill, and then discuss how

Academic Mindfulness: Implementing Executive Function Support for Students Facilitated By: Rhys McGovern

Are You Ready to Teach Calculus? Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Stephanie Bohbot and Vivi Nguyen

to facilitate these activities most effectively in the

WEDNESDAYS, MAY 1, MAY 15, MAY 29

classroom. Teachers will have the opportunity to hone

MƒA

their Desmos skills, collaborate with colleagues on

 MATHEMATICS

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 28, MAR 13, APR 3

skill-focused projects and activities, and troubleshoot

Are you considering or new to teaching calculus and

ONLINE

with a group of experienced Desmos users. This course

feeling overwhelmed by the many resources available?

is best suited for teachers with prior experience in

Join us in this mini-course to work on and deconstruct

Desmos Computation Layer.

calculus content and curriculum while also exploring

Matt Baker is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at The

a multitude of resources to expand your classroom

Brooklyn Latin School in Brooklyn.

teaching including AP Classroom, Calc Medic,

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Executive function skills allow students—and everyone—to conceptualize, plan, and follow through on daily tasks. Over three sessions, we will work

FlippedMath.com, and Desmos activities. We will also

individually and together to develop our understanding and skill sets around executive function in the classroom. Topics will include how classroom norms can support (and impede) executive function success, skills and strategies to promote student achievement,

Anchor Your Teaching in Roller Coasters and Project-Based STEAM Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Tim Tschurjumov

discuss the topics necessary to prepare students for calculus more effectively, best practices for keeping students motivated, and how to differentiate for diverse needs in the classroom. You will leave this mini-course

TUESDAYS, MAR 26, APR 2, APR 9

with enhanced knowledge and feeling more prepared

MƒA

to teach calculus. Our goal is to not only support

 SCIENCE

new and future calculus teachers but also inspire

Most of us remember riding our first roller coaster

experienced ones!

with a mixture of fear and glee. The slow inch forward

Stephanie Bohbot is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

followed by dramatic speed, loops, and swirls that

High School of Telecommunication Arts and Technology in Brooklyn.

seemed to defy gravity. Roller coasters are the perfect

Vivi Nguyen is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

lives in Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and works with clients on both

phenomena to teach a variety of physics topics,

Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

sides of the Atlantic. He holds a Master of Science in Communication

particularly the law of conservation of energy. In this

Sciences and Disorders from Emerson College, Massachusetts State

mini-course, we’ll explore this law as we build our

and how to successfully implement individual and class-wide executive function interventions. In between sessions, teachers will be invited to try out simple and practical strategies in their classrooms. All are welcome. Rhys McGovern is a hard-of-hearing, multilingual speech-language pathologist and teacher who grew up in New England. He currently

SLP and Teaching licensure, and the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence. Rhys has been working with children, teens, and young

own roller coasters. First, we will examine an exemplar

Between Zero Consequences and Zero Tolerance: Challenging Discipline Norms p Facilitated By: Rachel Lissy, Ph.D.

adults for over 15 years, and founded his private practice New Leaf

project from a 9th grade physics classroom where

Language in 2018.

students designed and built roller coaster models.

TUESDAYS, MAR 19, MAR 26, APR 2

Next, we will get our hands dirty and develop our own

ONLINE

Advanced Desmos Activity Builder Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Matt Baker

models using everyday materials such as cardboard

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

and paper. Finally, we’ll discuss how we can use our

Research has demonstrated, repeatedly, that punitive

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 27, APR 3, APR 17

roller coasters and design-based projects to model

and exclusionary discipline policies are ineffective,

MƒA

the conservation of energy, both analytically and

harmful, and criminalizing—especially for Black and

qualitatively. This course is designed for middle

Brown students. And yet, these policies persist. Why,

and high school science and engineering teachers,

and in what ways do educators sustain or challenge

especially those who teach energy.

these policies? How has removing students historically

existing knowledge of both the programming and

Tim Tschurjumov is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

functioned as a low-cost method for improving

classroom facilitation of Desmos Activity Builder. In

Humanities Preparatory Academy in Manhattan.

teachers’ working conditions? How do ideas about

 MATHEMATICS

How can Desmos Activity Builder help us improve classroom engagement? Join us to deepen your

each session, we will focus on a few specific skills

authority, punishment, and white supremacy show

including interactivity between components, self-

up in conversations about discipline, disorder, and

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses

Beyond the Event Horizon: A Journey Into Black Holes Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Joshua Ilany and Marieke Thomas

behavior? In this mini-course, we will explore the

WEDNESDAYS, APR 17, MAY 1, MAY 15

political, cultural, and systemic forces that shape

MƒA

disciplinary policies by examining the history of

 SCIENCE

suspension policies in New York City. We will then look at how teachers interact with these policies both in their day-to-day practices and in their advocacy. Using a combination of historical sources, case studies, and personal reflection, this course will develop our capacity to challenge harmful disciplinary practices by first helping us recognize the seductive stories we tell about them, and then by building our motivation and ability to explore more liberatory alternatives. Dr. Rachel Lissy brings historical and organizational perspectives to her work with schools, community based organizations and residential programs. She began her career at Camp Ramapo, a residential summer

and brain, and vice versa? What are some strategies to support learners with these neurodiversities? If you’ve ever wondered these questions, join us in this minicourse to not only deepen your understanding of some of the most prominent diagnoses we see on student IEPs, but also leverage that knowledge to better support the specific needs of each child. Across three

How do you see something that can’t be seen? In

sessions, we’ll deep-dive into these three diagnoses at

this mini-course, we will explore the physics behind

a behavioral and neurobiological level, then develop

black holes, investigate their bizarre properties, and

ideas and solutions to address, support, and gain from

discuss recent developments in the field. We’ll begin

the neurodiversity in our classrooms. All educators are

with an introduction to black holes, use Regents-level

welcome, as students at all levels can have IEPs!

physics to solve for the Schwarzschild radius, and describe how the theory of general relativity modifies our understanding. In session two, we will delve into the first direct visual image of a black hole taken by the Event Horizon Telescope in 2019, discuss how the

Stefanie Fier is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens. Stephen Kos is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at New Explorations into Science, Technology and Math High School in Manhattan.

photograph was taken, how we can use it to determine

camp for children with social, emotional, and learning needs. She

the rotational speed of the black hole, and how the

worked in the backcountry with Outward Bound as an out-of-school-

image’s unique shape confirms our understanding

time program director, a teacher, and an intervention specialist. She

of gravity as the curvature of space-time. In our final

has a Ph.D. in Social and Cultural Studies from the Graduate School of

session, we will discuss LIGO (the Laser Interferometer

TUESDAYS, APR 2, APR 9, APR 16

Policy, Organization and Leadership Studies from Stanford University’s

Gravitational-Wave Observatory) and how it confirms

MƒA

School of Education. She has consulted for the podcasts, “Nice White

Einstein’s general relativity predictions that black

 MATHEMATICS

Parents” and “This American Life.”

holes collide and that mass can leave a black hole via

Construction tasks are a fun, hands-on part of

gravitational waves. This course is best suited for high

geometry and have historical significance for

school physics teachers, but anyone interested in black

mathematicians. This mini-course aims to explore

holes and comfortable with Regents-level physics

rich and challenging questions that blend technology

topics is welcome.

and classic compass/straightedge constructions. Such

Joshua Ilany and Marieke Thomas are MƒA Master Teachers and science

questions, which can be shared with your students,

teachers at The Bronx High School of Science in the Bronx.

include: (1) How do we construct a segment with a

Education at the University of California at Berkeley and a master’s in

Can We Construct This? Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Amy Lee and Alexander Lord

length of the square root of a given segment’s length?

The Brain, the Classroom, the IEP: Going Beyond Checklist Accommodations p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Stefanie Fier and Stephen Kos WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, MAR 20, MAR 27 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

(2) Under what conditions can regular polygons be constructed? (3) What would constructing a regular (17-sided) heptadecagon entail? (4) Why is it impossible to construct a square with an equal area to a given circle? (5) How can we apply constructions to solve challenging geometry problems? This course is best suited for teachers familiar with basic constructions

What do ADHD, ASD, and executive dysfunction look

but is open to anyone wanting to learn more about

like in the brain? How does a student’s actions and

constructability.

experiences in our classrooms impact their emotions

Amy Lee is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses Technical High School in Brooklyn. Alexander Lord is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Francis Lewis High School in Queens.

A Changing Climate in a Resilient NYC Facilitated By: Robin Sanchez TUESDAYS, MAY 7, MAY 14, MAY 21 MƒA  SCIENCE

How is climate change affecting New York City and how can teachers encourage students to take action? Join the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to learn more about the local impacts of climate change and how we can invite our students into these important conversations. In this mini-course, we will explore the DEP’s new, multi-disciplinary Climate Change Education Module and hear from climate professionals, teachers, and students involved in climate education. Each session will focus on a different climate topic specific to NYC, including student activism, environmental justice, and climate

ChatGPT and Coding: A Teacher’s Guide Facilitated By: Jeff Olson and MƒA Master Teacher Marisa Shuman

your classroom, from creating a single webpage to deploying a gallery of student work online. By the

MƒA

end of the course, teachers will confidently use these

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

platforms to enhance their teaching and engage their

Media coverage of ChatGPT, Large Language Models

students in meaningful learning experiences. In the

(LLMs), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is highly polarized,

first session, teachers will collaboratively explore Replit

and sifting through the opinions of both evangelists

Teams to organize and improve their class workflow by

and skeptics is a full-time job. As teachers, we navigate

creating individual and collaborative group projects.

the additional challenges of ensuring academic

In the second session, teachers will understand how

honesty and managing changing school policies. We

to use Github to host student work and create online

can’t be sure how advancements in AI will impact the

portfolios, including how to structure portfolios,

future of work and education, but we can make some

provide feedback, and showcase student work. In the

sensible decisions based on the present. First, we

third session, teachers will learn to create and host

will dive into an LLM to understand what it is, how it

portfolios on either platform. Teachers should have a

works, and why it has been so disruptive. Then, we will

basic knowledge of HTML.

practice using AI tools, specifically ChatGPT, to discuss

Dr. Andrew O’Grady is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science

their strengths, weaknesses, and risks as teaching or

teacher at Bronx Early College Academy for Teaching & Learning in the

learning tools. And finally, we’ll share resources on

Bronx.

ethical considerations, from academic dishonesty to

Luna Ramirez is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher

the potential repercussions of AI use.

at Thomas A. Edison Career and Technical Education High School in Queens.

Jeff Olson is the Director of Learning & Development at Giant Machines. Jeff has an undergraduate degree in neuroscience and American literature from Baylor University. Upon graduating in 2011, Jeff was placed as an English teacher in Phoenix, Arizona, with Teach For

the DEP, the NYC Mayor’s Office, and local climate

America and earned his M.Ed. in secondary education from Arizona

will explore a related DEP module-based lesson

these web development tools could provide to

TUESDAYS, MAR 12, MAR 19, MAR 26

resiliency, and will feature guest presenters from education organizations. To end each session, we

and Replit platforms and learn about the possibilities

State University. In 2015, Jeff taught beginner courses in software engineering, iOS app development, and web design to high school students in Los Angeles and New York City. He believes learning to code

Creative Coding: The Intersection of Art and Technology Facilitated By: Mark Rosin, Ph.D. MONDAYS, MAR 11, MAR 18, MAR 25 ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

incorporating research, action, and reflection. Teachers

is the most empowering experience a high school student can have and

are encouraged to implement and iterate lessons from

all students deserve access to this life-changing and joyful form of fun.

Creative coding is the practice of making art with code.

the modules with their students. While the resources

Marisa Shuman is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher

In this mini-course, we will cover fundamental coding

shared are most beneficial to students in grades 4-12,

at Young Women’s Leadership School of the Bronx in the Bronx.

principles, including pseudo-code, conditional logic,

all are welcome. Robin Sanchez is the Director of Education for the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, which provides pre-K to 12th grade students and teachers with a wide range of free programs and resources about New York City’s vital water supply, wastewater treatment system,

loops, data structures, algorithms, and basic methods

Creating Student Portfolios in Github and Replit Teams Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Andrew O’Grady, Ph.D., and Luna Ramirez

impacts of climate change, and sound and noise quality. Education

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, MAR 13, MAR 20

opportunities include field trips, virtual tours, hands-on activities, the

ONLINE

annual Water Resources Art and Poetry Contest, teacher training, online education modules, and more.

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Have you ever wondered how to host your students’ work on the web? Explore the capabilities of the Github 28

for computer-aided drawing using Turtle. Teachers will develop an understanding of rule-based and generative art and apply these methods and principles to create original graphics by combining building blocks such as line art, geometric shapes, and color palettes. Creative coding, the intersection of art and technology, can spark student creativity and empower them to develop problem-solving skills. While the course will

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses

Kate Maschmeyer is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Community Roots Charter School in Brooklyn. Marisa Shuman is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at Young Women’s Leadership School of the Bronx in the Bronx.

Double (Helix) Feature: Uncover Mysteries With Forensic DNA Identification Facilitated By: Kelsie Anson, Ph.D., and MƒA Master Teachers Bradley Scalise and Megan Wallner

be conducted in Python using Google Colab, no prior

THURSDAYS, FEB 15, FEB 29, MAR 14

experience with coding is required. The tools used here

OFFSITE

are open source and will be shared with teachers to use in their classrooms. Dr. Mark Rosin is an associate professor of physics at the Pratt Institute of Art and Design and Director of Guerilla Science, a science and art education organization that takes interactive science events to music festivals worldwide. Mark received his Ph.D. in theoretical physics from the University of Cambridge.

Discrete Mathematics in the K-8 Classroom Facilitated By: Susan Picker, Ph.D. TUESDAYS, FEB 13, FEB 27, MAR 5

Students often proclaim, “I don’t like math!” and, while this unfortunately may be true, it’s likely because they quickly becoming one of the most important areas of mathematical research and is fun and engaging for students of all levels. Specifically designed for elementary and middle school teachers, this mini-

THURSDAYS, FEB 15, FEB 29, MAR 7

course provides an introduction to Common Core-

MƒA

aligned topics in discrete mathematics, including

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

vertex coloring, network (graph) theory, fair division,

Learn to create and teach students how to design and code their own interactive self-portrait in p5.js. This open-source Javascript visual library encourages student choice and self-expression through code. Join us to provide more opportunities for all students to build and flex their coding knowledge while building community. During each session, we will ground our work in joy and identity as described in Dr. Gholdy Muhammad’s Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy. First, we will introduce the p5.js basics of shapes and colors and discuss ways to incorporate identity into p5.js coding projects. Next, teachers will develop static self-portraits and understand how conditionals allow for varied code output depending on user input and interaction. Finally, we will update our self-portraits to include interactivity and present our self-portraits to the group. This project can be turn-keyed for students in grades 6-12. This course is open to all teachers regardless of prior code experience and knowledge, and we will provide extensions for those with p5.js experience.

discrete games, and secret codes. These topics are

+ PLEASE NOTE: ALL SESSIONS WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT THE DNA LEARNING CENTER IN BROOKLYN.

MƒA  MATHEMATICS

have only experienced arithmetic. Discrete math is

Design and Code Interactive Self-Portraits With p5.js Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kate Maschmeyer and Marisa Shuman

 SCIENCE

easily adaptable for diverse classrooms, require no prerequisite knowledge, and provide insight into how mathematicians think and work. By the end of this mini-course, teachers will leave with the materials to begin including discrete mathematics topics as well as a better understanding of the value of this branch of mathematics in the K-8 classroom.

From exonerating the wrongfully convicted to uncovering family connections, forensic DNA identification has broader applications than you might think! Join us in this mini-course as we learn the lab work used to solve these types of mysteries and more. We’ll begin by extracting our own DNA from cheek cells and amplifying the DNA using PCR. In sessions two and three, we will analyze the data and the DNA in two ways, with traditional gel electrophoresis and with the more-sensitive Bioanalyzer DNA chip technology. We’ll focus on the first region of DNA used for forensic identification, determine our genotypes, and compare them with people across the world. This course is best suited for middle and high school life and forensic science teachers familiar with biotechnology, but anyone interested in learning more about how to use DNA for personal identification is welcome. Teachers who complete the course are eligible to borrow and rent classroom kits from the DNA Learning Center. Dr. Kelsie Anson is an educator at the DNALC NYC, an operating unit

Dr. Susan H. Picker has been part of MƒA for the past twenty years,

of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center. Dr. Anson is

working on Fellowship interview teams and as an advisor and workshop

formally trained as a biochemist, earning her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from

facilitator through the Early Career Fellowship. She was a classroom

the University of Colorado, Boulder.

teacher and then an instructional coach in New York City public schools where she continues to consult. She met discrete mathematics first

Bradley Scalise is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Hunter

as a participant and then as a lead teacher and instructor at Rutgers

College High School in Manhattan.

University’s Leadership Program in Discrete Mathematics. She has

Megan Wallner is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Sunset

earned a Ph.D. from the University of Plymouth in Devon, England,

Park High School in Brooklyn.

authored several articles and book chapters, and presented workshops and talks in the U.S., the Netherlands, Israel, Spain, Germany, and England.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses

smile, or their disposition. But it is only within the last two centuries that scientists have determined these traits are encoded in genes, and that these genes

Eclipses and Beyond: Navigating Astronomy With Wonder Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Daniel Sharoff and Jessica Sharoff

are composed of DNA, the literal code of life. This knowledge formed the foundation of the genetic revolution. Today, science is undergoing another revolution—this time in the field of epigenetics, the

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, FEB 14

study of how life experiences can lead to changes

MƒA

in gene expression. Join us in this mini-course as

 SCIENCE

we dive into the epigenetic revolution. We will begin

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE.

with a primer on epigenetics, examining a historical

Are you excited for the total eclipse this April and

timeline and current science. In session two, we will

looking for classroom resources to teach this and other

explore some of the field’s knowns and unknowns with

astronomy subjects? Join us to explore innovative

a survey of current epigenetics research, including

hands-on investigations to bring the universe to your

epigenetic inheritance. Finally, in session three, we

students and nurture a deeper understanding of

will conclude with an up-close-and-personal look at

astronomy. In session one, we’ll prepare for the near

the controversies of this field, discussing exciting new

total solar eclipse in NYC—the only one visible here for

science while acknowledging limitations. This course

the next 50 years! We will discuss why total eclipses are

is best suited for middle and high school science

so rare and extreme then focus on classroom activities

teachers who have a basic background in cell biology,

to get our students ready for this epic event. In session

but all curious minds are welcome.

two, we will delve into astronomical resources and

Beka Stecky is a Ph.D. candidate and National Science Foundation

hands-on activities, including how to model the

fellow at Columbia University’s Zuckerman Institute. She currently

can use these features to help our students better

studies how the brain adapts to traumatic experiences. Before starting

understand what their city is built on, and uncover how

Earth-Moon-Sun system three-dimensionally to

her doctoral work at Columbia, Beka earned her B.S. in Anthropology at Appalachian State University. Thereafter, she received her molecular

these geologic features came to be. We will ground

to determine the relationship between the North Star

biology training at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. When

our field work in the recently published “Field Guide

and latitude, use star charts to navigate the cosmos,

she’s not doing science, you can find her biking, doing acrobatics,

for the Geology of Central Park and New York City,”

and more! This course is best suited for Earth Science,

cooking, and spending time with friends.

coauthored by Dr. Steven Jaret and Master Teacher

explore moon phases and eclipses, build astrolabes

Emmett DiPadova. Our final session will be indoors as

astronomy, or general science teachers, but all are welcome. Daniel Sharoff is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at High School for Arts and Business in Queens. Jessica Sharoff is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School in Queens.

Epigenetics and the Inheritance of Experience Facilitated By: Beka Stecky WEDNESDAYS, FEB 14, FEB 28, MAR 13 MƒA  SCIENCE

Exploring the Geology of Central Park Facilitated By: Steven Jaret, Ph.D., and MƒA Master Teachers Emmett DiPadova and Gloria Nicodemi TUESDAYS, MAY 14, MAY 21, MAY 28 MƒA & OFFSITE  SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: SESSIONS 1 AND 2 WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE IN CENTRAL PARK. SESSION 3 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA.

How does New York City’s geology affect its topography? Join us as we explore and link geological

resources to design NGSS-aligned and phenomenonbased lessons. This course is best suited for Earth Science teachers who want to dig a little deeper and get their students out of the classroom and into their local environment. Dr. Steven Jaret is a geology professor at CUNY’s Kingsborough Community College and a geologist at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) working in Earth and Planetary Sciences. He is also a faculty member at AMNH’s Master of Arts in Teaching (Earth Science)

features and landforms to the greater topography

program. He holds a Ph.D. in geosciences from Stony Brook University,

and geologic history of New York City. In our first two

a master’s in geology from Harvard University, and a bachelor’s in

For millennia, humans have known we inherit traits

sessions, we will venture into Central Park to examine

from our ancestors—perhaps their eye color, their

bedrock structures and outcrops, discuss how we

we apply our field data to topographic maps and other

geology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Steven’s research focuses on the geology and geochemistry of New York City and broader New England as well as planetary geology, where he studies the effects MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses

From “Hello World” to “Hello Success”: Unleash Your Code-Tential With Us! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Joshua Hans and Tsee Lee

From String to Art: Practices in Textile Crafts and Mindfulness Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rebecca Lugo, Marisa Miller, and Dwaina Sookhoo

of meteorite impacts on the Earth.

WEDNESDAYS, MAY 22, MAY 29, JUN 5

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 28, MAR 13, MAR 27

Emmett DiPadova is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Art

MƒA

and Design High School in Manhattan.

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Gloria Nicodemi is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at East-

Are you looking for a supportive learning environment

Have you been meaning to “get back into crafting?”

to work collaboratively using your emerging coding

Have you always wanted to make a scarf or embroider

skills on more exciting beginner programs than the

a pattern by hand? Are you looking for new ways to

traditional “Hello World”? Join us to become students

de-stress or incorporate mindfulness into your routine?

as we learn fundamental programming concepts using

Join us to share and build on your crafting experiences.

the block-based Snap! Language and develop a love

Some crafts we will explore include embroidery,

and appreciation for programming. We will make a

crochet, knitting, macrame, and bracelet weaving. We

point-and-click game using a project-based learning

also welcome teachers to share their craft passions.

curriculum from UC Berkeley to familiarize ourselves

Our goal is to develop different textile and design

with Snap’s programming environment. Then, we will

skills to then bring into our classrooms as mindfulness

explore coding principles, including selection, iteration,

activities or brain breaks with students. We will

and variables. Finally, we will review pedagogical

consider and discuss the application and benefits of

tools to foster diverse students’ engagement and

these skills in science and mathematics classrooms and

coding skills through project-based learning activities,

leave with several projects directly applicable to school

opportunities for personalization, and discussion

communities. All teachers and crafting experience

of the social implications of computing. Whether

levels are welcome.

you are curious about programming, want to reach

Rebecca Lugo is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher

students traditionally underrepresented in computer

at P.S. 78 in Staten Island.

science, wish to help MLLs or students with developing

Marisa Miller is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Forest

language skills, or are a parent to a young child and

Hills High School in Queens.

want to guide their computer science journey, this

Dwaina Sookhoo is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

course is for you! All teachers are welcome, and no

N.Y.C. Lab School for Collaborative Studies in Manhattan.

West School of International Studies in Queens.

Exploring the Microbiome: Guardians of Your (Inner) Galaxy Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Khaled Mahmoud, Ph.D., and Marisa Wagner, Ph.D. WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, FEB 14 MƒA  SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE.

Do your students still believe that all bacteria are dangerous pathogens? For years, researchers have focused primarily on harmful “germs” overlooking the importance of commensal and mutualistic microbes. We now understand that the human microbiome has a tremendous impact on human health and is even considered a support organ, as it plays vital roles in the daily operations of the human body. Join us in this two session mini-course as we explore the science of the human microbiome. In session one, we will introduce the microbiome and discuss how it can be taught through diverse curricular lenses such as microbiology, genetics, bioinformatics, ecology, and more. In session two, we’ll work together to adapt content and activities for our classrooms. We will draw upon resources and activities from The American Biology Teacher (National Association of Biology Teachers), NSTA case studies,

prior coding experience is required. Joshua Hans is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School in Brooklyn. Tsee Lee is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

The Fungus Among Us: How to Grow Mushrooms in the Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Brian Koh and Elyse Mattiaccio TUESDAYS, FEB 13, MAR 5, MAR 19

American Museum of Natural History, NIH Human

MƒA

Microbiome Project, HHMI, and more. This course

 SCIENCE

is best suited for middle and high school life science teachers.

Are you a fan of The Last of Us? Would you like to learn how to cultivate delicious mushrooms that WON’T

Dr. Khaled Mahmoud and Dr. Marisa Wagner are MƒA Master Teachers

turn you into a zombie? Then join us to learn how to

and science teachers at The Bronx High School of Science in the Bronx.

grow safe, edible mushrooms and design studentled experiments with fungi. We’ll begin by exploring

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses the Fantastic Fungi curriculum from Fungi Education, inoculating sterilized grain bags with liquid spore

Gamification and Playfulness in the Mathematics Classroom Facilitated By: Márta Barbarics, Ph.D. TUESDAY, FEB 20 THURSDAY, FEB 22 ONLINE

cultures, and discussing various experiments we could

 MATHEMATICS

perform. In session two, we’ll mix the myceliated

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE THAT TAKES PLACE DURING MIDWINTER RECESS FROM 9:30 A.M. 12:30 P.M.

grain with a variety of substrates and set up an original experiment. For our final session, we’ll harvest our mushrooms, analyze results, and create portable grow kits to take the mycelial madness back to our homes and classrooms. This course is best suited for life science teachers but all are welcome.

What do most people associate with learning mathematics—fun play, interest, challenge, all of the above? Gamification, the use of game design elements in non-game contexts for achieving different goals, has gained substantial attention in past decades and

Brian Koh and Elyse Mattiaccio are MƒA Master Teachers and

has a variety of applications. Join us to focus on the

mathematics teachers at P.S. 396 in the Bronx.

non-game context of education and present possible applications of game elements, with special attention

Games and Puzzles for Teaching Mathematics Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Adam Brulhardt WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, FEB 14, FEB 28 MƒA & ONLINE  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A HYBRID COURSE. SESSIONS 1 AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSION 2 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

to teaching mathematics. After a brief summary of what gamification is and is not, we will look at the application of both individual game elements and complex gamified processes in practice. We will examine how they can be used to cater to individual differences, motivation, engagement, team building, and material comprehension. All mathematics teachers

Getting Cheesy: The Microbial Analysis of Cheese Facilitated By: Odaelys Walwyn-Pollard, Ph.D.

Have you ever been told you need to “make

are encouraged to join as all will have the opportunity

TUESDAYS, FEB 27, MAR 5, MAR 12

mathematics fun” for students? Join us in this mini-

to adapt the material to their own context.

MƒA & OFFSITE

course to push back against this idea—we say the

Dr. Márta Barbarics taught mathematics for seven years at Petrik Lajos

 SCIENCE

fun is already there! The challenge for us is figuring

bilingual high school in Budapest, Hungary. During this time, she

out how to unleash the inherent joy in mathematics

investigated the effectiveness of the Pósa Method, a form of guided

+ PLEASE NOTE: SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 2 AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT ROCKEFELLER UNIVERSITY.

with students. One way is through mathematical

discovery in mathematics teaching. Currently, she is an assistant professor at the Department of English Language Pedagogy at Eötvös

Have you ever wondered what makes cheese so

games and puzzles that inspire student engagement

Loránd University. She completed her Ph.D. on alternative forms

in mathematical practices. In each session, we will

of assessment, such as gamification. She is also the instructor of

look at a variety of games and puzzles, such as

“Gamification and Playfulness in Teaching Mathematics” and “Directed

this and many other questions about the science of

Research: Discovery Learning in Secondary Schools” classes in the

cheese. Teachers will begin their three cheese course

Budapest Semesters in Mathematics Education program.

with a cheese tasting and introduction to cheese

Guess Who, KenKen, card games, and digital games, across mathematics topics like graphing coordinates, polynomial operations, key features of functions, probability, and more. By the end of this course, teachers will have a toolkit of game and puzzle strategies they can infuse into a variety of lessons. Mathematics teachers of any grade levels are welcome. Adam Brulhardt is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Institute for Liberal Arts in Brooklyn.

delicious? Join us in this mini-course to answer

microbiology. In subsequent sessions, teachers will learn how to culture and analyze cheese microbes, explore how changes in the microbial community influence the cheese aging process, and discuss how to use these robust ecosystems for understanding and teaching microbial interactions. This course is best for high school science teachers interested in teaching

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses students about fermentation, microbiology, and molecular biology. Dr. Odaelys Walwyn-Pollard works at CUNY Borough of Manhattan

Investigating the Mathematical Explorations of Young Children Facilitated By: Dorothy White, Ph.D.

average American consumes 126 grams of sugar a day, more than people in any other country and nearly four times what nutritionists recommend (25 grams per

MONDAYS, MAR 11, MAR 18, MAR 25

person per day). While a high sugar diet is a known risk

ONLINE

factor for health problems such as heart disease and

 MATHEMATICS

diabetes, new science shows that excess sugar also

Young children have a natural curiosity about

helps many types of cancer cells grow more rapidly.

oversees student research and STEM programs on campus. She’s

quantities, shapes, and patterns. They love sorting,

Join us in this two part mini-course to learn about the

passionate about teaching and mentoring students in ways that cultivate

comparing, twirling objects, and asking many

connections between sugar and cancer risk. In session

their appreciation for science. With a background in microbiology and

questions. Several mathematical concepts are inherent

one, we’ll discuss how the billion-dollar food industry

immunology, she is an experienced high school and college educator

in these early explorations and wonderings that

uses the brain reward pathway to get people addicted

teachers and caregivers can help cultivate. In this

to foods high in sugar. Then, in session two we’ll delve

mini-course, we will explore how to develop early

into the chemistry and physiology of sugar on a cellular

mathematics concepts in young children and ways

level, learn about the pathways associated with adipose

to help them express their ideas. We will engage

tissue and cancer, and participate in an exploratory

in activities supporting understanding numbers,

classroom activity related to homeostasis and what

geometry, and algebra using games, household items,

happens when it’s disrupted. This course is best suited

and number cubes. We will discuss teaching strategies

for middle and high school health and life science

to support productive understandings of mathematics

teachers.

and school-home connections to engage parents

Dr. Tashara Leak is an Associate Professor in the Division of Nutritional

and caregivers throughout. If you are ready to tap into

Sciences at Cornell University. She conducts community-engaged

your inner child, join us. This course is for elementary

research that aims to improve diet and overall wellbeing of adolescents

teachers and caregivers of young children.

from limited resource backgrounds. In her free time, she enjoys

Community College (BMCC) as the Director of Research, where she

with a passion for conducting research using the foods we love.

If You Can’t Beat It... Using AI in the Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Samuel Keener and John McCoy THURSDAYS, FEB 15, FEB 29, MAR 7 ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Are you interested in utilizing the latest artificial intelligence (AI) tools to improve your computer science classroom? This mini-course will leverage the latest AI and machine learning programs to help plan lessons, write engaging problems for our students, and differentiate materials for diverse learners. In session one, we will learn how AI and machine learning work,

Dr. Dorothy Y. White is a professor of mathematics education in the Mary Frances Early College of Education at the University of Georgia. Her research, teaching, and service interconnect and support

how to train an AI to write lessons matching your

empowering all students for success in mathematics by purposefully

teaching styles, and how to generate ideas that engage

promoting collaborative relationships among mathematics teachers and

students while anticipating misconceptions. In session two, we will use AI to create a variety of exercises

in early childhood education, middle school mathematics education, and graduate courses in critical issues and national trends in STEM education. She also provides professional development in mathematics

applications) that appeal to our students and teaching

to Pre-K-8 classroom teachers at the local, state, and national levels.

course is best suited for computer science teachers, all are welcome as no coding expertise is required. Samuel Keener is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at Midwood High School in Brooklyn. John McCoy is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at South Bronx Preparatory: A College Board School in the Bronx.

medicine specialist with extensive experience in conducting community-engaged research. You can often find her enjoying weekend gardening at her son’s former elementary school.

It’s Normal! Proving the Central Limit Theorem Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Melanie Battles and Douglas Shuman WEDNESDAYS, MAR 27, APR 3, APR 17

styles. In session three, we will discuss the ethical differentiated prompts and worksheets. While this

Dr. Erica Phillips is a health services researcher and clinical obesity

researchers. She teaches undergraduate teacher preparation courses

and activities (coding challenges, games, real-world

ramifications of AI and practice using it to create

spending time in Prospect Park.

It’s an Addiction: Unlocking the Science Behind Sugar and Cancer Facilitated By: Tashara Leak, Ph.D., and Erica Phillips, M.D.

MƒA  MATHEMATICS

The Central Limit Theorem, also known as the Fundamental Theorem of Statistics, is the cornerstone

THURSDAYS, APR 4, APR 11

of inferential statistics. Simply stated, if a population

MƒA

distribution with a given mean and standard deviation

 SCIENCE

has sufficiently large random samples taken from the

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE.

population, then the distribution of the sample means

According to the World Health Organization, the

will be approximately normally distributed, regardless of the population’s distribution. Most of us take this

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses stunning result for granted and assume a proof of it is beyond our reckoning. False! In this mini-course, we will investigate the uses and limitations of this theorem through software simulations. Then, we will learn about and use the moment generating function (MGF) statistical tool to find means, variances, and skewnesses of various distributions. Finally, we will use the MGF to formally prove the Central Limit Theorem. If you enjoy getting under the hood of things, you’ll enjoy this mini-course. Melanie Battles and Douglas Shuman are MƒA Master Teachers and mathematics teachers at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Länkuntuwakàn: Lenape Wellbeing and Ecological Consciousness p Facilitated By: Hadrien Coumans, The Lenape Center TUESDAYS, APR 2, APR 9, APR 16 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

This course by the Lenape Center critically examines

knowledge systems.

to thinking but also to constructing knowledge and

Hadrien Coumans, traditionally adopted member of the Lenape,

understanding through activity and discussion. Using

WhiteTurkey-Fugate family, is an advisor to organizations, institutions

Dr. Peter Liljedahl’s framework as our foundation, we

and individuals for well-being, empowerment, cultural continuance,

will share insights, resources, and persistent dilemmas.

genocide prevention and healing. He is co-founder and co-director, and Emissary of the Lenape Center, serving in the areas of strategic

As part of the course, we will visit three of our

partnerships, fundraising, initiatives, and development. He is also a

colleagues’ classrooms, where we will study some of

Western ideologies that have fostered a disconnect

Lecturer within the Department of Population and Family Health at the

Liljedahl’s 14 practices up close. The analysis from our

between humanity and the natural world, broadening

Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University.

day-long, collaboratively planned, inter-visitation will

understandings of ecological responsibility. Join us to challenge the prevailing anthropocentric paradigm, guided by the wisdom encapsulated within Lenape knowledge systems such as Länkuntuwakàn

shape our work together. Teachers will leave having

Learning From Thinking Classrooms in Algebra: A “Traveling” Course Facilitated By: Kara Imm, Ph.D.

experienced and witnessed how Liljedahl’s 14 named practices (taken together and on their own) begin to change the socio-mathematical norms of a classroom

(kinship, the Lenape way of life) and wëlamàlsëwakàn

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, MAR 20, MAR 27

and the roles and identities available to students.

(the pursuit of good health). We will learn research

MƒA & OFFSITE

This course is best suited for those teaching Algebra

methods aligned with Lenape beliefs, build a nuanced

 MATHEMATICS

1 or courses with significant emphasis on algebraic

understanding of the historical experiences of Lenape

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A FOUR SESSION MINI-COURSE. SESSIONS 1, 3, AND 4 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSION 2 WILL BE A FULL-DAY INTER-VISITATION DATE AND LOCATION TO BE DETERMINED. TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE READ THEIR OWN COPY OF BUILDING THINKING CLASSROOMS BY DR. PETER LILJEDAHL AND CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

reasoning

peoples, and develop comprehensive scientific frameworks steadfastly focused on principles of justice. On completion of this course, teachers will be empowered and able to address scientific concerns and critically analyze scientific policies and

Join us in this mini-course to connect with a group of

programs within both Indigenous and non-Indigenous

Algebra teachers building (or wanting to build) their

communities, drawing upon the richness of Indigenous

own “thinking classrooms,” spaces conducive not only

Dr. Kara Imm is a K-12 mathematics educator based in New York City. In her more than 20-year career, she has been a middle and high school mathematics teacher, staff developer, leadership coach, and teacher education faculty. At MƒA, Kara has designed and led over 20 courses on design thinking, mathematical routines, models and modeling, developing a coaching practice, early algebra, and more. Kara has written several articles and books with and for teachers on the teaching and learning of mathematics. A proud graduate of Minneapolis Public Schools, Kara earned degrees from Stanford University and Bank Street

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses

dynamic interplay between science, technology,

In session two, we will explore how Lill’s methods

engineering, mathematics, and art. Research shows

can solve quadratics with complex roots and extend

that when done well, STEAM can build transdisciplinary

our findings to cubics and polynomials of any degree.

skills, encourage student-centered immersive learning,

The sheer power and beauty of Lill’s method is truly

Graduate Center, The City University of New York, investigated the

and broaden student engagement. In this hands-on

awe-inspiring and will leave you wondering how this

impact of mathematical modeling on high school girls of color who had

mini-course, we will look at how the physics and

method is not more widely known and taught in our

experienced the gate-keeping effects of algebra.

biology of light and art shape contemporary culture.

classrooms. Whether you are a mathematics teacher or

We will see how pointillism, the resurrection of Tupac

simply a mathematics enthusiast, join us to investigate

at the Coachella music festival, and cinematic special

a new way to solve polynomials and to experience a

effects all rely on basic optical phenomena that can

“Lill” magic!

be simply and inexpensively recreated and explored

Matthew Mitchell is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

in interactive classroom experiences. All teachers

KIPP NYC College Prep High School in the Bronx.

interested in STEAM are welcome, especially those

Christos Tsakalakos is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher

who want to incorporate art with biology or physics

at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts

concepts. We will cover a number of classroom

in Manhattan.

College of Education. Her recent Ph.D. in Urban Education from The

Let’s Roll: Sphero Robots as an Introduction to Programming Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers John Garvey and Wan Park TUESDAYS, MAR 12, MAR 19, MAR 26 MƒA  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Sphero is a robot that students with no prior coding

activities and associated theories each session,

experience can program. The robot uses a block-based

grounded in a pedagogical framework promoting deep

coding platform to teach students how to code and

connections between science and art.

provides instant, tangible feedback when there is a bug in their code. For instance, if a student programs a

Dr. Mark Rosin is an associate professor of physics at the Pratt Institute of Art and Design and Director of Guerilla Science, a science and art

Lyme Disease: Modeling the Ecology of Infectious Disease Facilitated By: Adriana Aquino-Gerard, Ph.D., and Dave Randle, Ph.D.

regular hexagon shape, the robot will trace the shape

education organization that takes interactive science events to music

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, MAR 13, MAR 20

on the floor, allowing the student to see the result

festivals worldwide. Mark received his Ph.D. in theoretical physics from

MƒA

in real time. Our first session will focus on Sphero

the University of Cambridge.

activities, highlighting programming basics such as loops, conditionals, and variables while incorporating some mathematical concepts. After that, we will create Sphero coding lessons in various content areas.

A “Lill” Magic Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Matthew Mitchell and Christos Tsakalakos

Finally, we will share our lessons and provide feedback

THURSDAYS, MAY 16, MAY 30

for classroom implementation. While many of our

MƒA

examples will be geared towards high school students, teachers of all subjects, grades, and coding experience

 MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE.

 SCIENCE

Vector-borne infectious diseases are on the rise, with Lyme disease among the most rampant. What factors are driving these increased rates, how can we reduce the risk of infection, and can ecology help provide a solution? In this mini-course, we will explore these questions through the lens of disease ecology, one of many multidisciplinary approaches to understanding and controlling infectious diseases. We’ll begin with

are welcome to participate. Also, no prior knowledge

Think of all the ways to solve a quadratic equation:

an introduction to Lyme disease with a focus on

of coding is required.

factoring, grouping, completing the square, the

disease ecology. Then, in session two, we will explore

John Garvey and Wan Park are MƒA Master Teachers and mathematics

quadratic formula, graphing, and even Professor

Lyme as a complex system by developing models to

teachers at Community School for Social Justice in the Bronx.

Po-Shen Loh’s innovative method published a few

identify factors driving the abundance of infected

years back. This course will introduce Lill’s Circle, a

ticks in an ecosystem. Finally, in session three, we will

fascinating new way to solve quadratic equations using

make evidence-based recommendations to reduce

nothing more than basic high school geometry. The

Lyme disease risk and share ideas on how the content

TUESDAYS, MAY 14, MAY 21, MAY 28

method is highly visual, using the intersection of circles

and NGSS Science and Engineering Practices can be

MƒA

and right angle paths to locate roots on a coordinate

transferred to the classroom. This course is best for

plane. In the first session, we will collaboratively use

middle and high school life and environmental science

Lill’s Circle to solve quadratic equations with real roots.

teachers.

Light and Art: Full STEAM Ahead Facilitated By: Mark Rosin, Ph.D.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Recent initiatives like STEAM have popularized the 35

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses Dr. Adriana Aquino is a Senior Science Content Specialist for Teacher Professional Development at the American Museum of Natural History’s

Modular Origami: Geometric Solids From Paper Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Grace Chang and Kevin Peters

We’ll begin by familiarizing ourselves with the data and its geographic context, setting the stage for deeper analysis. In session two, we’ll explore arrest trends,

WEDNESDAYS, MAY 1, MAY 15, MAY 29

compare them to census data, and take a critical social

MƒA

justice approach to our findings. In our final session,

 MATHEMATICS

we’ll sketch out a detailed lesson plan that integrates

Have you ever made a mathematical object out of

arrest data and social justice with the concepts from

paper? In this mini-course, we will learn to create

the earlier sessions. By the end of the course, teachers

geometric models by folding modular origami. We

will be able to access and contextualize NYC public

Professional Development and works on programs for teachers through

will use origami as a jumping off point for discussing

arrest and basic census demographic data, know

Seminars on Science, the Museum’s online graduate-level professional

the mathematics behind different geometric solids

how to visualize these data sets, and have a draft

development program, and in face-to-face programs through the

and the processes involved in building them. Modular

lesson plan for classroom implementation. Be part of

origami is made of different pieces folded from paper

the movement that uses data to inspire change! The

that are then assembled to form 3D figures. In each

course is best suited for high school mathematics and

session, we will fold a different geometric form and

science teachers.

discuss the geometric properties of that structure. By

Dr. Jude Higdon (any pronouns) is the Chief Operations Officer for

the end of the course, teachers will be able to fold

the QSIDE Institute as well as the Chief Information Officer and AVP

Education Division. Adriana is also an ichthyologist; as such, she researches the diversity of armored catfishes. Dr. David Randle joined the American Museum of Natural History’s Education Department after a 15-year career as a science teacher in the New York City public schools. He is currently the Senior Manager of

Museum’s Gottesman Center for Science Teaching and Learning. He is also faculty in the Museum’s Masters of Arts in Earth Science program.

The Mathematics of Investing With Practical Applications Facilitated By: Ken Baron, Ph.D. WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, FEB 14, FEB 28 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

more complex structures. We will also discuss teaching and folding techniques we can use when folding

for IT at Bennington College in Southern Vermont. As the co-founder of the Institute for the Quantitative Study of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (QSIDE), Jude develops programs to promote and further

origami with our students. We will review resources for

the use of quantitative methods to address historical oppression

origami diagrams and instructions with the potential

and marginalization. Previously, Jude worked at the convergence

Are you interested in learning about the stock market,

for starting an origami class or club at your school or

of technology and education at more than ten institutions of higher

the mathematics behind investing, and its practical

integrating origami into your classes. Both beginners

applications? Join us in a hands-on exploration of

and experienced folders are welcome.

some of the critical mathematical insights in modern investing. We will start by overviewing the stock market and important investment insights of Nobel prize winners including Harry Markowitz. We will then discuss the practical applications of their research,

Grace Chang is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at The Neighborhood School in Manhattan.

finance knowledge is required, but teachers should have basic knowledge of linear algebra, statistics, and differential calculus.

 MATHEMATICS

at the University of Chicago and received a Ph.D. in Statistics from

Did you know there are 5.5 million arrest incident

Stanford University. Ken co-authored Parimutuel Applications in

records available in New York City’s online public data

Finance, a mathematical finance book. During the summer and on

platform, describing alleged crimes as well as arrestee

of Southern California, an Ed.M. in Technology in Education from the

Dr. Chad M. Topaz (he/him) is Professor of Complex Systems at Williams College and Professor (by courtesy) of Applied Mathematics

Patterns of Policing: NYC Arrests, Data, and Social Justice p Facilitated By: Jude Higdon, Ed.D., and Chad Topaz, Ph.D. MƒA

middle and high school students enter advanced study in mathematics.

Jude holds an Ed.D. in Educational Psychology from the University

Science from Northwestern University.

Manhattan.

over 25 years. He is currently a Managing Director and senior researcher

weekends, Ken teaches at BEAM, a program that helps underserved

National Wildlife Federation, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Harvard University Graduate School of Education, and a B.S. in Political

WEDNESDAYS, MAY 1, MAY 8, MAY 15

York City, attending NYC public schools. He majored in Mathematics

Parenthood Federation of America, the American Red Cross, the

“47” The American Sign Language and English Secondary School in

Dr. Ken Baron has worked in finance and investment management for at a large NYC investment company. Ken was born and raised in New

for several major non-profit organizations including the Planned

Kevin Peters is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

including how their work led to the creation of one of the biggest investment firms in the world. No prior

learning. He has also developed online learning environments

at the University of Colorado, Boulder. He co-founded the Institute for the Quantitative Study of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (QSIDE), a research-to-action institute working at the intersection of social justice and data science. Chad’s work on criminal justice, diversity in arts and media, education equity, and related topics has been covered in The Atlantic, The Guardian, Smithsonian Magazine, and more. As an award-winning researcher and teacher, and guided by his enthusiasm for scientific communication, he is driven to engage the public about the synergy of data science and social justice. Chad holds an A.B. from Harvard University and a Ph.D. from Northwestern University, both in applied mathematics.

demographics? Join us in this mini-course as we guide you through this data and its social justice implications. MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses Polypad: Virtual Manipulatives for All Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Kate Litman THURSDAYS, FEB 29, MAR 7 MƒA  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE.

Are you looking for functional and effective virtual manipulatives? Do you want your students to make customizable spinners, watch nets fold threedimensionally, or solve algebraic equations using a balance scale? Join us to learn how to do all of this and more using Mathigon’s Polypad. First, we will explore the vast array of resources in Polypad including the question builder tool, data tools, balance scales, and number tiles. Then, we will deep dive into existing Polypad lessons and examine some exemplars in mathematics and science. Finally, teachers will build their own original Polypad investigations, evaluate each other’s work through a gallery walk, and gain constructive and actionable feedback for implementation. Each session will be interactive, inspirational, and educational—there is no limit to what this tool can accomplish! This course is open to all and is best suited for those with an adventurous attitude towards technology. Kate Litman is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Quest to Learn in Manhattan.

they will probably list rats, pigeons, and cockroaches,

and reaffirm our goals and values. In our first session,

but rarely will they mention birds of prey. For decades,

we will practice mindful and creative-arts reflection

raptor populations in NYC were in decline, but thanks

strategies. Then in session two, we will do a deep dive

to recent restoration efforts, raptors are back! Join

into interview protocols to strengthen our collaborative

us in this two session mini-course to learn about

relationships with one another. In our final session,

NYC’s raptor population and local conservation

we’ll explore using poetry as a creative tool for group

efforts. In session one, we will discuss the history of

reflection, and close out with a routine for integrating

predators in the city, the role of organophosphate and

our learning. We hope all teachers will leave with a

organochloride biocides in the disappearance of birds

renewed sense of vision and purpose, as well as tools

of prey, and legislative efforts to protect, restore, and

to bring meaningful reflection into their teaching

reintroduce our native raptors. We will also consider

practices. This course is open to all teachers.

curricular connections to trophic cascades, raptor loss

Katie Francis is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

and the subsequent rise in rodent populations, and the

Curtis High School in Staten Island.

epidemiological and ecological consequences of this

Deborah Schaeffer is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at East

trophic disruption. In session two, we’ll go on a guided

Brooklyn Community High School in Brooklyn.

walk with a National Park Service Ranger to learn how to identify native raptors in Inwood Hill Park. This course is best suited for middle and high school life and environmental science teachers. Rob Mastrianni is an Urban Park Ranger with the NYC Parks Department. Stephen McClellan is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan. Scott Wassmuth is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at N.Y.C. Museum School in Manhattan.

Reflective Practices for Resilience and Restoration Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Katie Francis and Deborah Schaeffer MONDAYS, FEB 26, MAR 11, MAR 25 ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Raptors in NYC: Eagles, Osprey, and Hawks, Oh My! Facilitated By: Rob Mastrianni and MƒA Master Teachers Stephen McClellan and Scott Wassmuth

How might we leverage reflection to cultivate our personal clarity and wellbeing? As teachers, we are constantly reflecting on our practice and thinking of

WEDNESDAYS, MAY 8, MAY 15

ways to improve. While rewarding, this process can

MƒA & OFFSITE

sometimes feel daunting and self-critical. Yet reflection

 SCIENCE

can also provide a pathway for self-awareness,

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE. SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSION 2 WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT INWOOD HILL PARK.

connection, and resilience. Join us in this mini-course

If you ask your students to name some NYC wildlife,

with one another and ourselves, feel seen and heard,

to approach reflection through a series of fun and fresh research-driven practices designed to help us connect

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses Rubik³s Cube: An Introduction Facilitated By: Robert Burton and MƒA Master Teachers Patrick Cox and Shana Elizabeth Henry, Ph.D.

Teacher Leadership for Impactful School Change Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Sharon Collins and Pete Diamantis TUESDAYS, MAR 5, APR 2, MAY 7 MƒA & ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

TUESDAYS, MAR 12, MAR 19, MAR 26

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A HYBRID MINI-COURSE. SESSIONS 1 AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSION 2 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

MƒA

How can we influence urban education beyond

Teaching Students With Disabilities in Inclusive Mathematics and Science Classes p Facilitated By: Rhonda Bondie, Ph.D., and Kara Imm, Ph.D. TUESDAYS, FEB 13, FEB 27, MAR 5 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Join us as we explore high-leverage teaching practices and curricula designed to nurture meaningful and effective learning for culturally, linguistically, and

 MATHEMATICS

the walls of our classrooms? As NYC grapples with

There are many approaches for how to solve a Rubik’s

complex educational issues, ranging from budget

Cube with varying degrees of speed and difficulty.

cuts to class sizes to teacher retention, our voices

In this mini-course, we will focus on solving it using

and expertise should be integral to educational policy

the Beginner’s Method. While the primary goal is

conversations and decisions. In this mini-course, we

that everyone will leave having solved the Cube, we

will learn how to influence our school communities

will also explore insights into the mathematics of the

and beyond by transferring our leadership skills from

Cube, including standard notation, algorithms, and

our classrooms to our school communities and

their reflections and inverses. This course is designed

the broader NYC educational landscape. In the first

for teachers who have little to no experience solving

session, we will explore teacher leadership through

a Rubik’s Cube but have always wanted to learn how

readings and activities, learn the six steps of grassroots

to do so. In our first two sessions, we will focus on the

advocacy, and identify pertinent educational issues

notation and representations of the Cube and how to

through the lens of Every Teacher a Leader by Barbara

fully solve it. In our last session, teachers will expand

B. Levin and Lynne R. Schrum. In the second session,

and apply their knowledge to solve related puzzles,

we will form working groups to engage in the first

learn more about the mathematics behind the Cube,

three steps of grassroots advocacy—developing a

Dr. Rhonda Bondie is an Associate Professor in Special education at

and how to integrate Cubes in their classrooms or

strategy, procuring a fact sheet, and creating a list of

Hunter College, where she directs the Learning Lab. She enjoyed being

clubs.

stakeholders—about selected education issues. In

Robert Burton has been solving Rubik’s Cubes since 2001. Former

the concluding session, we will tackle the final three

Practical, is used by teachers in more than 30 countries. Teachers are

Executive Director of the World Cube Association, a nonprofit

steps and collaboratively devise future advocacy. We

invited to play the online teaching strategy game based on Rhonda’s

organization governing worldwide speedsolving competitions, and

aim to transform preliminary educational discussion

book, Agility, at https://www.agileteacher.org/game.

former MƒA Master Teacher, Robert is currently an Instructional Lead for

and planning into action in our school, city, and state

Dr. Kara Imm is a K-12 mathematics educator based in New York City. In

governing bodies. Any teacher interested in developing

her more than 20-year career, she has been a middle and high school

the New York City Mathematics Team. Previously, he taught high school mathematics and computer science for over sixteen years. Patrick Cox is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Central Park East High School in Manhattan. Dr. Shana Elizabeth Henry is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics

their leadership skills beyond the classroom and

ability diverse students. Together, we will analyze and interrogate barriers to equity in our teaching practices, curriculum, classroom structures, and beliefs about teaching, learning, and students. First, we will tackle the practical challenges of individualizing a standard curriculum while providing opportunities to make sense of past and current curricula. Then, we will discuss grading, monitoring learning, developing readers and writers in mathematics and science, and providing accommodations and modifications. Lastly, after trying out strategies to support students’ multiple identities and build inclusive classroom communities, we will conclude our work together by sharing back our discoveries. All are welcome.

a classroom teacher and administrator in public schools for over twenty years. Rhonda’s co-authored book, Differentiated Instruction Made

mathematics teacher, staff developer, leadership coach, and teacher education faculty. At MƒA, Kara has designed and led over 20 courses

having an impact on the future of education in NYC is

on design thinking, mathematical routines, models and modeling,

welcome.

developing a coaching practice, early algebra, and more. Kara has

teacher at The James Baldwin School: A School for Expeditionary

Sharon Collins is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

Learning in Manhattan.

New Heights Academy Charter School in Manhattan.

written several articles and books with and for teachers on the teaching and learning of mathematics. A proud graduate of Minneapolis Public Schools, Kara earned degrees from Stanford University and Bank Street

Pete Diamantis is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

College of Education. Her recent Ph.D. in Urban Education from The

Marble Hill High School for International Studies in the Bronx.

Graduate Center, The City University of New York, investigated the impact of mathematical modeling on high school girls of color who had experienced the gate-keeping effects of algebra.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses To Infinity and Beyond Facilitated By: Francis Su, Ph.D. TUESDAYS, MAY 7, MAY 14, MAY 21 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

“Infinity” seems like an idea always patently out of reach! And yet it is a concept we can make sense of, with some surprises. Wrestling with the infinite reveals some of the most interesting mathematics in calculus, geometry, and number theory. In this course, we’ll begin by marveling at Cantor’s “diagonal argument,” showing there are more real numbers than rational numbers. Then, we will explore fractals that geometrically realize infinity and show up in the Banach-Tarski paradox, stating strangely that a solid ball can be cut into 5 pieces and reassembled to form two solid balls, each the same size as the original. We will also learn how to count beyond the natural numbers to do transfinite induction. Finally, we’ll see some practical consequences of these ideas in computing. By course’s end, we will better understand what “infinite” means and be able to articulate why it matters. A desire for wonder and imagination are the only prerequisites, though familiarity with rational numbers and induction is helpful. Dr. Francis Su is the Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College and a former president of the Mathematical

Transforming Conflict Into a Generative Experience Facilitated By: Lindsey Charles THURSDAYS, FEB 15, FEB 29, MAR 7 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How can we transform conflict, which is inevitable, into something generative through understanding and strategic navigation? As teachers, we often witness and experience conflict, whether between students, students and teachers, colleagues, or teachers and administration. As the Wildfire Project states, “generative conflict is engaging conflict in ways that generate more possibilities, greater connection, and fuller expression, instead of shutting those things down. This includes both moving past conflict avoidance and unhealthy attachment to conflict.” Over the course of three sessions, we will explore conflict origins and develop strategies to manage and de-escalate, allowing us to experience the generative aspects of conflict resolution. This course will use interactive discussions, activities, and restorative justice tools to support our learning. Any teacher who wants to interrogate their relationship with conflict and

course focuses on Greek beginnings in introducing

develop conflict navigation skills is welcome.

“rigorous” mathematics through proof. This prevailing

Lindsey Charles was a consultant for Vision Change Win where she

Eurocentric, male-centered view of mathematics

works with clients on a variety of issues, including conflict resolution

obscures history and denies the communities

and mediation, restorative practice policies and protocols, diversity

and cultures that played significant roles in the

and inclusion strategies, and physical and verbal de-escalation. She is a licensed social worker and a certified health coach with over 10 years of non-profit experience.

he won the Halmos-Ford writing award. His work has been featured in Quanta Magazine, Wired, and The New York Times. His book

True Origins of the Pythagorean Theorem Facilitated By: Christina Eubanks-Turner, Ph.D.

Mathematics for Human Flourishing, winner of the 2021 Euler Book

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, MAR 20, MAR 27

Prize, is an inclusive vision of what mathematics is, who it’s for, and why

ONLINE

everyone should learn it.

1987). In this course, we will look beyond these Eurocentric views as we explore the origins and uses

Association of America. In 2013, he received the Haimo Award, a nationwide teaching prize for college mathematics faculty, and in 2018

development of mathematical knowledge (Joseph,

 MATHEMATICS

of the Pythagorean Theorem and present evidence demonstrating knowledge of the Theorem that preceded Pythagoras. All mathematics teachers are welcome. Dr. Christina Eubanks-Turner is a Professor of Mathematics at Loyola Marymount University. Her primary research areas include mathematics,

Traditional ways of organizing content in the history

mathematics education, and broadening participation in mathematics.

of mathematics hold a Eurocentric bias common in

She has extensive experience working with pre-service and in-service

producing, disseminating, and evaluating scientific

teachers from small and large urban districts across the US. She teaches

knowledge (Powell & Frankenstein, 1997). Much of the focus in a traditional history of mathematics 39

mathematics content courses for K-12 pre-service teachers. She has taught various graduate-level mathematics courses for in-service middle and secondary teachers. She has led several teacher professional

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses development workshops in collaboration with education faculty and school district leaders. Her mathematics education research focuses on best practices for supporting the development of mathematical knowledge for teaching.

Virtual Reality With AFrame.io Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Renne Castro, Ashwin Ramanathan, and Greg Sciame ONLINE

power within governments, especially in weighted

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

know where to go? Virtual reality, an exciting medium bringing content to life across grade levels, allows you to envision the world you and your students want. In this mini-course, we will create immersive virtual

MƒA

reality worlds using the AFrame.io library. Unlike other

 SCIENCE

platforms requiring extensive programming knowledge,

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE.

AFrame uses HTML and JavaScript to create 3D worlds

humanities; biology teachers must also tackle racist misconceptions to help students build antiracist awareness and eventually create a more equitable society. In this two session mini-course, we will examine and modify lesson plans and related materials from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, the American Museum of Natural History, and the National Science Foundation. We will counter false scientific claims and analyze unbiased evidence of human difference. We will start by exploring lessons on population diversity, PCR, DNA mutations, and evolutionary connections to the environment. In the second session, we will discuss how to use these materials in our classrooms and how to connect them to antiracist actions. Join us if you want to help your students develop the skills to determine, avoid, and debunk errors in reasoning and become more critical citizens and scientists who celebrate and better understand one another. This course is ideal for middle

Riverside Park ranked-choice Goat Vote. Then, we will introduce the Banzhaf Power Index to measure voting

TUESDAYS, MAR 19, MAR 26

Conversations about race should not be left to the

datasets, including the June 2021 Mayoral Primary and

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 14, FEB 28, MAR 13

Have you ever felt the need to escape reality but didn’t

Using Biology Class to Promote Racial Justice p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Cristina Rade, Ph.D.

compare systems historically and geographically using

accessible through any web browser. We will start our exploration by creating static virtual reality worlds using HTML and then progress to using JavaScript to create dynamic and interactive experiences. While the

systems. Join us regardless of your voting experience, and especially if you are intrigued by recent changes to voting procedures in instances like the New York City mayoral election. This mini-course offers a deeper exploration of elections and voting mechanisms, with a focus on decision-making mathematics and group dynamics. No prior knowledge is required, but familiarity with discrete mathematics is helpful. Robert Andruskiewicz is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Sunset Park High School in Brooklyn. Courtney Ferrell is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at New Design High School in Manhattan. Corey Levin is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Yorkville East Middle School in Manhattan.

course is best suited for those familiar with HTML and JavaScript, all are welcome, and we will differentiate to meet individual skill levels and interests. Renne Castro is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at Bayside High School in Queens.

What’s Learned Here Leaves Here: Cultivating Linguistic Diversity in Schools p Facilitated By: Pamela Jones and MƒA Master Teacher Ishrat Ahmed

Ashwin Ramanathan is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science

TUESDAYS, MAR 26, APR 2, APR 16, MAY 7

teacher at Jamaica Gateway to the Sciences in Queens.

MƒA & ONLINE

Greg Sciame is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

I.S. 318 Eugenio Maria De Hostos in Brooklyn.

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A FOUR SESSION HYBRID MINICOURSE. SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 2, 3, AND 4 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

Voting Systems Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Robert Andruskiewicz, Courtney Ferrell, and Corey Levin

How can we best honor, support, and celebrate linguistic diversity in our school communities? Join this

TUESDAYS, FEB 13, FEB 27, MAR 5

course to engage with critical language pedagogies,

MƒA & ONLINE

develop linguistically-sustaining professional

 MATHEMATICS

development to share with colleagues, and help

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A HYBRID MINI-COURSE. SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 2 AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

transform school communities into ones celebrating

and racial bias.

Explore the advantages and disadvantages of diverse

our school’s classrooms, how to integrate African-

Dr. Cristina Rade is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The

voting systems in this interactive course. Guided by

American languages and other languages into our

Clinton School in Manhattan.

the Arrow Impossibility Theorem, we will examine how

literacy curricula, and how adopting translanguaging

different systems, such as plurality and ranked choice,

can disrupt monolingual school cultures. We will

produce varied outcomes. First, we will analyze and

learn critical language pedagogies, like code-meshing

or high school teachers who teach genetics and want to lead students in crucial conversations about equity

linguistic diversity. Throughout our sessions, we will investigate how racio-linguistic ideologies live within

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Mini-Courses and translanguaging, as a way to integrate family and community languages meaningfully into classroom instruction. We will then work on how to share these learnings with our schools, in order to ensure that what was learned here, leaves here!

at work and build our networks at school and beyond

our lesson implementation using a dilemma discussion

in order to architect the changes that we know are

protocol. Then we will bring a new, revised, or follow

needed. All teachers are welcome to join to get the

up lesson to try in our classrooms and reflect on in our

support they deserve to move toward the kinds of

final session. We will conclude with another round of

professional outcomes that matter.

revision before setting goals for future work. Join us

Cornelius Minor is a Brooklyn-based educator who works with teachers,

to gain skills to integrate social justice, further develop

school leaders, and community-based organizations to support

your justice lens, and help build a community of

equitable literacy reform in cities across the globe. His latest book, We

educators dedicated to this work.

Got This, explores how the work of creating more equitable school

Pamela M. Jones, M.S.Ed., M.P.A., is an Advisor and Instructor at Bank

spaces is embedded in our everyday choices—specifically in the choice

Dr. Tanya Maloney is an Associate Professor in the Department of

Street College. Before joining Bank Street, Pam worked as a learning

to really listen to kids. He has been featured in numerous publications

Teaching and Learning and Co-Director of the Transformative Education

specialist for grades K and one, and as a third and fifth grade classroom

and has partnered with The Teachers College Reading and Writing

Network at Montclair State University. Her research considers issues

teacher. Pam earned a master’s in Public Administration from Columbia

Project, The NYC Department of Education, The International Literacy

of race, racism, and justice in teacher, leadership, and mathematics

University and her Master of Science in Education from Bank Street

Association, and Lesley University’s Center for Reading Recovery and

education. More specifically, her research focuses on understanding

College of Education. Pam is pursuing her doctorate in literacy at New

Literacy Collaborative. Cornelius was also featured in the documentary

how educators learn to teach and lead toward antiracism and social

York University.

“Out of Print.” Most recently, along with his partner and wife, Kass Minor,

justice. She began her career as a mathematics teacher in Chicago, IL.

Ishrat Ahmed is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Leaders High School in Brooklyn.

he established The Minor Collective, a community-based movement designed to foster sustainable change in schools. Cornelius uses his love for technology, hip-hop, and social media to bring communities together. As a teacher, Cornelius draws not only on his years teaching

Where Does It All Fit In?! Facilitated By: Cornelius Minor and MƒA Master Teacher Anoopa Singh THURSDAYS, FEB 15, APR 11, MAY 2, MAY 30

middle school in the Bronx and Brooklyn, but also on time spent skateboarding, shooting hoops, and working with young people. You can connect with him at Kass and Corn, or on Twitter at @MisterMinor. Anoopa Singh is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics in Manhattan.

MƒA & OFFSITE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A FOUR SESSION MINI-COURSE. SESSIONS 1, 2, AND 4 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSION 3 WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE IN THE COMMUNITY CLASSROOMS AT PIER 57.

Almost every current study on wellness in teaching has revealed the most impactful educators are concerned not just about disciplinary learning in science and mathematics, but also about all of the things amplifying it—identity, belonging, safety, and policies impacting our students. We understand the urgency of this moment and what it takes to meet it, but this clarity is complicated by the frustrating pressures and expectations to “do it all.” But we cannot, and we should not, “do it all.” Join us in this four session minicourse to discover how to truly serve our students AND honor ourselves. We will use creative thinking, careful measurement, and consistent reflection to find ways through difficulties we often face in school communities. We will tend to our personal ecosystems

Where To Go From Here? Teaching Toward Social Justice in Mathematics Classrooms p Facilitated By: Tanya Maloney, Ed.D. MONDAYS, FEB 26, MAR 18, APR 15 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

Have you begun to think about engaging your students in mathematics and social justice topics and want a space to figure out how to push your practice? Perhaps you joined the “Where Do I Even Start?” mini-course with Tanya Maloney and would like to continue learning alongside other teachers doing similar work. This mini-course will support you in developing your skills in teaching toward social justice. During the first session, we will develop or revise a classroom-ready lesson meaningfully integrating mathematics and social justice components. After trying that lesson in our classrooms, we will return in session two to reflect and problem solve around challenging moments in MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops Single Session Workshops are one-time workshops in which experts from the MƒA Master Teacher community, academic institutions, and local organizations engage MƒA teachers in a topic at the cutting edge of their content area and/or pedagogical practice.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

of the traditional Socratic Seminar used in STEM supports all students. This workshop is for teachers of

3D Printing and Laser Cutting: Enhance Your Classroom With Models and Swag Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Joseph Buro, Kaitlin Geraghty, and Sandra Rossi TUESDAY, MAY 14 MƒA

all levels who want to implement Socratic Seminars and similar discussion protocols in their classrooms.

gathering dust in your classroom? Don’t worry, we can help! Join us as we learn to integrate these fantastic tools into our teaching practice. We’ll cover topics like

All Gas, No Brakes: Supporting Adolescents With Self-Management Facilitated By: Rachel Lissy, Ph.D.

Kelly Hudson is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

THURSDAY, FEB 29

Scholars’ Academy in Queens.

MƒA

Rebecca Webb is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Scholars’ Academy in Queens.

Adolescence is an incredible time for learning, creativity,

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Are you tired of your 3D printers and laser cutters

High School at Prospect Heights in Brooklyn.

classrooms and how to plan for implementation that

and discovery. It is also when neurobiologically young

Advocating for Immigrant Students Affected by Accuplacer Placement Exam p Facilitated By: Juan Carlos Perez and MƒA Master Teacher Jae Berlin

software choices, equipment maintenance, modeling,

MONDAY, FEB 12

and slicing during the workshop. We’ll also show how

ONLINE

people tend to act on urges and seek out peer approval and attention. How can we help young people slow down, control impulses, and align their behaviors and actions with their goals and aspirations? In this workshop, we will look at ways for adults to “be the brakes” for adolescents and emerging adolescents by

to incorporate 3D printing and laser cutting into lessons

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

and provide examples of class-made products. This

Have your recent emergent multilingual graduates

and self-management skills without diminishing their

workshop is best suited for teachers new to 3D printing

shared that, after their college acceptance, they were

passions and exuberance. This session is for all teachers

or laser cutting. Let’s focus on our students and lessons,

informed they would need to take the ACCUPLACER

who want to support their students’ socio-emotional

not the pile of melted plastic meant to be a model.

before starting credited coursework? The ACCUPLACER,

learning.

Joseph Buro is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at

a College Board exam that evaluates English reading,

Dr. Rachel Lissy brings historical and organizational perspectives to

Staten Island Technical High School in Staten Island.

writing, and speaking skills, prevents many of our MLL

her work with schools, community based organizations and residential

Kaitlin Geraghty is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

graduates from accessing admission and/or starting

programs. She began her career at Camp Ramapo, a residential summer

Staten Island Technical High School in Staten Island.

credited coursework. In this workshop, teachers will

camp for children with social, emotional, and learning needs. She

Sandra Rossi is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

learn about the recent uptick in the use of this exam,

Bayside High School in Queens.

what educators have done to start organizing around

has a Ph.D. in Social and Cultural Studies from the Graduate School of

this issue, and how they can get involved. We will

Education at the University of California at Berkeley and a master’s in

review and discuss practices employed in response to

Policy, Organization and Leadership Studies from Stanford University’s

Adapting Socratic Seminars for Mathematics and Science Classrooms Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kelly Hudson and Rebecca Webb

this problem and envision alternatives to better serve

guiding them to build organizational, self-awareness,

worked in the backcountry with Outward Bound as an out-of-schooltime program director, a teacher, and an intervention specialist. She

School of Education. She has consulted for the podcasts, “Nice White Parents” and “This American Life.”

our emergent bilingual graduates’ needs. Teachers will leave with some initial strategies and a new network of

MONDAY, FEB 12

support to address this problem. This workshop is for

ONLINE

any teacher interested in gaining information, resources,

Art and Myco-Materials: Creating Paper With Mushrooms Facilitated By: Sneha Ganguly

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

and community to advocate on behalf of emergent

Are you interested in having rich, student-led

multilingual students.

discussions in your mathematics or science classrooms?

Juan Carlos Perez was an MƒA teacher for seven years at International

Then this workshop is for you! The Socratic Seminar is

High School at Union Square and is now a college advisor. He is

one way for students to engage in authentic discussions,

passionate about advocating for equity and access for undocumented

Dive into the materiality of mushrooms in this interactive

immigrants and is a member of Teach Dream with the NYS Youth

and hands-on workshop exploring mycology, myco-

Leadership Council.

materials, and mushroom-based papermaking as

Jae Berlin is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at International

a sustainable artistic medium. We will begin with

take ownership of sharing their opinions, and build peer relationships through academic conversation. During this workshop, teachers will explore various adaptations 43

TUESDAY, FEB 6 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops a reishi mushroom tea tasting to help ground the senses, and then recycle the tea waste into pulp for papermaking. We will learn fungal basics with emphasis on bio-materials and pigments, wild mushroom identification, various material methods and techniques, ethnomycology, and recent scientific research. Then, each teacher will create a 5x7” sheet of mushroom paper. This course is for those who are interested in the natural world, sustainability, materials science, and art-making. No prior knowledge is needed and all are welcome. Sneha Ganguly, also known as Kali Mushrooms, is an artist working at the intersection of art and mycology. Sneha identifies and studies wild mushrooms with a special interest in materials and pigments, and synthesizes their chitinous properties to create handmade papers, inks, paints, dyes, and extracts. She teaches the Community Mushroom Educators Program for Cornell Small Farms. She is founder and organizer of the Fungus Festival for the New York Mycological Society.

Neil Farley is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The Bronx High School of Science in the Bronx.

Astronomy Teachers: Take a NAAP! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Neil Farley and Seth Guiñals-Kupperman MONDAY, MAR 11 ONLINE  SCIENCE

Would you like to teach astronomy concepts in a

Seth Guiñals-Kupperman is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The Brooklyn Latin School in Brooklyn.

Chem Gems: Chemistry Demo Derby Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Snigdha Das and Brittany Klimowicz THURSDAY, MAY 16 OFFSITE

Can Markov Chains Help Us Win at Blackjack? Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Dave Richardson THURSDAY, MAR 7 MƒA

 SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: THIS WORKSHOP WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 5-7PM AT HIGH SCHOOL FOR ART AND DESIGN. TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO BRING THE NECESSARY MATERIALS TO SHARE A DEMO OR EXPERIMENT DURING THE WORKSHOP.

more student-centered way, grounded in virtual labs

 MATHEMATICS

and experimental design? Are you looking for ways to

Are you curious about the likelihood of winning at the

can serve as anchors for students to question, explore,

get your students excited about the upcoming solar

blackjack table? This workshop aims to build probability

and deepen learning. In this workshop, teachers

eclipse? Then you need to “Take a NAAP!” Join us in this

matrices to explore randomness within Stochastic

will share demos (demo-derby style!) to illustrate

workshop as we explore resources from the Nebraska

processes, answer questions about random walks and

phenomena and foster student questioning. Examples

Astronomy Applet Project (NAAP) and discuss how to

Markov chains, and calculate our expected value of

might include watching acetone interact with styrofoam

adapt the student-ready materials for our classrooms.

winning games of chance. Teachers need a working

or observing a universal indicator responding to

This suite of simulations, compatible with computers,

knowledge of Gaussian elimination for this workshop,

carbon dioxide from our breath. Teachers should come

tablets, and smartphones, lets teachers flip their

but they do not need any knowledge of blackjack.

prepared with a quick demonstration or hands-on

astronomy instruction to a more discovery-based

Teachers will receive a refresher packet on Gaussian

activity and a brief “how-to” guide for their colleagues.

approach. This course is best suited for astronomy

elimination.

Snigdha Das is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Queens

Dave Richardson is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

High School for Language Studies in Queens.

High School of Economics and Finance in Manhattan.

Brittany Klimowicz is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at NYC

teachers but as the NAAP contains materials aligned from elementary to college, all teachers are welcome.

Do your students love demos? So do we! Fun demos

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

group theory and isomorphisms to solve fundamental problems and build new understandings of various cryptography forms, enhancing encryption and

iSchool in Manhattan.

decryption security. Anyone interested in learning cryptography is welcome; prior knowledge of

Climate Cuisine Meltdown: Navigating Earth’s Changing Menu Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Diana Lennon and Elisa Margarita, D.C.

 SCIENCE

From sushi to sake, the climate crisis is threatening some of our favorite cuisines. In this workshop, we

WEDNESDAY, FEB 7 MƒA

undergraduate abstract algebra is helpful but not

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

required.

Experience what it is like to be a multilingual learner

Kelly Hudson and Dylan Persaud are MƒA Master Teachers and

(MLL). During this workshop, teachers will participate in

mathematics teachers at Scholars’ Academy in Queens.

a science lesson entirely taught in Spanish and explore a

WEDNESDAY, APR 17 MƒA

A Day in the Life of a Multilingual Student p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Laura Antunez Rodriguez

variety of scaffolds often used in classrooms with MLLs.

Data and Discipline: Investigating Systemic Racism in Schools p Facilitated By: Ksenija Simic-Muller, Ph.D., and Travis Weiland, Ph.D.

After the lesson, we will discuss the levels of success each scaffold provided. Lastly, we will examine the NYS Comprehensive ELL Education Plan (CR Part 154) and Blueprint for English Language Learner Success

will share a project in which students use their favorite

THURSDAY, FEB 29

and consider the implications for our classrooms. This

foods to explore how climate change is impacting our

ONLINE

course is for anyone who teaches MLLs and wants to

 MATHEMATICS

explore strategies for equitable access and support.

companion website, Our Changing Menu. From there,

How can data investigations not only shed light on

Spanish proficiency is not required.

we will think pedagogically to create a customized

the racialization of school discipline, but also provide

Laura Antunez Rodriguez is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher

“climate cuisine project,” celebrating food while

entry points for conversations with students? In this

at Academy for New Americans in Queens.

calling for climate justice. Finally, we will dive deep

workshop, we will use the statistical problem-solving

into the science behind climate change’s impact on

cycle and free web-based statistical software CODAP to

food systems and potential opportunities for activism.

analyze an out-of-school suspension dataset focused

Teachers will leave with a project to integrate during

on New York State. We will pose questions, conduct

units on climate change, human impact, or Earth Week.

initial analyses, and consider limitations of the dataset.

MONDAY, APR 8

This course is best suited for middle and high school

We will discuss the role systemic racism plays in school

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biology, environmental science, and health teachers.

discipline, learn how to identify these racial disparities,

Diana Lennon and Dr. Elisa Margarita are MƒA Master Teachers and

and consider strategies to advocate for equity. Teachers

science teachers at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

will leave with instructional materials for classroom

food systems. We will begin by exploring the book and

implementation. Prior experience with CODAP and

Cryptography: Developing a Mathematically Complex Encryption Method Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kelly Hudson and Dylan Persaud

knowledge of statistics are not required. This course is best suited for mathematics and statistics teachers, but all are welcome.

Decolonizing Our Minds Through Ancestral and Indigenous Mathematics Facilitated By: Michael Little Crow, Ph.D.

 MATHEMATICS

Have you ever wanted to understand mathematics through the eyes of your ancestors? Would you like to connect back with your seven previous generations so you can impact the next seven? Then you have the motivation to start becoming an Indigenous mathematics educator. In this workshop, Dr. Little-

Dr. Ksenija Simic-Muller is a professor and mathematics teacher

MONDAY, MAR 11

Crow, a multiracial mathematics teacher from the

educator at Pacific Lutheran University in Washington State who seeks

ONLINE

in her work to rehumanize mathematics for all students.

Saxon, Celtic, and Anishinaabe peoples, will share the

 MATHEMATICS

How can we create a complex system to protect data and information through encryption and decryption?

Dr. Travis Weiland is an assistant professor at the University of Houston who investigates how to support teachers in carrying out

story of his 24-year path as an Indigenous mathematics educator, connecting with the past seven generations

data investigations of sociopolitical issues inside and outside of their

of his multiple lines of descent. First, we will draw out

classrooms.

and understand our own mathematical stories through

In this workshop, we will explore and review various

peripheral participatory storytelling, where all in the

types of cryptography and methods for encryption

circle are invited to share their insights. Then, we will

and decryption. We will utilize abstract algebra’s 45

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops explore diverse cultural number systems and apply these

Peter D’Amico is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Eleanor

90% of the Sun’s light if weather permits. As the eclipse

Roosevelt High School in Manhattan.

occurs on a Monday afternoon, teachers have the rare

Rachael Ferreira is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

opportunity and privilege to share this awe-inspiring

Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Manhattan.

scientific phenomenon with their students. Join us in this workshop as we explore a variety of classroom and

concepts to the teaching of mathematics. We will use 3,000 year old Vedic mathematics from ancient India as a model of what mathematics looked like before modern colonial power structures. Then we will use this

Earth Day Activities to Inspire Your Students Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Shakira Provasoli and Jeanne Salchli

field activities to help students investigate the science of eclipses. We will also share resources for students to experience the eclipse even if cloudy skies prevent

to create and revise guided activities for our students to

TUESDAY, MAR 5

them from witnessing it. This course is best suited for

experience learning mathematics from a decolonized

ONLINE

any science teacher looking to engage students in

perspective. All teachers interested in deepening

 SCIENCE

astronomical discovery!

their connection to their mathematical ancestry are

Do you want to celebrate Earth Day with engaging,

Dr. Ethan Siegel was born in the Bronx and graduated from the Bronx

welcome.

student-driven activities? Join us in this workshop

High School of Science in 1996. He received his Ph.D. in theoretical

Dr. Michael Little Crow, an esteemed Indigenous Math Educator,

to explore a variety of activities inspiring activism

astrophysics from the University of Florida and subsequently became a

is deeply committed to promoting mathematics education and

and appreciation for our planet. We’ll open with a

empowering learners from diverse backgrounds. As a member of the

collaborative activity to raise awareness for the natural

Turtle Mountain Chippewa-Cree people, he co-founded OPEN Global

college professor before embarking on a full-time career as a science communicator. His online column, Starts With A Bang, has been running since 2008 and he has written four books: Beyond the Galaxy,

world, then we’ll discuss some tried and tested projects,

Treknology, Encyclopaedia Cosmologica, and his first children’s book:

supporting education initiatives abroad. He collaborates with the

including Green Team led workshop ideas, and finally,

The Littlest Girl Goes Inside an Atom.

education agencies of several tribal nations, including the Pascua

we’ll collaborate to adapt or design lessons for our

Yaqui, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Gila River Indian

own classrooms. Throughout, we’ll use protocols to

Community, and various Chippewa nations in North Dakota and

guide our work. Teachers will leave with a toolbox of

Village, Original Peoples Education Network, Inc., which focuses on

Wisconsin. Together, they aim to enhance teaching methodologies and empower educators within these communities.

Do You Want to Excel at Excel? Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Peter D’Amico and Rachael Ferreira TUESDAY, APR 2 ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Excel is a widely used and highly rated platform for

resources ranging from short lessons to complete units and projects. All teachers are encouraged to bring their

TUESDAY, MAY 7

favorite Earth-centered activity to share. This workshop

MƒA

is best suited for elementary and middle school teachers

 SCIENCE

who want to instill a love of nature as they celebrate

Is it true that nuclear power will solve our energy crisis?

Earth Day or any teacher who leads a Green Team.

Is wind energy really too expensive? How can we power

Shakira Provasoli is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at P.S.

our city and our country with low carbon energy to

333 Manhattan School for Children in Manhattan.

mitigate climate change? In this workshop, we’ll explore

Jeanne Salchli is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at P.S. 376

these questions with two tabletop games, Generate: The

in Brooklyn.

Game of Energy Choices, a free game developed by the

managing and calculating data in a structured and sophisticated manner. For teachers, this often involves managing grades. Join us in this workshop to learn how to use Excel formulas and tools to create a more organized and effective grade book, calculate marking period and semester-long averages, color code grade distributions in a class, and more! While the primary

EPA to help students weigh the costs and considerations

Eclipse!: A New Yorker’s Guide to April 8, 2024 Facilitated By: Ethan Siegel, Ph.D.

of energy choices, and Energetic, a game wherein players balance a budget, determine grid stability, and

WEDNESDAY, MAR 6

consider public opinion as they build a clean power

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facility for New York City. We’ll begin by sharing our

 SCIENCE

success and pedagogical rationale for using these

focus will be on grade books, you will also learn how to

On April 8, 2024, the United States will experience a

utilize these tools for other data collection and analysis

total solar eclipse, the last one over the contiguous

projects. This introductory workshop is applicable to

US until 2044. While New York City is not in the path

teachers of all grade levels and subject areas.

of totality, we might see the Moon block out at least

Electrify the Grid With Tabletop Games! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Matthew Sarker and Rachel Wax

games, continue by playing each game, and conclude by debriefing our experiences and discussing classroom integration. This workshop is best for middle and high school physics teachers or anyone who teaches energy content. MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

Illustrative Mathematics and Desmos on curricular development, and designed and facilitated professional development courses for Mount Holyoke College and Mathematics in the City at The City College of New York, where he also works with pre-service teachers. As a member

Matthew Sarker is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Energy

of NCTM’s Publishing Committee, Andrew was instrumental in the

Tech High School in Queens.

publication of Humanizing Disability in Mathematics Education: Forging

Rachel Wax is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Eleanor

New Paths.

Roosevelt High School in Manhattan.

Elementary Procedural Fluency Routines for Students With Disabilities p Facilitated By: Molly Brownstein and Andrew Gael

Equity, Joy, and Genius: Creating Community Responsive Mathematics Activities p Facilitated By: Lesa Covington Clarkson, Ph.D., and Jessica Forrester, Ph.D.

THURSDAY, FEB 29

TUESDAY, MAR 19

MƒA

ONLINE

 MATHEMATICS

History and research show procedural fluency

There is an increasing demand for mathematics

development for students with disabilities is often

education to combat deficit-based assumptions about

centered more on procedures and less on fluency,

students of color and promote culturally affirming

and literature and problem-solving links are frequently

learning opportunities. Equity-centered mathematical

just left out. This workshop will focus on how to

practices resist deficit beliefs and encourage educators

implement popular procedural fluency routines for

to appreciate diverse cultures. This workshop will

K-5 students while centering the needs of the special

introduce two culturally affirming mathematics

education population. We will closely examine and

activities created for an after school tutoring program,

evaluate mathematics special education pedagogical

Prepare2Nspire, and feature a community often seen

content with the histories of communities not always seen through an

practices and investigate multiple activity sequences

through a deficit lens. We will start by considering

asset-based lens. Jessica’s passion for community engagement and

built to expand procedural fluency expectations for all

the community influence and mathematical content

participatory research methods is grounded in amplifying the voices

students, specifically students with disabilities. All are

of the activities, and continue by applying Gholdy

welcome, but this course is best suited for elementary

Muhammad’s Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework

mathematics teachers looking to better support

for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy to

students with disabilities.

the learning outcomes. Lastly, teachers will generate

Molly Brownstein is a middle school mathematics teacher at the Cooke

similarly culturally responsive activities and lessons

School and Institute in East Harlem, NYC. With an undergraduate degree

for their students. This workshop is best suited for

from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree from Hunter

mathematics teachers interested in incorporating

MONDAY, FEB 26

community knowledge into their classrooms.

ONLINE

College in education, Molly fosters a dynamic learning environment for students with disabilities in grades 6-8. She establishes meaningful connections between mathematical concepts and everyday life, empowering student independence during their young adulthood transition. Molly has been a featured presenter on procedural fluency at the NCTM Annual Meeting & Exposition and is dedicated to advancing teacher practices and to contributing to the broader mathematics education discourse. Andrew Gael is a nationally recognized speaker focusing on the intersection of mathematics and special education. He is the K-12 Curriculum Director of Mathematics at the Cooke School and Institute, serving students with disabilities in East Harlem, NYC. He consulted for

Dr. Lesa M. Covington Clarkson is an Associate Professor in STEM

dissertation, Jessica created culturally responsive mathematics activities for an after-school tutoring program, connecting mathematics

and ideas of historically marginalized communities and youth, especially in academic research settings. Jessica is currently a postdoctoral researcher focusing on youth participatory action research.

The Expanding Universe With the Perimeter Institute Facilitated By: Dave Fish

 SCIENCE

Education at the University of Minnesota. Her research focus is the

Edwin Hubble was one of the earliest scientists to

teaching and learning of mathematics in urban settings. Currently, she

observe evidence that our Universe is expanding, but

is examining the short- and long-term effects of eighth grade algebra on students of color. Dr. Clarkson’s community-engaged research

the evidence for this expansion was in the night sky all

developed into the near-peer mathematics tutoring and mentoring

along—for anyone to see. In this workshop, we will share

program, Prepare2Nspire.

some of that evidence through Perimeter’s “Expanding

Dr. Jessica Forrester earned her Ph.D. in STEM Education from the

Universe” resource. Join us as we explore a variety of

University of Minnesota, where she combined her interest in STEM

low-cost, hands-on activities for our students to engage

engagement with justice-oriented practices in education. For her

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

Foundation. NYSBC makes advanced structural biology techniques

how to modify existing course materials to incorporate

accessible to biomedical researchers informing efforts to improve

these “open questions” that give students space to truly

human health and welfare.

with the evidence for an expanding universe, estimate its age, and predict potential outcomes for its future. The content of this workshop will focus on cosmology but the workshop is open to all STEM teachers, as graphing skills and real-life applications will also be emphasized. Dave Fish has been a high school physics teacher for over 25 years. His involvement with Perimeter Institute dates back to the beginning with the initial development of ISSYP, EinsteinPlus, and several other outreach activities. He has played a leading role in the production of both Perimeter Exploration and Perimeter Inspiration resources. Dave

Finding Factors of Large Numbers Using the Pollard P-1 Algorithm Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Juan Rodriguez THURSDAY, MAY 2

 MATHEMATICS

Did you know that you can factor larger numbers by finding factors of smaller numbers, crossing your fingers and summoning a bit of luck? In this workshop, we will

international levels. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, traveling,

use models and collaboration to learn how the Pollard

sports, and spending time with his wife and three children.

P-1 algorithm works. Pollard P-1 is an algorithm used by mathematicians and computer scientists to find factors of large numbers using Fermat’s Little Theorem. We will then use Desmos (or your preferred resource or coding method) to build a simple factoring engine based on our knowledge of the algorithm. Lastly, we will compete

TUESDAY, MAR 26

to find the largest factor of a random 20 digit number

OFFSITE

using the factoring engines we create. All mathematics

 SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: THIS WORKSHOP WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE NEW YORK STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY CENTER.

Would you like to dive into the fascinating world of structural biology? Join us at the New York Structural Biology Center (NYSBC) to explore key concepts and experimental methods used by electron microscopists to discover how molecular machines orchestrate essential functions within human cells. We will begin with an introduction to cryo-electron microscopy followed by hands-on demos to gain practical insights and interact with scientific instrumentation. We will also discuss how to organize a spring field trip to NYSBC with your students. This course is best suited to middle and

will reference Robert Kaplinsky and Nanette Johnson’s OpenMiddle. All high school mathematics teachers are welcome! Renu Budhraja and Andy Deegan are MƒA Master Teachers and mathematics teachers at Millennium Brooklyn HS in Brooklyn.

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has given workshops on modern physics at the local, national, and

Exploring Molecular Machines Through Electron Microscopy Facilitated By: New York Structural Biology Center (NYSBC) Scientists

engage in the entire problem-solving process. Our work

teachers with a competitive side are welcome! Juan Rodriguez is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Home Instruction in the Bronx.

Focus On the Process: Opening Up Questions in the Mathematics Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Renu Budhraja and Andy Deegan THURSDAY, MAR 7 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

Can changing the language and structure of mathematical questions encourage students to more

The Geometry of Statistics Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Patrick Honner WEDNESDAY, FEB 14 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

Linear regression appears in algebra, statistics, and calculus courses, but it may actually be best understood as a geometry problem. In this workshop, we will explore the underlying geometry of regression, where finding the curve of best fit can be thought of as finding the shortest path between a point and a plane in space. This workshop will involve some 3D and vector geometry, but no special knowledge is required. All teachers with a curiosity about the deep and surprising connections between geometry and statistics are welcome. Patrick Honner is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan.

Get Out of Your Dreams, Get Into My Boxcar! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jessica Holzer and Kaitlin Nova THURSDAY, APR 11 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

deeply engage in problem-solving? For example,

Get out of your dreams, and get into our boxcar! Join

rather than asking students to “Solve: cos x = 1”, what

us to experience a unit from our boxcar class while

if we instead ask, “The cosine of an angle is almost 1,

building community and having fun. We will experience,

what could the angle be?” Open-middle and open-

experiment, and apply mathematics and physics

York. NYSBC is a not-for-profit that provides advanced resources in

ended questions require students to focus on analysis,

concepts to build and race a minicar. Our goal is for

structural biology to its members and outside users through national

planning, and process, rather than rote procedural

you to leave knowing exactly how to implement this

facilities funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Simons

memorization. In this workshop, teachers will learn

interdisciplinary project in your own class. This course

high school life science teachers, but all teachers are welcome. The New York Structural Biology Center (NYSBC) was founded in 1999 by a consortium of nine eminent academic research institutions in New

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

Horseshoe Crabs: Rendezvous With Living Fossils Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Melissa Dowd, Rebecca Haverstick, and Cynthia Jimenez

vexed Galileo ultimately inspired architects and artists like Eero Saarinen, Antonio Gaudi, and Jasper Johns to create fantastic monuments and paintings. This

is best suited for middle school teachers, project-based

TUESDAY, JUN 4

workshop is firmly rooted in precalculus concepts, but

school teachers, or those teaching elective courses in

MƒA

all visual mathematics enthusiasts are welcome.

mathematics, science, or STEAM.

 SCIENCE

Jessica Holzer is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Forsyth

Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Satellite Academy in Manhattan.

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE ALSO ENCOURAGED TO JOIN THE MƒADVENTURE, HORSESHOE CRAB WALK, ON FRIDAY, JUNE 21.

Kaitlin Nova is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

Horseshoe crabs have lived for over 450 million years—

Forsyth Satellite Academy in Manhattan.

predating dinosaurs, surviving multiple mass extinctions,

Illuminating COVID Testing With miniPCR Facilitated By: Marc Bliss and MƒA Master Teacher Jessica Quenzer

and mostly remaining structurally unchanged

Harnessing the Power of Model Organisms to Ignite Curiosity Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rocheli Apilan and Maria Cheryl Diangco WEDNESDAY, APR 17 MƒA  SCIENCE

throughout. Join us in this workshop to learn about

TUESDAY, FEB 27

the science of these phenomenal, blue-blooded living

OFFSITE

fossils. We will also discuss how to integrate horseshoe crabs into our curriculum and plan a field study to spark curiosity and connection to the marine environment. The possibilities are “Limulus!” Melissa Dowd is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Urban

Whether it’s the tiny aquatic crustacean Daphnia

Assembly New York Harbor School in Manhattan.

magna, the brine shrimp Artemia, or the free-living

Rebecca Haverstick is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

planarian flatworm, model organisms provide a unique

Battery Park City School in Manhattan.

portal to observe complex biological processes and

Cynthia Jimenez is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Frank

phenomena in a simplified, controlled, and reproducible

Sinatra School of the Arts High School in Queens.

mechanism. In this workshop, teachers will engage in three hands-on learning stations, each showcasing one of these model organisms. They will work in small groups to explore challenges, design and execute

Hyperbolic Functions and the Catenary: A Beautiful History Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Nate Bonheimer

experiments, and analyze and interpret results. Teachers

TUESDAY, MAY 7

will also discuss how to adapt the activities to support

MƒA

productive struggle, leaving the workshop with a toolkit of protocols and implementation guidelines. This workshop is best suited for middle and high school life science teachers. Rocheli Apilan is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at High School for Health Professions and Human Services in Manhattan. Maria Cheryl Diangco is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at School for Classics High School in Brooklyn.

Nate Bonheimer is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

 MATHEMATICS

 SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: THIS WORKSHOP WILL TAKE PLACE AT STUYVESANT HIGH SCHOOL.

We’ve all gotten our noses swabbed for the PCR test but what happens next? Now, you can experience how the swabs are tested for the presence of COVID. In this workshop, teachers will perform a real-time PCR protocol using RNA samples reverse transcribed into DNA (supplied by miniPCR). We will view amplification in progress with the p51 fluorescent viewer, determine which samples are COVID positive, and estimate viral load. We will also discuss how to borrow and use the miniPCR kits to complete this lab in our classrooms. This course is best suited for middle and high school biology teachers. Marc Bliss earned his B.S. in Biology from Northeastern University and an M.Ed. from Endicott College. He has taught high school biology at schools in North America, Europe, and North Africa. He is passionate

Do you feel that the hyperbolic sine (sinh) and

about STEM communication and empowering people to use science to

the hyperbolic cosine (cosh) functions are

solve real-world challenges. He is currently the Program Lead for Genes

underappreciated? Let’s fix that by studying the history, beauty, and mathematical significance of the sinh and cosh functions. We will use hands-on manipulatives

in Space at miniPCR bio. Jessica Quenzer is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan.

and GeoGebra tools to discover how sinh and cosh are connected to hyperbolas, how functions involving the constant e relate to trigonometry, and how these functions can be so transcendent. The historically elusive catenary curve will play a central role in our exploration, as we discover how the curve that once

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops Integrating Computer Science Into Your STEM Classroom Using a Micro:bit Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Alise Braick and Stacy Goldstein THURSDAY, MAY 30 MƒA  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Have you been looking for a way to integrate engineering practices into your middle school STEM classroom in a meaningful, fun, and low-cost manner? Micro:bit is an inexpensive device students can program to respond to its environment. There is a low barrier to entry in working with micro:bits, allowing teachers and students to get started with block-based coding projects right away. Micro:bit code can be downloaded directly from a web browser without installing complex software. We will start with creating simple tasks like displaying a message with the micro:bit. Then, we will scale up to more complex projects like programming a device to measure the moisture content of soil to

experiments with the relativity of color, we will make

determine when a plant needs watering. Micro:bits allow

three colors appear to be four, make three colors

students to be creative and show them that coding

appear to be two, and create illusions of transparency.

and engineering are fun and rewarding! Teachers of all

All activities use only colored paper, scissors, and glue.

WEDNESDAY, FEB 28

disciplines and coding backgrounds are welcome.

Teachers will work together to articulate the color

MƒA

Alise Braick is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at

phenomena they are experiencing and build flexible

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

thinking skills through rapid reiterations of color

Would you like to use your iPad in class more

Stacy Goldstein is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

combinations. These simple activities can be used in the

effectively? Join this workshop to learn how to enhance

Midwood High School in Brooklyn.

classroom for encouraging creativity and design sense

your teaching practices and create engaging content

in students. All are welcome and no previous experience

using iPad technology. We will focus on several

with color is required.

computer and iPad applications to support teachers,

Interaction of Color Facilitated By: Fritz Horstman

iPad Master Class Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ryan Bittman and Andrew Fitts

Fritz Horstman is the education director of the Josef and Anni Albers

including Notability, Explain Everything, Doceri, Desmos,

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1

Foundation, as well as being an artist and curator. Since 2014 he has

Sidecar, and X Mirage. The workshop is open to all who

MƒA

presented workshops and lectures on the Alberses’ art and taught

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

at organizations including the Bauhaus-Dessau; École des Beaux-

have an iPad and want to learn how to use it in the

Arts, Paris; Harvard University; Lebanese American University, Beirut;

classroom.

How can we foster exploration and abstract thinking

Museum of Modern Art, New York; Princeton University; Royal Academy

Ryan Bittman and Andrew Fitts are MƒA Master Teachers and

through presenting instances in which two or more

of Arts, London; and Yale University. He is the author of Interacting With

mathematics teachers at NYC iSchool in Manhattan.

contradictory ideas can all be true with only a few applicable materials? By exploring Josef Albers’

Color: A Practical Guide To Josef Albers’s Color Experiments, which will be published by Yale University Press in May 2024.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

of re-engagement tools, and spend the final part of the session recreating our flopped lessons. The menu of tools will include the Fostering Math Practices and Math

It’s a Mod Mod Mod Mod World! Facilitated By: Michael Riccardo and MƒA Master Teacher Scott Schwartz

Language Routines, suggestions and examples from expertise in the room, and strategies rooted in Gholdy

Learn About Logs Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rachel Griffin and Abbi Stratton WEDNESDAY, APR 3 MƒA

Muhammad’s Unearthing Joy: A Guide to Culturally and

 MATHEMATICS

WEDNESDAY, MAR 27

Historically Responsive Curriculum and Instruction. All

Have you ever wondered about the real-world

MƒA

are welcome.

applications of logarithms, why we use logarithmic

Emma Reid is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Fannie

scales, or how the phrase “six-figure salary” relates to

Lou Hamer Middle School in the Bronx.

logarithms? It’s interesting to note that some cultures

 MATHEMATICS

As MƒA Master Teachers, we all know 7+8=15, right?

count logarithmically, which suggests that mathematics

Maybe not. Sometimes the answer is 7+8=3. After all, it is a mod, mod world! Bad puns aside, modular arithmetic can be used to justify divisibility tests, determine the day of the week x number of days from

KenKen Meditation and Exploration Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Aaron Kaswell and Michael Paoli

may not be as universal as we once thought. Logarithms are more than the inverse of an exponential function or a way to solve exponential equations. In this workshop,

now, and even solve linear Diophantine equations. In

THURSDAY, MAY 2

we will explore logarithmic counting, conceptualize

this workshop, we will play with fun problems, explore

MƒA

and understand numbers of high orders of magnitude,

how modular arithmetic can help, and consider how

 MATHEMATICS

and learn other applications of logarithms, such

these ideas connect to both pop culture and our

KenKen is an amazing mathematical logic puzzle

as the Richter and decibel scales. We will use tools

classrooms. Hurry up and register—the clock is ticking!

developed twenty years ago by renowned Japanese

from Desmos, tasks from Illustrative Math, and other

This workshop is best suited for middle and high school

teacher and puzzle-master, Tetsuya Miyamoto.

resources to ground our work. Anyone interested in

mathematics teachers.

Now published daily in the New York Times next to

learning more about logarithms is welcome!

Michael Riccardo is a former MƒA master teacher who just retired

the crossword puzzle, KenKen is a fun way to learn

Rachel Griffin and Abbi Stratton are MƒA Master Teachers and

in 2023 after teaching for over 37 years in the NYC Department of

arithmetic, develop logic skills, and practice core habits

mathematics teachers at Brooklyn Prospect Charter School - CSD 15 in

Education. He is currently teaching mathematics as an adjunct professor

of mind such as resilience, persistence, and curiosity.

at Queens College. Scott Schwartz is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Bayside High School in Queens.

Joyful Re-Engagement: Fix a Flopped Lesson Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Emma Reid THURSDAY, FEB 15 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How can we find joy in a “flopped” lesson? In this

Brooklyn.

We will start with KenKen history and learn how to KenKen. Then we will have a long stretch of meditative quiet for solving puzzle sets hand-made by Miyamoto Sensei. Finally we will explore the mathematics behind

Learning With Doodle Notes Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Jessica CiminiSamuels

the puzzles and discuss effective pedagogy for the

TUESDAY, MAR 5

classroom. All teachers are welcome!

ONLINE

Aaron Kaswell is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

J.H.S. 088 Peter Rouget in Brooklyn.

How many papers have you gotten from students

Michael Paoli is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Ella

covered in random scribbles and drawings? All of us, at

Baker School in Manhattan.

one point or another, have doodled in the margins of

workshop, we will explore tools for re-engaging

our papers during a class or meeting. In this workshop,

students while maintaining a joyful atmosphere. Bring

we will learn how to use Doodle Notes to combine

a “flopped” lesson—any lesson that did not reach

visual and textual learning styles to create with and for

students the way you hoped—and we will unpack our

students. Engaging both hemispheres of the brain by

experiences by teaching that lesson together. Next, we

merging notetaking with art and creativity enhances

will participate in two short routines as examples of

student learning. We will begin by reviewing research

simple, fun ways to reimagine topics. We will choose

on Doodle Notes efficacy, then review examples of

one of these routines, or another option from a menu

activities, and finally create Doodle Notes for our

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

and identify the most frequently used coding tricks, tips, and techniques. Once mastered, these skills can be used for both semester narratives or timely assignment

classes.

feedback. This workshop is for any PC-using, STEM high

Jessica Cimini-Samuels is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

school teacher, regardless of prior Excel experience.

Marsh Avenue School for Expeditionary Learning in Staten Island.

Deborah Katz is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Bronx Collaborative High School in the Bronx.

Let’s Get Motivated About Motivation Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Sjene Kendrick and Matt Pastore MONDAY, MAR 4 ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Do you ever find yourself wondering about student

Leveraging ChatGPT to Create Educational Scaffolds Facilitated By: Jeanne Garbarino, Ph.D.

achieving learning objectives. In this workshop, we will

and discuss articles, podcasts, and videos on the

explore the realm of natural language processing and

common misconceptions and latest research about

artificial intelligence (AI) to understand how ChatGPT

motivation and work collaboratively to connect this

(generative pre-trained transformer) can be a powerful

research to our practice. Our goal is to leave this session

tool to create comprehensive and adaptable educational

with ideas about better motivating all learners in our

rubrics and other types of scaffolding to enhance

classrooms. All are welcome.

student learning. Specifically, we will spend time

Sjene Kendrick is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

getting acquainted with ChatGPT and its capabilities

The Emily Warren Roebling School in Brooklyn.

in comprehending and generating precise assessment

Matt Pastore is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Fort

criteria, enabling personalized feedback and adaptive

Hamilton High School in Brooklyn.

assessments for individual student needs. Additionally,

mammals—and the occasional “alt-mammals”—against each other in a hypothetical tournament similar to NCAA’s March Madness. Students of all ages research the competitors to make predictions and then watch the virtual battles play out on Twitter throughout March and early April. In this workshop, we’ll play a mock round of the tournament to get familiar with the rules and then share out several projects and lesson ideas for incorporating it into your teaching. Science teachers of all grades are encouraged to sign up and join the nearly seven thousand other educators who have brought the madness to their classrooms.

educational rubrics and strategies to ensure fairness,

Explorations into Science, Technology and Math High School in

transparency, and inclusivity. Dr. Jeanne Garbarino is the Director of RockEDU Science Outreach at

MƒA

science outreach within the scientific community, open channels for community members to develop an appreciation for science as a human endeavor, and to provide equitable access to scientific resources and

Are you interested in giving individualized feedback at

opportunities that genuinely reflect the process of science. Jeanne is

the touch of a button? Join us as we learn how to use an

formally trained as a lipid biochemist, earning her Ph.D. in metabolic

the organizing scientists publish a bracket that pits

Stephen Kos is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at New

The Rockefeller University, where she works to promote and support

platforms to create easily accessible Excel documents

adaptations, habitats, energy, and more. Each February,

we will discuss the ethical implications of using AI for

TUESDAY, APR 9

narratives. We will explore how to use existing grading

innately curious about the natural world, and with the power of this curiosity to teach them all about

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

role does intrinsic motivation play? Join us to examine

will learn how to use Excel formulas to write student

probably asked something similar. Young people are March Mammal Madness (MMM), you can harness

constructive feedback and guiding students toward

every student in your class. In this workshop, teachers

students haven’t asked this exact question, they’ve

MƒA

rewards or competition to increase motivation? What

Excel file full of raw data to write personalized emails to

 SCIENCE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8

Educational rubrics are vital in providing clear and

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

THURSDAY, FEB 15 MƒA

Who would win in a fight: a tiger or a lion? If your

motivation? What does the research say about using

Let’s Tell a Story: Using Excel to Write Student Narratives Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Deborah Katz

Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My!: Teaching With March Mammal Madness Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Stephen Kos and Emily Schmidt, Ph.D.

biology from Columbia University, then conducting postdoctoral studies on cholesterol transport at Rockefeller.

Manhattan. Dr. Emily Schmidt is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The Bronx High School of Science in the Bronx.

Live, Laugh, Larva: Soldier Flies, Decomposition, and the Trash Problem Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Charles Morse WEDNESDAY, APR 17 MƒA  SCIENCE

Are you interested in bringing low-maintenance critters into your classroom to foster curiosity, build student engagement, and develop hands-on activities? Join MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops us in this workshop to learn about an under-the-radar decomposer, the black soldier fly. We will first learn about the economic context and importance of these insects as decomposers, then explore their lifecycle and

Not Just Homework: In-Class Formative Assessment With DeltaMath Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Marley Myrianthopoulos THURSDAY, FEB 29 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

engage in a lab to rapidly collect food preference data,

DeltaMath, a powerful tool for creating practice and

discuss how to maintain a classroom or garden colony

homework assignments, can also be used during

and finally review additional soldier fly investigations.

lessons to provide valuable formative assessment

This workshop is best for anyone teaching life science

data and to allow teachers to adapt instruction on

or seeking resources for classroom gardens and

the fly. We will examine DeltaMath activities and

composting.

assessments to investigate their various benefits and

Charles Morse is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Essex

how to best construct and implement them. We will

Street Academy in Manhattan.

work on adapting an existing or upcoming lesson to include a DeltaMath activity for the classroom. This

Mind the Gap!: Data Exploration to Address Misconceptions Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Melanie Battles and Melanie Pflaum WEDNESDAY, FEB 7

workshop is best suited for middle school and high school mathematics teachers interested in trying to use DeltaMath. Marley Myrianthopoulos is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics

and build on other pedagogues’ ideas for effective co-

teacher at Discovery High School in the Bronx.

teaching; and (3) reflect on your own collaboration. Our work will in turn support and enhance the engagement

ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

The misuse of data to reinforce systematic misconceptions around global trends is prevalent in today’s world. Gapminder, a website offering a range of

Optimized Co-Teaching: Two Experts in the Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Melissa Hendy and Arah Lewis

of students within our classrooms and the larger school community. All are welcome. Melissa Hendy is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Eagle Academy for Young Men in the Bronx.

data tools and resources, allows us to explore reliable

WEDNESDAY, FEB 28

Arah Lewis is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Eagle

worldwide data and create data visualizations in order

ONLINE

Academy for Young Men in the Bronx.

to develop a “fact-based worldview.” Using these resources, we will collaboratively analyze data and design tasks for our students. We will explore bubble charts and income mountains, and dig into the datasets used to create them. This workshop is best suited for those teaching courses involving statistics, data analysis, environmental science, or macroeconomics, but any teacher who enjoys exploring and playing with data is welcome! Melanie Battles is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn. Melanie Pflaum is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Bard High School Early College in Manhattan.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: WE ENCOURAGE ALL TEACHERS TO ATTEND THIS SESSION WITH THEIR CO-TEACHER OR COLLABORATIVE TEACHING PARTNER, EVEN IF THEY DO NOT HAVE AN Mƒ A FELLOWSHIP. PLEASE USE THIS LINK TO REGISTER YOUR COTEACHER: BIT.LY/OPTIMIZED-CO-TEACHING

Every co-taught classroom has two experts to leverage, but we rarely make the best of ICT classrooms because

Paper Folding With Snapology Origami Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Jennifer Parker THURSDAY, APR 11 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

we think there is no time for high-impact co-planning.

Are you interested in a new way of folding origami? In

Join us as we explore some highly-efficient, high-

this workshop, we will use snapology origami—a form

impact moves to make the best of two educators in the

of unit origami in which multiple strips of paper are

classroom. This workshop encourages you to invite your

folded and combined to make different polyhedra—to

co-teachers (MƒA Master Teacher or not!) to: (1) learn

create variations of an icosahedron. We will learn how

about asset-based practices and moves, leveraging both

to create our mathematical object and discuss folding

of your strengths without hours of planning; (2) engage

origami as an alternative modality for students to

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops experience mathematics. We will explore incorporating

Promoting Student-Developed Questions With HHMI BIoInteractive Facilitated By: Amy Fassler and Kathy Van Hoeck TUESDAY, MAR 5

Quantum Crystals: Innovations to Save the World Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers David Deutsch and Daniel Salamon TUESDAY, APR 2

snapology origami into classroom instruction to foster

ONLINE

MƒA

positive attitudes and engagement toward mathematics.

 SCIENCE

All mathematics teachers are welcome, regardless of

How can we guide students to ask more complex

Have you ever wondered how quantum physics might

origami experience!

scientific questions? Formulating questions is a

transform our society? In this workshop, we will

Jennifer Parker is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

science and engineering practice critical for planning

explore several exciting developments in the many-

Growing Up Green Charter School in Queens.

investigations, evaluating models, designing solutions,

electron world of crystals. We will start by reviewing

and engaging in argumentation. Plus, curiosity is where

the basic behaviors of conductors, insulators, and

the fun is! During this workshop, teachers will investigate

semiconductors. Then, we will engage in an activity

Place-Based Marine Ecology Aboard the SUNY Maritime Research Vessel Facilitated By: Lillit Genovesi and MƒA Master Teachers Grace Hu and Andrew Wallace

“Phenomenal Images” and “Data Points,” along with

to observe and compare the classical Hall effect with

other BioInteractive resources to enhance student

the quantum Hall effect. We will also demonstrate how

questioning in their classrooms. We will examine how

the quantum Hall effect leads to a newly discovered

THURSDAY, MAY 30

to develop and deepen questions with teacher prompts,

quantum state of matter known as a topological

OFFSITE

feedback, and formative assessment. By the end of this

insulator. We will conclude by examining some of the

 SCIENCE

workshop, teachers will be able to use resources to help

promising technological applications of topological

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS WORKSHOP WILL TAKE PLACE AT SUNY MARITIME COLLEGE IN THE BRONX.

students improve their questioning skills. This workshop

insulators. This course is best suited for high school

is best suited for middle and high school life science

physics teachers but all are welcome.

teachers.

David Deutsch is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

Amy Fassler teaches AP Environmental Science and chemistry at

Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics in Manhattan.

Marshfield High School in rural Wisconsin. She also coaches Science

into the Long Island Sound. During the sail, we will learn

Daniel Salamon is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Forest

Olympiad and has a protein-modeling research group. She loves getting

Hills High School in Queens.

about marine estuary ecology, conduct water quality

her students out in the field to collect authentic data and make sense

tests, trawl for microplastics, and discuss how to share

of it. When she’s not teaching, she likes to cycle and spend time on the

Would you like to take your students into the field to learn about marine ecology? Join us aboard the SUNY Maritime Research Vessel as we sail on a 1.5 hour cruise

the experience with our students. This workshop is in collaboration with Cornell University’s Long Island Sound Study. All middle and high school life and

water. Kathy Van Hoeck worked for 15 years as a medical technologist before becoming an educator. After completing a master’s degree in biology,

Reasoning and Proving: Building Student’s Critical Thinking Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Josue Cordones

she taught anatomy and physiology at a local community college

environmental science teachers, especially those who

TUESDAY, APR 2

for five years and then high school biology for 24 years. She’s taught

teach in Queens and the Bronx, are welcome.

MƒA

AP Biology, genetics, microbiology, medical careers, and freshman

Lillit (Lilli) Genovesi works for New York Sea Grant (NYSG) as the Outreach Coordinator for the Long Island Sound Study in New York City and Westchester County. Based out of the New York City Department

honors biology. Since retiring in 2017, she has been consulting and

 MATHEMATICS

writing curricula. She loves to travel and spend time with her grandkids,

“How many examples do I need to use?” is a common

especially at her cabin in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.

question when students are prompted to provide a

of Environmental Protection (DEP) office in Queens, Lilli focuses on

justification. In mathematics, however, justifications

improving long-term sustainability, environmental justice, habitat

are only considered proofs when they go beyond

loss and pollution remediation solutions, and most importantly, connecting New Yorkers to our wonderful local estuary. Previous to

including examples. In this workshop, we will develop

NYSG she worked with Trout Unlimited, New York City Department

student thinking through the NCTM’s process standard

of Environmental Protection, and the Natural History Museum of Los

of Reasoning and Proof. Fran Arbaugh, Margaret (Peg)

Angeles.

Smith, Justin Boyle, Gabriel Stylianides, and Michael

Grace Hu and Andrew Wallace are MƒA Master Teachers and science

Steele will guide our work through their book, We

teachers at World View High School in the Bronx.

Reason and Prove for ALL Mathematics: Building

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

program at your school and want support in getting

Kate Litman is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Quest

started? Come to the MƒA RoboExpo! Teachers will

to Learn in Manhattan.

explore the panoply of approaches to robotics used by

Theresa Stanley is an MƒA Emeritus Teacher and science teacher at

Students Critical Thinking. We will explore a series

MƒA Master Teachers across various grade levels and

Quest to Learn in Manhattan.

of tasks foundational in establishing a classroom

contexts, including virtual platforms, Arduinos, Lego,

prioritizing students’ critical thinking, reasoning, and

VEX, TETRIX, and FIRST Competition robots. Learn

proving. All mathematics teachers are welcome!

about opportunities to incorporate robotics into your

Josue Cordones is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

STEM classrooms and join a network of MƒA teachers

Bronx Collaborative High School in the Bronx.

ready to support you in getting started. To engage your

MONDAY, APR 8

students best, we will explore the benefits of equitable

ONLINE

Seeing Others and Being Seen: Strategies for Representation in STEM Facilitated By: Claire Chatinover and Shubha Sarode

access to hands-on robotics and related electronics

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

applications in high-tech and low-tech (virtual and

Do you want to increase engagement in your curriculum

physical) environments. No previous experience with

and classroom conversations? Are you committed to

MONDAY, APR 15

robotics is necessary.

ensuring students see themselves represented and to

ONLINE

The Return of Myspace Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Andrew O’Grady, Ph.D., and Luna Ramirez

Everton Henriques and Dr. Jared Jax are MƒA Master Teachers and

providing space for them to authentically learn about

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

science teachers at Staten Island Technical High School in Staten Island.

others? Join us in this workshop where we will delve

Are you nostalgic about the good old days of Myspace?

Greg Sciame is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at

into the framework of “mirrors,” “windows,” and “sliding

I.S. 318 Eugenio Maria De Hostos in Brooklyn.

doors.” Through mathematics and science examples,

Join our workshop to learn how to create a social media profile similar to a Myspace page using the coding IDE Replit. We will then link the profiles to make a small “social network” and discuss ways to implement this in your computer science classroom. By creating a class social network, you can encourage interactive activities that foster problem-solving and creativity. Teachers can assign various levels of content and coding, such

teachers will experience and reflect on content

Science Game Jam Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Kate Litman and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Theresa Stanley

centering identity and then share strategies to increase representation in their own classrooms. Come gain tools for creating spaces where all students are seen and

TUESDAY, APR 9

feel a sense of belonging.

MƒA

Claire Chatinover’s educational journey spans from her teenage years

 SCIENCE

as a Mass Audobon outdoor educator to her current role as a 7th and 8th grade teacher at Community Roots Middle School in NYC. Actively

as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which makes it easy to

Do you believe students learn best through play? Do

differentiate. This course is best suited for teachers with

you want to play original science games with clear

promotes inquiry-based science, aiming for accessibility, interactivity,

basic HTML knowledge.

learning goals? Then look no further! In this workshop,

and cultural responsiveness. Beyond the classroom, she tutors, runs a

Dr. Andrew O’Grady is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science

we will play a series of games designed by teacher

community-focused dinner party business, and volunteers at Planned

teacher at Bronx Early College Academy for Teaching & Learning in the

experts in game-based learning. We will explore original

Bronx.

games like “Metric Mystery,” “Punnett Puppies,” and

Luna Ramirez is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher

“In the Loop” to explore the metric system, genetics,

at Thomas A. Edison Career and Technical Education High School in

and climate feedback loops, respectively. We will also

to continue living her lifelong mission to support excellent science

Queens.

incorporate commercially available games such as the

instruction. She believes instruction should be grounded in community,

science version of “Codenames” and the cladogram-

be inclusive and support social action, and that classrooms can be

RoboExpo Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Everton Henriques, Jared Jax, Ph.D., and Greg Sciame

based game, “Go Extinct!” The principles of game-based learning, embedded assessments, and rollout strategies

Parenthood. Shubha Sarode began her career as a science teacher in NYC, then transitioned to an instructional coach. Currently, she is working as an independent consultant. She joins Roots ConnectED in order

spaces to build connections across differences by centering the humanity in each other.

will be explored throughout our experience together.

THURSDAY, APR 4

We will conclude by discussing the mechanics of each

MƒA

game and how to modify them for different levels. Any

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

science teacher with a creative mindset and playful spirit

Are you interested in creating or expanding a robotics

is welcome.

involved in the professional learning program Urban Advantage, Claire

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops Speaking Up in the Moment: Role Playing Against Microaggression Facilitated By: Eva Burgess and Brandi Forté

A Speciation Story: Investigating Lizard Evolution With HHMI BioInteractive Facilitated By: Karen Lucci

abridged version and reflect on our gameplay to create classroom discussion and analysis tasks. These tasks can be tailored to cover basic mathematics or more

WEDNESDAY, MAR 13

advanced probability and expected value. Teachers will

MƒA

leave with classroom-ready resources. All mathematics

 SCIENCE

teachers are welcome!

TUESDAY, APR 9

Why do some anole lizard species on different

Evelyn Dominguez and Andrew Fitts are MƒA Master Teachers and

ONLINE

Caribbean islands resemble each other, while others

mathematics teachers at NYC iSchool in Manhattan.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

on the same island look so different? The abundance

Do you feel comfortable speaking up against

of anole species in the Caribbean provides a powerful

implicit biases, racist comments or actions, and

case study of speciation. Join this workshop to learn

microaggressions? It can be challenging to know

how HHMI BioInteractive resources can be used

how to respond, whether we are the ones who made

to explain anole diversity in different niches on the

the comment or are on the receiving end. Gaining

Caribbean islands. Teachers will examine the evidence

WEDNESDAY, MAR 20

confidence and comfort to meaningfully respond and

to learn how to help students visualize the evolution

MƒA

address these moments requires practice, empathy, and

of populations, explain the impact of selective forces

 MATHEMATICS

understanding. In this workshop we will work together

on individuals, infer how certain adaptations evolved,

The NYC transit system is something that almost every

to recognize what is problematic, understand the

and connect differential survival and reproductive

resident is familiar with, and it can often leave us with

impact, and lay the groundwork for positive change. We

success to evolution in populations. Teachers will leave

questions. Why are we extending more train lines in

will learn how to process our emotions and respond in

the workshop with an understanding of the power of

Manhattan? Is fare evasion really a big deal? Why am I

ways that advocate for ourselves and others. Through

research in strengthening student understanding of the

still delayed on this platform? In this workshop, we will

role-playing, reflections and sentence starters, we will

nature of science. All life science teachers are welcome.

start by analyzing transit-related activities and problems

practice speaking up. Teachers will leave this workshop

Karen Lucci taught science, with a focus on AP and introductory

from classrooms. We will then explore transit data

with practical skills and approaches to effectively

biology, for almost 40 years. She retired in June 2020 from Hopewell

visualization tools. Finally, we will work together to use

addressing harmful situations.

Valley Central High School, a small suburban high school in Pennington,

mathematics to help us and our students ask important

Brandi Forté has contributed to education in California and New York

alive and demonstrate the relevance and importance of science to

since 2004. As the Program Developer and Project Manager for Roots

students.

New Jersey. She strives to provide opportunities to make biology come

ConnectED, she designs curriculum and resources and supports

educational communities. Eva Burgess, an educator and Applied Theatrer practitioner, has

Strategy…It’s In the Game Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Evelyn Dominguez and Andrew Fitts

harnessed the power of theater to amplify voices, build community,

THURSDAY, APR 4

and foster critical thinking for over 20 years. When leading workshops

MƒA

for teachers, she uses theater techniques for in-the-moment responsiveness and employs games as metaphors for discussing

 MATHEMATICS

important issues. Eva sees Roots ConnectED’s work as a catalyst for

Want to learn more about basic marketing strategy?

authentic dialogue, action, and reflection, contributing to the pursuit of

Let’s play a fun team-based game that introduces

equity and social justice in schools and communities.

for mathematics teachers who want to encourage their the city’s transit system. Gareth Chase and James Munson are MƒA Master Teachers and mathematics teachers at East Brooklyn Community High School in Brooklyn.

Teacher as Team Player: Using Improv to Build a Collaborative Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Maria Giambanco and Jeffrey Horenstein, Ph.D.

the concepts of the marketing mix and product

TUESDAY, MAR 5

positioning. In this workshop, we will introduce you

MƒA

to a free spreadsheet-based marketing simulation game that allows students to use their mathematics skills interactively and collaboratively. We will play an

questions about our transit system. This workshop is students to ask and explore their own questions about

coaches and staff development with a flexible, responsive anti-bias approach, fostering meaningful shared experiences for diverse

Taking the Subway to School: Motivating Mathematics Ideas With Public Transit Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Gareth Chase and James Munson

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Improv is a collective experience where all participants are invited to collaborate and build on each other’s MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops

students find their own questions and answers. In this workshop, we will use paper, pencil, scissors, and rulers to engage in Bauhaus school inspired prompts that can

ideas. Good improvisers are fully present and responsive

be used in all classrooms to inspire creative thinking. No

to one another. Improv fosters trust, openness, risk-

previous art experience is required.

taking, and learning to see the many possibilities in a

Fritz Horstman is the education director of the Josef and Anni Albers

situation (“Yes, and…”). Successful classrooms create

Foundation, as well as being an artist and curator. Since 2014 he has

a similar environment, celebrating taking chances as

presented workshops and lectures on the Alberses’ art and taught

a way to move learning forward. As teachers, it’s easy

at organizations including the Bauhaus-Dessau; École des BeauxArts, Paris; Harvard University; Lebanese American University, Beirut;

Visual Data Exploration Through Online Applets and Simulations Facilitated By: Patti Frazer Lock, Ph.D., Robin H. Lock, Ph.D., and MƒA Master Teacher Amy Hogan THURSDAY, APR 11 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

Would you like better tools for visual data exploration in your classroom? This workshop will introduce free,

to fall into the role of “main characters” instead of

Museum of Modern Art, New York; Princeton University; Royal Academy

online, easy-to-use apps that help students understand

facilitators of a group experience. In this workshop, we

of Arts, London; and Yale University. He is the author of Interacting With

and visualize data. We will start by discussing data

will use ensemble theater exercises, scene work, and

Color: A Practical Guide To Josef Albers’s Color Experiments, which will

collection and descriptive statistics, from the earliest

low-stakes performance to help teachers feel more comfortable letting go of the reins in the classroom and gain tangible tools for fostering community. Not only does improv support the classroom community, but it also encourages better STEAM practices and thinking by emphasizing the importance of an open, creative and positive environment. This workshop is appropriate for all contents and grade levels, and no performance background is required. Maria Giambanco is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at High School of Telecommunication Arts and Technology in Brooklyn. Dr. Jeffrey Horenstein is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan.

be published by Yale University Press in May 2024.

regression lines. We will then discuss intuitive simulation

Using Scientific Phenomenon to Develop MLLs’ Language Skills Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jessica Patron, Ph.D., and Dionisia Viloria, Ph.D. WEDNESDAY, MAR 13 ONLINE  SCIENCE

How can we support our multilingual learners (MLLs) in

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How can creative thinking be fostered in the classroom? Drawing on the rich pedagogical history of the Bauhaus, the legendary early 20th century German school of design, we will experiment with paper folding, design, and color with creativity prompts adaptable to a wide range of subjects. Classical design principles were not taught at the Bauhaus. Instead, students were given materials, prompts, and certain guiding parameters, allowing them to explore within the potentials and limits of provided materials. With no right or wrong answer,

methods, such as bootstrapping and randomization, that provide an algebra-free introduction to statistical inference. This workshop will provide teachers with resources for interactive data exploration activities for all levels of statistics. All middle and high school mathematics and science teachers are welcome. Drs. Robin H. Lock and Patti Frazer Lock are Professors of Mathematics and Statistics at St. Lawrence University. They are co-authors on

the science classroom? Scientific phenomena engage

the book Statistics: Unlocking the Power of Data. Both have served

and help all of our students make sense of their world. In

on or chaired national committees on the teaching of introductory

this workshop, we will explore strategies to access and integrate science phenomena and use real data sets to

Teaching Creativity: Ideas From the Bauhaus Facilitated By: Fritz Horstman

introduction of data in mathematics classes to

mathematics and statistics courses at the college-level, and both have won numerous awards in mathematics and statistics education. They are passionate about finding ways to help more students succeed at and

develop communication and language skills. Teachers

enjoy courses in mathematics and statistics.

will leave with a toolbox of ready-to-use resources

Amy Hogan is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

and strategies including data-driven storylines, L2

Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

writing, analyses of visual texts, constructing scientific arguments, and more. All science teachers are welcome. Dr. Jessica Patron is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Newtown High School in Queens.

“We Are Fighting”: Teaching Climate Change and Indigenous Rights Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Katie Luecke

Dr. Dionisia Viloria is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

THURSDAY, MAY 2

Hillcrest High School in Queens.

MƒA  SCIENCE

Do you want to deepen your knowledge of climate change while fostering hope and empathy among your students for current and future climate refugees? In this workshop, we will explore a week-long Model United Nations (UN) styled mini-unit designed to engage students in climate change impacts and build MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Single Session Workshops urgency towards climate action. We will start with an acknowledgement of Indigenous activists calling for action and review the UN Declaration on the Rights for Indigenous Peoples. Then we will work in groups to investigate specific climate-related needs of different Pacific Island nations. We will conclude by participating in a Model-UN styled mixer and creating a collective statement. This workshop is best suited for high school science teachers. Katie Luecke is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Brooklyn Prospect Charter School in Brooklyn.

What is Happening?! Processing Current Events in Class Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Matt Baker WEDNESDAY, MAR 6 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Traumatic events are hard to ignore in our school communities. How might we address these events head-on while making space for our students and ourselves to process what’s happening? This workshop will look at materials from Facing History & Ourselves to gain and adapt strategies for navigating discussions around difficult current events. Everyone will leave with easy-to-implement strategies to help our students process things in real-time. As a content warning, we may discuss recent national violent events in the country as part of this work. All are welcome. Matt Baker is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at The Brooklyn Latin School in Brooklyn.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Affinity Groups

Affinity Groups Affinity Groups are a series of workshops in which teachers with shared identities grapple with how their particular identities intersect and inform their role as STEM educators, their classroom practice, and their engagement with the broader MƒA community.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Affinity Groups + PLEASE NOTE: FOR ALL AFFINITY GROUPS, YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY AND PREFERENCE FOR IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL MEETINGS. CLICK ON THE DATES BELOW TO NAVIGATE TO EACH MEETING’S REGISTRATION PAGE.

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Yishan Lee, Sin Li, Susie Li, and Cathy Xiong

LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lisa Bueno and Ryan Zimmermann and MƒA Program Officer Pooja Bhaskar THURSDAYS, FEB 29, JUNE 13 WEDNESDAYS, MAR 20, MAY 22  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: THE JUNE MEETING WILL BE DEDICATED TO TIE-DYING T-SHIRTS FOR THE PRIDE MARCH MƒADVENTURE.

within the AANHPI community. We will also examine the

White Antiracist Educators Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Heather Berry, Kristen Brown, and Stephanie Kadison, Ph.D. TUESDAYS, MAR 5, MAY 28

recharge, and discuss common challenges we may face with fellow LGBTQIA+ STEM teachers. We will meet

 COMMUNITY

and share the diversity of social and cultural values

BIPoC woman-identified folks can join!

ONLINE

agenda.

intersects with our role as educators. We will discuss

ourselves and each other to restore and rejuvenate. Any

in the MƒA community? Join us as we collaborate,

ONLINE

(AANHPI) educators who explore how our identity

community, these practices will help us pour back into

Are you interested in meeting other queer educators

monthly, and the needs of our community will set our

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander

research-based self-care practices. Gathered by the

MƒA & ONLINE

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 14, MAY 15

Our meetups aims to create a tight-knit community of

our shared struggles with work-life balance and explore

 COMMUNITY

Are you a white educator interested in working towards a more racially just educational system? Join us as we learn from and support one another, take on a more vocal role in our school communities, seek ways to lean

Space to Breathe: Women of Color Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Alana Burgos and Alyson Lopez

into racial discomfort, decenter ourselves, and dismantle our privilege in educational settings. We will meet monthly, and the needs of our community will set our agenda.

TUESDAYS, MAR 5, APR 2, MAY 7, JUN 11 MƒA & ONLINE

challenges facing all minorities and stand in solidarity

 COMMUNITY

with all.

Do you identify as a Black, Latinx, Indigenous, or woman of color interested in discussing ways to prioritize self-

Black, Latinx, and PoC Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Leton Hall, Eric Portales, and Samantha Tulloch

care? Join us in this affinity group as we honestly discuss

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, MAR 13, APR 3, MAY 8, JUN 5 MƒA & ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Do you identify as a Black, Latinx, Indigenous, or PoC educator interested in discussing the experiences and challenges faced by people of color in the world of education? Join us as we consider the issues met by our communities and support one another in our educational endeavors. We will meet monthly, and the needs of our community will set our agenda.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Interest Groups Interest Groups are one-time workshops in which small groups of teachers meet informally around a common interest or identity. They provide opportunities to make connections and begin conversations with MƒA colleagues.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Interest Groups

and agriculture into their core academic content, facilitate educator

practices towards increasing rigor, engagement, and the

workshops, and implement programs that introduce teachers to the

proficiency of our students’ science skills. This interest

unique urban agriculture landscape and the vast food network of New York City.

Abolish the College Board Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Peter Mulroy THURSDAYS, FEB 15, MAY 16 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in offering high school courses for college credit and want an alternative to high-stakes AP tests? Join this interest group to explore alternate pathways for high school students to earn college credit. Together, let’s share demographic data on AP testing results, investigate why our students and their families choose to enroll in AP courses, and find and apply for programs replacing AP courses. This interest group is best suited for any teacher interested in moving away from the AP system.

All-Levels Vinyasa Yoga Facilitated By: Emilie Brockmann MONDAY, MAR 4 TUESDAY, APR 2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in starting or reconnecting to your yoga practice? In this hour-long virtual session, we will move the body safely through carefully curated yoga postures as we explore different breathing techniques to build heat, seek balance, stretch and strengthen muscles, and quiet the mind. By linking breath to movement, the yoga practice becomes a moving meditation. There will be many modifications offered throughout the class, making it accessible to beginners

Agriculture in the Classroom? You Bet! Facilitated By: Brittany Hoover, Ph.D., and MƒA Master Teacher Leovie Diaz

as well as long-time practitioners. Emilie Brockmann is a 500hr RYT with a focus in Vinyasa, Restorative, Yin, and Prenatal Yoga. She has completed training in Ayurveda,

TUESDAY, APR 9

Meditation, and Childbirth Education. She is a certified Birth and

ONLINE

Postpartum Doula.

agriculture, food, and natural resources content into STEM classrooms? Join us in this interest group as we explore ready-made lessons from the Agriculture in the Classroom Curriculum Matrix, including “Apples and the Science of Genetic Selection,” a lesson to help students

Brainstorm and Build: MƒA Course Proposal Support Facilitated By: MƒA Director of Programming Courtney Ginsberg, MƒA Associate Director of Scientific Outreach and Partnerships Uzma Shah, and MƒA Master Teachers TBD MONDAYS, FEB 26, MAR 18 TUESDAY, MAR 26 ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in facilitating a course at MƒA but don’t know where to start? Do you have an idea for a course and want support in fleshing it out? Do you have questions about the course proposal process and want guidance from MƒA staff and other MƒA teachers to help you navigate the steps and timeline for submission? Join us in this workshop to learn what it takes to develop a successful course proposal. We’ll begin with an overview of the course proposal form, then hear from experienced MƒA teacher facilitators as they share their successes and challenges in proposing courses. We’ll conclude with an opportunity for you to share your

 SCIENCE

Are you interested in learning how to integrate

group is for all AP Biology teachers.

AP Biology Meetup Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Tracy LaGrassa, Ph.D., and Marisa Wagner, Ph.D.

course ideas and to give and receive feedback. During this time, you can work in groups aligned with areas of interest and expertise. By the end of the session,

MONDAY, JUN 3

you might even leave with your course proposal fully

ONLINE

developed!

 SCIENCE

distinguish between natural and artificial selection by

Are you interested in collaborating with fellow AP

exploring traits like color, texture, taste, and crispness.

Biology teachers to reflect on what is and isn’t working

To inspire experiential learning opportunities, we will

in our classrooms? How can we build on this year’s

discuss connections between this lesson and popular

successes and challenges to set future goals? In this

apple varieties with the head of Cornell University’s

interest group, we will do a post-mortem of the May

WEDNESDAY, APR 17

apple breeding program.

2024 AP Biology Exam free-response questions and

MƒA

Dr. Brittany Hoover works with the New York Agriculture in the

discuss how our learnings can inform instruction

 SCIENCE

Classroom outreach program to help K-12 teachers integrate food

for the coming school year. Join us in sharing best

Are you interested in connecting with other organic

Carbon Connections: Collaboration in Organic Chemistry Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Katherine Carr and Steven O’Malley, Ph.D.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Interest Groups

ideas and content activities not normally available in a

a more vibrant and engaging learning environment?

standard curriculum. Mathematics teachers of all grade

Wouldn’t it be great if you could blink your eyes and the

levels are welcome to join!

laboratory supplies you’ve always dreamed of magically appeared? Well, the time is now for you to take action

chemistry teachers or integrating more organic chemistry into your class? Whether you’re a seasoned organic chemistry teacher, just starting to teach it, or wanting to start an elective, join us to discuss

Cricut It Out: Making a Card With a Cricut Machine Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Brittany Beck

best practices and practical insights. Together, we

TUESDAY, FEB 6

will dive into organic chemistry content and discuss

ONLINE

strategies for integrating captivating examples, labs, and demonstrations—from alkene reactions to carbonyl compounds. Whether you’re an orgo expert or just dipping your toes into carbon-based chemistry, everyone is welcome!

A Crash Course on the New Middle School Science Investigations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lauren Couto and Chereese Gardner TUESDAY, FEB 13 ONLINE  SCIENCE

Are you interested in learning more about the four science investigations required for the new 8th grade New York State Assessment in Science, but don’t have capacity to join the PLT, “Tackling the New Middle School Science Investigations” this term? Join us to review the investigations, share information and experiences, and brainstorm modifications and scaffolds to support student success. This interest group is best suited for middle school science teachers.

Creating Math Teams and Clubs! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Liny Chan and Dylan Persaud MONDAY, FEB 12 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

Are you interested in creating a mathematics club or team at your school? Get your students excited about mathematics outside the classroom! Join us to share 63

 COMMUNITY

and acquire those dissolved oxygen sensors to measure the Hudson River’s health or a PCR thermal cycler to amplify alleles tied to blood type. After reviewing the keys to finding and writing successful grant proposals, we’ll share great research-based projects with detailed lesson plans and appealing activities.

Are you interested in how other MƒA teachers use Cricut machines professionally or personally? More and more teachers have access to a Cricut, but the number of resources for its use can be overwhelming. Join us to

Earth Science Teacher Meetup Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Jeanne Kopun and MƒA Emeritus Teacher James Anderson

explore these resources and share best practices with

THURSDAY, MAY 2

both new owners (like me) and experts. During this

ONLINE

interest group, we will focus on using the Cricut to make

 SCIENCE

basic cards using our machines.

Are you interested in sharing materials, lesson plans, and ideas with other Earth Science teachers? Would

Department Facilitators Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Athena Colin, Shana Elizabeth Henry, Ph.D., and Abigail Kirchman

you like to collaboratively discuss the unique challenges we face? Join us for an informal brainstorming session about best teaching practices in our subject area.

THURSDAY, FEB 15 ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Are you interested in transforming stale, unproductive department meetings into joyful and collaborative spaces? Whether you are a new or seasoned department chair, join us to informally chat about how your department can continue to grow together. Bring your ideas, questions, what keeps you up at night, and what keeps you going through those long meetings.

Fiber Arts Interest Group Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Kate Maschmeyer TUESDAY, MAR 5 THURSDAY, MAY 30 MƒA  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING AND WOULD LIKE GUIDANCE ON SUPPLIES, PLEASE CONTACT THE FACILITATOR.

Are you interested in learning about and sharing fiber

Designing Innovative Research Projects Through Effective Grants Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Jason Econome

arts skills? Do you knit, crochet, spin, weave, cross stitch, embroider, needle felt, or create other fiber art? Join us as we chat, share, learn, and create fiber art! All skill

TUESDAY, MAR 26

levels are welcome, whether new, novice, or expert—we

MƒA

all have the potential to create something beautiful!

 COMMUNITY

Are you interested in transforming your classroom into MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Interest Groups

their impacts on civilization. Popcorn will be served! Patrick Hurley is the Head of Distribution & Business Affairs at Sandbox Films, where he develops production campaigns while working closely

Film Screening: Fireball Facilitated By: Patrick Hurley and Sam Lazar Riviello

JupiterGrades Success Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Migdalia Sanabria

with filmmakers and release partners worldwide to maximize each

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 6, MAY 15

film’s impact and audience. Patrick has a decade of experience in the

MƒA

documentary film space with roles as the Industry Director at Sheffield

TUESDAY, APR 16

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

DocFest and Distribution Manager at Dogwoof, UK. Patrick holds

MƒA

a degree in economics and political science from the University of

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

 COMMUNITY

Sydney. Prior to working in film, Patrick was a researcher and a teacher.

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS SESSION WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE SANDBOX FILMS THEATER SPACE ON THE 10TH FLOOR.

Sam Lazar Riviello is the Chief of Staff at Sandbox Films, where she

Are you interested in bringing documentary films into

while supporting strategic planning initiatives alongside company

us to discover how JupiterGrades can help you stay

executives. Prior to joining Sandbox, Sam worked in the executive office

organized throughout the year, create surveys and

of EngenderHealth, a global women’s health and reproductive rights

forms, maintain regular contact with families, provide

your STEM classroom? Join us at a film screening

plans and directs all administrative, financial, and operational activities

from our friends at Sandbox Films, creators of the

organization. She holds a master’s degree in public administration and a

Oscar-nominated Fire of Love. This semester’s film

Bachelor of Arts in film marketing.

is the documentary Fireball, which tells the story of meteor impacts and how they’ve shaped the nature of our planet, causing species to perish or flourish—and perhaps even seeding the initial building blocks for life

Gender Equity in STEM: A Student Panel p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Margaret Tanzosh and Mallory Womer

on Earth. Fireball takes viewers into the mystery at the

MONDAY, APR 15

heart of these fallen stones, exploring their origins and

ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in and concerned about the lack of gender representation in your advanced STEM and computer science classes? As of 2021, 34% of the STEM workforce nationwide identified as female. The National

Are you interested in making the most of JupiterGrades to stay better organized and manage your time? Join

periodic progress reports, and assign projects, rubrics, and engaging interactive activities. Any teacher using JupiterGrades who wants to innovate around grading is welcome!

Let’s Do...Calculus! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Stephanie Bohbot WEDNESDAY, MAR 13 TUESDAY, MAY 28 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

Center for Women and Information Technology found

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

that women-identified folks majoring in computer

Are you interested in working through calculus problems

science dropped from 37% in 1984 to 18% in 2018. Join

with your peers? Whether you want a refresher on

us and a panel of students to discuss how to engage

the content before you teach calculus in the future

more girls and gender-expansive students in the joys

or engagement with calculus problems for fun, this is

of creative problem-solving, reduce entry barriers to

the place for you! Join us to do some mathematics,

science, mathematics, and computer science classes,

learn from each other’s techniques and reasoning, and

and level the playing field for those with limited

engage with the prerequisite skills you may teach in

exposure or experience. Whether you already have great

your current or future courses. We will work through the

strategies to share or are looking for thought partners to

2008 and 2012 AP Calculus AB exam questions together.

brainstorm, this is the group for you.

Self-checking Desmos Activities covering all eight AP Calculus AB Units will be provided as an additional resource.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Interest Groups

Mindful Yoga Practice Facilitated By: Roque Rodriguez

group is for new and experienced moms with young children.

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, MAR 6, APR 17, MAY 15, JUN 12

MƒA Board Game Night Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Liny Chan, Yishan Lee, Deborah Reich, and Matt Steiniger THURSDAY, FEB 29 TUESDAY, APR 2 MONDAY, MAY 6

MƒA & ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY AND PREFERENCE FOR IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL MEETINGS. EACH IN-PERSON SESSION IS 90 MINUTES LONG, AND EACH VIRTUAL SESSION IS 60 MINUTES LONG.

Neuroscience Interest Group Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jen D’Anna and Meng-Ping Tu, Ph.D. WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 MƒA  SCIENCE

MƒA & ONLINE

Are you interested in an hour of mindfulness and self-

 COMMUNITY

care? Join us for a yoga experience in which we turn

Are you interested in connecting with others who are

our attention inward and link our movement and breath.

teaching courses related to the brain and behavior?

We’ll begin by warming our bodies, then move through

Whether you teach neuroscience, psychology, or

Are you interested in learning and sharing new games

a mindful yoga flow, and conclude with a guided

another brain-based course, join us to discuss best

while socializing with your colleagues? If you are

yoga nidra meditation. Sessions are open to all yoga

practices, share sample lessons and project ideas, and

curious about the world of board games beyond the

practitioners—from first-timers to seasoned yogis.

brainstorm resources (pun intended). This group is best

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY AND PREFERENCE FOR IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL MEETINGS.

classics, this is the space for you! All experience levels

Roque (pronounced: ROW-Keh), the son of Dominican-American

are welcome, from non-gamers to tabletop gaming

immigrants, is a 500-hour trained Yoga teacher. In addition to his

enthusiasts. Join us to play games, explore game

500 hours of training, Roque has studied Anatomy with Jason Brown,

mechanics, and brainstorm ideas for incorporating play

Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra with Mona Anand, and is a certified

elements into our instruction. Games will be provided, but feel free to bring your favorites!

Hosh Kids Yoga Teacher. Roque is a proud founder of Suryaside Yoga and Wellness in Queens, NY. When he’s not teaching the Suryaside community and mentoring his new teacher trainees, he is dedicated to spreading love and yoga to underserved and under-resourced communities through programs and partnerships such as Liberation

MƒA Teacher Poker Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Diane Pflug and Peter Sell WEDNESDAY, APR 3

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A COMPETITIVE GAME UNSUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS, SO PLEASE ONLY REGISTER IF YOU ARE FAMILIAR WITH TEXAS HOLD’EM. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY OR PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS, PLEASE REGISTER FOR THE “PRACTICE YOUR POKER FACE FOR THE MƒA POKER TOURNAMENT” INTEREST GROUP.

Shuffle up and deal! Show off your poker skills at our annual MƒA Teacher Poker Tournament! Join us to

TUESDAY, FEB 27 WEDNESDAY, APR 3 ONLINE

people, and his “I Can Breathe” Yoga program, which offers teacher

 SCIENCE

training scholarships to BIPOC who want to bring yoga to their community.

Moms at Work Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Phylicia Hoyt MONDAY, MAR 11 WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 ONLINE

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY. TEACHERS ARE WELCOME TO BRING A COLLABORATIVE TEACHING PARTNER FROM OUTSIDE MƒA TO THIS WORKSHOP.

Are you interested in developing and sharing resources and best practices for ICT and MLL classes in response to the updated New Visions Biology curriculum? Join us in creating a docket of vocab sheets, scaffolds, and

 COMMUNITY

other supports for our individual learners. Content

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

leaders, special education teachers, and MLL specialists

compete against other MƒA teachers for the chance to

Are you interested in creating more balance as a mom

play at our big annual poker event this spring. The top

with a new baby or young children? Then this interest

four winners of the early April teacher tournament will

group is for you. Together we will build a community to

attend and compete alongside MƒA Founder Jim Simons

support each other, from pumping at work to navigating

and others at the 2024 MƒA Poker Night Tournament, a

work-life balance and beyond. We will also share tips

fundraising event for MƒA on Thursday, April 18.

and tricks for managing it all (or most of it!). This interest

New Visions Biology Scaffolds and Materials Exchange Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Stefanie Fier and Chereese Gardner

Prison Yoga, which provides yoga and meditation to incarcerated

MƒA  COMMUNITY

suited for high school teachers, but all are welcome!

are welcome!

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Interest Groups One No Trump: Play Bridge! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Melanie Battles and Melanie Pflaum and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Sherri Shaarbafan

Planning for Retirement as a NYCDOE Teacher Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers John McCoy and Brittany Murdock TUESDAY, FEB 6 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in maintaining or improving your

Practice Your Poker Face for the MƒA Poker Tournament Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lauren Schulman and Peter Sell WEDNESDAY, MAR 6 MƒA  COMMUNITY

WEDNESDAYS, FEB 14, MAR 20, MAY 22

standard of living in your “golden years”? Are you

Are you interested in honing your poker skills for the

MƒA

thinking about the future and planning for retirement?

MƒA Teacher Poker Tournament? Join us for a no-stakes

 COMMUNITY

Considering the 3 Tier Stool Approach, we will

friendly game of Texas Hold’em and explore some

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

discuss strategies for replacing income in retirement,

techniques behind the game to help refine your skills.

optimizing and balancing risk, and managing Roth vs.

No expertise is necessary.

Are you interested in the game of bridge? Are you a

pre-tax options. This session will have information for

tournament player or a total novice? Whatever your skill

establishing retirement plans and foundations, including

level or experience, join us in learning this card game of

differentiated resources for those further along in the

bidding and trick-taking!

process looking to map and project growth. Retirement

Overbooked Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Phylicia Hoyt and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Theresa Stanley TUESDAYS, FEB 27, APR 16 MONDAY, MAR 25 THURSDAY, MAY 30 MƒA, ONLINE, & OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY AND PREFERENCE FOR IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL MEETINGS. THE BOOK DISCUSSED IN EACH MEETING WILL BE POSTED ON THE SMALL-WORLD NETWORK.

Side Hustles: Ways to Supplement Your Income Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj and Annycardeli Lopez

comes quickly, so get acquainted with your options to

TUESDAY, MAR 19

help support your future!

ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Post-Regents Mathematics Interest Group Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Dash Anderson

Are you interested in making more money or having trips around the world fully financed? Then this is the

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

interest group for you! Join us to create a community

MƒA

for sharing different resources, jobs, fellowships, etc.,

 MATHEMATICS

Are you interested in developing high school mathematics curricula beyond Regents-based courses, especially for upperclassmen? Amidst the current

Are you interested in reading for FUN but don’t always

debate around prioritizing calculus, statistics, or financial

have time? Join our book club as we read (mostly

literacy, is it possible to construct one course exposing

fiction) for enjoyment and come together to discuss

students to all three? How can culturally responsive

each book. In the past, we have read books such as

education practices and student interests play a greater

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab, The

role in our mathematics instruction? Whether you

Swimmers by Julie Otsuka, and Klara and the Sun by

have experience designing or teaching a post-Regents

Kazuo Ishiguro.

course, or just have ideas around the current state of mathematics education, join us to start a conversation about non-traditional mathematics programs!

to boost your teaching income. Let’s create multiple streams of income together! We will provide a space for teachers to share their current methods and plan new ways to make more money.

Solve a Rubik’s Cube! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Shana Elizabeth Henry, Ph.D. WEDNESDAY, MAR 27 TUESDAY, APR 16 MƒA  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in learning how to solve a Rubik’s Cube? Join us as we work through the basic algorithms to solve this classic puzzle! This interest group is for beginners in particular, and teachers are highly

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Interest Groups encouraged to sign up for both sessions.

Special Education Teacher Meetup Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Shari Eng and Yanique Sears

source of income? We have been tutoring for years and will share our strategies to make the business practice of tutoring something you can scale to your desire—

WEDNESDAY, APR 17

without any worries about conflicts of interest or

ONLINE

inconvenience to your free time.

 COMMUNITY

Sound Meditation: Exploration and Experience Facilitated By: Emilie Brockmann

Are you interested in collaborating with other Special Education STEM teachers? Join us in creating a

TUESDAY, MAY 7

community for the Special Education teachers in MƒA

MƒA

to encourage and support each other! We will chat

 COMMUNITY

about our experiences as Special Education teachers

Are you interested in experiencing sound meditation

of mathematics and science and advocates for our

and learning how different instruments, acoustics, and

students with special needs. Let’s get together and

applications can affect states of consciousness? Then

exchange insights within the world of special education!

join us for an evening of exploration and relaxation as you are immersed in sound meditation. Emilie Brockmann is a 500hr RYT with a focus in Vinyasa, Restorative, Yin and Prenatal Yoga. She has completed training in Ayurveda, Meditation and Childbirth Education. She is a certified Birth and Postpartum Doula.

Think Tank for MƒA Course Proposals Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers TBD THURSDAY, FEB 29 TUESDAY, MAR 19 ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in facilitating a course at MƒA but don’t know where to start? Maybe you have a course idea and need help honing and developing it. Join us in this informal setting to find out more about what it takes to create a successful proposal as MƒA Master Teachers experienced with course proposal and facilitation share their successes and challenges. You will have an opportunity to share, discuss, reflect, and receive feedback on your ideas.

Tutoring: Growing Your Side Gig Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Joseph Buro and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Felicia Giunta WEDNESDAY, FEB 28 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in discussing ways to take the classic teacher side job of tutoring and turn it into an amazing 67

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

MƒAdventures

MƒAdventures MƒAdventures are offsite events organized by MƒA teachers that allow teachers to explore shared interests. They are a great way to meet MƒA community members outside the MƒA office.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

MƒAdventures

Bronx and Upper Manhattan Meetup Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj FRIDAYS, MAR 15, APR 12

Bowling Happy Hour Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Ben Morgenroth

OFFSITE + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY. EACH MƒADVENTURE IS FROM 5 - 7 P.M.

Are you interested in building community with other MƒA teachers who work or live in the Bronx or Upper

 COMMUNITY

Manhattan? Let’s get to know each other while sharing

+ PLEASE NOTE: THE COST TO BOWL IS APPROXIMATELY $20 PER PERSON PER HOUR.

teaching experiences and resources over drinks, snacks,

the Lower East Side. You are welcome to come just for drinks and socializing.

Breaking Bread Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jesse John, Ph.D., and Andy Nissinboim SATURDAY, MAY 25 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: EXACT LOCATIONS AND NEIGHBORHOODS FOR THE FOOD TOUR ARE TBD.

Are you interested in breaking bread with fellow MƒA food-loving teachers? Join us in our city food tour, a tailored culinary adventure! Embark on a delightful walking exploration of local flavors, engaging conversations and exquisite dishes. Connect with likeminded educators and expand your palate while building lasting friendships. This session offers a perfect blend of gastronomic discovery and camaraderie!

OFFSITE

 COMMUNITY

WEDNESDAY, FEB 28

us for an evening of drinks and bowling at The Gutter on

THURSDAY, MAY 2 WEDNESDAY, JUN 5

 MATHEMATICS

OFFSITE

Are you interested in bowling with MƒA colleagues? Join

Brooklyn Math Teacher Meetup Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Renu Budhraja

and games. This meetup is a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with friends and neighbors and meet new ones. Colleagues who are interested in learning more about MƒA are welcome as well! Teachers are responsible

Are you interested in meeting other MƒA mathematics teachers in Brooklyn to connect and build community? If the answer is yes, join us at various Brooklyn locations, where we will share our teaching and MƒA experiences and get to know each other better over food. Teachers are responsible for their own dinner and drinks, and do not need to live or teach in Brooklyn to attend.

for their own food and drinks.

Brooklyn Elementary Teacher and Prospective Fellow Meetup Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Sarah Leaman and Laurie Matthews THURSDAY, APR 11 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

Calling all elementary school teachers! Let’s gather together in a big airy space and reconnect with one another. Bring colleagues who may be on the fence about joining MƒA, and let us convince them to apply! Expect good cheer, old friends, new friends, and happy hour prices. Teachers are responsible for their own dinner and drinks, and do not need to live or teach in Brooklyn to attend.

Day at the American Museum of Natural History Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Christine Kola and Gloria Nicodemi SATURDAY, MAY 11 OFFSITE  SCIENCE

Are you interested in discovering what minerals are found in New York City, if iron meteorites are magnetic, or why some dinosaurs are considered archosaurs but not all archosaurs are dinosaurs? Spend the day with us at the American Museum of Natural History to learn the answers! We will visit on a Saturday and explore the Hall of Gems and Minerals, Hall of Meteorites, Hall of Planet Earth, the Fourth Floor Fossil Halls, and two special exhibits—Secret World of Elephants and Invisible Worlds. We will participate in a scavenger hunt and learning activities, experience what it’s like to walk through a giant cladogram, and discuss the museum’s many resources.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

MƒAdventures Geocaching: A Treasure Hunt in Your Own Backyard Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Brandie Hayes and Sjene Kendrick THURSDAY, APR 11 MONDAYS, MAY 6, MAY 20 MƒA & OFFSITE  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in finding some of over three million treasures and trinkets hidden world-wide? Join us as we introduce you to a fun (and mostly free!) treasure hunt available in our own New York City backyard. During the first session, we will walk you through the intricacies of geocaching, show you common caches, and share our own experiences. We will also create a geocaching “finder’s kit” to help you locate your first two caches! The second and third sessions will take place in various parts of NYC to locate different types of geocaches. After this, you will be ready to embark on your own geocaching journeys! This MƒAdventure only requires internet access, a pen, and some sleuthing abilities; all are welcome!

Hydroponic Farm Tour and Tasting Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Grace Hu and Deborah Reich TUESDAY, APR 9 OFFSITE  SCIENCE

Are you interested in exploring a fully functional, school-

May the Odds Be Ever in Your Favor: March Mammal Madness Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Stephen Kos and Katie McCarthy TUESDAY, MAR 5 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

based hydroponic farm? Do you want to learn more

Are you interested in a fun, gamified way to learn about

about the science of hydroponics, experience hands-on

Earth’s biodiversity and all the wild survival adaptations in

farming activities, and make a snack with vegetables

the animal kingdom? Then join March Mammal Madness

grown on the farm? If so, join us on this MƒAdventure

(MMM)! Already played annually by thousands across

to explore the Dewitt Clinton High School campus

the country, MMM is a virtual simulated tournament

hydroponic farm, which produces fresh and locally grown

of Earth’s mammals (and some non-mammals). For

vegetables for the cafeteria and Bronx community, and

this MƒAdventure, we’ll give a quick overview of the

Are you interested in observing living fossils in their

hear from our partner organization, Teens for Food

competition, talk about the bracket, and spend time

natural habitat? Join us for a twilight Horseshoe Crab

Justice.

researching and exchanging ideas over drinks! This

Horseshoe Crab Walk Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Melissa Dowd, Rebecca Haverstick, and Cynthia Jimenez FRIDAY, JUN 21 OFFSITE  SCIENCE

walk at Plumb Beach in Brooklyn! We will observe these

MƒAdventure is best suited for science teachers of any

fascinating marine invertebrates as they come to our

grade level.

shores to spawn under the full moon. Teachers should bring a flashlight and wear shoes they don’t mind getting wet. 70

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

MƒAdventures

MƒA Pride March Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers KC Reddy and Ross Whitehead SUNDAY, JUN 30

Met Sketch: Night at the Museum Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Snigdha Das FRIDAY, MAY 3 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in exploring your artistic side or want an excuse to visit the MET? Join us to sketch, connect, and explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art at night!

OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: WE WILL TIE-DYE T-SHIRTS DURING THE LGBTQIA+ AFFINITY GROUP MEETING ON JUNE 13. IF YOU ARE A MEMBER OF THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY AND WANT TO ADD YOUR OWN FLAIR TO YOUR SHIRT, FEEL FREE TO JOIN!

you interested in joining a group of MƒA teachers to Are walk in the Queer Liberation March? Join us to march in solidarity, celebrate our diversity, and get a free t-shirt! ALL members of the MƒA community are welcome.

to capture on paper. From ancient artifacts to modern installations, the museum’s diverse collection will serve as an endless source of inspiration for our sketches. We will work in short drawing sessions to learn as much as possible, connecting time to the elements of building an image—no prior experience with sketching is required.

MƒAle: A Brewery Adventure Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Courtney Ferrell and Dave Richardson SATURDAY, APR 13 FRIDAY, MAY 10 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Calling all craft beer enthusiasts! Join the MƒA community at breweries around NYC for networking, community building, and some games! We look forward to hanging out with you, whether you’re into beer, cider, or just plain good company!

MƒA Summer Softball Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Osvaldo Adames Vasquez TBD

MƒA United: Soccer Club Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jesse John, Ph.D., and Andy Nissinboim SATURDAY, MAY 25 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in a thrilling way to break a sweat while connecting with other passionate educators? Come join us for a game of pick-up soccer in beautiful Prospect level! And after we play, let’s brainstorm ways to grow the MƒA soccer community. Don’t miss out on this chance to kick-start your weekend with some friendly competition and camaraderie!

OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: THE DATES WILL BE COMMUNICATED TO TEACHERS ONCE FINALIZED BY THE LEAGUE IN APRIL.

you interested in playing gender-inclusive, casual Are softball with other MƒA teachers this summer? We participate in a Zogsports league and have games on a handful of Sundays at various locations in Manhattan. We hope you can join us! Please register to indicate that you are interested in playing softball this summer. The facilitators will reach out before each game to confirm your availability.

Prospect Park Ice Skating Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Ben Morgenroth TUESDAY, FEB 13 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in connecting with MƒA colleagues on the ice rink? Join us for an evening of skating in Prospect Park. The cost of entry is approximately $10. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase; skates and lockers, for rent.

MƒA Teachers Climb! Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Nicole Beall TBD OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in learning to rock climb indoors or want to climb with some of your peers? Join us to learn basic safety and have fun on the walls! All levels, friends, and family are welcome! Once registered, teachers will be

preferences.

Park. All are welcome, regardless of experience or skill

Under the soft glow of the museum’s evening ambiance, we will roam the halls and select our preferred subjects

surveyed about available dates, ability levels, and location

Spring is Coastal Clean-Up Time! Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Cynthia Jimenez SATURDAY, MAR 16 OFFSITE  SCIENCE

Are you interested in celebrating New York City’s coastlines by showing them a little love? Join us for the second annual MƒA coastal clean-up! We will spend MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

MƒAdventures time picking up trash while connecting with other MƒA teachers in the great outdoors. Gloves, garbage bags, and pickers will be provided. Please bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.

Stained Glass Creations: Beginner Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Emmett DiPadova and Scott Wassmuth TUESDAYS, FEB 27, MAR 26 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: THERE ARE TWO DATES FOR THIS MƒADVENTURE. PLEASE ONLY SIGN UP FOR ONE.

Are you interested in how stained glass crafts are made? Do you want to make stained glass items for yourself or as a gift for someone else? Join us at NYC Museum School to learn the basics and hone your stained glass making skills. At the end of the session, you will have your very own piece! You may even want to create more pieces in the advanced course offered later in the semester. No previous artistic ability is needed to sign up and create stained glass!

MƒAdventure to make a more elaborate piece? We will

the Orion Nebula, and to perhaps get in some stellar

start with a short overview of stained glass history, a

spectroscopy. In the event of poor weather, we will

showcase of potential creations, and an opportunity

move indoors for a telescope demonstration (and related

to discuss any pitfalls we may encounter. Next, we

optics activities), use of online telescopes, and more

will create our designs and prepare pieces for foiling.

spectroscopy!

Finally, we will have a full day to finalize our pieces. This three session hybrid MƒAdventure is open only to those who participated in a beginner Stained Glass Creations

Stained Glass Creations: Advanced Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Emmett DiPadova and Scott Wassmuth THURSDAY, APR 11 TUESDAY, MAY 7 SATURDAY, MAY 18

MƒAdventure.

Star Party in East Harlem Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers David Deutsch, Alia Jackson, and Jay Lang

Teachers, Take a Hike! Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Nicole Beall, Courtney Ferrell, Yishan Lee, and Mary O’Keefe SATURDAY, MAY 11 SUNDAY, JUN 2 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A THREE SESSION HYBRID MƒADVENTURE. SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY, AND SESSIONS 2 AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT NYC MUSEUM SCHOOL. SESSION 3 IS ON A SATURDAY FOR 4 HOURS. TEACHERS WILL HAVE TO PURCHASE SOME OF THEIR MATERIALS.

 SCIENCE

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY. CONSIDER JOINING THE “MƒA HIKING” GROUP ON THE SMALLWORLD NETWORK, WHERE WE WILL DISCUSS ANY ADDITIONAL HIKING OR NATURE ADVENTURE OPPORTUNITIES THAT POP UP!

Are you interested in stargazing? Join us on a school

Are you interested in hiking as a way to rejuvenate and

rooftop in East Harlem as we observe the night sky using

reflect as a teacher? If you need an escape from the city

telescopes and experience other fun astronomy-related

to explore nature, join us on the trail! Before each hike, we

Are you interested in further developing the skills

activities! We plan to observe the Moon, Jupiter, and

will communicate about transportation needs.

ONLINE & OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, FEB 16 OFFSITE

you learned in the Stained Glass Creations: Beginner 72

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Thursday Thinks Thursday Thinks are monthly STEM talks open to MƒA teachers, their colleagues, and guests from the wider STEM community. This speaker series features engaging and accomplished experts who delve into cutting-edge mathematics, science, computer science, and education topics. For the winter/spring 2024 semester, MƒA is piloting in-person Thursday Think attendance as credit-bearing, meaning it will count towards your fellowship minimum attendance requirements.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Thursday Thinks

demographics, including attracting and retaining those

Legend has it that when Walt Disney designed

from historically marginalized groups, differentiating

Disneyland in the 1950s, he was remarkably intentional

courses, encouraging collaboration, and providing real-

about the placement of trash cans. Disney decreed

world challenges.

that trash cans should be placed throughout the park

Dr. Maria Klawe joined Math for America as president in November

so guests are never more than 30 feet from the nearest

2023. Klawe began her tenure as Harvey Mudd College’s (HMC) fifth

receptacle, theorizing that this was the maximum

president in 2006 and served until 2023. Prior to joining HMC, she

distance a guest would hold onto their garbage before

served as dean of engineering and professor of computer science at Princeton University. Maria joined Princeton from the University of

littering. Today’s electric vehicle companies must also

British Columbia where she served in various roles from 1988 to 2002.

decide on optimal placement—of charging stations—

Prior to UBC, she spent eight years with IBM Research in California and

considering how to meet specific distance requirements

two years at the University of Toronto. She received her Ph.D. (1977)

while balancing costs. Whether choosing the placement

and B.Sc. (1973) in mathematics from the University of Alberta. Klawe is a board member of Phenome Health and the nonprofits EdReports,

of Disneyland trash cans or electric vehicle charging

the Simons Laufer Mathematical Sciences Institute, and the Museum

stations, it is imperative to minimize the resources used

of Mathematics (MoMath). She is a founding advisory board member

while still meeting the strict distance requirements. But

of Parity.org and a fellow of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences.

how? The answer lies in the mathematical concept of a

She is the recipient of the 2014 Women of Vision ABIE Award for

dominating set. In this talk, Dr. Pamela Harris and Jillian

Leadership and the 2017 Academic Leadership Award from the Carnegie Corporation of New York.

Cervantes will explore resource allocation problems through graph theory concepts, including domination theory and its generalizations. Jillian Cervantes (she/they) is a fourth-year undergraduate at the University of Wisconsin, where she studies mathematics and computer science and researches graph theory dominating sets. In the summer

Strategies for Engaging Everyone in Computer Science p Speaker: Maria Klawe, Ph.D.

of 2023, she participated in the MSRI-UP research experience for undergrads in Berkeley, CA, conducting research in topological data analysis and machine learning. Jillian plans to start a doctoral program in the fall of 2024 and hopes to become a mathematics professor after

THURSDAY, FEB 8

completing her Ph.D., seeking to inspire other Latinx mathematicians to

MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE

remain persistent in pursuing their goals.

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Dr. Pamela E. Harris is a Mexican-American mathematician and an Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Wisconsin-

Computer science (CS) courses tend to be the most

Milwaukee. She received her B.S. from Marquette University and M.S.

male-dominated of any discipline and are still largely

and Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

white and Asian in terms of race. As CS impacts all areas

Dr. Harris’s research is in algebraic combinatorics, and she is the author

of our society and offers significant career advantages,

of over 70 peer-reviewed research articles in internationally recognized

increasing representation of marginalized groups in the

journals. She is a fellow of the American Mathematical Society and the Association for Women in Mathematics. Dr. Harris is an award-

field is imperative. What can schools and educators do

winning educator, receiving the 2022 MAA Deborah and Franklin Tepper

to address this challenge? In this talk, Dr. Maria Klawe, former president of Harvey Mudd College (HMC) and MƒA’s new president, will describe how, in the span of 17 years, HMC raised the percentage of femaleidentifying students majoring in computer science from 15% to 50% and the percentage of Black and Latinx students from less than 10% to over 30%. She will also discuss some approaches to changing these 74

Haimo Award for Excellence in Mathematical Education, the 2020

Optimal Resource Placement: From Disneyland to Dominating Sets Speaker: Jillian Cervantes and Pamela Harris, Ph.D. THURSDAY, MAR 14 MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

MAA Northeast Section Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching, the 2019 MAA Henry L. Alder Award for Distinguished Teaching by a Beginning College or University Mathematics Faculty Member, and the 2019 Council on Undergraduate Research Mathematics and Computer Sciences Division Early Career Faculty Mentor Award. She is the President and co-founder of Lathisms: Latinxs and Hispanics in the Mathematical Sciences and co-hosts the podcast “Mathematically Uncensored.”

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Thursday Thinks

and Learning Sciences at New York University, is the founding director

Mandë Holford will present venom’s scientific path from

of the CREATE Consortium for Research and Evaluation of Advanced

mollusks to medicine, describing venom’s evolution in

Technology in Education and co-director of the Games for Learning Institute. He draws from cognitive science, learning sciences, computer

terebrid snails and cephalopods and discussing venomic

science, and design to envision, design, and study the future of learning

breakthroughs in therapeutic discoveries. Dr. Holford

with digital technologies, with a current focus on games and XR. He

will also share classroom resources to bring science

has published widely and is the lead editor of the Handbook of Game-

alive and position students as scientists.

Based Learning (MIT Press, 2020). Dr. Plass is a frequent national and international keynote speaker and advisor, helping governments and

Dr. Mandë Holford is a Professor in Chemistry and Biochemistry

businesses to increase the human capacity in an ecology of lifelong

at Hunter College and The CUNY Graduate Center, with scientific

learning.

appointments at the American Museum of Natural History and Weill Cornell Medicine. Her research integrates chemistry and biology to examine venoms and venomous animals as agents of change and innovation in evolution and manipulation of cellular physiology. She is active in science education, advancing the public understanding of science and science diplomacy. She co-founded Killer Snails, LLC, an award-winning EdTech learning games company that uses extreme creatures, like venomous marine snails, as a conduit to advance scientific learning in K-12 classrooms. She received a 2023 NIH Pioneer Award, an NSF CAREER Award, and was elected Champion Young Scientist and 2020 Sustainability Pioneer by the World Economic Forum.

Digital Technologies and the Future of Learning Speaker: Jan Plass, Ph.D. THURSDAY, APR 18 MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

It is an exciting time for learning sciences! New digital technologies are increasingly available and many have

When Mollusks Attack: Harnessing the Power of Venom in Labs and Classrooms Speaker: Mandë Holford, Ph.D.

direct implications for teaching and learning. In this talk,

THURSDAY, MAY 9

Dr. Jan Plass will summarize how our understanding

MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE

of learning has shifted from a transmission model to a constructivist model, focusing on the skills today’s youth will need to succeed professionally. Dr. Plass will also discuss current trends in digital technologies that foster new forms of learning, including play, extended reality (VR, AR, MR), and artificial intelligence, and discuss how teachers can leverage them to increase student interest and learning outcomes. Dr. Jan Plass, Professor and Paulette Goddard Chair in Digital Media

 SCIENCE

The sting of a jellyfish, the deadly touch of a blue-ringed octopus, and the piercing harpoon of a cone snail— what do these three have in common? Each animal transforms physical warfare into biochemical warfare through the production and use of venom. Venom has evolved in ~15-35% of the animal kingdom—across air, land, and sea. Why is it so pervasive, and what have scientists learned from studying it? In this talk, Dr. MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Dr. Seppe Kuehn received a Ph.D. in chemical physics from Cornell

Thursday Thinks

University before training in biology and physics at The Rockefeller University in New York City. Dr. Kuehn was an Assistant Professor of Physics at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign before moving to the Department of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Chicago in 2020. For much of the past decade, Dr. Kuehn has been searching for simple rules governing the behavior and structure of complex microbial ecosystems.

How Statistics Can Solve the Mysteries of the Microbiome Speaker: Seppe Kuehn, Ph.D. THURSDAY, JUN 6 MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE  SCIENCE

There are more individual bacterial cells on Earth than stars in the Universe. These bacteria live in every imaginable place on the planet, from your teeth to soil to the ocean floor, in complex and dynamic ecosystems—immense jungles of complexity! These bacterial jungles play a defining role in sustaining all aspects of life on our planet. How do they do it? In this talk, Dr. Seppe Kuehn will take teachers on a tour of the complexities of microbiomes. He will share how thinking about microbiomes statistically can reveal unexpected simplicities in how these communities form and function—paving the way for the design and control of these ecosystems. 76

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Equity Webinar Series

Equity Webinar Series Equity Webinar Series are virtual workshops open to MƒA teachers, other Master Teacher programs, and people interested in learning more about MƒA. Each webinar leads with a nationally recognized STEM educator talk, followed by breakout sessions, where small groups discuss how they can apply these powerful ideas in their classrooms. For the winter/spring 2024 semester, MƒA is piloting Equity Webinar attendance as credit-bearing, meaning it will count towards your fellowship minimum attendance requirements. Teachers are expected to stay for the entire session, including the talk and the small group discussion.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

to create more inclusive mathematical spaces for all.

Equity Webinar Series

Dr. Aris Winger is the Executive Director of the National Association of Mathematicians and a mathematics professor at Georgia Gwinnett

development of our socio-political imagination? As schools begin to implement new and innovative technologies, it will be imperative they also recognize

College. A native of Washington D.C., he graduated from Howard

and include tools widely used by young people. In

University (B.S. in Mathematics) and Carnegie Mellon University (M.S.

particular, the pandemic marshaled in a new era of video

and Ph.D. in mathematical sciences). His current areas of interest and

game play. Online multiplayer games have created space

research include equity in mathematical spaces, culturally responsive teaching, social justice mathematics, and creating spaces where

for new collaborations across national, geographic,

marginalized groups feel a sense of belonging in STEM. This mission has

and generational boundaries. Here, young people are

led him to co-authoring a book series, Advocating for Students of Color

leveraging creative computational literacies to build

in Mathematics, and consulting around the United States, working with

new and more equitable worlds, engaging their socio-

educators and administrators at all levels. These experiences compelled him to found and direct Hybridge Academy, a non-traditional accredited

political imaginations. In this talk, Dr. Cortez will discuss

school serving marginalized middle and high school students in the

the possibilities everyday video gaming can provide

greater Atlanta area.

for designing robust STEAM learning. Specifically, he will share insights and vignettes from The Learning To Transform (LiTT) Video Gaming Lab, a space he founded that supports undergraduates, community members, and Black, Latinx, and LGBTQIA+ high school students in jointly re-imagining the role of everyday gaming as a robust site for learning. There are no prerequisites for attending this webinar. Non-gamers are especially welcome. Dr. Arturo Cortez is an Assistant Professor of Learning Sciences

Creating New Rules: Better Mathematical Experiences Through Narrative Change p Speaker: Aris Winger, Ph.D.

and Human Development and a Fellow of the Institute of Cognitive Science at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Drawing on critical approaches to the learning sciences, Cortez explores the possibilities of co-designing for consequential learning in intergenerational and

MONDAY, MAR 4

transdisciplinary learning environments that include young people,

ONLINE

educators, researchers, and community members such as game designers, social media influencers, and content creators. More

 MATHEMATICS

recently, Cortez founded The Learning To Transform (LiTT) Video

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO STAY FOR THE ENTIRE SESSION, INCLUDING THE TALK AND SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION.

Gaming Lab to help build models for equity and student learning by designing deeper relationships across the various learning ecologies people traverse in their daily lives. Cortez’s early commitments to

What rules and norms do we practice without interrogation? How might these norms be holding us back from making our classrooms and mathematical spaces more affirming and inclusive? Who is being left

amplifying the everyday practices of youth were jointly honed and

Designing for Robust STEAM Learning: Everyday Worldmaking in Gaming Ecologies p Speaker: Arturo Cortez, Ph.D.

out and how do we effectively challenge and replace

MONDAY, MAY 13

these norms with new narratives to uplift everyone? In

ONLINE

this interactive talk, Dr. Aris Winger will ask teachers to

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

reflect on these questions and to collaborate to address

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO STAY FOR THE ENTIRE SESSION, INCLUDING THE TALK AND SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION.

the dominant and accepted narratives of the profession. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use narrative change strategies and also consider long-term changes needed 78

developed while he was a middle school teacher in East Palo Alto and a high school teacher in San Francisco. Cortez holds a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, an Ed.M. from Harvard University, an M.A.T. from the University of San Francisco, and a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania.

How might video games be used to support the

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Community Contributions Community Contributions are leadership opportunities for MTII+ (teachers in their second, third, fourth, or fifth Master Teacher Fellowship) to deepen their connections within the MƒA community by becoming involved with admissions, recruitment, communications, facilitation, supporting new MƒA teachers, and other leadership activities. Please review each contribution for its unique structure and requirements.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

hands-on experience. We will collaborate to develop a

Community Contributions

Applicant Screener Coordinated By: MƒA Admissions & Recruitment Team TUESDAY, MAY 21 ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: BEFORE SIGNING UP, PLEASE BE SURE YOU CAN ATTEND BOTH THE VIRTUAL ORIENTATION ON TUESDAY, MAY 21, AND AT LEAST ONE OF THE FOLLOWING SCREENING DATES: JUNE 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 22, 23 (8 A.M. - 5 P.M.)

creative and engaging MƒA Family Day that promotes community-building within and beyond our community.

Equity Webinar Series Facilitator p Coordinated By: MƒA Associate Director, Scientific Outreach & Partnerships, Uzma Shah

All teachers with a passion or curiosity for planning,

TBD

regardless of skill level, are welcome to join.

ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Course Proposal Support: Brainstorm and Build and Think Tank Facilitators Coordinated By: MƒA Professional Development Team

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MUST BE AVAILABLE FOR AT LEAST ONE OF THE FOLLOWING SPRING EQUITY WEBINARS TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION: MONDAY, MAR 4: DR. ARIS WINGER MONDAY, MAY 13: DR. ARTURO CORTEZ

TUESDAY, FEB 13

The MƒA Equity Webinar Series brings nationally

ONLINE

recognized educators and champions for STEM equity

 COMMUNITY

to the MƒA community. Each webinar begins with an engaging talk followed by small group discussions for

in content, pedagogy, and knowledge of students to

+ PLEASE NOTE: IN ADDITION TO SIGNING UP, PLEASE COMPLETE THIS PREFERENCE SURVEY AND BE SURE YOU CAN ATTEND BOTH THE TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 ORIENTATION AND AT LEAST TWO OF THE FOLLOWING DATES:

become part of our MƒA Master Teacher community.

BRAINSTORM AND BUILD: FEB 26, MAR 18, MAR 26

will co-facilitate one webinar this spring. Facilitation

Screeners are assigned to a panel of interviewers to help

THINK TANK: FEB 29, MAR 19

includes introducing the speaker, managing the question

gather more information about fellowship finalists in a

Have you successfully proposed and facilitated courses at

and answer period, and facilitating the small group

two-part, full-day virtual interview process. Screeners

MƒA? Are you interested in supporting and encouraging

discussions using an Open Space protocol. Equity

first attend a mandatory orientation on Tuesday, May 21.

other MƒA teachers to do the same? Join us as we create

Webinar Series Facilitators will attend an introductory

Then, on their assigned screening day, they collaborate

a warm, inviting space for teachers to share and workshop

session to prepare for this work and to learn more about

with a team of two content experts to conduct interviews,

their course proposal ideas as a Brainstorm and Build or

the series, upcoming speakers, and facilitation best

which includes observing and evaluating applicants’

Think Tank Facilitator. As a Brainstorm and Build Facilitator,

practices.

presentations. Over the day, screeners will interview four

you will work with Professional Development team staff

to six teacher candidates and provide insight into whether

to plan and co-lead two engaging sessions for teachers to

each meets the Master Teacher Fellowship criteria.

workshop their proposal ideas. As a Think Tank Facilitator,

Join us to help identify teachers with a strong foundation

you will design and co-lead a relaxed space for teachers

Community Builder and Event Planner Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Arah Lewis and MƒA Associate Director of Program Operations & Events Kiara Rodriguez WEDNESDAYS, FEB 14, MAR 13, APR 17, MAY 22 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in discovering the power of event planning? Have you ever wondered how to plan events that foster belonging and create lasting impacts? Would you like to organize an MƒA Family Day event to encourage a sense of community? Join this Community Contribution to refine your event planning skills through 80

to think through potential proposal ideas. Whether they don’t know where to start, have questions about the process, have an idea and want to solidify it, are looking for a co-facilitator, or all of the above, you can help guide them on their journey.

teachers to brainstorm applications in their classrooms and schools. As an Equity Webinar Series Facilitator, you

Information Session Host Coordinated By: MƒA Admissions & Recruitment Team WEDNESDAY, JAN 31 MƒA & ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: THIS COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION IS OPEN TO MASTER TEACHERS IN THE THIRD OR FOURTH YEAR OF THEIR FIRST FELLOWSHIP. BEFORE SIGNING UP, PLEASE BE SURE YOU CAN ATTEND BOTH THE VIRTUAL ORIENTATION WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31, AND AT LEAST TWO OF THE FOLLOWING DATES: VIRTUAL: FEB 29, MAR 28 IN-PERSON: FEB 15, MAR 12

Are you interested in helping create an MƒA community built on diversity and excellence, all while sharing your MƒA experiences meaningfully with others? Join us by becoming an Information Session Host this spring!

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024

Community Contributions

Praxis Prep Session Facilitator Coordinated By: MƒA Admissions & Recruitment Team WEDNESDAY, JAN 31

Current MƒA teachers are essential in encouraging and supporting prospective applicants through the application process. We invite Master Teachers to share tips, tricks, and strategies for successfully navigating the application process. All Information Session Hosts must attend a virtual orientation meeting to become familiar with their roles and responsibilities. Then, each host will help facilitate two Information Sessions this spring.

ONLINE  COMMUNITY

 COMMUNITY

FEB 27: BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY, EARTH SCIENCE, ELEMENTARY MATHEMATICS/SCIENCE, GENERAL SCIENCE, MATHEMATICS, PHYSICS

Shared Knowledge Screeners (formerly known as

MAR 7: BIOLOGY, MATHEMATICS

prospective MƒA applicants prepare for the Praxis content test. Additionally, facilitators often serve as a point person for recruitment, answering content-related questions and responding to general inquiries about MƒA fellowships. As part of this community contribution, Praxis Prep Session

TBD

Facilitators will first attend a virtual orientation to learn

ONLINE

about their roles and responsibilities. They will then lead

 COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: BEFORE SIGNING UP, PLEASE BE SURE YOU CAN ATTEND AT LEAST ONE DAY OF ORIENTATION DURING THE WEEK OF AUGUST 12 OR 19.

Have you taken the MƒA ƒundamentals Part 1: The Five Dimensions of Powerful Classrooms workshop? Have you participated in the Community Norms workshop during orientation since 2021? Are you excited about these frameworks and interested in introducing them to new MƒA Master Teachers? MƒA Orientation Hosts will coplan and co-facilitate either the MƒA ƒundamentals Part 1 or Community Norms workshops at Master Teacher Orientation this summer. Hosts may also assist with other aspects of orientation. Join us as we help welcome our new cohort of fellows.

a two-hour virtual Praxis Prep Session with prospective applicants in the subject area they teach.

Professional Development Catalog Builder Coordinated By: MƒA Professional Development Team THURSDAYS, APR 4, MAY 2 ONLINE

Learning Materials Screeners) have developed an extensive database of curricular tools. These resources, developed by the MƒA teacher community, now live on the Small-World Network as the Shared Knowledge site. Our goal is to curate a centralized space where teachers can share and access highly effective and engaging classroom tools and resources. In this community contribution, Screeners will have the opportunity to curate materials submitted by MƒA teachers, add these materials to the repository found on the Small-World Network, and support the pedagogy of MƒA teachers across the city.

Small-World Network Community Mobilizer Coordinated By: MƒA Program Officer Joanna Cruz WEDNESDAYS, FEB 7, APR 3 ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: MOBILIZERS MUST LOG INTO THE SWN WEEKLY TO INTERACT WITH ONLINE POSTS.

+ PLEASE NOTE: CATALOG BUILDERS MUST READ AND EVALUATE COURSE PROPOSALS BETWEEN THE TWO SESSIONS.

Are you interested in sharing your knowledge with the

Are you interested in playing an integral role in supporting the design of the MƒA Professional Development Catalog? Join us as we review teacher course proposals and plan team, we’ll discuss how the TRU frameworks for powerful classrooms and professional growth shape our catalog

+ PLEASE NOTE: SCREENERS MUST WORK ASYNCHRONOUSLY FOR ABOUT TWO HOURS BETWEEN SESSIONS.

 COMMUNITY

the MƒA program for the 2024-2025 academic year. As a

*Community Contributions are opportunities for MƒA teachers who have completed at least one Master Teacher Fellowship.

TUESDAYS, MAR 12, MAY 28 ONLINE

+ BEFORE SIGNING UP, PLEASE BE SURE YOU CAN ATTEND BOTH THE VIRTUAL ORIENTATION ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31, AND THE PRACTICE SESSION DATE ALIGNED TO YOUR CONTENT AREA:

Praxis Prep Session Facilitators are critical in helping

MƒA Orientation Host Coordinated By: MƒA Director of Programming Courtney Ginsberg and MƒA Director of Admissions & Recruitment Sharine Stevenson

Shared Knowledge Materials Screener Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jeffrey Lowenhaupt and Michelle Sims and MƒA Program Officer Nakita VanBiene

design process, read and offer insights about course proposals, and collaborate to plan a program responding

MƒA community and connecting with your colleagues online? Join us to help initiate discussions and respond to questions on the Small-World Network (SWN). Mobilizers will log into the SWN weekly to reply to posts, share tips and tricks for online engagement, or ask their own questions. Mobilizers will also be responsible for selecting at least one post per week to highlight in the Sunday community digest email.

to the needs and wants of the MƒA teacher community.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: WINTER/SPRING 2024