MƒA Fall 2024 Professional Development Course Catalog

Professional Development Catalog Fall Semester: September 2024 - January 2025

Contents General Information & Registration

3

MƒA Programming

6

Summary of Core Learning Opportunities

9

Summary of Additional Learning Opportunities

12

Summary of Equity & Inclusion Courses

13

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

14

Mini-Courses

26

Extended Length Course

42

Single Session Workshops

44

Affinity Groups

61

Interest Groups

63

MƒAdventures

70

Thursday Thinks

74

Equity Webinars

77

Community Contributions

80

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

FELLOWSHIP REQUIREMENTS AND GENERAL INFORMATION In fall 2024, MƒA will offer a variety of in-person and virtual programming sufficient for all teachers to meet attendance requirements comfortably. For the 2024-2025 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 you to 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 then 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.

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Register at: mathforamerica.org/swn

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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

4

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.

Register at: mathforamerica.org/swn

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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.

September 3, 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.

September 5, 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/Family/Caregiver-Teacher Conferences Elementary School - September 12 & November 7 Middle School - September 19 & November 14 High School - September 26 & November 21

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; educators of Muslim faith; and educators within the neurodiverse community.

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Register at: mathforamerica.org/swn

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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 monthly workshops consisting of small teams of teachers who come together to explore a specific problem of practice in depth. Learn more about PLTs here.

Mini-Courses are a series of three connected workshops in which experts from academic institutions, local organizations, and 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 (in-person) 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 fall 2024, in-person Thursday Think attendance is 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 fall 2024, Equity Webinar attendance is 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.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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.

Thursday Thinks (virtual) 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.

Interest Groups are usually 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 (those 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.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Annual MƒA Events MƒA Fall ƒunction is an annual celebration of teaching, honoring the entire MƒA community of ~900 New York City public school mathematics, science, and computer science teachers. Each year, MƒA teachers, their guests, and other leaders in STEM education gather for the evening gala. The night consists of a cocktail reception, dinner, and program and is a rare moment for all members of the MƒA community to celebrate together in one space. The Fall ƒunction is held in November, and invitations are emailed in early fall. This year’s gala is on November 9, 2024 mark your calendar!

Mid-Fellowship Check-In takes place on October 22, 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. 2022 Fellows can register here.

MƒA Family Day takes place in May or June. In honor and celebration of our community, MƒA plans to host an engaging and interactive family day for MƒA Master Teachers and their families.

We will share more information this spring.

The End of Year Celebration and Muller Award Ceremony takes place in June, 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. The next Summer Think will take place July 8-10, 2025. The MƒA Summer Think empowers teachers to explore and collaborate over the summer, from hands-on events to deep dives into specific topics. We will share more information this winter.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Summary of Core Learning Opportunities COMMUNITY Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Affinity Group p (AG) Black, Latinx, and PoC Affinity Group p (AG) LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group p (AG) Muslim Educators Affinity Group p (AG)

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

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 3D Printed Stomp Rockets: Engineering a Passion for Space (SSW) AI for All: Leveraging Machine Learning for the Leary (MINI)

Introduction to CAD and 3D Modeling With STEM Career Explorations (MINI)

Elevate and Co-Create: Growing a Cogen Culture in Your Classroom

Preparing for Master Teachers on Teaching (MT²) (MINI)

LEGO SPIKE: Building and Programming LEGO Robots (MINI)

(PLT)

The Science of Happiness (SSW)

Leveraging ChatGPT to Create Educational Scaffolds (SSW)

Enhancing Graph Analysis in Science Education Through TALKS and I2 Strategy (SSW)

The Secret Sauce of the Socratic Seminar (MINI)

Making Sense of the Unsolvable: Methods in Numerical Analysis (MINI)

Enhancing Student Discussion Through Protocols (SSW)

RoboExpo (SSW)

Fail Squad: Professional Mistakes Welcome! (MINI)

This Will Knock Your Sockets Off! (SSW)

INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP The Art of Questioning: Enhancing Classroom Engagement and Critical Thinking (SSW)

ChatGPT: A Teacher’s Guide (MINI)

Book Club: Education Lead(her)ship Disrupting Gender Bias and Gendered Racism p (PLT)

Coding Across the K-5 Curriculum

Book Club: Punished for Dreaming p

(PLT)

(PLT)

Coding Challenges With Advent of Code (MINI)

Book Club: Teaching Emergent Bilingual Students With Dis/Abilities p (PLT)

Coding FUNdamentals: Introduction to Minecraft and Computer Science

Building Bolder Thinking Classrooms

(MINI)

(PLT)

Curating Student Web Portfolios Using Github (PLT)

Celebrating the BLM at School Week of Action and Beyond: Join the Movement! (SSW)

Do You Want to Excel at Excel and Google Sheets? (SSW) Electronics Soldering in the STEM Classroom (SSW)

Co-Teaching: Crafting a Successful and Effective Partnership p (SSW)

From Ego to Conscious Teaching (PLT) Help Me Rhonda: Implementing the Routines of Dr. Bondie for Classroom Equity p (PLT) Hitting Pause: Reflection as a Conduit for Joy (PLT) How Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia Affect Emotional and Mental Well-Being p (SSW) Increasing Multilingual Learners’ Access to Class Texts p (SSW)

Shifting Instructional Practice to Create Anti-Racist STEM Classrooms p (MINI) Stained Glass Creations: Advanced (MINI)

STEMprov: Improvisation for Effective Communication (SSW) Survey Says! Social Science for Teachers (MINI) Swiftly Synthesizing Slide Decks (SSW) Ubuntu Pedagogy: It’s Not About You or Me, but We! p (PLT)

Integrating Interdisciplinary Data Literacy (SSW)

Upcycled Textile Arts: Mindful Consumption, Community, and Belonging (MINI)

Interdisciplinary Infusion of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (PLT)

What Is Happening?! Processing Current Events in Class (PLT)

Intersectional Identities and Neurodivergence in Inclusive Classrooms p (MINI)

Wise Feedback Across Identities: Strategies for Communicating With All Students p (MINI)

The Kids Are Ready: Teaching Social Justice Through Play p (MINI) Lights, Camera, FrAction! Tools for Making Educational Music Videos

KEY

(SSW)

Professional Learning Teams (PLT)

Making Nontraditional Grading Work in Traditional Schools (PLT)

Mini-Courses (MINI) Single Session Workshops (SSW)

Empowering Education: AI-Enhanced Lesson Planning (SSW)

Creating Inclusive Classrooms: Countering Anti-Muslim Discrimination in Schools p (SSW)

Introduction to Boolean Algebra and Circuit Optimization (MINI)

Cultivating Community: Exploring Identity and Belonging p (MINI)

MLLs and the Translanguaging Classroom: Key Strategies to Get You Started p (SSW)

Doodle for Self-Care (SSW)

Personal Mindfulness Practices (SSW)

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Shared Time for Shared Knowledge: Collaboratively Tune and Share Your Success (SSW)

Extended Length Courses (ELC) Affinity Groups (AG)

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Summary of Core Learning Opportunities cont.

MATHEMATICS The Abacus: An Introduction (SSW) Activities and Projects in Algebra II: Building Blocks for Accessible Learning p (PLT) AI Data Challenges in the Mathematics Classroom (MINI) Analyzing Errors to Provoke Meaningful Student Discussion in Mathematics (PLT) Applying Mathematics Through Modeling (SSW) AP Precalculus (MINI) Belonging Centered Instruction: Establishing Inclusive Mathematics Classrooms p (PLT) Beyond Timed Tests: Building Fact Fluency With Games, Songs, and Strategies! (SSW) The Big Ideas of Linear Algebra (MINI) Bringing Calculus to Life: Developing and Implementing Calculus-Based Tasks (PLT)

Electoral College: Time for a Change!? (SSW)

Supporting Multilingual Learners in Algebra I Illustrative Mathematics p

Apple Genetics: A Tasty Journey Into the Science of New York Agriculture

Exploring Social Injustice in Middle School Mathematics p (PLT)

(PLT)

(SSW)

Transformative Classrooms: Infusing Social Justice in Middle School Mathematics p (SSW)

Applied Physics With the Perimeter Institute (SSW)

Fostering a Welcoming Mathematics Community p (SSW) Illustrative Mathematics: Access to Students of All Abilities (PLT)

(ELC)

Breaking Into Birding (SSW)

Illustrative Mathematics in Your Elementary or Middle School Classroom (PLT)

Uncovering Quadrilaterals Through Graph Investigations (SSW)

Building Our Forensic Files (PLT)

Implementing a MARS Formative Assessment Lesson (SSW) Incorporating Equity Tasks Into Everyday Mathematics Instruction p (MINI)

Intellectual Vulnerability in Mathematics Classrooms p (SSW) Mathematics of Finance and Teaching Financial Literacy (SSW) Mathematics Routines for Reasoning (MINI)

Math Game Jam (SSW)

Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics: The Sequel! (PLT)

Math Trails: Exploring Mathematics in the Real World (MINI)

Building Thinking Geometry Classrooms (PLT)

More Than Möbius: Scissors, Tape, and Paper Topology (SSW)

A Closer Look at Cubic Equations

Optimal Cell Phone Tower Placement: A Graph and Domination Theory Approach (SSW)

(MINI)

Biotech 101: Restriction Analysis and Bacterial Transformation (MINI)

TRUly Teach To The TRU Framework

Unpacking and Cracking Gerrymandering With Students (MINI) Weaving a Pathway to Mathematical Engagement (MINI) What Should Students Learn?: Updating Your Mathematics Curriculum (PLT)

SCIENCE

Building Thinking Classrooms in Science: Part 1 (PLT) Clickbait Science and Fake News: Let’s Look at the Evidence (SSW) Computational Thinking Demystified (SSW)

Data-Driven Labs in the Physics Classroom (SSW) Delicious Demo Derby: Chemistry Demos to Tantalize the Taste Buds

93 Reasons to Have Hope: Project Drawdown and the Fight Against Climate Change (SSW)

(MINI)

Adapting APES Labs for Your Classroom (PLT)

Designing Student-Led Lab Investigations (PLT)

Addressing NGSS With the New Visions Biology Curriculum (PLT)

Digging Into the New Earth and Space Science Investigations (PLT)

Aliens in the Classroom: Using Science Fiction to Engage Students in Inquiry (SSW)

Earth and Space Science Demo Derby

Designing Science PBATs for RealWorld Engagement (PLT)

(SSW)

Proofs Without Words (SSW)

All Things Assessment: NGSS and High School Science (PLT)

Providing Meaningful and Timely Feedback in Statistics (PLT)

Ambitious Science Teaching: Using Student Talk as a Resource (SSW)

DEI in Action: Going Beyond Awareness and Acknowledgement in Mathematics p (MINI)

Rethinking Disability and Mathematics: Connecting Theory to Practice p (MINI)

Amplify: Elementary Science for All p (PLT)

Mini-Courses (MINI)

Desmos Activity Builder for Beginners

Strengthening Number Sense and Spatial Sense: Diagram-Centered Mini-Lessons (MINI)

Analyzing Heat Waves and Environmental Justice Using GIS Tools (SSW)

Single Session Workshops (SSW)

Counting Made Easy (MINI) Decolonizing Our Minds Through Ancestral and Indigenous Mathematics p (SSW)

(MINI)

10

KEY Professional Learning Teams (PLT) Extended Length Courses (ELC) Affinity Groups (AG)

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Summary of Core Learning Opportunities cont.

Earth and Space Science POGIL Pursuit (MINI) Electrify Science With Snap Circuits (MINI)

Epigenetics and the Inheritance of Experience (MINI) Equipping Educators With an Equity Lens on Cancer p (MINI) Evaluating Scientific Claims: An Introduction to Statistics and Probability (MINI) Exploring Insect Behavior With Dr. Charles H. Turner (MINI) Exploring Resources With Science News Learning (SSW) The Four Course Problem: Revamping AP Physics (PLT) Go Big Orgo Home (SSW) Guardians of the Rainforest: Indigenous-Led Conservation in the Amazon p (SSW) Hexagonal Thinking: Making Scientific Thinking Visible (SSW) How Intelligent is Artificial Intelligence?: A Neuroscience Perspective (MINI) How to Create a Brain: Neurodevelopment, Stem Cells, and Brain Organoids (MINI) Making Sense of Cellular Respiration With HHMI BioInteractive (SSW) Physics For All: Teaching Strategies to Engage All Learners p (SSW) Planning for Climate Action Days (SSW)

Reacting to NGSS: Chemistry Labs and CER Modifications (PLT)

11

Ready for Environmental Remediation?: Remediated Sites With Engineering Tomorrow (SSW) Schoolyard Scientists: Teaching Climate Change Through Citizen Science (MINI) Supersonic Hydroponics: How to Bring Gardening to Your Science Classroom (MINI) Tackling the New Regents Biology Investigations (PLT) Take Me Out to the Field!: Research Opportunities In and Out of the Classroom (MINI) Teaching Fluids in AP Physics 1 (MINI) Telegraphs: The Original Email (SSW) Unveiling Molecular Mysteries: A Journey Into Structural Biology (MINI) Welcoming and Empowering MLL Newcomers for NGSS Success p (SSW)

THURSDAY THINKS

EQUITY WEBINARS

You Spin Me Right Round: Tesla’s Greatest Invention

Archaeology of the Self: Toward Sustaining Racial Literacy in Education p

Pondering Playfulness: How to Unveil the Mathematics That Matters MT²: Master Teachers on Teaching Be the Change: Think Global, Teach Local Eliminating “Forever Chemicals” From the World’s Water

Addressing Race, Health, and Equity in the Science Classroom p

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

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Summary of Additional Learning Opportunities INTEREST GROUPS

Putting the Field in Field Studies

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS

All-Levels Vinyasa Yoga

Sabbaticals: Paid Leave for Study or Research

2025 MƒA Summer Think Planner

AP Biology Interest Group

Sci-Fi Book Club: Educational Utopias

Community Builder and Event Planner

Board Game Night

Side Hustles: Ways to Supplement Your Income

Course Proposal Support: Think Tank Facilitators

Building Your Department

Solve a Rubik’s Cube!

Equity Advisory Committee p

Creating Math Clubs and Teams for All!

Sound Meditation: Exploration and Experience

Equity Webinar Series Facilitator p

Earth and Space Science Teacher Meetup

Special Educators United

Information Session Host

Elementary Teacher Mixer

Teachers as Parents

MƒA Connector

Exploring Plant-Based Eating

Think Tank for MƒA Course Proposals

Praxis Prep Session Facilitator

Exploring Travel Opportunities With Your Students

Trivia Night

Restorative Justice Collaborator p

Fiber Arts Interest Group

Tutoring: Growing Your Tutoring Side Gig

Shared Knowledge Materials Screener

Film Screening: Nocturnes

Small-World Network Mobilizer

Getting on the Same Page: Building Reading Comprehension

MƒADVENTURES

Getting Started With Grant Writing and DonorsChoose

Bronx and Upper Manhattan Meetup

Bowling on the Lower East Side

Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship: To the Galapagos and Beyond

Escape the Room Adventure

Growing a Student Research Program

Hiking Staten Island’s Greenbelt

IB Biology Teachers Meetup

MƒAle: A Brewery Adventure

Improving Relationships Between NYC Charter and DOE Schools

MƒA on Broadway

Let’s Do Calculus!

Family Fun Astronomy Night

Mosaics for Beginners

Let’s Play Spades!

National Museum of the American Indian: Indigenous STEM Innovations

Magic: The Gathering at MƒA

Prospect Park Bike Ride

Math Night!

Sewing for Beginners

Middle School Science and CRT Meetup

Stained Glass Creations: Beginner

Mindful Yoga

Teachers, Take a Hike!

Moms at Work

Westchester County MƒA Bowling Meetup!

One No Trump: Play Bridge!

Overbooked Planning for Retirement as a NYCDOE Teacher Planning for the Black Lives Matter Week of Action 12

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Summary of Equity & Inclusion Courses p PROFESSIONAL LEANING TEAMS (PLTS)

The Kids Are Ready: Teaching Social Justice Through Play p

Activities and Projects in Algebra II: Building Blocks for Accessible Learning p

Rethinking Disability and Mathematics: Connecting Theory to Practice p

Amplify: Elementary Science for All p

Shifting Instructional Practice to Create Anti-Racist STEM Classrooms p

Belonging Centered Instruction: Establishing Inclusive Mathematics Classrooms p Book Club: Education Lead(her)ship Disrupting Gender Bias and Gendered Racism p Book Club: Punished for Dreaming p Book Club: Teaching Emergent Bilingual Students With Dis/Abilities p Exploring Social Injustice in Middle School Mathematics p Help Me Rhonda: Implementing the Routines of Dr. Bondie for Classroom Equity p

Wise Feedback Across Identities: Strategies for Communicating With All Students p

SINGLE SESSION WORKSHOPS Co-Teaching: Crafting a Successful and Effective Partnership p Creating Inclusive Classrooms: Countering Anti-Muslim Discrimination in Schools p

Supporting Multilingual Learners in Algebra I Illustrative Mathematics

Decolonizing Our Minds Through Ancestral and Indigenous Mathematics p

Ubuntu Pedagogy: It’s Not About You or Me, but We! p

Fostering a Welcoming Mathematics Community p

MINI-COURSES

Guardians of the Rainforest: Indigenous-Led Conservation in the Amazon p

Cultivating Community: Exploring Identity and Belonging p DEI in Action: Going Beyond Awareness and Acknowledgement in Mathematics p

Archaeology of the Self: Toward Sustaining Racial Literacy in Education p Addressing Race, Health, and Equity in the Science Classroom p

AFFINITY GROUPS Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Affinity Group p

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS

Black, Latinx, and PoC Affinity Group p

Equity Advisory Committee p

LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group p Muslim Educators Affinity Group p

Equity Webinar Series Facilitator p Restorative Justice Collaborator p

Neurodiversity Affinity Group p Space to Breathe: Women of Color Affinity Group p

Increasing Multilingual Learners’ Access to Class Texts p Intellectual Vulnerability in Mathematics Classrooms p

Incorporating Equity Tasks Into Everyday Mathematics Instruction p

MLLs and the Translanguaging Classroom: Key Strategies to Get You Started p

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Welcoming and Empowering MLL Newcomers for NGSS Success p

EQUITY WEBINARS

How Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia Affect Emotional and Mental Well-Being p

Equipping Educators With an Equity Lens on Cancer p

Intersectional Identities and Neurodivergence in Inclusive Classrooms p

Transformative Classrooms: Infusing Social Justice in Middle School Mathematics p

Physics For All: Teaching Strategies to Engage All Learners p

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

Science teachers on testing and adapting these new labs. During the first session, we will explore the newly released labs and create working groups for those we plan to test. In the second and third sessions, each

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, SEP 23, OCT 7, OCT 21, JAN 6 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

How might we create Algebra II activities with multiple entry points? Sometimes, Algebra II tasks can be lengthy and complicated or assume students already have a strong understanding of concepts. How can using short tasks and projects ensure this conceptual understanding? In this PLT, we will build on pre-existing 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 learners. We will develop activities and projects, implement them in our classrooms, reflect on our 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 for Algebra II teachers.

Adapting APES Labs for Your Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Grace Hu and Cynthia Jimenez WEDNESDAYS, OCT 9, NOV 6, DEC 4, JAN 8 MƒA  SCIENCE

group will run through their chosen lab experiments

MƒA

in classrooms. In the last session, teachers will present

 SCIENCE

their lab experiences and share lesson plans, student

How might we develop effective NGSS-aligned

facing handouts, and slide decks to help facilitate a

assessments for our high school science courses? Join

smooth lab experience. All current or future APES

us as we discuss the skills and resources necessary to

teachers are welcome.

create assessments that accurately measure student understanding of NGSS standards. In session one,

Addressing NGSS With the New Visions Biology Curriculum Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ben Lewin and Megan Wallner

implications, and identify the key components of an effective NGSS-aligned assessment by analyzing those recently released for middle school. In session two, we will work in content-focused groups to examine

MƒA

formative assessment strategies and begin creating

 SCIENCE

our own. In session three, we will explore summative

How might we transition from Regents-based Living

assessment formats and best practices for NGSS

Environment to NGSS (NYSSLS) Biology? Join us to

alignment, engage in practical exercises to develop

better understand the New Visions Biology curriculum

mastery-based assessments, and discuss strategies for

and work toward a smooth transition and integration

post-assessment data analysis. Finally, we will share the

of the new Regent’s investigations. In our first session,

assessments we created, give and receive feedback,

we will introduce the New Visions framework, discuss

and plan our next steps. This course is best for all high

how storylines and anchoring phenomena engage

school science teachers.

students in three-dimensional learning, share previous experiences using NGSS in our classrooms, and form working groups based on content and interest for each of the six New Visions Biology units. In our second and

Amplify: Elementary Science for All p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Constance Clark and Graham White

third sessions, we will work in groups to adapt curricular

WEDNESDAYS, SEP 25, OCT 30, DEC 4, JAN 8

materials and plan implementation. Checkpoints will

MƒA & ONLINE

allow for troubleshooting and sharing ideas between

 SCIENCE

groups. The final session will allow us to share and

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

reflect on our work and implementation. Teachers will leave with concrete classroom materials and the confidence to deliver this curriculum successfully. This course is best for any life science teacher interested in

Board laboratory investigations to meet the unique time

and returning teachers are welcome.

15

we will introduce NGSS principles, discuss their

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, NOV 7, DEC 5, JAN 16

using the New Visions Biology curriculum. Both new

Join us to collaborate with other AP Environmental

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 23, NOV 20, DEC 18, JAN 22

and develop resources, tips, and tricks for running them

How might we adapt some of the nineteen new College and budget constraints of New York City classrooms?

All Things Assessment: NGSS and High School Science Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Brittany Beck and Constance Giannakakis

How might we adapt and design the Amplify curriculum so it is well-paced and appropriate for all of our elementary learners? In this PLT, we will build on our diverse backgrounds, prior knowledge, and expertise to modify elementary Amplify Science units to address the needs of all students, including those with disabilities

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

will analyze samples of errors in student work, create error analysis tasks, explore the benefits of integrating error analysis in our instruction, and compare it to the traditional instructional approach of solving problems

and multilingual learners. In our first session, we will identify student needs, share examples of modifications, select units to adapt, and create a calendar and protocols for planning and sharing our work. In session two, we will establish realistic pacing goals for our selected units, identify essential lesson components, and share resources and ideas as we modify our selected units. In session three, we will explore and adapt a unit together, focusing on how we can prioritize and organize activities to support all learners. In our last session, we will finalize our units, share our progress, plan for our next steps, and submit our updated units to the MƒA Shared Knowledge site. This course is best for elementary science teachers interested in modifying Amplify Science units.

Belonging Centered Instruction: Establishing Inclusive Mathematics Classrooms p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rebecca Caporale-Guarino and Brittney Cook

based on correctly worked examples. Between sessions,

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, NOV 13, DEC 11, JAN 15

we will pilot our created work in our classrooms and

MƒA

bring our experiences and artifacts back to the group

 MATHEMATICS

for peer discussion. By the end of the PLT, teachers will

How might we create and foster inclusive mathematics

leave with a database of rich tasks centered around error

classrooms using the Belonging Centered Instruction

analysis and strategies that deepen student thinking

(BCI) Framework? The BCI Framework (Matthews et al.,

and achieve mastery through error analysis. All middle

2021) analyzes the connection between interpersonal

school and high school mathematics teachers are

belonging supports and instructional belonging

welcome, including those who have participated in this

supports to build inclusive mathematics classrooms.

PLT in the past and wish to expand on their work.

Together, we will create a brave space to learn about the BCI framework, reflect on our teaching practice, and investigate our strengths and growth areas. During our first session, we will focus on building trust and community while delving into the framework in an authentic and vulnerable way and formulating questions to guide our exploration. In session two, we will explore

Analyzing Errors to Provoke Meaningful Student Discussion in Mathematics Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Renu Budhraja and Charlie Michaelson WEDNESDAYS, OCT 9, NOV 6, DEC 4, JAN 8 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

How might we design activities in mathematics that anticipate student error and motivate students to take the lead in intervening to rectify common misconceptions? Error analysis is reviewing work and looking for patterns of misunderstanding. In this PLT, we will discuss the different types of errors in mathematics and how to intentionally create sample student work that promotes organic discussion on why these mistakes occur. In session one, we will dive into Sheryl Rushton’s Teaching and Learning Mathematics Through Error Analysis, a research study whose findings support and promote error analysis in the classroom for better concept retention and more robust long-term student performance. In the subsequent sessions, we 16

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

and undervaluing of “women’s work.” In session three, we will explore how women experience gendered and racial microaggressions, and are cornered into failure on a “glass cliff.” In our final session, we will create a

how teachers show up in their classrooms and discuss strategies aligned with our chosen interpersonal or instructional subdimension to develop an implementation plan. In session three, we will reflect on our implementation using a data analysis protocol and share insights about our students. In our final session, we will concentrate on our professional growth and consider how to share our learnings with our schools and MƒA communities. This course is best for any mathematics teacher who wants to collaborate, reflect, and consider how to create inclusive mathematical spaces for all students.

Book Club: Education Lead(her)ship - Disrupting Gender Bias and Gendered Racism p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Johanna Cinquegrana and Caroline Phillips WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, NOV 13, DEC 11, JAN 15 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF EDUCATION LEADER(HER)SHIP: ADVANCING WOMEN IN K-12 ADMINISTRATION BY JENNIE WEINER AND MONICA C. HIGGINS, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

Book Club: Teaching Emergent Bilingual Students With Dis/Abilities p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ishrat Ahmed and Abigail Kirchman

toolbox of actions that teacher leaders can take to spur

TUESDAYS, SEP 17, OCT 29, NOV 26, DEC 17

change within and beyond our schools. This PLT is best

MƒA & ONLINE

for teacher leaders of all gender and racial identities who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of how patriarchal norms dominate K-12 education and how we can disrupt them.

Book Club: Punished for Dreaming p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Brittney Cook and Scott Gallagher WEDNESDAYS, OCT 23, NOV 20, DEC 18, JAN 22 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF PUNISHED FOR DREAMING BY DR. BETTINA LOVE, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

How might we identify, challenge, and dismantle oppressive structures and habits in our own teaching practice? Are you passionate about reshaping education practices to promote equity and justice? In this PLT, we will use Punished for Dreaming by Dr. Bettina Love to understand the historical context of racial oppression in schools and create action plans and classroom systems that challenge and dismantle white supremacist

How might we analyze and disrupt the gender bias

educational practices. Together, we will brainstorm

and gendered racism that is deeply embedded in K-12

ways to empower students and cultivate inclusive

education leadership? In their book, Education Lead(her)

learning environments where every voice is valued and

ship: Advancing Women in K-12 Administration, Weiner

every learner thrives. In our first session, we’ll look at

and Higgins delve into the racial and gender disparities

the historical context of education for kids of color in

in K-12 education leadership. For example, although

the US. Next, we will unpack the different players in

women dominate the education space, only 27% of

education and the harm they cause to our students. In

superintendencies are held by women, with even

our final two sessions, we will identify our challenges in

starker numbers for women of color. Join us to explore

pursuing educational justice and create action plans for

their findings and become disruptors of the status

our schools. This course is for any teacher passionate

quo! In our first session, we will explore the problems

about reshaping education practices to promote equity

women face in education leadership. In session two,

and justice.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + 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. TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF TEACHING EMERGENT BILINGUAL STUDENTS WITH DIS/ABILITIES BY PATRICIA MARTÍNEZ-ÁLVAREZ, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

How might we better understand and support our multilingual students with dis/abilities? In this PLT, we will center the text Teaching Emergent Bilingual Students With Dis/Abilities by Patricia Martínez-Álvarez.

In our first session, we will co-construct a protocol to dissect the chapters of the book, determine a rotating facilitation structure, and create a schedule for teachers to implement new practices. Sessions two and three will be led and facilitated by PLT members. We will read the following chapters: “Teaching Children With Multiple Labels,” “Humanistic Perspectives on Bilingual Education,” and “Exploring Disability With Bilingual Children.” We will dissect the text, think about specific applications to our own classrooms, try new ideas, and reflect on shifts in our practice. Finally, we will debrief classroom implementation of the practices and determine how to infuse additional practices to support MLL students with dis/abilities. This book is geared toward elementary school teachers, but all teachers are welcome as the focus will be on the intersections of ability and language learning in our classrooms.

we will analyze case studies to uncover how the K-12 education system is built on both the over-reliance 17

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs)

(BTC)? This PLT is for teachers already using vertical non-permanent surfaces (VNPS), visibly random groups (VRG), thin-slice skills, verbal instruction, and thinking tasks. This course will support teachers in developing

Bringing Calculus to Life: Developing and Implementing Calculus-Based Tasks Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kai Xin Chen and Jasper DeAntonio TUESDAYS, SEP 24, OCT 22, NOV 26, JAN 7 MƒA & OFFSITE  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: SESSIONS 1, 2, AND 4 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSION 3 WILL BE A FULL-DAY INTERVISITATION, DATE AND LOCATION TO BE DETERMINED.

the later practices from BTC. In our first sessions, we will look at toolkit three, which focuses on meaningful notes, consolidating knowledge, and maintaining flow. We will create a plan to try these practices in our classrooms and then come together in our second session to share out and refine our work. In our third session, we’ll look at toolkit four, which focuses on evaluating what you value and reforming your grade book, and come together for our last session to share out and refine these practices. This course is best for

How might we engage and immerse our students in the

K-12 mathematics and science teachers who have used

wonders of calculus? In this PLT, we will collaborate to

BTC practices and are ready to dive deeper.

develop interactive and cognitively demanding tasks that foster both curiosity and a deep understanding of calculus. In our first two sessions, we will identify core concepts and develop rich tasks that encourage problem-solving and connection building. Our third session will be devoted to school day inter-visitations as we observe two teacher volunteers implementing our tasks in their classrooms. In our final session, we’ll

Building Our Forensic Files Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers AJ Bute and Kristina Coker TUESDAYS, OCT 15, NOV 12, DEC 10, JAN 21 MƒA  SCIENCE

discuss the inter-vistations, identify the strengths and

How might we diversify our forensic science curriculum

areas of growth in our tasks, and develop similar tasks to

to boost the scientific rigor and provide appropriate

support other concepts in the Calculus curriculum. This

supports for students with learning needs? Join us in

PLT is best for Calculus teachers though no experience

developing a library of forensic science units complete

teaching calculus is necessary.

with scaffolds, extensions, and labs. In our first session,

Building Bolder Thinking Classrooms Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Shannon Guglielmo, Phylicia Hoyt, and Melissa Rodriguez MONDAYS, SEP 30, OCT 21, NOV 25, DEC 16 ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF BUILDING THINKING CLASSROOMS BY DR. PETER LILJEDAHL, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

How might we work collaboratively to implement and go beyond practices from Dr. Peter Lijedahl’s transformative book, Building Thinking Classrooms 18

Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics: The Sequel!

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Joe Grogan, Ph.D., and Allisen Johnsen WEDNESDAYS, OCT 23, NOV 20, DEC 18, JAN 22 MƒA

we will share our existing curricular resources, identify

 MATHEMATICS

our crime junkiest units, and create goal-aligned pacing two, we will use those materials to plan scaffolds and

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

extensions, promoting equitable access to the content.

How might we refine and improve our Thinking

In session three, we will develop unit-specific labs,

Classroom practices to best support student

building modifications and supports. Finally, in session

engagement, collaboration, and learning retention?

four, we will celebrate and share our progress, give and

This PLT is designed to go beyond introductory Building

receive feedback, and compile our work to share and

Thinking Classrooms (BTC) work and is for mathematics

submit to the MƒA Shared Knowledge site. This course is

teachers with experience implementing BTC practices

best for current and future forensic science teachers.

and the desire to collaborate on improving. Each session

calendars and student-facing materials. In session

will focus on one to two practices or chapters from the book identified collectively as being rich for exploration.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) We will share, discuss, and analyze current practices, planning documents, class materials, and videos. By the end of each session, we will have collaboratively modified upcoming lessons to implement in our classrooms before the next session, during which we will reflect and share insights. Finally, we will create a guidebook to share challenges and potential solutions based on our implementation. Successful thin-sliced curricular tasks will be submitted to the MƒA Shared Knowledge site.

Building Thinking Classrooms in Science: Part I Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Stephanie Palumbo and Julie Wood WEDNESDAYS, SEP 25, OCT 30, DEC 4, JAN 8 MƒA  SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF BUILDING THINKING CLASSROOMS BY DR. PETER LILJEDAHL, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

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 Thinking Classrooms. While the book describes routines through a mathematics lens, they have relevance in all subject areas. In the first session, we will review Dr. Liljedahl’s 14 strategies (including using vertical non-permanent surfaces, visually random groupings, and defronting the classroom) by watching videos of students doing the work and discussing the rationale

tasks with students. Finally, we will share student work (photos and/or video) produced during our Thinking Classroom routines. We will share our successes and

Coding Across the K-5 Curriculum Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Brandie Hayes and Rebecca Lugo

challenges with the routines and discuss the next steps

MONDAYS, SEP 30, OCT 28, DEC 2, JAN 6

to advance our practice.

ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Building Thinking Geometry Classrooms Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Patricia Fox and Diane Thole

How might we integrate computer science perspectives, practices, and concepts into the elementary classroom?

In this PLT, we will investigate various block-based

TUESDAYS, OCT 15, NOV 12, DEC 10, JAN 21

coding platforms, including codeSpark, code.org,

MƒA

and CS First, from the viewpoint of both students and

 MATHEMATICS

educators. We will consider how computer science can

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

be integrated into our content areas in accessible and

How might we support and expand student thinking in

for guided play and exploration through individual and

our geometry classrooms? In this PLT, we will reflect

pair programming models. We will dive into available

on our current teaching practices and consider how

resources, brainstorm content integration for our

to adapt our geometry classes to incorporate some

classrooms, and collaboratively lesson plan. By the end

of the 14 teaching practices in Dr. Peter Liljedahl’s

of this PLT, teachers will leave with the confidence to

book Building Thinking Classrooms. We will begin by

teach elementary computer science concepts and the

experiencing Dr. Liljedahl’s practices as we explore

materials and structures needed to implement their

how vertical non-permanent surfaces, visually random

lesson plans in the classroom. While this course is best

groupings, thin-slicing, and leveling to the bottom

for K-5 teachers, anyone looking for support introducing

impact student learning in geometry classrooms. Then,

or integrating entry-level computer science options into

we will work collaboratively to develop, implement, and

their content area is welcome.

engaging ways for all elementary students. Each session will focus on one platform and include opportunities

strengthen our own geometry classrooms to support students’ thinking. We will create and launch activities for our classrooms with the opportunity to reflect on our implementation in our final session. We will

Curating Student Web Portfolios Using Github Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Andrew O’Grady, Ph.D., and Luna Ramirez

share the successes and challenges of our curricular

MONDAYS, SEP 30, OCT 28, DEC 2, JAN 6

adaptations in our classrooms and plan how we can

ONLINE

further incorporate strategies to engage our geometry learners. This PLT is best for high school geometry teachers.

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

How might we use the GitHub platform to feature our students’ work online? Join us as we explore the

behind these instructional shifts. Next, we will discuss,

capabilities of GitHub as a classroom tool, from creating

collaborate, and reflect on ways to start our own

a single webpage to deploying a gallery of student work.

thinking science classrooms by creating Thinking

In session one, teachers will explore how to use GitHub

Tasks—highly engaging non-curricular tasks—in working

to organize and improve their class workflow by creating

content groups. Then, we will present our tasks, give

individual and collaborative group projects. In session

and receive feedback from peers, and implement our

two, teachers will learn how GitHub can host student

19

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) work and create online portfolios, including how to structure portfolios, provide feedback, and showcase student work. In the final session, teachers will create materials to use these new tools in the classroom. By the end of the course, teachers will confidently be able to use GitHub to enhance their teaching and engage their students in meaningful learning experiences.

Teachers should have a basic knowledge of HTML.

PBATs, presentation videos, and curated readings on

two, The Ripple Effect – The Work of Water Across

assessment theory. This course is best for Consortium

New York State Surfaces; and session three, The Sky

School teachers, but all high school teachers seeking to

is the Limit – Decoding Weather Conditions. We will

integrate PBATs into their classrooms are welcome.

review each investigation, step in and out of teacher and student roles to conduct the investigation, and

Designing Student-Led Lab Investigations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Pravesh Shiwnarain and Kevin Wright

then collaboratively create and modify scaffolds for our diverse classrooms. The final session will explore and expand on the use of these investigations in our

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, NOV 13, DEC 11, JAN 15

classrooms and the implementation of the NYSSLS this

ONLINE

year. All Regents Earth and Space science teachers are

 SCIENCE

welcome.

How might we balance teaching science content with time for students to “plan and carry out investigations?”

Designing Science PBATs for Real-World Engagement Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kara MacDevitt and Raka Spoerri

Join us in this PLT as we strengthen our knowledge and implementation of this science and engineering practice through NSTA’s Argument-Driven Inquiry (ADI)! We will open by discussing ADI and how to scaffold the process

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, NOV 14, DEC 19, JAN 16

for all learners. Then, we will work in small groups to

ONLINE

brainstorm experiments for classroom implementation.

 SCIENCE

How might we design engaging and meaningful science Performance Based Assessment Tasks (PBATs) to empower our students and connect them with the real world? In this PLT, we aim to develop PBATs that measure student achievement and cultivate authentic, real-world connections and engagement with content.

Whether you are new to PBATs or an experienced

In the second and third sessions, we will co-create and adapt experimental instructions, slideshows, kits, and rubrics to optimize student leadership. In our final session, we will present our experiments and engage in feedback cycles for further improvement and iteration.

Teachers will leave with a shared resource folder to take back to their science departments and classrooms. All high school science teachers are welcome.

expert, join us to foster a collaborative environment where we can share best practices, refine our assessment strategies, and enhance student learning outcomes. In our first session, we will examine the “why” of PBATs through readings, analyses of existing PBATs from our schools, and exploration of resources from The New York Performance Standards Consortium.

In our second and third sessions, we will split into

Digging Into the New Earth and Space Science Investigations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Mike Fernandez and Gloria Nicodemi TUESDAYS, SEP 17, SEP 24, OCT 8, OCT 22 MƒA  SCIENCE

content-based working groups to collaboratively plan an

How might we adapt and incorporate the new 2025

assessment task, including a description and supporting

Earth and Space Science Investigations into our diverse

curriculum plan. In our final session, we will share our

classrooms? Join us in conducting each investigation

work and engage in a feedback protocol. Teachers

and collaboratively developing modifications and

will have access to and are encouraged to share their

differentiation strategies. In session one, we will focus

assessment rubric templates, examples of successful

on Unearthing Mars – A Historical Perspective; session

20

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) Elevate and Co-Create: Growing a Cogen Culture in Your Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Alex Cristando and Deborah McLaughlin TUESDAYS, SEP 24, OCT 22, NOV 26, JAN 7 MƒA

Exploring Social Injustice in Middle School Mathematics p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Michelle George and Genesis Grullon

the scope and depth of the newly added topics and their

 MATHEMATICS

impacts on our current syllabi. In session three, we will

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF MIDDLE SCHOOL MATHEMATICS LESSONS TO EXPLORE, UNDERSTAND, AND RESPOND TO SOCIAL INJUSTICE

BY CONWAY IV ET AL., WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

work in course-specific small groups to build exemplary

to mathematics in our classrooms? Join us in diving

are formal conversations between teachers and a small representative sample of their students aimed at improving the classroom community through cycles of actionable feedback. These structured talks reimagine learning, foster nuanced critiques of our teaching, and challenge inherent power differentials in traditional classrooms. In session one, we will read and discuss Emdin’s work to implement cogens more effectively in our classrooms. In our remaining sessions, we will take turns sharing our experiences as we discover firsthand what works well, what falls flat, and how we can support each other. All are welcome. No previous experience with cogens is necessary, only a willingness to try and a desire to be held accountable.

deep into the book Middle School Mathematics Lessons to Explore, Understand, and Respond to Social Injustice by Conway IV et al. to look at how we can seek to explore and understand social injustice through mathematics. We will read a few book chapters before each session, look at the lessons provided for each domain of standards, and incorporate these ideas into our current (or upcoming) school year unit plans. First, we will discuss the importance of teaching mathematics for social justice and share how we build community in our classrooms. Next, we will look more closely at the components and tools needed to build a classroom centered on social justice. Then, we will explore and discuss the implementation of a lesson in our classrooms. Finally, we will create lessons or incorporate the sample lessons provided by the book into our current unit plans. This PLT is best for middle school mathematics teachers looking to build social justiceoriented classrooms.

The Four Course Problem: Revamping AP Physics Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ghada Nehmeh, Ph.D., and Mallory Womer MONDAYS, SEP 30, OCT 28, DEC 2, JAN 6 ONLINE  SCIENCE

21

collaboratively across all courses to make our language more consistent. During session two, we will focus on

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE ENCOURAGED, BUT NOT REQUIRED, TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF FOR WHITE FOLKS WHO TEACH IN THE HOOD…AND THE REST OF Y’ALL TOO

BY DR. CHRISTOPHER EMDIN, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

Rest of Y’all Too, cogenerative dialogues (or cogens)

we will review the College Board updates and work

MƒA

How might we explore social justice issues connected

book, For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood…and the

clear transitions between them. In the first session,

TUESDAYS, OCT 15, NOV 12, DEC 10, JAN 21

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Popularized by Dr. Christopher Emdin in his influential

courses, aiming to establish consistent language and

assessments reflecting the College Board’s goals of aligning essential knowledge statements, learning objectives, and the NGSS science and engineering practices. In the final session, we will share our work, give and receive feedback, and plan for our next steps.

Teachers will leave with activities, tools, resources, and course calendars that better align with the new AP requirements. This course is best for AP Physics teachers.

From Ego to Conscious Teaching Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lion Jasmin and Arah Lewis TUESDAYS, SEP 17, OCT 29, NOV 26, DEC 17 MƒA & ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + 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. WHILE WE WILL PROVIDE APPROPRIATE EXCERPTS FROM THE TEXT, TEACHERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF THE CONSCIOUS PARENT BY DR. SHEFALI TSABARY, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

How might we become more conscious teachers, better in tune with our internal selves as the uncertainties of the classroom unfold? In this PLT, we will use the book The Conscious Parent by Dr. Shefali Tsabary to help us process and improve our relationships with students.

While we may not all be parents, we all significantly impact children’s lives. Being conscious and mindful of who we are and what we feel will allow us to better support and manage our classrooms. In session one, we will name and discuss how traditional and hierarchical

How might we align our AP Physics courses to the

classroom systems haven’t worked for us or our

new College Board requirements? The 2024-2025

students. In session two, we will use The Conscious

school year will see revisions to all four AP Physics

Parent to recognize, reflect, learn, and process how we MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) accept and welcome blows to our egos as we work to dismantle a hierarchical classroom. In session three, we will move from awareness of our internal moments to exploring how to make choices from a place of consciousness. In our final session, we will learn, share, and reflect on the practical applications of being a conscious teacher. All are welcome.

and experimentation as we make Rhonda’s methods

curriculum to give all students access and entry points

a central feature of our teaching practice. This PLT is

into rigorous mathematical tasks? Join us as we unpack

appropriate for longtime Rhonda Bondie fans and those

IM lessons and tasks to support our students and their

hearing her name for the first time.

learning. In our first session, we will familiarize ourselves with accessing the curriculum and break into grade

Hitting Pause: Reflection as a Conduit for Joy Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Michael Holmes and Sjene Kendrick

methods and how they allow students to construct their mathematical knowledge. Teachers will identify short-

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, NOV 14, DEC 19, JAN 16

term goals for their chosen lessons as well as long-

ONLINE

term goals for their chosen unit. In each session, we

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How might we create opportunities to pause, celebrate

Help Me Rhonda: Implementing the Routines of Dr. Bondie for Classroom Equity p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Robin Norwich and Yvette Silver

level groups to explore entry point structures and

successes, acknowledge challenges, and figure out a plan to move forward with more joy and peace?

Join us to explore easy reflective practices that encourage fulfillment and joy in the classroom and

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, NOV 7, DEC 5, JAN 16

in our personal lives. In each session, we will discuss

MƒA

resources and protocols to guide individual and

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

collaborative reflection, provide dedicated time to work

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN COPY OF DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION MADE PRACTICAL

BY DR. RHONDA BONDIE AND AKANE ZUSHO, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM.

on self-selected goals, and help develop structures for

How might we “Bondify” our teaching practices? There’s

our first collaborative reflection topic. In the second

a reason why Dr. Rhonda Bondie’s workshops fill up in

session, we will continue to allow space for individual

minutes. Her routines inspire us, but bringing them to

reflection while focusing on aspects of classroom

life in our classrooms can be challenging. Together, we

culture, such as student agency. In the third session,

will immerse ourselves in her philosophy as we read her

we will center our reflections on student participation

Differentiated Instruction Made Practical book, conduct

and collaboration. Our last session will be based on the

action research, reflect on our practice, and encourage

needs and topics of interest gathered throughout the

one another. In our first session, teachers will acquaint

course. This PLT will give teachers at any grade level

themselves with Rhonda’s approach of using learning

dedicated time to think about what matters most to

routines as powerful tools for inclusive classrooms,

them and start making it happen.

will break into cross-grade level groups to model and analyze the various techniques and strategies enabling students of all mathematical abilities to access rigorous mathematical tasks, build their own understanding, share their ideas and thinking, and complete assessments. This PLT is best for any mathematics teacher interested in using the Illustrative Mathematics curriculum.

continued reflection. In session one, we will brainstorm our lists of goals and focus on community building as

guided by her book’s prologue. Next, we will review the highlights of chapter one and prepare ourselves to implement one or more of Rhonda’s techniques with our own students. By session three, we will have engaged in action research by trying these practices in

Illustrative Mathematics: Access to Students of All Abilities Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Benjamin Allen, Emma Haddad, and Ryan Paul

our classrooms, and we will reflect on how they helped

WEDNESDAYS, SEP 18, OCT 23, NOV 13, DEC 4

support our most vulnerable students. In our final

ONLINE

session, we will summarize chapters four and five, share

 MATHEMATICS

tips and insights, and set intentions for further reading

How might we use the Illustrative Mathematics (IM)

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) Illustrative Mathematics in Your Elementary or Middle School Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Corey Levin and Rachel Woolley TUESDAYS, OCT 1, OCT 29, DEC 3, JAN 14 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

How might we implement the Illustrative Mathematics (IM) curriculum in our K-8 classrooms to facilitate powerful mathematics work, equitable access to content, and student agency? As more elementary and middle schools adopt IM, we must face challenges regarding pacing, differentiating, and adapting new lesson structures. Together, we will explore the structures of IM, create adaptive curriculum maps, take part in lesson studies, explore how to engage students, and troubleshoot issues we face while remaining faithful to the curriculum. In our first session, we will share our hopes and fears about teaching mathematics while digging into the underlying philosophy of the IM

Interdisciplinary Infusion of the UN Sustainable Development Goals Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Gifty Asamani, Ph.D., and Deborah Reich

adjustments in our classrooms to support learning.

During each session, we will experience an IM lesson as students, plan within grade bands, and have whole group discussions on differentiation, student data, intersections of IM with Building Thinking Classrooms,

each participant would like to focus on. In our second session, we will study some practical approaches to implementing grading reforms in individual classrooms,

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, NOV 13, DEC 11, JAN 15

including the mechanics of different grading systems

MƒA

and methods of hacking traditional gradebook software.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Our third session will focus on planning implementation

How might we create interdisciplinary units using the

of a small step towards grading reform within our

seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as

classrooms. Throughout the first three sessions,

a pedagogical framework? The SDGs are a “shared

each facilitator will present a synopsis of their current

blueprint and urgent call to action by all countries, in

approach to making nontraditional grading work

global partnership, to achieve prosperity and peace

within a traditional school culture. Finally, our fourth

for people and the planet” (usaforsdgs.org). We will

session will include time for teachers to share their

begin with an introduction to the UN SDGs and

implementation experiences and get feedback from

analyze an example of incorporating one of the goals

the group. While much of our work is anchored in Joe

into a curriculum. In sessions two and three, we will

Feldman’s Grading for Equity, participation in the PLT

collaboratively create an interdisciplinary curriculum

does not require purchasing the book. We will also use

through the lens of the SDGs, give and receive feedback

resources from the Grading for Growth Blog and The

to each other on lessons, and implement our work.

Grading Podcast. This PLT is for middle and high school

Finally, we will share student work and our successes

teachers in traditional schools looking to shift their

and challenges. This course is best for any teacher

grading practices to be more mathematically accurate,

interested in infusing sustainability into their classrooms

bias-resistant, and motivational.

and encouraging students to become advocates for change.

curriculum. Then, we will look at how IM supports deep mathematical thinking and how we might want to make

inaccuracy and bias, and identify an area of grading

Making Nontraditional Grading Work in Traditional Schools Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ronnie Almonte, Marissa Maggio, and Devin Sprague

Providing Meaningful and Timely Feedback in Statistics Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kent Hansan and Mimi Ong Ante THURSDAYS, OCT 17, NOV 7, DEC 5, JAN 16 MƒA

TUESDAYS, SEP 17, OCT 29, NOV 26, DEC 17

 MATHEMATICS

MƒA & ONLINE

How might we provide meaningful and timely feedback

engagement, test prep, and understanding IM language

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

to our students in Statistics? In this PLT, we will examine

and learning routines. All elementary and middle school

+ 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.

student work and determine the feedback that will push

How might we implement grading for equity, standards-

course. During each session, at least two teachers at

based grading, or other nontraditional grading practices

different points in their Statistics teaching journey will

in schools valuing traditional practices? Join us to work

provide student artifacts exemplifying their current

together in identifying and implementing concrete

feedback practices to ground our conversations. In

improvements to our assessment, feedback, and/or

small groups, we will consider the most effective

grading systems. In our first session, we will review how

feedback for moving students forward, guided by

traditional grading practices introduce mathematical

articles about mathematics feedback. Then, we will look

teachers, both new and experienced with IM, are welcome.

23

student thinking as they progress through a Statistics

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) ahead to future units of study to target opportunities for providing meaningful feedback. Throughout the PLT, we will create tools like feedback rubrics that teachers can adapt and use in their classrooms. This PLT is for any statistics teachers, AP and non-AP, looking to develop and share systems and strategies for meaningful feedback.

your NGSS journey, join us as we align our labs with

we will debrief those lessons and discuss ways for

the new standards using the claim, evidence, and

sharing and systematizing our language protocols

reasoning (CER) framework. In the first session, we

going forward. We aim to build a reservoir of language

will discuss our experiences and comfort with the

routines to share with the MƒA community. This PLT

NYSSLS, analyze an NGSS-structured instructional

is best for Algebra I teachers working with MLLs in

sequence, and explore the CER framework. In session

Illustrative Mathematics.

two, we will collaboratively examine a sample lab to develop a CER focus question. In small groups, we will design scaffolds and extension questions, identifying access points for students to expand their skills beyond constructing explanations to engaging in argumentation from evidence. In session three, we will select a lab and modify it to include the CER framework, scaffolds, and extensions. Between sessions three and four, we

Tackling the New Regents Biology Investigations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Napoleon Knight and Marilyn Wells THURSDAYS, OCT 24, NOV 14, DEC 19, JAN 16 MƒA  SCIENCE

will implement the lab in our classrooms and collect

How might we best prepare our students for the new

student work. We will conclude the PLT with small group

NY state Biology investigations? As of fall 2024, teachers

reflection on our successes, challenges, and next steps.

must assess students’ knowledge and skills through

Teachers will leave with a collection of modified, NGSS-

a series of three new investigations. In the first three

aligned labs. This course is best for Regents chemistry

sessions, we will dive deep into these investigations: (1)

teachers.

Structure and Function: Balancing Act; (2) Inheritance and Variation of Traits: Unraveling the Mystery of Lactose Tolerance; and (3) Interdependent Relationships

Supporting Multilingual Learners in Algebra I Illustrative Mathematics p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Daniel Holstein and Juliana Ritter TUESDAYS, OCT 1, OCT 29, DEC 3, JAN 14 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

in Ecosystems: For the Birds. We will review materials, complete the investigation as students, and brainstorm modifications and possible scaffolds to support student success. In the final session, we will reflect on our work, share resources, provide feedback, and set goals for our next steps. This course is best for Regents biology teachers.

How might we better implement the Illustrative Mathematics (IM) Algebra I curriculum to equitably serve our multilingual learners (MLLs) using language

Reacting to NGSS: Chemistry Labs and CER Modifications Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lauren Leonardson and Dilruba Mannan

routines? We will begin by learning how to teach a constructivist mathematics curriculum and using our expertise to tailor language routines. We will explore

Ubuntu Pedagogy: It’s Not About You or Me, but We! p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kernita Sylvester-Mwalumogo, Ellie Williamson, and Alvis Wilson

different resources, including the IM Mathematical

TUESDAYS, OCT 1, OCT 29, DEC 3, JAN 14

THURSDAYS, SEP 19, NOV 14, DEC 5, JAN 23

Language Routines, the Center to Support Excellence

MƒA

MƒA

in Teaching at Stanford University, the NYC DOE’s

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

 SCIENCE

Division of Multilingual Learners, and Universal Design

How might we build transformative and cohesive

How might we modify our chemistry labs to incorporate

for Learning. In the following sessions, we will create,

classroom communities with Ubuntu Pedagogy? Ubuntu

the NGSS science and engineering practice of

modify, and apply language learning protocols to

pedagogy is grounded in the African philosophy of

“constructing explanations?” Wherever you are on

upcoming lessons in our classrooms. In our last session,

Ubuntu, meaning “humanity to others” in Bantu. It is a

24

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) transformative decolonial approach, emphasizing social justice, inclusion, and our shared humanity. In this PLT, we will infuse Ubuntu pedagogy into our teaching as we collectively and critically examine our practices to create learning environments that are supportive, inclusive, and empowering for all students. In our first session, we will discuss the principles of Ubuntu pedagogy and brainstorm ways to practice those principles in our classrooms. We will create surveys to help us gain insight into students’ perceptions of the classroom community before and after implementing strategies aligned with specific tenets of Ubuntu pedagogy. In

classrooms and start gathering resources. In our third

will collaborate to examine their schools’ current

and fourth sessions, we will share our experiences

mathematics programs, understand why and how they

implementing the framework in our classrooms,

were established, and identify who benefits and who

troubleshooting issues, developing materials, and

may be marginalized. This PLT will explore alternative

facilitating discussions. This PLT is for anyone interested

approaches and involve teachers: (1) describing their

in helping their students engage with current events.

current situation and identifying growth areas; (2)

We will likely discuss serious, hard, or heavy topics

defining and articulating their core values; (3) starting

throughout this course.

conversations with colleagues and seeking support from thought partners and allies; (4) developing concrete

What Should Students Learn?: Updating Your Mathematics Curriculums Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jessica Auriemmo and Pearl Ohm

changes to their schools’ programs; (5) navigating the protocols and hierarchies of stakeholders and decisionmakers; (6) creating and communicating an action plan to students and families; and (7) implementing a plan

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 9, NOV 6, DEC 4, JAN 8

to collect data and evaluate the impact of the changes.

MƒA

This PLT is best for high school mathematics teachers

 MATHEMATICS

the second and third sessions, teachers will share one

How might we reshape the traditional secondary

Ubuntu principle of interest and how they implemented

mathematics curriculum to provide new, meaningful

it into their practice. In the fourth session, we will

pathways for our students to explore the depth

discuss the implications of our work and how we can

and breadth of mathematics? In this PLT, teachers

who have agency in what and how they teach and are interested in advocating for school-level change. It is open to both new and returning teachers, as the goal is to provide support throughout the sometimes slow process of enacting change.

turn key this work within our communities. This PLT is open to all high school teachers.

What Is Happening?! Processing Current Events in Class Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Matt Baker and Kristen Brown TUESDAYS, SEP 24, OCT 22, NOV 26, JAN 7 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How might we develop guidelines and structures for classroom discussions about current events? With so much happening in the news daily, teachers need established routines to foster meaningful and academic conversations about current events and protocols that help them feel more confident in facilitating these discussions. In this PLT, we will work together to adapt a framework from Facing History. Our first session will focus on building community and experiencing the protocol as students. In our second session, we will discuss what’s needed to facilitate the process in our 25

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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.

26

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses AI Data Challenges in the Mathematics Classroom Facilitated By: Stéphane Mallat, Ph.D., and Akim Viennet WEDNESDAYS, NOV 6, NOV 13, NOV 20, JAN 15 MƒA & ONLINE  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A FOUR SESSION HYBRID MINICOURSE. SESSIONS 1, 2, AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSION 4 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

AI for All: Leveraging Machine Learning for the Leary Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Diana DePaula and Maria Giambanco TUESDAYS, NOV 12, NOV 26, DEC 10 MƒA  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

interactively explore the course overview provided by the College Board and valuable resources created by teachers. In the second session, we will delve into the four course units, share specialized topics, and discuss best practices learned from teaching other AP or non-AP courses. In the final session, we will analyze problems from the inaugural 2024 exam, discuss the

Do you spend too much time formatting lesson plans

value of students taking AP Precalculus, and showcase

or finding the right wording for worksheets? Good

all the knowledge we have gained! This mini-course is

news! With AI technology, you can delegate tasks like

best for any current or future AP Precalculus teacher.

these to a virtual assistant and free up your time to focus on creative teaching. Your AI assistant can even

Sharon Collins is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at New Heights Academy Charter School in Manhattan.

Do your students see artificial intelligence (AI) as a

complete these tasks in your voice, personalizing the

mysterious concept unrelated to mathematics? Join

content without extra effort. In fact, AI helped us write

us to learn how to integrate AI data challenges into

this description! In this mini-course, teachers will

your teaching using MathAData based on research

explore five widely available free AI tools: ChatGPT,

from the École Normale Supérieure and the Collège

Gemini, Diffit, MagicSchool, and Grammarly. We will

de France. These challenges will involve real-life

see how to use these tools to differentiate materials,

problems such as image classification, medical

TUESDAYS, OCT 1, OCT 15, OCT 29

create lesson plans and worksheets, and write emails

diagnostics, and whale song recognition. Teachers

ONLINE

and study guides. Most importantly, we will discuss the

will receive practical guidance and software tools to help implement this approach in their classrooms.

First, we will cover pedagogical sequences and provide examples of integrating AI challenges into specific mathematics units. We will demonstrate how students can manipulate data and use mathematical tools with interactive software to propose creative solutions.

Then, teachers will have the opportunity to collaborate with a mathematics teacher from France who has

ethics of AI use and how to teach ourselves and our students to use these tools responsibly and with proper acknowledgment. All are welcome, especially those hesitant about using AI in the classroom. Teachers are encouraged to bring their own electronic devices.

Diana DePaula is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Fort Hamilton High School in Brooklyn.

Maria Giambanco is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at High School of Telecommunication Arts and Technology in Brooklyn.

successfully integrated this method into their teaching.

In the final session, teachers will share their reflections and feedback from implementation. This course is best for high school mathematics teachers curious about AI.

AP Precalculus Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Sharon Collins and Dustin Shutes

Dr. Stéphane Mallat is an applied mathematician, Professor at the

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, OCT 24, NOV 14

Collège de France in Paris, and distinguished research scientist at the

ONLINE

Flatiron Institute in New York. His research and teaching focus on the mathematics of artificial intelligence, and he is dedicated to developing

 MATHEMATICS

innovative pedagogical methods for teaching high school mathematics

Will you teach AP Precalculus this year, or are you

through practical applications.

interested in learning more about this course? Join

Akim Viennet graduated from the Paris École Normale Supérieure and

us to dive deeply into AP Precalculus, a new course

worked on several teaching projects before joining MathAData. He

introduced in the 2023-2024 academic year, as we

develops educational resources in collaboration with partner teachers and academics. Thanks to his class time with students, Akim has acquired extensive hands-on experience teaching high school mathematics.

27

prepare students for other college-level mathematics and science courses. In our first session, teachers will

Dustin Shutes is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

The Big Ideas of Linear Algebra Facilitated By: Francis Su, Ph.D.

 MATHEMATICS

While linearity often hides in the world around us, it is, in fact, a fundamental mathematical concept. Linear algebra helps us to uncover these hidden structures.

With the growth of data science, its importance in the early stages of mathematics teaching and learning is increasing. In this course, we will explore an introduction to ten big ideas of linear algebra to help us better understand the subject and learn how to prepare our K-12 mathematics students to appreciate and uncover its applications and beauty. We’ll discuss linearity, practice thinking about it algebraically and geometrically, see how to keep track of linear information in a matrix, learn why matrix multiplication is defined so strangely, and discuss how it corresponds geometrically to a linear transformation. We’ll also unpack the ideas of eigenvectors and eigenvalues, which appear broadly in both classical and quantum mechanics. And finally, we’ll conclude with an introduction to the singular value decomposition, a frequently used tool to find hidden structure in data (e.g., data compression and making Netflix recommendations). All mathematics teachers are MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses welcome. The only prerequisite is a desire to learn why

Biotech 101: Restriction Analysis and Bacterial Transformation Facilitated By: Kelsie Anson, Ph.D., and MƒA Master Teacher Emily Birden TUESDAYS, SEP 24, OCT 1

algebra and geometry are so inextricably linked and a

OFFSITE

willingness to use analogies to stretch one’s ability to

 SCIENCE

visualize more than three dimensions.

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE. ALL SESSIONS WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT THE DNA LEARNING CENTER IN BROOKLYN.

Dr. Francis Su is the Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College and a former president of the Mathematical

ChatGPT: A Teacher’s Guide Facilitated By: Jeff Olson and MƒA Master Teacher Marisa Shuman TUESDAYS, SEP 17, SEP 24, OCT 1 MƒA  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Media coverage of ChatGPT, Large Language Models (LLMs), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is highly polarized, and sifting through the opinions of both evangelists

Association of America. In 2013, he received the Haimo Award, a

Are you new to genetic engineering and eager to

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

nationwide teaching prize for college mathematics faculty, and in 2018

learn how to bring it to your students in hands-on

the additional challenges of ensuring academic

he won the Halmos-Ford writing award. His work has been featured

and engaging ways? Join us in this two-session

honesty and managing changing school policies. We

in Quanta Magazine, Wired, and The New York Times. His book

mini-course as we explore two lab protocols: DNA

can’t be sure how advancements in AI will impact

Prize, has been translated into eight languages. It is an inclusive vision of

restriction analysis and bacterial transformation. In

the future of work and education, but we can make

what mathematics is, who it’s for, and why everyone should learn it.

session one, we will use restriction enzymes and gel

some sensible decisions based on the present. First,

electrophoresis to understand how DNA from different

we will dive into a LLM to understand what it is, how it

species can be combined. In session two, we’ll observe

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

an example of recombination by transforming bacteria

practice using AI tools, specifically ChatGPT, to discuss

with a gene for green fluorescent protein (GFP) found

their strengths, weaknesses, and risks as teaching or

in some jellyfish species. Throughout, we’ll discuss

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

other applications of these techniques, how to adapt

ethical considerations, from academic dishonesty to

the labs to fit the needs of different classrooms, and

the potential repercussions of AI use.

how to address common misconceptions many

Jeff Olson is a Technical Training & Onboarding Leader. Jeff has an

students hold about genetic engineering. At the end of

undergraduate degree in neuroscience and American literature from

the course, teachers will be eligible to rent classroom

Baylor University. Upon graduating in 2011, Jeff was placed as an

Mathematics for Human Flourishing, winner of the 2021 Euler Book

kits containing all the necessary tools and supplies to easily implement the labs in their own classrooms.

English teacher in Phoenix, Arizona, with Teach For America and earned his M.Ed. in secondary education from Arizona State University. In 2015, Jeff taught beginner courses in software engineering, iOS app

This course is best for life science teachers new to

development, and web design to high school students in Los Angeles

electrophoresis and transformation and interested in

and New York City. He believes learning to code is the most empowering

learning more about biotechnology basics.

Dr. Kelsie Anson is an Educator at the DNALC NYC, an operating unit of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center. Dr. Anson is formally trained as a biochemist, earning her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from

experience a high school student can have and all students deserve access to this life-changing and joyful form of fun.

Marisa Shuman is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at Young Women’s Leadership School of the Bronx.

the University of Colorado, Boulder.

Emily Birden is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at School of the Future High School in Manhattan.

A Closer Look at Cubic Equations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Arup Mukherjee and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Kent Freeman, Ph.D. THURSDAYS, OCT 17, OCT 24, NOV 7 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

Every Algebra II and Precalculus course covers solving certain types of cubic polynomial equations

28

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses using grouping, the rational roots theorem, or other factoring tricks, but what happens when these

explore ways to incorporate these coding challenges into our classrooms, develop similar challenges for our students, and adapt the questions in our guides. This

TUESDAYS, OCT 1, OCT 15, OCT 29

course is best for teachers with a basic understanding

MƒA

of at least one coding language.

methods fail? If a cubic formula analogous to the

Adam Prado is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at

quadratic formula exists, why isn’t it taught at the

Pace High School in Manhattan.

polynomials, including a review of the complex variable techniques needed for a complete understanding. We

 MATHEMATICS

Counting is a difficult topic in mathematics. In this course, we will define “counting,” discuss strategies for challenging problems we may be hesitant to teach, and

high school level? This mini-course addresses these questions by giving an overview of the theory of cubic

Counting Made Easy Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Stan Kats

Coding FUNdamentals: Introduction to Minecraft and Computer Science Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Luis Saltos

plan how to address this topic with students. We will connect important mathematical concepts to counting and provide stories and insights to help others

will explore Cardano’s Method and Viete’s Formula

TUESDAYS, OCT 1, OCT 15, OCT 29

approach counting differently. In our first session,

and visualize complex roots on a real cubic polynomial

MƒA

we will discuss the counting concepts of probability,

graph as we problem-solve and discuss these topics.

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

permutations, and combinations, and the properties of

We aim to collaborate on ways to bring these concepts

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO DOWNLOAD MINECRAFT EDUCATION ONTO THEIR DEVICES, ENSURING A HANDS-ON AND INTERACTIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE.

Pascal’s Triangle. In our second session, we will review

back to our classrooms. This course is best for Algebra II and Precalculus teachers, although teachers from all backgrounds and disciplines are welcome.

Arup Mukherjee is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Dr. Kent Freeman is an MƒA Emeritus Teacher and mathematics teacher at Bard High School Early College Queens.

Coding Challenges With Advent of Code Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Adam Prado WEDNESDAYS, DEC 4, DEC 11, DEC 18 MƒA  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Themed around elves in ridiculous situations, Advent of Code is a set of daily coding challenges for the month of December. In this course, we will collaboratively discuss and solve these challenges at multiple entry points and difficulty levels. In our first session, we will familiarize ourselves with Advent of Code and learn methods of translating data from the site into usable formats for various programming languages. We will also tackle the first few challenges and strategize for the upcoming sessions. In the second session, we will form small groups based on coding language to collaboratively create a shared document for solutions, resources, and hints. In the final session, we will

29

Dive into the world of Minecraft Education, where coding is as exciting as mining for diamonds! This mini-course will turn you into a coding hero, ready to inspire your students by gathering resources and building structures with block-based skills. Together, we will explore each of the 18 coding fundamental lessons found in Minecraft Education and learn how to apply these concepts in a survival campaign. In our first session, teachers will explore basic coding concepts like algorithms and loops. Then, we will dive into sequencing and conditionals. Finally, we will cover advanced topics like functions and lesson planning.

Throughout the course, we will engage in handson activities, collaborative discussions, and shared lesson planning, fostering a vibrant and engaging learning community. Recognizing teachers’ diverse backgrounds, we will tailor support to varying levels of prior knowledge, ensuring inclusivity throughout the learning experience. This course is best for elementary and middle school teachers. No prior coding knowledge is required. Get ready to level up your teaching game!

Luis Saltos is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at J.H.S. 189 Daniel Carter Beard in Queens.

bijections and relate common counting problems to algebra, precalculus, and calculus, allowing teachers to use known methods to solve complex problems. In our third session, we will discuss combinatorial arguments and strategies for solving the most challenging realworld problems that typically use calculus through words and storytelling. This course is best for those teaching high school combinatorics, but those with knowledge of calculus and combinatorics will also enjoy the course.

Stan Kats is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Cultivating Community: Exploring Identity and Belonging p Facilitated By: Lindsey Charles TUESDAYS, NOV 12, DEC 3, DEC 10 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How might we build a dynamic and supportive community that delves into the complexities of identity and belonging? Join us to embark on a journey of collective exploration and to deepen our understanding of how identity influences our sense of dignity, safety, and belonging within our communities.

Through storytelling, restorative circles, freedom dreaming, and collaborative exercises, we will lay the MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses groundwork to foster stronger relationships, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate a shared vision for a more inclusive and empathetic community. This course is best for teachers who support advisories or wish to cultivate deeper, more meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and community members.

Lindsey Charles is a licensed social worker and a certified health coach with over ten years of non-profit experience. A former consultant for Vision Change Win, Lindsey worked with clients on various issues, including conflict resolution, mediation, restorative practice, diversity and inclusion strategies, and physical and verbal de-escalation.

DEI in Action: Going Beyond Awareness and Acknowledgement in Mathematics p Facilitated By: Aris Winger, Ph.D. MONDAYS, SEP 23, SEP 30, OCT 7 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

Have you been to multiple talks by great diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) speakers or read many books about DEI topics? Have you made subsequent

creating more space for student voice and power, and

follow-up observations. Each session will conclude

reimagining the meaning and methods of grading.

with a Q&A and a summary of ideas and resources

By the end of this course, teachers will have created

on how to bring more food science (and flavor!) into

new equity-infused tools to uplift and empower all

our classrooms. This course is best for high school

students. All mathematics teachers are welcome.

chemistry teachers or anyone interested in integrating

Dr. Aris Winger is the Executive Director of the National Association

more food science into their teaching.

of Mathematicians and a mathematics professor at Georgia Gwinnett

Rosalie Malone is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

College. A native of Washington D.C., he graduated from Howard

Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens.

University (B.S. in Mathematics) and Carnegie Mellon University (M.S. and Ph.D. in mathematical sciences). His current areas of interest and research include equity in mathematical spaces, culturally responsive

Liz Maron is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Essex Street Academy in Manhattan.

teaching, social justice mathematics, and creating spaces where marginalized groups feel a sense of belonging in STEM. This mission has led him to co-author a book series, Advocating for Students of Color in Mathematics, and consult around the United States, working with educators and administrators at all levels. He founded and directs

Desmos Activity Builder for Beginners Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Patricia Yee and Mehmet Zubaroglu

Hybridge Academy, a non-traditional accredited school serving

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 9, OCT 23

marginalized middle and high school students in the greater Atlanta

MƒA & ONLINE

area.

Delicious Demo Derby: Chemistry Demos to Tantalize the Taste Buds Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rosalie Malone and Liz Maron

 MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION HYBRID MINI-COURSE. SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSION 2 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

Are you interested in utilizing Desmos to design interactive lessons and activities to engage and support

WEDNESDAYS, NOV 6, NOV 13

your students? Join us in this introduction to Desmos’

OFFSITE

free Activity Builder platform as we develop unique

 SCIENCE

activities and uncover how Desmos can support student autonomy and choice, foster class discussion,

classrooms. First, we will consider liberatory

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE. ALL SESSIONS WILL TAKE PLACE AT ESSEX STREET ACADEMY IN MANHATTAN AND TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO BRING THE NECESSARY MATERIALS TO SHARE A DEMO OR EXPERIMENT DURING THE COURSE.

frameworks like The Rights of the Learner Model

How can we use our universal love of food to help

(Kalinec-Craig) and Axioms of Cultivating Diversity in

slides for text responses, card sorts, multiple-choice

our students engage with chemistry concepts?

Mathematics (Ardila-Mantill). We will reexamine and

questions, and more. We will spend each session

Demonstrations focusing on food science can serve as

reinforce new classroom norms as we unpack these

designing, developing, and critiquing our Desmos

entry points or phenomena for students to investigate

frameworks. Then, we will interrogate the power of

activities. This course is open to all teachers new to

the connections between chemistry and their daily

language inside mathematics classrooms and consider

Desmos Activity Builder.

lives. In this two-session mini-course, teachers will

the implementation of the THINK framework. Finally,

share their demos (demo derby style) to illustrate

we will investigate psychological safety and power

chemistry concepts using the science of food. In

in mathematical spaces and discuss strategies for

session one, we will focus on carbonation, acids and

feedback, getting insight into students’ lives, and

bases, funky mixtures, and demos that show change

finding accountability in our power as educators.

over time, such as solubility, fermentation, and kinetics.

These frameworks will span a list of pedagogical

Then, in session two, we’ll delve into heat, chemical

reforms, including equity audits of our written words,

changes in food, stunning separations, and revisit our

new models for how we speak, reframing “help,”

“change over time” demos from the first session with

changes in your classroom? Join us to figure out what’s next. In this mini-course, we will focus on making concrete, impactful changes in our mathematics

30

and aid in sharing student work. We will use preexisting Desmos activities as a starting point to create and modify our own. We will also learn to create

Patricia Yee is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Mehmet Zubaroglu is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at International High School at Union Square in Manhattan.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses

circuits capable of launching a rocket, playing music, interacting with light, and more! Next, we will explore the Renewable Energy set and explore hand cranks,

Earth and Space Science POGIL Pursuit Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Laura Singleton and Kaitlin Smith THURSDAYS, OCT 17, OCT 24

solar panels, and a solar-powered car model. Lastly, we will dive into the design process and see how Snap Circuits can be used to build interactive games that reinforce electricity concepts and beyond. We will use

MƒA

a collection of original Desmos activities and Elenco

 SCIENCE

Manuals to guide our exploration. This course is best

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

for elementary and middle school science teachers

Do you want to transform your Earth Science classroom into a dynamic learning environment where students own their learning through collaborative inquiry? Join us to learn how to effectively implement and create Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL) activities, fostering student-centered learning, process skills, and collaborative inquiry. In session one, we will explore student roles, activity patterns, and alignment to NGSS and NYSSLS. After completing a few POGIL activities, we will discuss implementation

wanting to reinvigorate their enthusiasm for teaching electricity, magnetism, and design.

Kate Litman is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Quest to Learn in Manhattan.

Epigenetics and the Inheritance of Experience Facilitated By: Beka Stecky TUESDAYS, NOV 12, NOV 26, DEC 10 MƒA  SCIENCE

challenges, potential content knowledge gaps, and

For millennia, humans have known we inherit traits

subsequent modifications. In session two, we will

from our ancestors—perhaps our eye color, smile, or

work in teams to create our own POGIL activities or

disposition. It is only within the last two centuries that

but all curious minds are welcome.

modify existing ones. To conclude, we will share our

scientists have determined these traits are encoded in

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

completed work and debrief the overall experience.

genes, and that these genes are composed of DNA,

at Columbia University’s Zuckerman Institute. They currently study

This course is best for middle school and high school

the literal code of life. This knowledge formed the

how the brain adapts to traumatic experiences. Before starting their

Earth and Space science teachers, but all are welcome.

foundation of the genetics revolution. Today, science is

Laura Singleton is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at West End Secondary School in Manhattan.

Kaitlin Smith is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The Clinton School in Manhattan.

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

epigenetics, the study of how life experiences can lead

Beka is not doing science, you can find them biking, doing acrobatics,

to changes in gene expression. Join us in this mini-

cooking, and spending time with their chosen family.

course as we take a deep dive into the epigenetics examining current science through a historical lens.

In session two, we will explore some of the field’s

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, OCT 24, NOV 7

knowns and unknowns with a survey of current

MƒA

epigenetics research, including epigenetic inheritance,

 SCIENCE

the captivating yet contentious idea that we can inherit

Snap Circuits are durable, engaging, and addictive children’s toys, making them perfect for increasing engagement in the science classroom! First, we’ll dive into Snap Circuits kits to build simple series circuits. Then, we will quickly advance into parallel 31

Appalachian State University. Thereafter, they received their molecular

undergoing another revolution—this time in the field of

revolution. We will begin with a primer on epigenetics,

Electrify Science With Snap Circuits Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Kate Litman

doctoral work at Columbia, Beka earned their B.S. in Anthropology at

our ancestors’ experiences. In session three, we will put our science literacy to the test with an up-closeand-personal look at the controversies of this field.

This course is best for middle and high school science teachers who have a solid foundation in cell biology,

Equipping Educators With an Equity Lens on Cancer p Facilitated By: Jasmine McDonald, Ph.D., and Mary Beth Terry, Ph.D. WEDNESDAYS, JAN 8, JAN 15, JAN 22 MƒA  SCIENCE

Did you know cancer is the number one driver of premature mortality in New York City and that cancer rates differ vastly by neighborhood? Half of all genetic mutations leading to cancer are acquired before age

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses

medical students, and undergraduate students. She also serves on the Board of Scientific Counselors and the PDQ Genetics Board for the National Cancer Institute.

25, yet none guarantee a person will develop cancer.

External exposures also play a significant role, with emerging evidence suggesting exposure during young

Evaluating Scientific Claims: An Introduction to Statistics and Probability Facilitated By: Klejda Bega, Ph.D.

Exploring Insect Behavior With Dr. Charles H. Turner Facilitated By: Jay Holmes and MƒA Master Teacher Lauren Couto THURSDAYS, JAN 16, JAN 23 MƒA  SCIENCE

adulthood is a critical time when these exposures

WEDNESDAYS, SEP 18, SEP 25

can increase cancer risk. We will begin by exploring

MƒA

cancer statistics and trends across NYC communities.

 SCIENCE

For session two, we will focus on hereditary and

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

acquired genetic mutations, genetic ancestry, and

While not all students pursue careers in science,

the Next Generation Science Standards. In session

science practices to observe the natural world and

it’s important they have the skills to make informed

three, we will discuss how environmental and social

explore the investigations of Dr. Charles H. Turner, an

decisions based on scientific claims and probabilistic

determinants affect cancer risk and how to engage

extraordinary African American biologist who studied

events. This is why it is critical for them to become

youth in cancer prevention to help them become peer-

ants, bees, cockroaches, and more. In session one,

good consumers of science and understand

to-peer educators. We will approach all topics through

we’ll begin our work by observing a collection of

foundational statistics and probability. In this two

a health equity lens. Throughout, teachers will explore

insects, brainstorming questions, and pinning spotted

session mini-course, teachers will explore these

original curriculum and hands-on activities designed to

lantern fly specimens. Next, we will learn more about

concepts using examples from published scientific

encourage students to participate in their own cancer

Turner, who published nearly 70 scientific papers in his

articles and consider how to encourage students to

risk reduction—from science to personal behaviors

lifetime but whose legacy remains largely unknown.

apply statistics and probability to real-life problem-

to advocacy. This course is best for middle and high

We’ll discuss his insect investigations, how he pursued

solving. In session one, we will focus on statistics

school health and life science teachers.

his work, and the challenges he faced. In session two,

and how to critically analyze primary scientific

we’ll examine Turner through a broader “Nature of

Dr. Jasmine McDonald is an Associate Professor in the Department

sources and peer-reviewed articles. We will work

Science” lens and discuss how to incorporate his story

of Epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia

through confidence intervals, p-values, correlation

and the many others of forgotten or unrecognized

vs. causation, and random vs. systematic errors

scientists of color. Throughout, we will use Turner’s

breast cancer and breast cancer risk reduction across the lifecourse.

and discuss how these concepts are used to test a

primary source documents and our insect observations

An avid teacher and mentor, Dr. McDonald is also the Associate Co-

hypothesis. In session two, we will dive into probability,

to ground our work and help our students shape their

Director of the Cancer Research, Training, and Education Core and

beginning with how to assign probability to an event

the Co-Director of the YES Pipeline Program at the Herbert Irving

own science identities. This course is best for middle

and then building on that to explain the concepts for

and high school life science teachers, but all are

University Teaching Award for her dedication and excellence in

a series of independent events: probability A AND

welcome.

teaching, mentoring, and community engagement. In her free time, she

B, probability of A OR B, probability of A happening

enjoys gardening with her son and hanging out with their hedgehog and

at least once in N tries, and conditional probability,

bearded dragon.

Development at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)

also known as Bayes formula. Throughout, we will

where he designs and leads courses in Earth and Space Science,

Dr. Mary Beth Terry is a Professor in the Department of Epidemiology

work through various examples to demonstrate how

ecology, evolution, and the Nature of Science. He joined AMNH in 1992

at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University,

students can apply these concepts to fields such as

University. She received her Ph.D. from Harvard University in Biological Sciences in Public Health. Her research aims to explore the etiology of

Comprehensive Cancer Center. She was awarded the 2021 Columbia

where she leads the Chronic Disease Unit. She conducts research

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

Would you like to engage your students with insects and profile diverse scientists and their work? Join us in this two session mini-course as we use the NGSS

Jay Holmes is the Senior Manager of Urban Advantage (UA) Professional

as a lecturer for “Global Warming: Understanding the Forecast” and has been coordinator of the high school after school program, advisor for

addressing the etiology, prevention, distribution, natural history,

biology, medicine, and Earth Science. All science

and treatment outcomes of chronic diseases, including cancer and

teachers are welcome.

activities in the Discovery Room.

Dr. Klejda Bega has a Ph.D. in particle physics from Caltech and is

Lauren Couto is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Jonas

currently a Lecturer in Discipline at Columbia University, where she

Bronck Academy in the Bronx.

cardiovascular disease. She co-leads multi-institutional efforts in New York City to reduce health disparities in multiple chronic diseases and increase diversity in cancer clinical trials. She is the Associate Director of Population Science and Community Outreach and teaches epidemiological methods and data science to public health students,

32

the ecology club for teens, and developed and implemented hands-on

teaches Frontiers of Science, a required interdisciplinary science course that is part of the Columbia Core Curriculum.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses

How Intelligent is Artificial Intelligence?: A Neuroscience Perspective Facilitated By: Pooja Viswanathan, Ph.D. TUESDAYS, JAN 7, JAN 14, JAN 21

Fail Squad: Professional Mistakes Welcome!

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Keeshia Lambert, Yishan Lee, and Cathy Xiong

ONLINE  SCIENCE

TUESDAYS, JAN 7, JAN 14, JAN 21

Have you ever wondered, “Is AI smarter than me?”

ONLINE

Do Google’s Gemini or Anthropic’s Claude think and

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

When was the last time you sat through a workshop about ineffective practices or strategies? That’s what Fail Squad is all about! In this mini-course, we aim to normalize failures in the workplace to establish a sustainable culture of growth, empathy, and resilience.

Together, we will embark on a transformative journey as we learn to embrace our mistakes as stepping stones for improvement and innovation. Join us to discuss our professional failures without fear of judgment and to turn our ‘oops’ moments into opportunities! We will start with a pulse check on our current attitudes toward workplace failure and establish the importance of normalizing failures. Then, we will reflect on the personal changes we want to make when navigating our failings. In our second session, we will explore exercises for sharing failure, analyze common educator scenarios, identify patterns of struggle, and uncover potential for personal and professional growth. We will conclude by celebrating our transformations and brainstorming how to bring this culture of embracing failure to our school communities. All teachers are welcome.

Keeshia Lambert is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Science and Technology Academy: A Mott Hall School in the Bronx.

Yishan Lee is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at P.S. 219 Paul Klapper in Queens.

Cathy Xiong is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Robert F. Wagner, Jr. Secondary School for Arts and Technology in Queens.

learn like we do? An increasing number of artificial intelligence (AI) systems claim near-human intelligence with performance on many tasks matching average human performance. Large language models such as ChatGPT, which use natural language to communicate with us, can pass the Turing test and even appear human in those conversations. In this rapidly evolving AI world, how do we evaluate the intelligence and abilities of new AI? Can we develop a deeper understanding of human intelligence and abilities through understanding AI? Join us in this minicourse as we use a neuroscience-guided approach to understand what differentiates human intelligence from AI. In session one, we will compare AI and human performance in the industry’s leading benchmark tests for intelligence and ability, discuss the validity of those benchmarks, and interpret the results of those tests.

How to Create a Brain: Neurodevelopment, Stem Cells, and Brain Organoids Facilitated By: Thiago Arzua, Ph.D.

In session two, we will explore how machines learn

TUESDAYS, SEP 17, OCT 1, OCT 15

and compare machine learning with the diversity of

MƒA

biological learning. We will conclude in session three

 SCIENCE

by predicting a future for AI and consider the lessons

Scientists estimate the human brain has between

we can learn from the limitations and strengths of

80-100 million cells, all originating from a single stem

machine learning. This course is best for high school

cell. During the nine months of gestation, over three

science teachers but is open to anyone interested in

thousand cells are created every second, migrate to the

learning more about AI. No programming experience is

right location, and form connections to neighboring

required.

cells. Join us to learn more about the amazing and

Dr. Pooja Viswanathan is a neuroscience researcher and a Junior Fellow

intricate process of human brain formation, how

at the Simons Society of Fellows. She holds a Ph.D. and M.Sc. from the

scientists observe and study it, and what happens

University of Tuebingen, Germany. She studies intelligent behavior and

when things go wrong. We’ll begin by discussing

the brain areas that support abstract knowledge in primates.

current studies in neurodevelopment and examining the complex process behind creating a human brain.

Then, in session two, we will dive into the world of stem cells and brain organoids—3D models that mimic the structure and function of a human fetal brain.

33

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses

and increase accessibility for all students. Mathematics

membership to these communities as a privilege rather than a burden.

teachers at all levels are welcome; no prior knowledge

Liliana received her master’s in social work from Silberman School of

or work with equity is required.

Finally, in session three, we will critically analyze where this research sits within our society and the broader scientific community, untangling its implications and applications. This course is best for middle and high school life science teachers. Additional knowledge of psychology, neuroscience, and chemistry is helpful, but not required.

Dr. Thiago Arzua is a postdoctoral scientist at Columbia University’s Zuckerman Institute. He studies the neurodevelopmental aspects of how traumatic experiences get passed down through multiple

Larisa Bukalov and Bobson Wong are MƒA Master Teachers and mathematics teachers at Bayside High School in Queens.

Intersectional Identities and Neurodivergence in Inclusive Classrooms p Facilitated By: Liliana Valvano and MƒA Master Teacher Danielle Belizaire, Ph.D. WEDNESDAYS, SEP 18, SEP 25, OCT 9 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

generations. He completed his Ph.D. in neuroscience at the Medical

Neurodivergent teenagers need age-appropriate

College of Wisconsin, where he used human stem-cell derived brain

support to ensure a positive learning experience

organoids as models for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Outside of the lab, Dr. Arzua fights for diversity and equity within science as a

in schools. This course aims to address this need

co-founder of Black In Neuro, as well as a policy ambassador for the

from an intersectional lens and provide practical

Society for Neuroscience. In his rare free time, he trains for triathlons,

strategies teachers can implement to support student

recently completing the 2021 Ironman Wisconsin.

progress. We will focus on ASD, ADHD, and other forms of neurodivergence, recognizing that traits and

Incorporating Equity Tasks Into Everyday Mathematics Instruction p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Larisa Bukalov and Bobson Wong WEDNESDAYS, NOV 6, NOV 13, NOV 20 ONLINE  MATHEMATICS

Mathematics teachers face several challenges in making instruction more equitable. Many students feel anxious about mathematics, and curricula often focus on abstract skills that are irrelevant to students’ lives. In this mini-course, we will start by defining equity as it relates to mathematics and identifying its different components. We will also discuss improving our everyday instruction by incorporating equity tasks—short activities, like homework or warm-up

characteristics often overlap. We will also discuss how intersecting identities, such as race, ethnicity, culture, class, gender, and LGBTQIA+ play a role in understanding and supporting neurodivergent students. In each session, teachers will read research and articles about a specific form of neurodivergence and explore strategies that can be adapted for our classroom environments. Additionally, we will consider the impact of puberty on neurodivergent youth, as social dynamics intensify and they mature differently than their peers. Whether we know it or not, neurodivergent students are likely part of our classrooms. This course is for teachers of all subjects and grades.

faculty position at Columbia University, and a research position at Hunter College. Her research focuses on developing mental health

will learn how to use existing resources, like the

interventions geared toward autistic adults and better understanding

our tasks and discuss how to reflect on our practice 34

George Washington Carver High School for the Sciences in Queens.

Introduction to Boolean Algebra and Circuit Optimization Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Shaina Doherty and Jeff Reeder WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, OCT 23, OCT 30 ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Did you know that 1 + 1 = 1? Well, not always, but it’s true in the world of Boolean algebra! Boolean algebra is the mathematical basis for modern computing and has fascinating connections to logic. In this course, we will explore Boolean algebra and its implications in circuit modeling. This interactive mini-course will start with the basics, such as defining operators and how to create Boolean functions that describe how a simple design should work. We will then turn those functions into visual circuit designs and learn how to verify our results. Finally, we will use our knowledge to explore one of the fundamental applications of Boolean algebra: circuit optimization! With the help of CircuitVerse, an online circuit simulator, we can bring our circuits to life. Throughout the course, we will also examine the interplay between logic and Boolean algebra as it applies to everyday life. The course requires no prior knowledge and is accessible to all.

Shaina Doherty is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Jeff Reeder is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at NYC iSchool in Manhattan.

in neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ identities. Presently, she holds a

justice, four student goals relating to equity. Teachers

use equity tasks. Then we will use a rubric to evaluate

Dr. Danielle Belizaire is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

Liliana Valvano (she/her) is a researcher and therapist specializing

assignments, based on rigor, identity, diversity, and

Illustrative Mathematics curriculum, to make ready-to-

Social Work. She received her B.A. in Ethnic Studies from UC San Diego.

autistic lived experiences through qualitative interviewing. In her clinical work, she works with clients utilizing a social model of disability to deconstruct stigma and build meaningful lives. She has worked extensively within the LGBTQIA+ and disability communities, and views

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses Introduction to CAD and 3D Modeling With STEM Career Explorations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Joseph Buro, Kaitlin Geraghty, and Sandra Rossi THURSDAYS, OCT 17, OCT 24, NOV 7 MƒA  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Ready for a guided, hands-on introductory immersion into 3D computer-aided design (CAD) modeling? Using CAD as a tool allows teachers to go beyond textbook learning. Join us to learn how to create virtual and physical models to help students visualize various concepts, including mathematical transformations and representations in geometry, molecular modeling in chemistry, and buoyancy in physics. First, we’ll

and justice, paving the way for transformative change?

learn the basics of CAD. Then, we will work in subject

The Kids Are Ready is designed to empower students

teams to brainstorm models. Finally, we’ll create and

to recognize and challenge social inequalities, cultivate

share our designs. Driving force topics will include

a sense of empathy and solidarity with others, and

TUESDAYS, NOV 12, NOV 26, DEC 10

the mathematics of architecture and biomedical,

equip them with the tools and confidence to advocate

MƒA

mechanical, and civil engineering. Teachers will leave

for change in their communities. In this course, we will

with the ability to develop working CAD models to use

delve into the foundational principles and applications

Do you teach a technology class and want to see

with 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC routers. This

of The Kids Are Ready program, understand the

what the new LEGO SPIKE kits are capable of? In

course is open to all teachers, not only CAD users!

theoretical underpinnings of play in social justice

this mini-course, we will build a fully functioning

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

education, and receive support to implement hands-

robot to accomplish simple tasks and react to its

Staten Island Technical High School in Staten Island.

on activities to create cultures of empathy, equity,

environment. First, teachers will learn to program the

Kaitlin Geraghty is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

and social responsibility within our classrooms. Our

robot to interact with its sensors using block-based

Staten Island Technical High School in Staten Island.

work will draw inspiration from Why Play Works by Jill

code with extensions in Python. Then, teachers will

Sandra Rossi is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

Vialet, Rethinking Schools by Susan Wise Bauer, and

build a robot and test their programming so their

Bayside High School in Queens.

Pedagogy of the Oppressed by Paulo Freire. All are

robots can move and sense their environment. Finally,

welcome.

teachers will tackle classic robot problems like wall

Simone Gamble is a community organizer from the Bronx. They earned

and line following. This course requires no prior

their undergraduate and graduate degrees from Hunter College and the

knowledge of building with LEGO pieces or block-

Silberman School of Social Work with a focus on secondary education,

based programming and is open to teachers of any

history, social work, and community organizing. They are also a

content or grade level. Join us to unwind by building

The Kids Are Ready: Teaching Social Justice Through Play p Facilitated By: Simone Gamble TUESDAYS, NOV 26, DEC 3, DEC 10 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How can we harness the power of play to ignite meaningful student conversations about social identity

35

consultant, leading workshops with nonprofits, schools, as well as after

LEGO SPIKE: Building and Programming LEGO Robots Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Richard Sullivan

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

school programs about creating safer spaces for people of color with an

and programming LEGO robots!

intersectional, anti-oppressive lens. They are the founder of OAAARS,

Richard Sullivan is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science

a BIPOC consultancy offering social justice centered training to create

teacher at New Explorations into Science, Technology and Math High

safe(r) and equitable workplaces to cultivate agents of change in the

School in Manhattan.

workplace and beyond.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses

toolbox of strategies to tackle problems. Mathematics

students. Throughout, we will reflect on our work,

routines allow more time to grapple with tasks

examine student artifacts, and collaborate to improve

and more opportunities for student growth and

our activities for future use. Any mathematics teacher

independence. In this mini-course, we will explore

interested in outdoor education and field-based

several mathematical routines based on the book

instruction is welcome.

Routines for Reasoning by Kelemanik, Lucenta, and

Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics

Creighton. In each session, teachers will focus on

teacher at Young Women’s Leadership School in Manhattan.

TUESDAYS, OCT 1, OCT 15, OCT 29

one to two mathematics routines they can implement

Andrea Kung is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

MƒA

daily in their classrooms. Teachers will deepen their

Urban Academy Laboratory High School in Manhattan.

Making Sense of the Unsolvable: Methods in Numerical Analysis Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ken Chung and Ben Morgenroth

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Analytical solutions are challenging to find in many naturally arising problems for physicists, biologists, chemists, and other scientists, particularly with differential equations. Numerical Analysis, a field of study within applied mathematics and computer science, addresses solving continuous problems using numeric approximation. In this course, teachers will use computer science and mathematics to find analytic solutions to complex problems. First, we will focus on root-finding methods such as bisection, regula falsi, Newton’s method, secant method, and fixed point iteration. Then, we will explore strategies for numerical integration and differential equations, including Taylor series, slope fields, forward and backward Euler, improved Euler, and Runge-Kutta. We will also investigate how graphing calculators find the roots of functions. Teachers must have a working knowledge of any computer programming language to write various iterative loops comfortably.

Ken Chung is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

understanding of how to plan and facilitate routines to support students in (1) sense-making, (2) making connections between past, present, and future grade-level content, (3) affirming their identity as mathematicians, (4) increasing equity of voice, and (5) leveraging their strengths. Finally, teachers will connect and adapt the routines to their current curriculum and reflect on implementation for future improvement.

Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

WEDNESDAYS, NOV 6, NOV 13, NOV 20, DEC 4 MONDAY, DEC 9 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

All mathematics teachers aiming to better support all

This mini-course is for Master Teachers selected to

students are welcome.

speak at this year’s Master Teachers on Teaching

Quratul Waqas is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

(MT²) event on Thursday, December 12, 2024. We will

I.S. 230 in Queens.

create a warm and supportive space for you and your

Cathy Zhu is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at M.S.

story to flourish, using protocols to develop, hone,

255 Salk School of Science in Manhattan.

and practice, practice, practice your presentations.

Please see the MT² Thursday Think listing for more

Math Trails: Exploring Mathematics in the Real World Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj and Andrea Kung

information on the event and propose your talk ideas here!

Courtney Ferrell is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at New Design High School in Manhattan.

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, OCT 23, OCT 30

Jude Julien is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Virtual

MƒA

Innovators Academy in the Bronx.

 MATHEMATICS

Molly Shabica is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Fannie

How might we use math trails and field-based

Lou Hamer Freedom High School in the Bronx.

Academy for Conservation and the Environment in Brooklyn.

Ben Morgenroth is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

Preparing for Master Teachers on Teaching (MT²) Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Courtney Ferrell, Jude Julien, and Molly Shabica

education to explore mathematics in our environment?

Join us in this mini-course to focus on how we can

Mathematics Routines for Reasoning Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Quratul Waqas and Cathy Zhu WEDNESDAYS, DEC 4, DEC 11, DEC 18 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

Students well-versed in instructional routines have a

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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. In our first session, we will practice a math trail at Madison Park.

In subsequent sessions, we will create our own trails, modify existing ones, or plan field trip trails for our MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses

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

Dr. Elisa Margarita is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

experienced the gate-keeping effects of algebra.

Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Joshua Wickline is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Talent

Rethinking Disability and Mathematics: Connecting Theory to Practice p Facilitated By: Kara Imm, Ph.D. TUESDAYS, OCT 15, OCT 29, NOV 12, NOV 26 MƒA  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A FOUR SESSION MINI-COURSE. TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE AND READ THEIR OWN COPY OF RETHINKING DISABILITY AND MATHEMATICS: A UDL MATH CLASSROOM GUIDE FOR GRADES K - 8 BY RACHEL LAMBERT, WHICH CAN BE REIMBURSED THROUGH THE MƒA FLEX FUNDS PROGRAM, PRIOR TO THE START OF THE COURSE.

Schoolyard Scientists: Teaching Climate Change Through Citizen Science Facilitated By: Katharine Hinkle and MƒA Master Teachers Elisa Margarita, D.C., and Joshua Wickline WEDNESDAYS, SEP 18, SEP 25, OCT 9 MƒA  SCIENCE

is imperative for every science educator and can begin

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

in any urban ecosystem, including a schoolyard or local park. Through the Buds, Leaves, and Global Warming

and mathematics using a design thinking perspective

teachers will explore tools to engage their students in

connecting theory to practice? In this course, we will

authentic science practices by observing the impacts

draw upon Rachel Lambert’s new work, Rethinking

of climate change over the course of a school year. In

Disability and Mathematics: A UDL Math Classroom

session one, we’ll explore the science of phenology

Guide for Grades K - 8, to examine and interrogate

and how teaching seasonal change outdoors can

some widely held beliefs and practices about

provide access, initiative, and empowerment for all

mathematics, learning, disability, and neurodiversity.

learners. We will also share how the Buds, Leaves,

Together, we will use Kara and Rachel’s shared

and Global Warming project was implemented locally

research collaboration as a springboard to: (1) move

in Brooklyn. In session two, we’ll head outside to a

past the binary of explicit instruction and inquiry; (2)

nearby park and collect data using tools and protocols

design instructional sequences to support fluency

from the project. In our final session, we’ll dive into

and strategic sense-making; and (3) challenge ableist

data literacy and discuss how to use the publicly

systems, structures, and practices through user-

available Harvard Forest Schoolyard Ecology database,

centered design. Between each session, we will engage

comparing tree data from urban and rural schoolyards

with excerpts from the book and explore short design

across the northeast. Throughout, we’ll explore

assignments to enact with students. Though all are

curricular connections and extension activities to plan

welcome, this course is best for elementary and middle

a seasonal change study with our own students. This

school teachers.

course is best for science teachers of grades 4-12.

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 College of Education. Her recent Ph.D. in Urban Education from The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, investigated the

37

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 30, NOV 13, JAN 8 MƒA & ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

community science project from Harvard Forest,

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

The Secret Sauce of the Socratic Seminar Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lucas Munno and Freida Zavurov

Raising the next generation of climate change activists

How can we challenge our thinking about disability

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

Unlimited High School in Manhattan.

Would you like to incorporate ethics discussions and debate into your STEM classroom? In this course, we will explore how socratic seminars centered on ethics can increase student engagement in the classroom.

In the first session, we will watch a recorded socratic seminar and discuss logistics, examples, rubrics, and guidelines to support implementation. In session two, we will engage in a seminar on gene therapy. Then, in content-area small groups, we will choose topics from our own curricula to create a socratic seminar activity. Between sessions two and three, teachers will be invited to implement the socratic seminars in their own classrooms. In our final session, we will share our implementation experiences and set goals for continued work. Teachers will leave with a resource folder of ethics-based socratic seminars. This course is best for any middle or high school teacher.

Lucas Munno and Frieda Zavurov are MƒA Master Teachers and science teachers at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens.

Katharine Hinkle is the Schoolyard Ecology Program coordinator who works closely with educators and their students around the Northeast helping them implement Harvard Forest’s three K-12 Community Science projects. She came to Harvard Forest with 15 years of Earth and Environmental Science classroom teaching in a Title I public school in Massachusetts. She has also worked as a project basedlearning consultant and curriculum coach. Before becoming a teacher, Katharine studied Geology and Geophysics at Mount Holyoke College (BA) and Brown University (MS), where she had the opportunity to study thixotropic fluids on fault surfaces and to explore the paleoenvironments of the desert Southwest.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses

P.S. 321 William Penn in Brooklyn.

Dawoun Jyung is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School in Queens.

Shifting Instructional Practice to Create AntiRacist STEM Classrooms p Facilitated By: Mary Leer, Ph.D., and MƒA Master Teachers Dionne Beckford and Dawoun Jyung TUESDAYS, DEC 17, JAN 7, JAN 14, JAN 21 MƒA & ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A FOUR SESSION HYBRID MINICOURSE. SESSIONS 1 AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 2 AND 4 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

How might we critically incorporate anti-racist practices into our mathematics and science classrooms? Developing an anti-racist stance takes vigilance and collaboration, especially given how STEM education acts as a gatekeeper for students of color.

This mini-course provides a reflective and courageous space for educators to examine the actions and beliefs driving daily instructional and curricular decisions. We will begin by unpacking the idea of anti-racist teaching as we share and analyze our classroom routines.

These discussions will then help us uncover implicit and explicit biases that stymie even the best intentions to transform instructional practice. The goal is for every teacher to leave with actionable steps and tools to start shifting their instructional practices towards anti-racism, dismantling common practices that block access and equity. This course is best for those seeking a lifelong journey toward becoming anti-racist educators.

Dr. Mary Leer of Visualizing Education, Reframing Achievement Consulting, LLC, is an adjunct advisor to graduate students in the

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, OCT 24, NOV 7

Stained Glass Creations: Advanced Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Emmett DiPadova, Jackie Rivas, and Scott Wassmuth THURSDAYS, NOV 7, DEC 5 SATURDAY, DEC 7 OFFSITE & ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A HYBRID COURSE. SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY. SESSIONS 2 AND 3 WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT THE MUSEUM SCHOOL. SESSION 3 WILL OCCUR ON A SATURDAY FROM 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN MATERIALS.

of numbers, symbols, and spatial concepts in our classrooms? This course will focus on the collaborative design cycle of planning and sharing diagram-centered mini-lessons to strengthen student conceptual understanding. We will design guiding questions to make diagram-based tasks accessible to all students and maximize opportunities for

learned in Stained Glass Creations: Beginner to make a

will explore the characteristics and functions of

more elaborate piece? Join us to do a deeper dive into

different diagram types to strengthen our students’

stained glass mechanics and discuss how to share your

mathematical doing, thinking, and reasoning. Teachers

creations and learnings with students. We will explore

will test these lessons in their classrooms, document

the history and different genres of stained glass, the optics behind glass color and luster, the geometry behind various pieces, the physics involved with cutting and breaking stained glass, and the chemistry associated with how materials melt at different temperatures under different conditions. In our first session, teachers will plan their own designs, choose and order glass online, and explore connections to STEM. In the following sessions, we will cut, grind, and foil our glass before soldering them together to create our own unique stained glass pieces. As we complete each step, we will learn the science and mathematics behind it. This course is open only to those who have participated in a Stained Glass Creations: Beginner MƒAdventure.

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

practice began 30 years ago through a seminal project (Math3, U

and Design High School in Manhattan.

cognitive demand and student learning. These ideas continue to

How can we develop students’ understanding

them to share and discuss mathematical ideas. We

School of Education. Her passion for math education and anti-racist

student-teacher interactions (accountable talk©) maintain or decrease

MƒA  MATHEMATICS

Are you interested in further developing the skills you

Leadership in Mathematics Education program at Bank Street Graduate

Pittsburgh) that engaged teachers in thinking critically about how

Strengthening Number Sense and Spatial Sense: Diagram-Centered Mini-Lessons Facilitated By: Betina Zolkower, Ph.D.

Jackie Rivas is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at M.S. 255 Salk School of Science in Manhattan.

support her collaborative work with educators striving to co-create an

Scott Wassmuth is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at N.Y.C.

anti-racist math environment that is not an opaque gatekeeper, but a

Museum School in Manhattan.

transparent game-changer for students of color.

Dionne Beckford is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses

Survey Says! Social Science for Teachers Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Max Chomet TUESDAYS, JAN 7, JAN 14, JAN 21

their effectiveness, and work together to make improvements. This course is best for middle school and Algebra I teachers.

MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

two sessions, we will meet at the New York Botanical Garden and Bronx Park to collect data on water quality, carbon tree sequestration, and lantern fly populations.

In session three, we will meet remotely to discuss the data we collected, classroom applications, grant opportunities, and other locations where students

Have you ever given your students a survey, looked at

Dr. Betina Zolkower is an Associate Professor of Mathematics Education

can conduct field research in their communities.

the data, and thought, “Now what?” In this mini-course,

in the Secondary Education Department at Brooklyn College.

Teachers will leave with a list of programs for student

teachers will learn how to thoughtfully apply social

research opportunities and internships across NYC.

science techniques to make actionable inferences from

This course is best for middle and high school science

student-generated responses. In considering how to

teachers, especially those looking to expand research

survey their students, teachers will discuss what types

opportunities for their students.

Supersonic Hydroponics: How to Bring Gardening to Your Science Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Melissa Redden and Rebecca Webb WEDNESDAYS, NOV 6, NOV 20 MƒA & OFFSITE  SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE. SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE AT MƒA. SESSION 2 WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT SCHOLARS ACADEMY IN QUEENS.

of data are useful for a particular question and consider biases from both the teacher constructing the survey and the students generating the responses. In the first session, we will learn the basics of questionnaire

Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Young Women’s Leadership School in Manhattan.

Andrew Mittiga is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Young Women’s Leadership School in Manhattan.

construction and evaluate various student surveys, culminating in a research plan for our own classrooms.

In the second session, we will practice the basics

Teaching Fluids in AP Physics 1 Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Joshua Ilany and Alex Seoh

Hydroponics is quickly becoming one of the most

of quantitative analysis, including the coding and

engaging and relevant ways to bring outdoor

weighting of data. In the final session, we will present

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, OCT 23, OCT 30

education and science inquiry into the classroom.

the results of our surveys and reflect in order to make

MƒA

Join us as we explore a variety of classroom-friendly

our practice more culturally responsive. The course is

 SCIENCE

hydroponic systems and accompanying curricula to

best for any teacher wanting to survey their students

engage and inspire our students. In session one, we

and analyze the data to improve their practice.

will introduce hydroponics, discuss different systems

Max Chomet is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The Bronx

and how they work, set up a hydroponic Kratky system,

High School of Science in the Bronx.

grow microgreens, and explore hydroponic-centered lesson plans and resources. In session two, teachers will visit the hydroponic farm at Scholars Academy to plant and harvest produce as well as enjoy a farm fresh salad made from the farm’s crops. We will also

Take Me Out to the Field!: Research Opportunities In and Out of the Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj and Andrew Mittiga

share resources from the school’s partner organization,

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, OCT 24, NOV 7

Teens for Food Justice, a youth-led movement to end

OFFSITE & ONLINE

hunger and food insecurity. All teachers will leave

 SCIENCE

with a shopping list to continue the work in their own

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A HYBRID MINI-COURSE. SESSIONS 1 AND 2 WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT NYBG AND BRONX PARK. SESSION 3 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

classrooms. This course will be most beneficial to middle school life science teachers but all gardeners are welcome!

Would you like to take your students out into the field to engage with local ecosystems, conduct research,

Melissa Redden and Rebecca Webb are MƒA Master Teachers and

and help forge career paths in science? Join as we

science teachers at Scholars’ Academy in Queens.

explore how to bring field research to students as we

Are you seeking more effective ways to teach fluid mechanics in AP Physics 1 or simply looking for a content refresher? Look no further! In our first session, we will delve into the intricacies of fluid mechanics within the context of the AP Physics 1 curriculum.

The second session will provide hands-on practice with fluid mechanics problems from past AP Physics 2 exams, offering valuable insights into student expectations. Finally, our last session will feature engaging demos and lab activities. This course is best for AP Physics 1 teachers seeking to refresh their knowledge or gain new insights into fluid mechanics.

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

Alex Seoh is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Bard High School Early College in Manhattan.

dive into conducting our own field research! In our first 39

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses Unpacking and Cracking Gerrymandering With Students Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Kate Belin and Courtney Ferrell THURSDAYS, SEP 19, OCT 24 MƒA  MATHEMATICS + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE.

An election year is the perfect opportunity to teach the mathematics of gerrymandering! Join us to engage in five student activities to model how gerrymandering can be taught in the classroom. We will play the boardgame “MapMaker,” complete “HalloweenTown” to explore the artisan split and efficiency gap, learn and compute compactness metrics, draw compact, proportional, and gerrymandered maps while computing their metrics and defending these maps, and, finally, explore cases of gerrymandering in the real world. This course is best for mathematics teachers wanting to implement these lessons or for anyone interested in the process of how we draw and justify

concepts and experimental methods structural

high school life science and physics teachers, but all

our congressional maps.

biologists use to understand “molecular machines”—

teachers are welcome.

the dynamic biological complexes that orchestrate

The New York Structural Biology Center (NYSBC) was founded in 1999

essential functions within cells. Each session will focus

by a consortium of nine eminent academic research institutions in

on the uses of a different molecular visualization

New York. NYSBC is a not-for-profit providing advanced resources in

Kate Belin is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Fannie Lou Hamer Freedom High School in the Bronx.

Courtney Ferrell is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at New Design High School in Manhattan.

tool: NMR spectroscopy, x-ray crystallography, and cryo-electron microscopy. In session one, we

Unveiling Molecular Mysteries: A Journey Into Structural Biology Facilitated By: New York Structural Biology Center (NYSBC) Scientists and Staff

structural biology to its members and outside users through national facilities funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Simons Foundation. NYSBC makes advanced structural biology techniques

will delve into nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)

accessible to biomedical researchers informing efforts to improve

spectroscopy and its use in studying the dynamics and

human health and welfare.

interactions of biological macromolecules. Then, in session two, we’ll discuss how X-ray crystallography

Upcycled Textile Arts: Mindful Consumption, Community, and Belonging Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Marisa Miller and Dwaina Sookhoo

TUESDAYS, OCT 15, OCT 22, OCT 29

is used to understand structures at an atomic level.

OFFSITE

We will conclude in session three by learning how

 SCIENCE

cryo-electron microscopy helps scientists visualize

+ PLEASE NOTE: ALL SESSIONS WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT THE NEW YORK STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY CENTER IN HARLEM.

molecular machines. Throughout, teachers will gain

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 9, OCT 23, NOV 6

valuable insights into these advanced techniques and

MƒA

Would you like to dive into the fascinating world of

engage firsthand with state-of-the-art equipment.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

structural biology? Join us at the New York Structural

We will also discuss how to lead student field trips to

Get ready to turn everyday materials into unique

Biology Center (NYSBC) to explore the fundamental

NYSBC in the spring. This course is best for middle and

creations! Join us as we dive into sustainable textile

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Mini-Courses crafts, focusing on string, fabric, and paper while learning the art of repurposing items into new materials. Our goal is to help teachers develop textile and design skills that can be used as mindfulness activities in the classroom, offering students time for focus breaks, especially helpful for those with ADHD and Autism. In the first session, we will introduce upcycling techniques to reduce resource consumption and foster creativity. In the second session, we’ll transform old clothing into yarn, weave linens into decor, and create handmade cards and collage art from recycled paper. In the final session, teachers will showcase their projects and discuss how to apply these skills in the classroom to enhance student engagement and build a sense of community. Teachers will leave with tangible projects to inspire mindfulness practices among their students. Bring your curiosity and materials to upcycle—no prior experience is necessary.

Marisa Miller is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Forest Hills High School in Queens.

Dwaina Sookhoo is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at N.Y.C. Lab School for Collaborative Studies in Manhattan.

construct simple cardboard looms and learn basic

cognitive function before building strategies to lower

vocabulary while weaving a small simple textile. Next,

the threat of stereotypes when we deliver feedback

we will explore computational fluency, multiplication,

to students. We will also consider other methods

and division in weaving as we build a canvas frame

to develop positive and affirming teacher-student

loom and plan patterns for a second weaving. Then,

relationships. This course is best for teachers of all

teachers will incorporate recycled materials, texture,

grades and subjects who want to give better feedback

and sustainability into their weaving and consider

to students, especially those with marginalized

opportunities for their students to interact with

identities.

mathematics through weaving. Finally, teachers will

Dr. Chapman is CEO of Chap Equity Inc., an organization rooted in

explore tessellation and pattern making through paper

collaboration, research, and dialogue. She is also the Social Identity

weaving and graph paper connections. This course is

Development Lead for the Great First Eight curriculum project at Stand

best for K-8 teachers and no prerequisite knowledge is needed.

for Children, where she translates concepts on identity into interactive workshops, and enjoys collaborating on writing projects. She is the co-author of: Bias Starts Early. Let’s Start Now: Developing an Anti-

Grace Chang is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

Racist, Anti-Bias Book Collection for Infants and Toddlers, in The Reader

Neighborhood School in Manhattan.

Teacher (Dec. 2022); Black Girl on the Playground (Teaching Beautiful

Jessica Smith is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Earth School in Manhattan.

Brilliant Black Girls, Corwin Press, 2021), & Turning Thinking into Action: The Power of Equity-based Pedagogical Frameworks to Support Practice for What School Could Be (Feb 2024).

Wise Feedback Across Identities: Strategies for Communicating With All Students p Facilitated By: Sandra Chapman, Ed.D. TUESDAYS, JAN 7, JAN 14 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MINI-COURSE.

How can we communicate more effectively with

Weaving a Pathway to Mathematical Engagement Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Grace Chang and Jessica Smith

students with different identities than our own?

Feedback is crucial for students to be seen and understood in a classroom. And yet, feedback and

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, OCT 30, NOV 13, NOV 20

communication can become challenging when we

MƒA

don’t consider students’ identities and when faced

 MATHEMATICS

with barriers such as intergroup anxiety—anxiety about

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

communication between people of different social,

Weaving is a fun visual way to engage a diverse student population in a variety of mathematical concepts. In this course, we will build a collection of images and stories of weaving from our lives and gain hands-on experience with building looms and weaving to bring into our classrooms. In our first session, teachers will look at examples of weavings and share noticings about numbers, colors, shapes, and patterns. We will

41

racial, and cultural groups—or stereotype threat—fears of being misunderstood and stereotyped. This course will explore the Wise Feedback approach, an evidencebased model for providing constructive feedback that builds students’ academic mindset, trust, and positive identity. In the first session, we will explore the concept of intergroup anxiety and develop interventions to interrupt this phenomenon. In session two, we will understand the connection between stereotypes and MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Extended Length Courses

Extended Length Course 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.

42

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Extended Length Courses

robust classroom conversations on deep mathematical ideas and optimize formative assessment. In our first session, we will introduce the resources and choose a formative assessment lesson (FAL) and video case to

TRUly Teach To The TRU Framework Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Alex Cristando and Danilsa Fernandez and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Elizabeth Melore WEDNESDAYS, OCT 23, NOV 20, DEC 18, JAN 22, FEB 26, MAR 19

dive into. We will review protocols for watching and reflecting on teacher practice from videos of student discussions. We intend to use existing video resources and create new content to enhance the library. Each following session will focus on one dimension of

MƒA & ONLINE

TRU (content; cognitive demand; equitable access to

 MATHEMATICS

content; agency ownership, and identity; or formative

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A HYBRID COURSE. SESSIONS 1, 3, AND 5 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 2, 4, AND 6 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

assessment), a different FAL, and different video cases.

How might we enhance mathematical tasks to enrich classroom practices and student engagement?

This course will analyze video cases of teachers implementing lessons from the Mathematics Assessment Project (MAP), a free, high-quality database of over 100 mathematics lesson plans. This resource supports teaching that is aligned with the Teaching for Robust Understanding (TRU) framework and is designed for secondary mathematics teachers who want to foster

43

We will have rich discussions about assessment to deepen our understanding of the mathematics we teach and devise new ways to share that experience more powerfully with our students. This course is best for middle and high school mathematics teachers.

Alex Cristando is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School in Queens.

Danilsa Fernandez is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at City College Academy of the Arts in Manhattan.

Elizabeth Melore is an MƒA Emeritus Teacher and mathematics teacher at P.S. 207 Elizabeth G. Leary in Brooklyn.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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.

44

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

on CO2 reduction, implementation costs, and overall monetary savings—providing clear, data-driven ways to compare ideas. Next, we’ll engage as students,

3D Printed Stomp Rockets: Engineering a Passion for Space Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Brandie Hayes and JoEllen Schuleman

working in small groups to further explore specific

Aliens in the Classroom: Using Science Fiction to Engage Students in Inquiry Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Tamanna Shahid and Rachel Wax

topics and create short presentations to share with the

TUESDAY, OCT 22

larger group. We’ll combine all presentations into a

MƒA

digital gallery and share feedback on each other’s work.

 SCIENCE

TUESDAY, DEC 3

Finally, we’ll switch back to a teacher lens to discuss the

Are you interested in bringing some extraterrestrial

MƒA

resources and planning that go into making this project

drama into your classroom? Join us in this workshop to

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

one of students’ favorites—swapping ideas for how we

learn how science fiction fosters engagement, critical

Ignite your students’ love of engineering through

might implement it in our own classrooms. If you’re a

thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, all while

a space-themed 3D printing unit. This unit

middle or high school teacher looking for a fun way to

drawing on students’ prior science knowledge and

implementation will immerse students in an iterative

end a unit about climate change, this session is for you!

imagination. We will use the seminal book Project Hail

design process while they create stomp rockets for a

Stephen Kos is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at New

Mary by Andy Weir and short videos to anchor our work

self-imagined mission to space. First, we will review

Explorations into Science, Technology and Math High School in

and explore the ethical context and moral dilemmas

design thinking and introduce teachers to Tinkercad

Manhattan.

embedded in science fiction. We’ll begin by reading excerpts from the book to share examples of literacy

software. Next, we will design our stomp rockets, first on paper and then in CAD. We will then learn how to print our designs with Makerbot. We will also have

The Abacus: An Introduction Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Keith Lau

and guided inquiry. Then, we will generate classroom tasks based on the book and other resources. Examples

time to explore student work and launch rockets from

WEDNESDAY, NOV 6

of student tasks might include a scientific analysis, an

previous classes. This workshop is best for upper

MƒA

ethical reflection, or a creative writing assignment.

We will conclude by reflecting on the work created

elementary school teachers, but all are welcome! No

 MATHEMATICS

prior CAD experience is required.

Remember going to the dentist’s office as a kid and

and discussing additional examples of sci-fi media. All

Brandie Hayes is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher

playing with that toy with all the colorful beads? That

middle and high school science teachers are welcome.

at The Emily Warren Roebling School in Brooklyn.

was an abacus! The first abacus was invented several

Tamanna Shahid and Rachel Wax are MƒA Master Teachers and science

JoEllen Schuleman is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at P.S.

millennia ago. Although we now have calculators to help

teachers at Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Manhattan.

199 Jessie Isador Straus in Manhattan.

us with basic operations, the movements of the abacus are still relevant to the mathematics we teach today. In

93 Reasons to Have Hope: Project Drawdown and the Fight Against Climate Change Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Stephen Kos

this workshop, teachers will be introduced to the history of the Japanese Soroban abacus. We will learn how to

Ambitious Science Teaching: Using Student Talk as a Resource Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Muneeb Hussain

read numbers from the abacus and quickly add digits.

MONDAY, OCT 7

THURSDAY, JAN 16

Then, we will connect how we teach addition to moves

ONLINE

MƒA

on the abacus. Teachers can also challenge themselves

 SCIENCE

 SCIENCE

to try other operations. And no abacus session would

How can we unlock the potential of student discourse

Learning about climate change can be a lot of gloom

be complete without a bit of competition, so warm

to transform our science classrooms? Join us to

and doom, but thanks to Project Drawdown, it doesn’t

up those fingers and prepare to make them fly! All

discover how purposeful conversations can drive

have to end there. Join us in this workshop as we

mathematics teachers are welcome.

engagement, understanding, and equity in science.

explore climate change with a focus on solutions! We’ll

Keith Lau is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

First, we will discuss the importance of “science talk”

begin by reviewing Drawdown’s 93 proposals to reduce

Washington Heights Expeditionary Learning School in Manhattan.

and identify goals for different types of classroom

CO2 emissions. Sorted into categories like electricity,

conversation. Then, we’ll explore teacher strategies and

industry, and transportation, solutions are ranked based

discourse moves (e.g., probing, follow-ups, pressing) to ensure equitable opportunities for every student. We’ll

45

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

Tamanna Shahid is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

as they develop new apple varieties. Finally, we’ll share

Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Manhattan.

opportunities for collaboration with Cornell University’s apple breeding program. While the workshop is best for

conclude by examining specialized tools and routines that support purposeful and productive student talk. We will ground our work on the book Ambitious Science Teaching by Thompson, Windschitl, and Braaten and the accompanying website. All science teachers are welcome.

Muneeb Hussain is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Yorkville East Middle School in Manhattan.

Analyzing Heat Waves and Environmental Justice Using GIS Tools Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Tamanna Shahid

Apple Genetics: A Snapshot Into New York State Agriculture Facilitated By: Brittany Hoover, Ph.D., and MƒA Master Teacher Leovie Diaz

and agriculture into their core academic content and leads workshops

 SCIENCE

and programs to introduce teachers to the unique urban agricultural landscape of New York City. Brittany’s background as a high school

Fuji, Empire, Honeycrisp, Gala, oh my! Did you know

agriculture CTE teacher and as a scholar-practitioner of agricultural

New York State is the second largest producer of apples

education influences her work and passion for urban agriculture.

in the US, yielding approximately 1.2 billion pounds

Leovie Diaz is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at New

each year? How might we use our shared love of apples

Utrecht High School in Brooklyn.

to help our students understand the critical role of this workshop, teachers will learn about NY Agriculture

 SCIENCE

in the Classroom, review some of their free curricula

Justice Screening Tool! We will start by exploring

with New York Agriculture in the Classroom, an outreach program of Cornell University. In this role, she helps K-12 teachers integrate food

agriculture and its connection to the food we eat? In

tools and real-time data via the EPA’s Environmental

Dr. Brittany Hoover is the Urban Agriculture Education Specialist

MƒA

WEDNESDAY, NOV 13

heat, but how can we visualize and quantify it? With GIS

teachers are welcome.

TUESDAY, OCT 22

MƒA

As our climate changes, we can all feel the increased

middle and high school life science teachers, all science

Applied Physics With the Perimeter Institute Facilitated By: Dave Fish TUESDAY, SEP 24

and resources, and explore the lesson “Apple Genetics:

ONLINE

A Tasty Phenomena.” We’ll begin by tasting three apple

 SCIENCE

varieties and observing their physical characteristics.

Then, we will discuss the desirable traits scientists seek

Are you looking for engaging ways to introduce fluids

various demographic indices, including pollution, health disparities, and socioeconomic factors, and comparing them with national and state-level data. Then, we will look at the disproportionate impact of climate change on NYC communities, define “resilience,” discuss how mitigation techniques can build greater resilience, and make connections to the Urban Heat Island effect. Using the claims, evidence, and reasoning (CER) technique, we will investigate specific neighborhoods in the city and beyond to identify resilience to hazards. We will conclude by analyzing key strategies to address the Urban Heat Island effect with a focus on the future of urban planning, community risk assessment, and building community resilience. Throughout, we’ll use jigsaw, sense-making, and introductory mapping and environmental justice activities which teachers can implement in their classrooms. The course is best for all middle or high school life, environmental, and Earth and Space Science teachers.

46

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

Science), and more. This session is best for middle and high school mathematics teachers and no prior experience is necessary.

into your physics classroom? In this workshop, we will

Patrick Honner is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

explore Perimeter Institute’s new “Applied Physics”

Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan.

designing robotic arms. We will begin by exploring fluids and discussing misconceptions surrounding Bernoulli’s principle. Then, we will examine simple machines, such

WEDNESDAY, NOV 13 MƒA

resource, which takes students through fundamental concepts related to fluids and simple machines to

Beyond Timed Tests: Building Fact Fluency With Games, Songs, and Strategies!

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jason Silverstein, Sara Thorne, and Hana Visnic

The Art of Questioning: Enhancing Classroom Engagement and Critical Thinking Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lavonne Hunter and Marlon Jansen

 MATHEMATICS

While the days of drill and kill and anxiety producing timed tests are over, fact fluency remains important for mathematical computation. Recalling basic

as levers and pulleys. Finally, we will use an engineering

WEDNESDAY, JAN 8

mathematical facts frees up mental energy for more

design process to design a robotic arm, applying the

MƒA

challenging work, but how do we successfully build

concepts covered in the fluids and simple machine

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

fluency in an engaging and meaningful way for all

lessons. This workshop is best for high school physics

As educators, we often wonder: Are my students

learners? We will begin by differentiating fact fluency

teachers.

actually thinking about what matters? How can I check

from fact automaticity to explore the history of teaching

Dave Fish has been a high school physics teacher for over 25 years.

for understanding, and what can a single question do?

multiplication and division facts. Then, we will review

His involvement with Perimeter Institute dates back to the beginning

Join us in this workshop as we explore the power of

current research on the components and developmental

with the initial development of ISSYP, EinsteinPlus, and several other

inquiry, discuss how we can encourage our students

phases of teaching fluency and introduce fact and

to ask meaningful questions, and share practical

strategy progressions to systematically build it with

has given workshops on modern physics locally, nationally, and

techniques to enhance student engagement and

students. Most importantly, we will sing catchy, skip-

internationally. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, traveling, sports,

understanding. We will build a collection of awesome

counting songs and play a variety of interactive games

and spending time with his wife and three children.

inquiry stories by examining game-changing, real-

that lead to fluency. Finally, we will share how to assess

world innovations in science, business, and life and

our students and encourage student autonomy by

the questions that inspired them. We will consider (1)

providing opportunities for student choice and strategy

the power of the artful question, (2) common teacher

reflection. This workshop is best for grade 2-5 teachers,

TUESDAY, OCT 1

mistakes when asking questions, (3) how and why

but middle and high school teachers with students

MƒA

outreach activities. He has played a leading role producing both Perimeter Exploration and Perimeter Inspiration resources. Dave

Applying Mathematics Through Modeling Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Patrick Honner

student questioning trails off in school, (4) research-

needing support in fact fluency are also welcome.

 MATHEMATICS

based strategies for designing better questions, and (5)

Jason Silverstein, Sara Thorne, and Hana Visnic are MƒA Master Teachers

Modeling is a great pathway to applied mathematics

how to more effectively capture student thinking when

and mathematics teachers at P.S. 029 John M. Harrigan in Brooklyn.

and integrated computing, but it can be overwhelming

checking for understanding. This workshop is best for

for those unfamiliar with the process. In this workshop,

middle and high school teachers.

teachers will explore concrete examples of applied

Lavonne Hunter is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at City As

mathematical modeling connected to curricula and

School in Manhattan.

WEDNESDAY, OCT 16

drawn from real-world contests available for student

Marlon Jansen is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

MƒA

analysis. We will examine fundamental examples of

Academy for Software Engineering in Manhattan.

Breaking Into Birding Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Crystal Thiele

 SCIENCE

statistical, simulation, and agent-based modeling

Do you want to learn more about birds? Would you

including modeling the spread of invasive species

like to take your students birding but aren’t sure where

(HiMCM), performing a cost-benefit analysis on

to start? Join us to learn birding basics and explore a

converting public transit to electric vehicles (HiMCM),

variety of birding resources. After a brief overview of

quantitatively analyzing houselessness and the housing

birding and how to use binoculars, we will head out

crisis (M3), predicting sports outcomes (Wharton Data

to Madison Square Park to find and identify birds. We

47

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops will end the workshop with a deep dive into resources,

Clickbait Science and Fake News: Let’s Look at the Evidence Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jeanne Kopun and Tracy LaGrassa, Ph.D.

including Cornell’s Lab of Ornithology, Merlin Bird ID,

WEDNESDAY, OCT 23

and sites from prominent birding clubs. Teachers and

ONLINE

students can use these resources to identify birds, find

 SCIENCE

local hotspots, and strengthen birding skills. All are

How can we equip our students with the tools to

welcome, and no prior experience is necessary!

evaluate clickbait science and determine what is fake

Crystal Thiele is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at P.S. 321

and what is legitimate? In this workshop, teachers

William Penn in Brooklyn.

will explore an activity in which they trace claims in headlines back to the actual science. Using a versatile

Celebrating the BLM at School Week of Action and Beyond: Join the Movement! p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Stephanie Kadison, Ph.D.

“claim, evidence, and reasoning” approach and various assessment tools, we will use a student lens to interrogate the news and associated primary source data. We will ask: “What is the claim of this headline?

TUESDAY, SEP 24

How does it make us feel? Do we believe it? What

ONLINE

evidence do we expect to see in support of the claim?

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

How can we find the actual evidence, and how can we

One day of solidarity eight years ago for Black lives in

make sense of it?” Following the activity, we will discuss

Seattle grew into a week of action in Philadelphia and

how to adapt the resources for our classrooms. This

is now a national movement. Educators across the

workshop is best for high school science teachers,

country organize the BLM at School (BLMAS) Week of

but any science teacher interested in acquiring new

Action for the first week of February and participate

strategies to develop media and data literacy is

in the Year of Purpose to solidify their commitment to

welcome.

the Thirteen Guiding Principles. Though many of our

Jeanne Kopun is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Forest

schools say Black Lives Matter, this work goes beyond

Hills High School in Queens.

the slogan and requires ongoing dedication to collective

Dr. Tracy LaGrassa is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The

liberation. This workshop will offer a historical context

Bronx High School of Science in the Bronx.

for BLMAS, provide a toolkit for teachers to bring BLMAS to their schools in February (and throughout the year), and model lesson plans and activities for creating action plans for next year’s NYC BLMAS and Year of Purpose.

All are welcome.

Dr. Stephanie Kadison is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Bard High School Early College Queens.

Computational Thinking Demystified Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rebecca Haverstick, Brittany Klimowicz, and JoEllen Schuleman WEDNESDAY, NOV 20 MƒA  SCIENCE

will demystify computational thinking, explain why it is so important, and discuss how to visibly implement it so students can use it intentionally. We will also share scaffolds for inclusive teaching and examine the critical skills of decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithms to support our students with solving problems and maintaining a growth mindset. Teachers will leave with a variety of free resources to help nurture the problem solvers, innovators, and leaders of tomorrow. All science teachers are welcome.

Rebecca Haverstick is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Battery Park City School in Manhattan.

Brittany Klimowicz is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at NYC iSchool in Manhattan.

JoEllen Schuleman is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at P.S. 199 Jessie Isador Straus in Manhattan.

What does the NGSS Science and Engineering Practice of computational thinking really look like in a classroom setting? Computational thinking might feel like the new buzzword, but most of us are already teaching this vital and powerful way of thinking. In this workshop, we 48

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

and the tools to foster a more inclusive and supportive

Josh Paugh is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Brooklyn

learning environment. First, we will consider the

Technical High School in Brooklyn.

fundamental principles of Islam and their importance to

Co-Teaching: Crafting a Successful and Effective Partnership p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Constance Giannakakis and Yanique Sears

the daily lives of our students. Next, we will discuss the history of head coverings and their cultural and religious significance for Muslims and practitioners of other

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

faiths. Finally, we will tackle Islamophobia in the school

MONDAY, SEP 23

THURSDAY, NOV 14

environment. We will learn how to identify Islamophobia

ONLINE

MƒA

and discuss effective strategies we can use to prevent

 MATHEMATICS

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

and respond to it so that every Muslim student feels

Have you ever wanted to understand mathematics

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO BRING THEIR CO-TEACHERS TO THIS WORKSHOP. PLEASE REGISTER YOUR CO-TEACHING PARTNER USING THIS FORM.

safe, valued, and able to learn. This workshop is for any

through the eyes of your ancestors? Would you like to

teacher interested in learning how to more effectively

connect back with your seven previous generations

support their Muslim students.

so you can impact the next seven? Then you have

ways to make an existing partnership more productive?

Nazma Khan, a TEDx speaker and global changemaker, has significantly

the motivation to start becoming an Indigenous

In this workshop, we will explore how general education

reshaped perceptions of Muslims. Named one of the top 50 Influential

mathematics educator. In this workshop, Dr. Little-

Muslims in the Americas in 2023 and Best Islamic Leader in 2024, she

Crow, a multiracial mathematics teacher from the

Are you in a new co-teaching partnership or looking for

and special education teachers can collaborate

founded the World Hijab Day Organization to dismantle discrimination

Saxon, Celtic, and Anishinaabe peoples, will share the

to develop inclusive and welcoming classroom

against Muslim women. Inspired by her own experiences of bullying and

environments for all students. We will discuss the

harassment in NYC, especially after 9/11, Nazma founded World Hijab

story of his 24-year path as an Indigenous mathematics

purpose and function of an integrated co-taught setting,

Day in 2013, now observed in over 150 countries. Multiple states and

educator, connecting with the past seven generations

cities have recognized her work, and she has been featured in major

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

strategies to maximize effective partnership (how do you work with two adults in the room?), and the variety

international media outlets. In 2021, she founded “International Muslim History Month” to celebrate Muslim contributions.

of ways a successful ICT relationship can manifest. This session is best for any middle or high school teacher currently teaching in an ICT partnership.

Constance Giannakakis is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at High School for Construction Trades, Engineering and Architecture in Queens.

Data-Driven Labs in the Physics Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Josh Paugh WEDNESDAY, OCT 23 MƒA  SCIENCE

Yanique Sears is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

and understand our own mathematical stories through peripheral participatory storytelling, where all in the circle are invited to share their insights. Then, we will explore diverse cultural number systems and apply these 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

Equations are central in physics, but how might we

to create and revise guided activities for our students to

ensure students understand physics equations on both

experience learning mathematics from a decolonized

a mathematical and conceptual level? Join us in this

perspective. All teachers interested in deepening

workshop as we derive equations from the Physics

their connection to their mathematical ancestry are

reference table and explore lab-based data collection

welcome.

WEDNESDAY, SEP 18

and analysis. We will start with a brief discussion on

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

MƒA

using and understanding the reference table equations.

is deeply committed to promoting mathematics education and

Then, we will conduct a short lab activity demonstrating

empowering learners from diverse backgrounds. As a member of the

how labs can be entry points to derive equations. We

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

Columbia Secondary School in Manhattan.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms: Countering AntiMuslim Discrimination in Schools p Facilitated By: Nazma Khan

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Have you witnessed anti-Muslim discrimination or bullying in your classroom or school community? Do you want to create a safe and inclusive space for your Muslim students? This workshop aims to equip teachers with a foundational understanding of the Muslim faith

49

will conclude by discussing how to reinforce students’

Village, Original Peoples Education Network, Inc., which focuses on supporting education initiatives abroad. He collaborates with the

understanding of equations through data-based

education agencies of several tribal nations, including the Pascua

connection-making. Teachers will leave with a variety of

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

examples and resources. This course is best for any high

Community, and various Chippewa nations in North Dakota and

school physics teacher.

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

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops Doodle for Self-Care Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Vivi Nguyen

medians, and standard deviations of a given data set and their own class data. Then, we will share advanced functions, such as weighted averages and conditional

TUESDAY, OCT 22

formatting. Next, we will demonstrate how to integrate

MƒA

Google Forms with Google Sheets for analyzing

THURSDAY, DEC 5

assessment data and creating action plans to support

MƒA

student achievement. While the primary focus will

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Do you ever doodle in the margins during meetings or notice your students’ doodles on their worksheets?

Doodling can be a natural way to teach students to focus, relax, or meditate. In this workshop, teachers will immerse themselves in simple patterns that can be repeated, mixed, and colored to create their own calming doodle art. We will briefly discuss what constitutes a doodle, why people enjoy doodling, and potential roadblocks. Then, we will quietly explore simple templates and patterns, including those used for socio-emotional learning in advisories or content classes. Finally, we will conclude with how teachers can leverage doodling to support diverse student needs.

Everyone is welcome, and no prior drawing skills are required.

Vivi Nguyen is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Do You Want to Excel at Excel and Google Sheets?

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Peter D’Amico, Rachael Ferreira, and Albaro Guzman TUESDAY, JAN 14 ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

be on gradebooks, the skills are applicable to other data collection and analysis projects. All teachers are welcome!

Are you curious about alternatives to the Electoral College? In this workshop, we will dive into the mathematics of five proposals to change the Electoral College: Electoral Votes Adjusted Proportionally, Proportional Plan, Congressional District and State, Divide Nationally and State, and Popular Vote. First,

Roosevelt High School in Manhattan.

we will start with polling data for the 2024 election

Rachael Ferreira is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

to attempt predictions. Then, teachers will practice

Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Manhattan.

Albaro Guzman is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at I.S. 254 in the Bronx.

these proposals on small data sets and apply their understanding using recent and historical election data. We will discuss and share classroom activities and student work. This workshop is best for mathematics

Earth and Space Science Demo Derby Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Daniel Sharoff and Jessica Sharoff WEDNESDAY, OCT 30

teachers, but all are welcome. Proficiency with Google Sheets will be helpful but is not required.

Courtney Ferrell is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at New Design High School in Manhattan.

MƒA  SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO SHARE A DEMO OR EXPERIMENT DURING THE WORKSHOP.

Electronics Soldering in the STEM Classroom Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Shaina Doherty

Have you been doing the same Earth and Space

WEDNESDAY, NOV 6

Science demonstrations for years? Are you looking for

OFFSITE

new ways to engage students and make the abstract more concrete? Then join us as we share our most interesting and successful Earth and Space Science demonstrations. In this workshop, each teacher will present a short demo or hands-on activity along with a brief “how to” guide so others can replicate the demo in their classrooms. The goal is for everyone to leave

rated platforms for managing and calculating data in

with new ideas and a wide array of classroom-ready

a structured and sophisticated manner. For teachers,

demonstrations to captivate students throughout the

this often involves managing grades. Join us in this

school year. This workshop is best for Earth and Space

workshop to learn how to use formulas and functions

Science teachers.

to keep a more organized and effective gradebook,

Jessica Sharoff is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

calculate marking period and semester long averages,

Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School in Queens.

color code grade distributions, and ultimately develop a

Daniel Sharoff is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at High

sense of data agency. First, teachers will be introduced

School for Arts and Business in Queens.

50

 MATHEMATICS

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

Google Sheets and Excel are widely used and highly

to basic functions, such as calculating sums, averages,

Electoral College: Time for a Change!?

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Courtney Ferrell

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY + PLEASE NOTE: THIS SESSION WILL TAKE PLACE OFFSITE AT BROOKLYN TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL.

Ever want to be able to fix that electronic device needing a wire re-attached or a component replaced? The goal of this workshop is to encourage and empower middle school and high school STEM teachers to include the skill of soldering with electronics for circuit building in their classrooms. In this single session workshop, teachers will learn proper safety practices, create their own small soldering project, and explore how soldering engages students in pursuing more handson engineering. Teachers of all levels are welcome; beginners will become familiar with basic skills and tools, and more advanced folks will be encouraged to refine their soldering and de-soldering skills with more MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops in-depth demonstrations.

Shaina Doherty is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Brooklyn Technical High School in Brooklyn.

Empowering Education: AI-Enhanced Lesson Planning Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Nathaly Caraballo, Shea Crockett, and Michelle Simeon TUESDAY, DEC 17 ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

What if you could harness the power of artificial intelligence to streamline your workload, enhance your teaching methodologies, revolutionize your lesson planning, and boost student engagement? Join us to demystify AI tools and transform your classroom. In this workshop, we will introduce AI in education, highlight potential impacts, and demonstrate tools such as ChatGPT, MagicSchool, Eduaide, and Diffit. Teachers will explore tool functionality through hands-on activities, followed by collaborative group discussions to brainstorm how AI can address subject-specific challenges. Finally, we will share integration strategies

Enhancing Graph Analysis in Science Education Through TALKS and I2 Strategy Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Nathaly Caraballo, Shea Crockett, and Michelle Simeon

exchange ideas, and provide feedback. By role-playing as students, teachers will gain firsthand experience and a deeper understanding of the strategies, fostering empathy and a student-centered approach. Teachers

to foster a peer-learning environment. By the end of the

WEDNESDAY, DEC 4

workshop, teachers will have the knowledge and skills to

are encouraged to share their experiences, challenges,

MƒA

and successes with formative assessment related to

integrate these AI tools effectively. All are welcome!

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

graph analysis. Any middle or high school teachers

Imagine your students confidently interpreting

seeking to enhance their instructional practices in graph

complex graphs, extracting meaningful insights, and

analysis are welcome.

engaging in thoughtful discussions that deepen their

Nathaly Caraballo and Michelle Simeon are MƒA Master Teachers and

at Stephen T. Mather Building Arts & Craftsmanship High School in

understanding of scientific concepts. This single session

science teachers at Stephen T. Mather Building Arts & Craftsmanship

Manhattan.

will equip you with two powerful strategies—TALKS

High School in Manhattan.

(Title, Axis, Labels, Key, and Scale) and I (Identify and

Shea Crockett is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher

Interpret)—to transform your teaching of graph analysis.

at Stephen T. Mather Building Arts & Craftsmanship High School in

Nathaly Caraballo and Michelle Simeon are MƒA Master Teachers and science teachers at Stephen T. Mather Building Arts & Craftsmanship High School in Manhattan.

Shea Crockett is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher

2

Join us to discover how these strategies can make

Manhattan.

graph analysis an engaging and integral part of your instruction, empowering your students to become skilled interpreters of data. The session will include collaborative activities to practice the strategies, 51

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

world issues with core curricular content and STEM research. Teachers will leave with digital access to the Science News Educator Portal as well as new ideas,

Enhancing Student Discussion Through Protocols Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Danielle Krizek and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Amaris Rodriguez Brown

inspiration, and materials to begin integrating STEM

Go Big Orgo Home Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Katherine Carr and Steven O’Malley, Ph.D. THURSDAY, NOV 14

journalism into their classrooms. This workshop is best

MƒA

for middle and high school science teachers, but all are

 SCIENCE

WEDNESDAY, DEC 4

welcome.

Has it been years since you took organic chemistry?

MƒA

Rocheli Apilan is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at High

Would you like to brush up on your content knowledge?

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

School for Health Professions and Human Services in Manhattan.

Join us in this workshop to rediscover your love of

Are your students hesitant to engage in peer

Maria Cheryl Diangco is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

“orgo” and learn how to integrate more of it into your

discussions? The goal for this workshop is to provide

School for Classics High School in Brooklyn.

chemistry classroom. We will conduct several organic chemistry demonstrations, including separating food

teachers with simple and effective protocols to support student discussion and increase student ownership.

During this workshop, we will engage in multiple discussion protocols from New Visions and School

Fostering a Welcoming Mathematics Community p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Mathew Sullivan

dyes with chromatography, changing the properties of polymers, and modeling polarimetry. We will also explore free online textbooks, web-based molecular

Reform Initiative to understand their required cognitive

TUESDAY, SEP 24

drawing tools, and organic chemistry apps. Whether

demand. Next, we will modify protocols to best support

MƒA

you’re a seasoned organic chemistry teacher or just

our unique student populations. Finally, we will use

 MATHEMATICS

starting, this workshop is for you!

the last part of our workshop to redesign an upcoming

Many students, especially those from marginalized

Katherine Carr is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The

lesson using one of the protocols presented. We will

communities, feel they do not belong in mathematical

Bronx High School of Science in the Bronx.

share a folder containing the protocol instructions,

spaces. How can teachers create an environment of

Dr. Steven O’Malley is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

examples, and modifications. This workshop is best for

belonging for students in our mathematics classrooms?

Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan.

middle and high school teachers.

In this workshop, we will investigate the different

Danielle Krizek is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

dynamics that lead to feeling unwelcome in STEM

Academy of Medical Technology: A College Board School in Queens.

academic settings, explore how we can nurture the

Amaris Rodriguez Brown is an MƒA Emeritus Teacher and science

social-emotional aspects of mathematical spaces, and

teacher at Academy of Medical Technology: A College Board School in

discuss how we can foster a welcoming mathematics

WEDNESDAY, JAN 8

community. First, we will engage in a collaborative

MƒA

Queens.

Guardians of the Rainforest: Indigenous-Led Conservation in the Amazon p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Jordan Wolf

problem-solving activity and develop the big ideas and

 SCIENCE

goals for the workshop. Next, grounded in the work of

Indigenous communities around the world possess

Jo Boaler, Francis Su, and Ilana Horn, we will discuss

extraordinary knowledge of sustaining and restoring

reading and videos about creating mathematical spaces

WEDNESDAY, DEC 4

ecosystems. One such example is the Maijuna of the

where all students feel welcome. Finally, we will review

MƒA

Peruvian Amazon. Despite being devastated by loggers,

resources and activities we can use in our classrooms.

 SCIENCE

poachers, and the government, they persevere with

By the end, we will be ready to meet our students’

hope and resilience. While they continue to fight

Would you like to incorporate the latest STEM findings

social-emotional needs and to build their confidence in

for survival, the Maijuna also provide a model for

into your curricula with an easy, accessible, and reliable

themselves and in each other. All are welcome!

sustainable conservation. In this workshop, we will learn

platform? Join us to learn about the Science News

Mathew Sullivan is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

more about their incredible story, their struggle, and

Learning program and its extensive library of resources.

M.S. 839 in Brooklyn.

their wisdom. We’ll begin by discussing the colonial

Exploring Resources With Science News Learning Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Rocheli Apilan and Maria Cheryl Diangco

We will discuss the meaning and importance of

roots of environmental injustice, continue by exploring

developing scientifically literate students and explore

the recent history of the Maijuna’s efforts to maintain

lesson plans and student activities connecting real52

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops their ancestral way of life, and then examine their role as stewards for conservation. To conclude, we will explore stories and testimonials to share Indigenous-based conservation with our students. This workshop is best

How Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia Affect Emotional and Mental Well-Being p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Max Chomet and Bill Rodriguez TUESDAY, DEC 17 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

for anyone who teaches conservation, climate change,

Are you interested in learning how homophobia,

or environmental justice, but all are welcome.

biphobia, and transphobia affect mental health? Join us

Jordan Wolf is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Flushing

to explore the impact of these phobias on the mental

International High School in Queens.

health of adults and children. During this workshop, teachers will have in-depth discussions about current

Hexagonal Thinking: Making Scientific Thinking Visible Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Hareem AhmedZia

At the end of the session, teachers will share ideas or plan for FAL implementation. This workshop is best for middle school mathematics teachers; no prerequisite knowledge needed.

Teresa Reggio is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at I.S. 228 David A. Boody in Brooklyn.

Elizabeth Melore is an MƒA Emeritus Teacher and mathematics teacher at P.S. 207 Elizabeth G. Leary in Brooklyn.

Increasing Multilingual Learners’ Access to Class Texts p Facilitated By: Joshua Paverud

research and independently investigate other studies

THURSDAY, JAN 16

in small groups. Our goals are to (1) examine research

MƒA

on the links between these phobias and mental health,

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

(2) engage in conversations about how we can use

Are you seeking teacher-tested tools to support your

TUESDAY, DEC 3

this research to empower ourselves and our school

Multilingual Learner (MLL) population? This workshop

MƒA

communities, and (3) improve our collective mental and

 SCIENCE

will focus on a crucial part of your teaching: how you

emotional well-being. All are welcome!

choose the texts your students read. We will review

Are you interested in practicing a new way to make

Max Chomet is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The Bronx

a culturally responsive text analysis toolkit grounded

student thinking visible in your science classroom?

High School of Science in the Bronx.

in the research of Gloria Ladson-Billings and Achieve

Hexagonal thinking is an open-ended assessment

Bill Rodriguez is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Forest

the Core. Next, we will examine how a school team

tool that allows students to visually demonstrate their

Hills High School in Queens.

modified the culturally responsive text analysis toolkit

understanding of the relationships between vocabulary and ideas. Students are given a deck of hexagons with science concepts and collaboratively rearrange them in a manner that makes sense to them, making connections along the way. In this workshop, teachers will learn different ways to use hexagonal thinking and then collaboratively explore a hexagonal thinking activity from a student perspective. Teachers will

and then tested it with their MLLs as a model for our

Implementing a MARS Formative Assessment Lesson Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Teresa Reggio and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Elizabeth Melore THURSDAY, OCT 17 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

work. Then, we will customize the toolkit and develop a testing plan for individual schools and classrooms.

Finally, we will engage in brief consultations to share and receive feedback in small groups. This workshop is open to anyone interested in increasing the accessibility of classroom texts for MLLs. Joshua Paverud brings expertise in education and innovation. His

leave with customizable resources to apply hexagonal

Have you ever browsed the formative assessment

background includes serving as a science teacher, MƒA Master Teacher,

thinking to any science classroom. All science teachers

lessons (FALs) on Mathematics Assessment Resource

and Program Facilitator at Eskolta School Research and Design. In his

are welcome.

Service (MARS) and felt overwhelmed? In this workshop,

current role, Joshua partners with schools and district partners in co-

Hareem Ahmed-Zia is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

teachers will gain confidence and insight into

John Adams High School in Queens.

implementing one of these FALs in their mathematics

designing solutions to equity-centered challenges that are meaningful to them. Central to his approach is developing educators as key leaders and dedication to uplifting youth voices. He ensures that the voices of

classrooms. First, we will put ourselves in our students’

young people are valued, recognizing their perspectives and expertise

shoes by completing a pre-assessment. We will then

as critical to designing solutions to equity challenges within school

discuss how this pre-assessment can determine student

communities.

groups for the FAL activity. Then, we will actively engage in completing the group task and brainstorm ways to implement and adapt this lesson to our classrooms.

53

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

their peers. You may ask if there are any questions, and

science outreach within the scientific community, open channels for

no one raises a hand, but you suspect something needs

community members to develop an appreciation for science as a human

to be said. In this workshop, we will explore vulnerability

Integrating Interdisciplinary Data Literacy Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Natalie Patrizio-Tully and Kaitlin Smith

formally trained as a lipid biochemist, earning her Ph.D. in metabolic

in mathematics. Let’s interrogate how to encourage

biology from Columbia University and then conducting postdoctoral

vulnerability in our students and empower their voices

studies on cholesterol transport at Rockefeller.

and mathematical identities. This workshop is open to

ONLINE

all teachers who are willing to be vulnerable.

Are you interested in strengthening your students’ data literacy skills in your mathematics or science classroom?

Join us in building an interdisciplinary resource bank of

Dr. Geillan Aly, the founder of Compassionate Math, is a mathematics educator who centers on socioemotional factors contributing to mathematics success. A former award-winning Assistant Professor

WEDNESDAY, JAN 15

classrooms through engaging professional development that centers

MƒA

emotions without sacrificing rigor. She received her Ph.D. in Teaching

into classroom discussions. To start the workshop, we

and Teacher Education and Master’s in Mathematics from the University

Next, we will share examples and logistical tips for

with collaborative time to create our own tasks for future use. We will use data visualizations from The

How can we combine the A and M in STEAM? In this

justice. She enjoys traveling and seeing live music and is an avid chef,

course, we will use technology to create an original

wife, and mother to a beautiful boy.

Leveraging ChatGPT to Create Educational Scaffolds p Facilitated By: Jeanne Garbarino, Ph.D.

New York Times, Mona Chalabi, The Pudding, Data2go.

TUESDAY, DEC 17

nyc, and The Museum of the City of New York. No

MƒA

prior knowledge is required! This workshop is best for teachers interested in incorporating interdisciplinary data visualizations into their classrooms.

Natalie Patrizio-Tully is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at The Clinton School in Manhattan.

Kaitlin Smith is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at The Clinton School in Manhattan.

Intellectual Vulnerability in Mathematics Classrooms p Facilitated By: Geillan Aly, Ph.D. TUESDAY, SEP 24 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

GarageBand, logic, iMovie, CapCut, and Final Cut Pro to replicate this project with students. By the end of the course, we hope to have at least one co-created music video and that you will have the knowledge and skills to make your own. While we will make a mathematics video as an example in this workshop, the tools and strategies learned can be applied to make music videos in any subject. No previous experience using video or

achieving learning objectives. In this workshop, we will

music production software is required. All are welcome.

explore the realm of natural language processing and artificial intelligence (AI) to understand how ChatGPT

John Garvey and Wan Park are MƒA Master Teachers and mathematics teachers at Community School for Social Justice in the Bronx.

(generative pre-trained transformer) can be a powerful tool to create comprehensive and adaptable educational rubrics and other types of scaffolding to enhance student learning. Specifically, we will spend time getting acquainted with ChatGPT and its capabilities

Making Sense of Cellular Respiration With HHMI BioInteractive Facilitated By: Marisa Alvarado and Kasey Christopher

in comprehending and generating precise assessment

MONDAY, OCT 21

criteria, enabling personalized feedback and adaptive

ONLINE

assessments for individual student needs. Additionally,

 SCIENCE

we will discuss the ethical implications of using AI for educational rubrics and strategies to ensure fairness,

collaboration and discussion opportunities and entry

transparency, and inclusivity.

54

Along the way, we will learn about easy-to-use tools like

constructive feedback and guiding students toward

activities, thought-provoking tasks, and various student

guidance in order to share or discuss mathematics with

mathematical song with an accompanying music video.

Educational rubrics are vital in providing clear and

You did all the right things, setting up interactive

points. However, your students still need help or

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

of Arizona. Underlying Dr. Aly’s work is a dedication to equity and social

implementation. After engaging and thinking through multiple interdisciplinary examples, we will conclude

Lights, Camera, FrAction! Tools for Making Educational Music Videos Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers John Garvey and Wan Park

who has taught for over fifteen years, Dr. Aly transforms mathematics

data visualizations and strategies for their integration will model and discuss an example of data visualization.

opportunities that genuinely reflect the process of science. Jeanne is

and why students may struggle to participate, especially

MONDAY, SEP 23  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

endeavor, and provide equitable access to scientific resources and

Are your students struggling to understand the details of cellular respiration? Do concepts like carbon intermediates, electron transfer, and oxidative

Dr. Jeanne Garbarino is the Director of RockEDU Science Outreach at

phosphorylation leave them feeling exhausted instead

The Rockefeller University, where she works to promote and support

of energized? Join us to discover how to use free HHMI MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

will dive into different financial literacy lessons, discuss adaptations for our students, review the mathematics surrounding our everyday financial life, such as

BioInteractive modeling tools to make this complex

choosing between loans or budgeting for a house, and

process more accessible and engaging. We will begin

practice using online calculators to help with budgeting.

with a set of animations to unpack how cell respiration

Finally, teachers will explore Next Gen Personal Finance

rearranges molecules in food to provide cellular

(NGPF), which offers free financial education lessons

energy, then discuss how to use scientific modeling

and assessments. This workshop is best for middle and

with students to build a conceptual understanding of

high school teachers looking to design a new financial

respiration, and finally conclude with a new modeling

literacy course or any teachers seeking financial literacy

tool for student assessment. Teachers will leave with

refreshers.

evidence-based strategies to build a phenomenon-

Francesca Pascale and Scott Rizzo are MƒA Master Teachers and

based metabolism/modeling lesson and tools to make

mathematics teachers at New Dorp High School in Staten Island.

student thinking visible. This workshop is best for high school biology teachers.

Marisa Alvarado teaches biology, Earth Science, and AP Environmental Science for the Grossmont Union School District in San Diego, California. As an HHMI Ambassador, she loves how BioInteractive resources provide her students with opportunities to explore problems, dig into data, work collaboratively, and see real scientists—who look like them—in action! When she’s not teaching, she enjoys paddleboarding,

Math Game Jam Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Phylicia Hoyt and Kate Litman TUESDAY, JAN 7 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

running, and spending time with family.

Do you need a break from the norm? Do you want

Kasey Christopher teaches introductory biology, developmental

to play original mathematics games made by your

biology, biochemistry, STEM pedagogy, and scientific communication

peers? Do you believe kids learn best through play?

at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As an educator and HHMI Ambassador, she’s passionate about her work and believes

Look no further! In this workshop, we will play a series

MLLs and the Translanguaging Classroom: Key Strategies to Get You Started p Facilitated By: Pamela Jones TUESDAY, OCT 15 ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

that every student—regardless of their background—is capable of

of mathematics games designed by teachers who are

interpreting real scientific data and developing a sense of wonder about

experts in game-based learning. This session will feature

Have you ever wondered how to connect with your

the world. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys cooking, reading, hiking,

original games such as Zero Out (negative numbers),

Multilingual Learners (MLLs) when you don’t speak

Absolute Blast (absolute value), Complementary

their languages? MLLs in our classrooms often face

Combos (angles combinations), and Roots (factoring

the hegemony of a mythical “Standard English”—they

quadratics). We will learn about game-based learning

are, in essence, linguistically stopped and frisked into

principles, embedding assessment into gameplay, and

relinquishing their heritage languages. In this workshop,

incorporating “roll out” strategies. We will end with a

we will examine and challenge our beliefs around

brainstorming session for adapting game mechanics

language instruction, review key pedagogical strategies

and modifications for different content levels. Teachers

rooted in a multilingual worldview, and identify a starting

will receive “print and play” and digital copies of all the

strategy to launch in the short term. By the end of this

and spending time with family.

Mathematics of Finance and Teaching Financial Literacy Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Francesca Pascale and Scott Rizzo WEDNESDAY, DEC 11 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

games played during the session. This course is best

workshop, we will have begun to shift our mindsets

Are you interested in teaching students how to be

for middle and high school mathematics teachers with

from a monolingual to a multilingual perspective and

financially independent or starting your own financial

creative minds and playful spirits.

have a set of practices to implement in classrooms.

Phylicia Hoyt is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

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

Quest to Learn in Manhattan.

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

literacy class? Join us to explore available resources teachers can easily modify for classroom use. We will begin by sharing our vision for financial literacy in our classrooms and our goals for the workshop. Then, we 55

specialist for grades K and one, and as a third and fifth grade classroom Kate Litman is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Quest to

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

Learn in Manhattan.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops University and her Master of Science in Education from Bank Street College of Education. Pam is pursuing her doctorate in literacy at New York University.

More Than Möbius: Scissors, Tape, and Paper Topology Facilitated By: Chaim Goodman-Strauss, Ph.D. WEDNESDAY, OCT 9 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

Optimal Cell Phone Tower Placement: A Graph and Domination Theory Approach Facilitated By: Pamela Harris, Ph.D. WEDNESDAY, NOV 6 ONLINE

Personal Mindfulness Practices Facilitated By: Simone Ousset Kuranishi and MƒA Master Teacher Erika Stafne THURSDAY, OCT 24 ONLINE

 MATHEMATICS

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Determining the optimal placement of resources, such

Do you want to improve your mental health as you

as cell phone towers, requires careful consideration

juggle teaching, global stressors, and home and

of coverage requirements, waste management, and

family life? Mindfulness practices prove to be effective

cost-efficiency. The solution to these complex problems

social-emotional learning (SEL) strategies in promoting

is the mathematical concept of a dominating set. A

well-being. This workshop will provide teachers with

dominating set for a graph is a subset of vertices where

research-based methods to incorporate mindfulness

every vertex is either in the subset or adjacent to a vertex

practices into their daily lives. Teachers will engage in

Discover the topology of surfaces with magic tricks

in the subset. By applying graph and domination theory,

discussions, reflect on their own coping behaviors and

using scissors, tape, and paper. We will begin with

we can determine the best possible locations for cell

stress triggers, and be provided with tangible guidance

the famous Möbius band, a one-sided surface that

phone towers, maximizing effective coverage in the

and activities to move forward with mindfulness practice

joins paper strip’s ends with a twist. Whether new or

area. In this workshop, teachers will first learn concepts

and stress reduction strategies. This workshop is open

familiar, you’ll be amazed by the unexpected and less

in graph theory including domination theory and some

to any teacher wanting to incorporate mindfulness

well-known methods to cut and manipulate paper

of its generalizations. Then, they will work in small

practices into their life.

strips. Then, we will delve into the tools of topology

groups to develop and investigate exercises to create

and the mathematical concepts used to understand

Simone O. Kuranishi is a dance, yoga, and special education teacher

student-facing tasks. Finally, teachers will collaborate

with over a decade of experience in public schools. She currently works

surfaces, creating even more exotic surfaces, such as

on how students can engage with and publish these

as a freelance consultant in mindfulness, yoga, and dance education.

the Klein bottle and a projective plane. Teachers can use

mathematical ideas. No previous knowledge is required,

Erika Stafne is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

these activities as part of a lesson or unit or as stand-

allowing teachers to fully immerse themselves in

Independence High School in Manhattan.

alone classroom activities to teach the mathematical

research-level mathematics. All teachers are welcome.

principles of topology in an engaging and accessible way. All are welcome.

Dr. Pamela E. Harris is a Mexican-American mathematician and Professor of Mathematics at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Dr. Chaim Goodman-Strauss is the Outreach Mathematician at the

She received her B.S. from Marquette University and M.S. and Ph.D.

National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath). He earned his Ph.D. in

in mathematics from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Dr.

Knot Theory at UT Austin and served on the mathematics faculty at the

Harris’s research is in algebraic combinatorics, and she is the author of

University of Arkansas. He has held visiting positions at the Geometry

over 70 peer-reviewed research articles in internationally recognized

Center at the University of Minnesota, Princeton University, and the

journals. She is an award-winning educator, a fellow of the American

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. He has been involved in

Mathematical Society and the Association for Women in Mathematics,

mathematical outreach for over thirty years, from graduate school to

the President and co-founder of Lathisms: Latinxs and Hispanics in

later producing the Math Factor segment/podcast and teaching young

the Mathematical Sciences, and co-hosts the podcast “Mathematically

mathematicians at Epsilon Camp and Campersand. He is a leader in

Uncensored.”

Physics For All: Teaching Strategies to Engage All Learners p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Robin Norwich THURSDAY, NOV 14 MƒA  SCIENCE

Are you teaching Regents Physics to students with diverse mathematics and language skills? Do you want to provide opportunities for all your students to be

studying aperiodic tilings and tiling theory, most recently on the team

successful? Join us as we apply Dr. Rhonda Bondie’s

bringing David Smith’s “hat” tile to the world. With John H. Conway

strategies to the physics classroom. We will create our

and Heidi Burgiel, he is a co-author of the books The Symmetries of

own “Images Draw You In” and “Sort and Label” physics

Things and the upcoming The Magic Theorem. Dr. Goodman-Strauss is a mathematical illustrator and sculptor, producing participation math-

tasks, discuss the benefits of the infinity quiz, and

art builds for numerous festivals such as the Gathering for Gardner, NY

explore the use of group work, dry erase boards, and

Math Fest, the UA Honors College Math Circus, and Bamboopalooza.

problem “slicing” to make problem-solving possible for every student. We will use Physics Regents questions as our focus, but any teacher wanting to explore how to

56

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

replace the need for words altogether. In this workshop,

hands dirty and your water clean! All teachers will leave

teachers will explore visual proofs to communicate

with a sample remediation kit and an ET goody bag. This

mathematical ideas. Working in groups, we will engage

workshop is best for high school biology, chemistry, and

engage students with Dr. Bondie’s routines is welcome.

with various visual proofs, using our prior knowledge to

Environmental Science teachers.

Robin Norwich is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Bayside

explain the proofs. Teachers will then discuss challenges

Joanna Caudle spent the first half of her career as an engineer with the

High School in Queens.

and new understandings that surface. We will look at

Bechtel Corporation, where she designed and oversaw the construction

multiple famous proofs of the Pythagorean Theorem

and startup of power projects in the U.S. and abroad. She holds a B.S.

Planning for Climate Action Days Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Katie McCarthy and Rose Ventimiglia

and others that prove results from number theory and calculus. Teachers will learn how proofs without words

in Physics from the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, and a BME from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia.

After a rewarding engineering career, Joanna transitioned to teaching in

can convey the mathematical results that they intend to

2002 and has taught physics and exploratory engineering at the Stone

TUESDAY, SEP 24

prove. Finally, we will explore the validity and potential

Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Rockville, Maryland, where she also

MƒA

pitfalls of proofs without words and how to incorporate

 SCIENCE

them into our classrooms to foster students’ interest and

How can we plan meaningful, student-led Climate Action Days at our schools? In this workshop, we will collaboratively design impactful Climate Action Days for our school communities, aligned with the four designated days by New York City Public Schools. We will explore a variety of approaches to engage students, staff, and other community stakeholders in meaningful climate activism. We will focus on creating a climate action plan, which includes curriculum integration, student leadership development, whole school events, community partnerships, and more. Teachers will leave this workshop empowered to inspire environmental stewardship and collective action among students and stakeholders. This workshop is best for Sustainability Coordinators, but all teachers are welcome to join.

Katie McCarthy is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Sunset Park High School in Brooklyn.

Rose Ventimiglia is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at J.H.S. 167 Robert F. Wagner in Manhattan.

more profound understanding. This workshop is best for any secondary mathematics teacher interested in investigating proofs without words.

serves as the chair of the science department and the STEM Program Coordinator.

Marissa Maggio is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan.

Jennifer Toner is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Staten Island Technical High School in Staten Island.

Brian Frechtman is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Beacon High School in Manhattan.

Maria Leon Chu is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at Francis Lewis High School in Queens.

Ready for Environmental Remediation?: Remediated Sites With Engineering Tomorrow Facilitated By: Joanna Caudle and MƒA Master Teachers Marissa Maggio and Jennifer Toner WEDNESDAY, SEP 25 MƒA  SCIENCE

Are you interested in providing your students with free, hands-on engineering experiences? Do you want them to learn about real-world examples of pollution and how engineers clean up polluted sites? Join us as we explore one of the newest resources from Engineering

Proofs Without Words Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Brian Frechtman and Maria Leon Chu

Tomorrow (ET), the “Remediated Sites” lab. We’ll start with an introduction to ET and their free STEM labs and resources. Then, as students, we’ll engage with

WEDNESDAY, JAN 15

“Remediated Sites,” to explore how contaminated sites

MƒA

develop, review the chemical properties of solutions,

 MATHEMATICS

A picture is worth a thousand words, or so the saying goes. In mathematics, an elegant picture can even

57

and learn about the remediation methods engineers use to clean water bodies and remove pollutants. Finally, we will work in groups to analyze data from an actual site and create a remediation plan. Be ready to get your MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

university’s history. In this workshop, teachers will gain

Eric Siu is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Queens High

insight into the scientific foundations of happiness

School for Language Studies in Queens.

and well-being. Drawing from Dr. Santos’ extensive

RoboExpo Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Joel Bianchi, Everton Henriques, Jared Jax, Ph.D., and Greg Sciame WEDNESDAY, NOV 20 MƒA

research and the book, Thanks! How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier, by Robert A. Emmons, we will dispel common misconceptions about happiness, examine cognitive biases that distort our expectations, and explore evidence-based strategies rooted in the science of gratitude, positive psychology,

STEMprov: Improvisation for Effective Communication Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jesse John, Ph.D., and Andy Nissinboim TUESDAY, DEC 17 MƒA  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

 COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

and other empirically validated principles for cultivating

Are you interested in creating or expanding a robotics

well-being. Teachers will learn practical tools for

Get ready to transform your STEM classroom with

program at your school and want support in getting

implementing these happiness-boosting techniques

improvisation! Join us to explore theater’s role in

started? Come to the MƒA RoboExpo! Teachers will

in their personal lives, classrooms, and school

enhancing communication, staying present, and

explore the panoply of approaches to robotics used by

communities. All are welcome.

reading nonverbal cues, all aimed at improving student

MƒA Master Teachers across various grade levels and

Stephen Kos is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at New

engagement and understanding. We will start with

contexts, including virtual platforms, Arduinos, Lego,

Explorations into Science, Technology and Math High School in

an introduction to improvisation basics and their

VEX, TETRIX, and FIRST Competition robots. Learn

Manhattan.

applications in STEM education. Teachers will participate in interactive exercises to practice translating complex

about opportunities to incorporate robotics into your STEM classrooms and join a network of MƒA teachers ready to support you in getting started. To engage your students best, we will explore the benefits of equitable access to hands-on robotics and related electronics applications in high-tech and low-tech (virtual and physical) environments. No previous experience with

Shared Time for Shared Knowledge: Collaboratively Tune and Share Your Success p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Leandra Lockwood-Toronto and Eric Siu

jargon into everyday language. These techniques will also be demonstrated as innovative formative assessment tools to create a dynamic learning environment. The course is grounded in Impro:

MONDAY, OCT 28

Improvisation and the Theatre by Keith Johnstone, The

ONLINE

Talent Code by Daniel Coyle, online improvisational

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

technique platforms and videos, and articles and studies

Joel Bianchi is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher at

Have you ever scoured Google or TeachersPayTeachers

on the impact of improvisation on communication and

Energy Tech High School in Queens.

for a well-reviewed lesson only to come up empty? At

learning in STEM fields. Teachers seeking to invigorate

Everton Henriques and Dr. Jared Jax are MƒA Master Teachers and

MƒA, our biggest resource is each other! Join us in this

their teaching methods and boost student participation

science teachers at Staten Island Technical High School in Staten Island.

workshop to learn about the Shared Knowledge site,

are welcome. No prior knowledge of improvisation or

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

discover how to successfully navigate the submission

theater is required.

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

process, and submit your most effective resources

Dr. Jesse John is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at High

(perfect or not!). We will guide you through resource

School for Innovation in Advertising and Media in Brooklyn.

evaluation criteria to then tune and modify our lessons,

Andy Nissinboim is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at

projects, units, etc. for ‘live’ peer review and eventually

Edward R. Murrow High School in Brooklyn.

robotics is necessary.

The Science of Happiness Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Stephen Kos WEDNESDAY, NOV 20

submission to the Shared Knowledge site. We hope

MƒA

our interdisciplinary collaboration will inspire us to not

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

In 2018, growing concerns about student mental health prompted Yale psychology professor Dr. Laurie Santos to create the course “Psychology and the Good Life,” which quickly became the most popular course in the

58

only submit resources but also experience how various

Swiftly Synthesizing Slide Decks Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Grace Hu

pedagogies can be adapted for our own content.

MONDAY, OCT 7

Everyone is welcome.

ONLINE

Leandra Lockwood-Toronto is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Marsh Avenue School for Expeditionary Learning in Staten Island.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Do you want to create aesthetic and jam-packed informative slide decks quickly and with minimal effort?

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops

mystical as it may seem with socket programming!

Quantitative Reasoning at The New School. She began her career as a

In this workshop, teachers will learn to develop

high school teacher in India before coming to the US to earn her Ph.D.

sockets to establish a link between two programs and

in mathematics education from Montclair State University. Her research focuses on creating mathematics curricula that foster students’ critical

The goal of this course is to become a manipulator of

communicate information back and forth. Using existing

awareness of social and environmental justice issues, demonstrating

Google Slides templates and an expert in combining

programming libraries and socket.io, we can create

the power and value of mathematics. These activities help students

slide templates to make educational slide decks. In this

sockets to exchange information, such as a player’s

single session workshop, we will first choose a slide

location or messages between distant people. Teachers

template from slidesgo.com. Next, we will use the ‘edit

will explore and modify existing examples using Python

theme’ menu to personalize the deck to our lesson’s

and JavaScript. This workshop is best for teachers with

specifications. Finally, we will take time to create our

basic programming knowledge.

own new and improved slide deck for an upcoming

Renne Castro is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science teacher

lesson. This workshop is best for teachers wanting to

at Bayside High School in Queens.

level up their slide deck creations.

Ashwin Ramanathan is an MƒA Master Teacher and computer science

mathematics for social justice. She received her Ph.D. in mathematics

teacher at Jamaica Gateway to the Sciences in Queens.

education from Montclair State University.

Transformative Classrooms: Infusing Social Justice in Middle School Mathematics p Facilitated By: Debasmita Basu, Ph.D., and Madhavi Vishnubhotla, Ph.D.

Uncovering Quadrilaterals Through Graph Investigations Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Evelyn Israel and Kaitlin Nova

Grace Hu is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at World View

appreciate the practical value of mathematics in their daily lives and use mathematical literacy to understand social and environmental phenomena relevant to their experiences.

Dr. Madhavi Vishnubhotla is an Assistant Professor in Mathematics and Quantitative Reasoning at The New School. Prior to that, she was a high school mathematics teacher both in the US and India. Dr. Vishnubhotla works with in-service and pre-service teachers to understand their pedagogical practices and meanings of mathematical ideas. Her research and professional interests are geared towards teaching

High School in the Bronx.

Telegraphs: The Original Email Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Marieke Thomas TUESDAY, JAN 14 MƒA  SCIENCE

How can we use basic circuits to send messages over long distances? In this workshop, we will build basic telegraphs using breadboards, switches, and LEDs and then use them to simulate long-distance communication. We will then learn about Morse code, digital vs. analog communication, and applications of electromagnets in telegraph receivers and relays.

This course is best for physics, computer science, and engineering teachers of all grade levels.

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

This Will Knock Your Sockets Off! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Renne Castro and Ashwin Ramanathan MONDAY, SEP 30 ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Have you ever wanted to create a multiplayer game or an innovative chatroom? The solution is not as 59

THURSDAY, OCT 24

THURSDAY, DEC 5

MƒA

MƒA

 MATHEMATICS

 MATHEMATICS

Unlock the power of mathematics to inspire social

How can students explore quadrilaterals on a grid in

change and empower students in your classroom!

an engaging way? In this workshop, we will explore

Teachers will explore innovative strategies for integrating

a mathematical investigation that allows students to

social justice into middle school mathematics.

uncover the essential concepts required to classify

Through discussions and hands-on activities, we will

quadrilateral types on a coordinate grid. We will dive

compare traditional mathematics lessons to those

into the steps for implementing this investigation and

infused with social justice. We will learn to identify,

learn strategies to compare and analyze quadrilaterals

create, and enhance lessons that promote critical

using visual evidence and concepts like rotation,

thinking and real-world problem-solving. We will also

reflection, congruent and similar triangles, slope, and

delve into the practical frameworks of Eric Gutstein

the Pythagorean theorem. We will observe patterns

and Mathew D. Felton-Koestler to address common

and formalize numerical evidence to prove specific

teaching challenges. By the end of the workshop,

quadrilaterals. Then, we will discuss how we would

teachers will have actionable ideas and lessons to

adapt this task for our different students and classroom

make their mathematics teaching more impactful

settings and how we might extend this task to include

and relevant. Teachers will be invited to share written

other mathematical topics we teach. This workshop

artifacts, participate in audio recordings and interviews,

is best for teachers who want to explore proofs,

implement one or two lessons following the workshop,

quadrilaterals, slopes, and the Pythagorean theorem.

and provide feedback to support facilitator research. All

Evelyn Israel is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

middle school mathematics teachers are welcome!

Humanities Preparatory Academy in Manhattan.

Dr. Debasmita Basu is an Assistant Professor of Mathematics and

Kaitlin Nova is an MƒA Master Teacher and mathematics teacher at

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Single Session Workshops Forsyth Satellite Academy in Manhattan.

Welcoming and Empowering MLL Newcomers for NGSS Success p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Denise Bou and Andres Cruz Escobar WEDNESDAY, OCT 30 MƒA  SCIENCE

With the ever increasing number of immigrant and refugee students, supporting the needs of our multilingual learners is more important than ever.

Join us as we discuss how students from different countries learn science and work together to support our newcomers as they adjust to their new learning environments. Specifically, we will concentrate on the NGSS Science and Engineering Practice of “analyzing and interpreting data.” We’ll begin by experiencing the academic and emotional challenges of being in a class that speaks a different language. Then, we will share and model instructional strategies to differentiate for MLLs, compiling them into a resource bank to support future implementation. This workshop is best for all middle and high school science teachers working with MLLs. Denise Bou is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at Murray Hill Academy in Manhattan.

Andres Cruz Escobar is an MƒA Master Teacher and science teacher at I.S. 5 - The Walter Crowley Intermediate School in Queens.

60

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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.

61

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Affinity Groups

LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Lisa Bueno, Snigdha Das, and Emmett DiPadova WEDNESDAYS, SEP 25, NOV 13, DEC 11 THURSDAYS, OCT 17, JAN 23

+ 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.

MƒA & ONLINE

Do you identify as LGBTQIA+, and are you interested in Join us as we collaborate, recharge, and discuss common challenges we may face with fellow LGBTQIA+ STEM teachers. We will meet monthly, and the needs of our community will set our agenda.

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, DEC 4 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Do you identify as an Asian American, Native Hawaiian,

combating myths and stereotypes. Neurodivergentidentifying individuals and those exploring their relationship to neurodiversity are welcome; no formal diagnosis or prerequisite knowledge is needed.

 COMMUNITY

meeting other queer educators in the MƒA community?

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Yishan Lee, Sin Li, and Cathy Xiong

and advocacy for the neurodiversity movement while

Space to Breathe: Women of Color Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Alana Burgos and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Alyson Lopez TUESDAYS, SEP 24, NOV 12, JAN 7 MƒA & ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Do you identify as a Black, Latinx, Indigenous, or

Muslim Educators Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Hareem Ahmed-Zia and Quratul Waqas

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander woman interested in prioritizing self-care? Join us to have honest discussions about work-life balance

and/or Pacific Islander (AANHPI) educator who wants

TUESDAY, OCT 8 THURSDAY, NOV 7

and to pour back into ourselves and each other. We

to build a tight-knit community and explore how our

ONLINE

aim to prioritize and expand self-care practices (such

identities intersect with teaching? In this affinity space, we will celebrate the diversity of social and cultural values within the AANHPI community and discuss the challenges faced by all marginalized folks.

Black, Latinx, and PoC Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Leton Hall, Eric Portales, and Samantha Tulloch WEDNESDAYS, SEP 18, OCT 30, NOV 13, DEC 18, JAN 15

 COMMUNITY

Are you a Muslim educator interested in meeting others in the MƒA community? Join us in fostering a space for

as journaling, meditation, vision boarding, and self regulation activities) as we commune with each other.

Let’s strategize to make teaching sustainable for us.

Muslim MƒA teachers to collaboratively discuss issues facing the community in and out of NYC schools and explore how our shared identity relates to our roles as educators in a diverse school system. The needs of our community will set our agenda.

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

Neurodiversity Affinity Group p Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Laura Brando and Laura Ralph WEDNESDAY, SEP 25 THURSDAYS, OCT 24, JAN 16 MONDAY, NOV 18 ONLINE

educational endeavors. We will meet monthly, and the

 COMMUNITY

needs of our community will set our agenda.

Are you interested in meeting other neurodivergent educators in the MƒA community? Join us in creating a safe, welcoming space to bring authentic voices to the forefront of conversations about neurodiversity.

Let’s support one another in building greater awareness

62

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Interest Groups Interest Groups are usually 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.

63

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Interest Groups All-Levels Vinyasa Yoga Facilitated By: Emilie Brockmann TUESDAY, OCT 1 MONDAY, NOV 25 WEDNESDAY, DEC 18 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 as well as long-time practitioner.

Emilie Brockmann is a 500hr RYT focusing on Vinyasa, Restorative, Yin, and Prenatal Yoga. She has completed training in Ayurveda, Meditation, and Childbirth Education. She is a certified Birth and Postpartum Doula.

Board Game Night Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Liny Chan, Yishan Lee, Deborah Reich, and Matt Steiniger TUESDAY, OCT 15 THURSDAYS, NOV 7, JAN 16

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY AND PREFERENCE FOR IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL MEETINGS.

Are you interested in learning and playing new games while socializing with your colleagues? If you are curious about the world of board games beyond the classics, this is the space for you! While we play, we will explore game mechanics and brainstorm ideas for incorporating play elements into our instruction. We will provide games and teachers are welcome to bring favorites along as well! All experience levels are welcome, from non-gamers to fellow tabletop gaming enthusiasts.

MONDAY, SEP 30 ONLINE

Are you interested in creating an outstanding department? Whether you’re a new department facilitator or a seasoned leader needing new ideas, join us to informally discuss how to strategically use

ONLINE

department time and foster shared growth in your team.

 SCIENCE

Biology teachers to reflect on what is and isn’t working in our classrooms? Join us for a post-mortem of the May 2024 AP Biology exam and to discuss how our learnings can inform instruction for the coming school

Creating Math Clubs and Teams for All! Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Liny Chan, Amy Lee, and Dylan Persaud TUESDAY, OCT 8 ONLINE

year. We will share best practices for increasing the rigor,

 MATHEMATICS

engagement, and proficiency of our students’ science

Are you interested in creating a mathematics club or

skills. All AP Biology teachers are welcome.

team at your school? Join us to look at the various

welcome!

Earth and Space Science Teacher Meetup Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers James Anderson and Jeanne Kopun THURSDAY, NOV 7 ONLINE  SCIENCE

Are you interested in sharing materials, lesson plans, and ideas with other Earth and Space Science teachers?

Join us for an informal brainstorming session about best teaching practices in our subject area. We will collaborate on the difficulties unique to our subject and share resources to encourage student motivation in this complex content area. All Earth and Space Science

Elementary Teacher Mixer Facilitated By: MƒA Staff THURSDAY, SEP 19 MƒA  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in celebrating the start of the school year by meeting fellow elementary school Master Teachers? Join us for this one-hour mixer to meet new friends and see familiar faces as we learn more about all things elementary—the courses being offered, the expertise and resources within the community, and more!

Exploring Plant-Based Eating Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Daniel Holstein and Ursula Lovings MONDAY, JAN 13

components of a mathematics team, including curriculum, contests, and team organization. We will 64

future mathematics team coaches and teachers are

teachers are welcome.

Building Your Department Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Athena Colin, Shana Elizabeth Henry, Ph.D., and Abigail Kirchman

MONDAY, SEP 23

Are you interested in collaborating with fellow AP

team or club at their school. All established, new, or

MƒA & ONLINE  COMMUNITY

 COMMUNITY

AP Biology Interest Group Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Tracy LaGrassa, Ph.D., and Marisa Wagner, Ph.D.

provide teachers with resources to start a mathematics

ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in plant-based eating and need help figuring out where to start? Join us for an informative MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Interest Groups and judgment-free conversation exploring the transition to plant-based eating. We will share resources and strategies to help overcome some of the challenges of changing diets. By the end of the session, teachers will leave with knowledge about which foods can improve health, boost energy, and contribute to environmentally sustainable habits. All are welcome.

Exploring Travel Opportunities With Your Students Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj and Andrew Mittiga MONDAY, NOV 4 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in providing your students with enriching cultural experiences around the world? Join

Film Screening: Nocturnes Facilitated By: Patrick Hurley and Sam Lazar Riviello

comprehension? Join us to better foster a love of reading amongst our students and boost their academic

WEDNESDAY, JAN 22

success. All teachers who want to help their students

MƒA

overcome reading comprehension obstacles and

 SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE: THIS SCREENING WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE SANDBOX FILMS THEATER SPACE ON THE 10TH FLOOR.

Are you interested in bringing documentary films into your STEM classroom? Join us at a film screening from our friends at Sandbox Films, Executive Producers of the Oscar-nominated Fire of Love. This semester’s featured film is the documentary Nocturnes, which follows the story of two scientists attempting to unravel the secrets of the hawk moth in the dense forests of the Eastern Himalayas. Nocturnes offers viewers an immersive glimpse into a rarely seen location and encourages everyone to take a closer look at the hidden connections within the natural world. Popcorn will be provided!

improve their learning are welcome.

Getting Started With Grant Writing and DonorsChoose Facilitated By: Andy Yung and MƒA Master Teachers Steve Oszust and Jordan Wolf MONDAY, OCT 7 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in acquiring resources for your classroom and need to find funding? Look no further than DonorsChoose. With over 600 completely funded projects among us, our team of grant writing experts will help you create a DonorsChoose account, teach you the craft of grant writing, and support you in

Patrick Hurley is the Head of Distribution & Business Affairs at Sandbox

writing and submitting DonorsChoose projects. The

Films, where he develops production campaigns while working closely

skills learned in this session are easily transferable to

us to discover incredible opportunities for your students

with filmmakers and release partners worldwide to maximize each

and yourself, explore effective fundraising strategies,

film’s impact and audience. Patrick has a decade of experience in the

many other grant applications as well. All teachers who

and gain insights on organizing trips within school and

documentary film space with roles as the Industry Director at Sheffield

struggle to acquire needed supplies and resources are

DocFest and Distribution Manager at Dogwoof, UK. Patrick holds

welcome.

DOE guidelines. This session is best for middle and

a degree in economics and political science from the University of

Andy Yung is a pre-K teacher at P.S. 244Q The Active Learning

high school teachers eager to broaden their students’

Sydney. Prior to working in film, Patrick was a researcher and a teacher.

horizons through travel.

Sam Lazar Riviello is ​​ the Chief of Staff at Sandbox Films, where she

$35,000 for his classroom, school, and community and is always willing

plans and directs all administrative, financial, and operational activities

to help those who wish to start their own crowdfunding journey.

Fiber Arts Interest Group Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Kate Maschmeyer TUESDAY, SEP 24

while supporting strategic planning initiatives alongside company executives. Prior to joining Sandbox, Sam worked in the executive office of EngenderHealth, a global women’s health and reproductive rights organization. She holds a master’s degree in public administration and a Bachelor of Arts in film marketing.

MƒA  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: 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 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 make fiber art! All skill levels

Elementary School. He has used DonorsChoose.org to raise over

Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship: To the Galapagos and Beyond Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Susie Harter TUESDAY, DEC 17

Getting on the Same Page: Building Reading Comprehension Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Siaka Kone, Leslyn Morris, and Oseoghaghare Okobiah MONDAY, OCT 28 ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

MƒA  SCIENCE

Are you interested in partnering with National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions to travel the world? Join us to discover how to apply for the twoyear Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship, open to any K-12 educator! In this interest group, teachers will learn about

are welcome, whether new, novice, or expert—we all

Are you interested in sharing strategies and tools to

an expedition to the Galapagos Islands, its connections

have the potential to create something beautiful!

identify and address common obstacles to reading

to the classroom, and most importantly, how to apply

65

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Interest Groups

science research classes or those looking to integrate

with your peers? Whether you want a content refresher

more independent science research into existing

or simply want to solve calculus problems for fun, this

curricula.

is the group for you! Join us to do some mathematics, learn from each other’s techniques and reasoning, and

for this amazing opportunity.

Growing a Student Research Program Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jason Econome and Stacy Goldstein TUESDAY, OCT 15 THURSDAY, OCT 24 ONLINE  SCIENCE + PLEASE NOTE; YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in developing or enhancing the science research program at your school? Join us to share experiences and strategies for inquiry-based project design, grant proposal and report writing, competition applications, and inclusive student recruitment. This interest group is best for teachers of

IB Biology Teachers Meetup Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Hareem AhmedZia TUESDAY, OCT 29

courses. We will work through AP Calculus AB exam questions together and explore self-checking Desmos activities spanning all eight AP Calculus AB units.

ONLINE  SCIENCE

Are you interested in collaborating with other IB Biology

Let’s Play Spades!

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Lion Jasmin

teachers? Are you your school’s only IB Biology teacher

THURSDAY, DEC 19

and looking for thought partners? Join us to share best

MƒA

practices and understand the new changes for the 2025

 COMMUNITY

exams. Any IB Biology teachers or those interested in

Are you interested in the game of spades? Whether

the IB program are welcome.

you’re an expert or a total novice, join us in learning and playing this card game of bidding, risk-taking, and

Improving Relationships Between NYC Charter and DOE Schools Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Matthew Fleck and Huan Wang TUESDAY, DEC 3 MƒA  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in improving the relationship and fostering collaboration between NYC charter and DOE schools? Join us to explore the tensions between these school communities while also surfacing points of potential collaboration. We will discuss common misconceptions and possible policy changes for better outcomes for all NYC students. All are welcome!

Let’s Do Calculus!

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Stephanie Bohbot WEDNESDAYS, SEP 25, DEC 11 MƒA  MATHEMATICS

66

engage with the prerequisite skills for current or future

teamwork!

Magic: The Gathering at MƒA Facilitated By: MƒA Emeritus Teacher Sherri Shaarbafan TUESDAYS, OCT 8, OCT 29, DEC 10, JAN 7 THURSDAY, NOV 14 MƒA  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in playing Magic: The Gathering? This is a tabletop card game played by two or more players.

Defeat your opponent by casting spells and attacking with creatures to deal damage! Anyone interested in learning how to play or interested in playing casually is welcome.

Math Night!

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Quratul Waqas WEDNESDAY, JAN 15 ONLINE

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

 MATHEMATICS

Are you interested in working through calculus problems

Are you interested in hosting a math night at your

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Interest Groups

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 Prison Yoga, which provides yoga and meditation to incarcerated

school? Get your school community excited about mathematics outside the classroom! Join us in sharing ideas and activities that celebrate mathematics, foster a positive school climate, and build community. All mathematics teachers are welcome.

Middle School Science and CRT Meetup Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Cathy Xiong

people, and his “I Can Breathe” Yoga program, which offers teacher training scholarships to BIPOC who want to bring yoga to their community.

Overbooked Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Phylicia Hoyt and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Theresa Stanley WEDNESDAYS, OCT 9, DEC 4 THURSDAY, NOV 14 TUESDAY, JAN 14 MƒA & ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Moms at Work Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Phylicia Hoyt TUESDAY, OCT 15 WEDNESDAY, DEC 11 ONLINE

+ 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.

Are you interested in reading for fun but don’t always

MONDAY, JAN 13

 COMMUNITY

have time? Join our book club as we read (mostly

ONLINE

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

fiction) for enjoyment and come together to discuss

 SCIENCE

Are you interested in connecting with other middle school science teachers to share experiences and challenges and collaborate on culturally responsive teaching (CRT) best practices? Join us to share resources to support our diverse student populations.

Mindful Yoga Facilitated By: Roque Rodriguez WEDNESDAYS, SEP 25, OCT 16, NOV 6, DEC 4, JAN 22 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.

Are you interested in an hour of mindfulness and selfcare? Join us for a yoga experience in which we turn our attention inward and link our movement and breath.

We’ll begin by warming our bodies, then move through a mindful yoga flow, and conclude with a guided yoga nidra meditation. Sessions are open to all yoga practitioners—from first-timers to seasoned yogis.

Roque (pronounced: ROW-Keh), the son of Dominican-American immigrants, is a 500-hour trained yoga teacher. In addition to his 500 hours of training, Roque has studied Anatomy with Jason Brown,

Are you interested in creating more balance as a mom with a new baby or young children? Then this interest group is for you. Together we will build a community to support each other, from pumping at work to navigating work-life balance and beyond. We will also share tips and tricks for managing it all (or most of it!). This interest group is for new and experienced moms with young children.

One No Trump: Play Bridge!

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Melanie Battles and Melanie Pflaum and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Sherri Shaarbafan

each book. Most recently, Overbooked has read: Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting by Clare Pooley, This is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone, How Far the Light Reaches: A Life in Ten Sea Creatures by Sabrina Imbler, and Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson.

Planning for Retirement as a NYCDOE Teacher Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Andrea Cannizzaro, John McCoy, and Brittany Murdock TUESDAY, OCT 29 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

THURSDAYS, OCT 17, DEC 5, JAN 23

Are you interested in maintaining or improving your

MƒA

standard of living in your “golden years”? Are you

 COMMUNITY

thinking about the future and planning for retirement?

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Considering the 3 Tier Stool Approach, we will

Are you interested in the game of bridge? Whether

optimizing and balancing risk, and managing Roth vs.

you’re a tournament player or novice, join us in learning

pre-tax options. This session will have information for

this card game of bidding and trick-taking! We will also

establishing retirement plans and foundations, including

play whist, euchre, hearts, and spades!

differentiated resources for those further along in the

discuss strategies for replacing income in retirement,

process looking to map and project growth. Retirement comes quickly, so get acquainted with your options to help support your future!

Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra with Mona Anand, and is a certified Hosh Kids Yoga Teacher. Roque is a proud founder of Suryaside Yoga and Wellness in Queens, NY. When he’s not teaching the Suryaside

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Interest Groups Planning for the Black Lives Matter Week of Action Facilitated By: Liv Roach and MƒA Master Teacher Courtney Ferrell

Sabbaticals: Paid Leave for Study or Research Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Maria Leon Chu and Crystal Thiele MONDAY, OCT 7

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.

ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in a paid sabbatical leave for study

WEDNESDAY, JAN 8

or research? We will cover how to apply, ideas for

MƒA

Solve a Rubik’s Cube!

Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Shana Elizabeth Henry, Ph.D.

programs, full or half year sabbaticals, how to select

TUESDAYS, OCT 8, DEC 3

 COMMUNITY

courses and projects, what is expected of you, and

MƒA

Are you interested in speaking with like-minded

the fine print. We have both successfully been granted

 COMMUNITY

educators about how to integrate the Black Lives Matter

sabbaticals and are happy to share about the process. All

at School week of action into your teaching practices?

are welcome!

+ 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

BLM at Schools is a national movement addressing racial injustice in education, celebrating Black joy, confronting anti-Blackness, and building authentic partnerships with

Sci-Fi Book Club: Educational Utopias Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Juliana Ritter

all who support creating equitable school communities.

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, NOV 13, DEC 18

Join us to plan lessons, school activities, and possible

MƒA

cross-school collaborations! All are welcome!

Putting the Field in Field Studies Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Melissa Dowd and Sarah Gribbin

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 encouraged to sign up for both sessions.

 COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Sound Meditation: Exploration and Experience Facilitated By: Emilie Brockmann

Are you interested in reading utopian-themed books?

THURSDAY, JAN 16

Are you brave enough to dream up utopian worlds,

MƒA

WEDNESDAY, OCT 9

classrooms, and education systems for you and your

 COMMUNITY

MƒA

students? Join us as we read authors such as Octavia

Are you interested in experiencing sound meditation

 SCIENCE

Butler, Ursula Le Guin, and Kim Stanley Robinson and

and learning how different instruments, acoustics, and

discuss how literary utopias can unlock new (better?)

applications can affect states of consciousness? Join

worlds! This interest group is for anyone feeling stuck

us for an evening of exploration and relaxation through

in our political or educational system and wanting the

sound meditation.

Are you interested in taking your students out into the field? Do you want to identify interesting field site locations and design meaningful field study assignments? Join us to explore various citywide field locations and find ways to link the work to your curriculum. We will brainstorm site locations, academic programming, and logistics. All teachers wanting to get students out of the classroom and into the field are welcome.

freedom to imagine a brighter future. All are welcome!

and Prenatal Yoga. She has completed training in Ayurveda, Meditation,

Side Hustles: Ways to Supplement Your Income Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj and Annycardeli Lopez MONDAY, OCT 28 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

and Childbirth Education. She is a certified Birth and Postpartum Doula.

Special Educators United Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Jake Leibold WEDNESDAYS, OCT 30, JAN 8 ONLINE

Are you interested in making more money or having

 COMMUNITY

trips around the world fully financed? Then this is the

+ PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

interest group for you! Join us to create a community for sharing different resources, jobs, fellowships, etc.,

68

Emilie Brockmann is a 500hr RYT focusing on Vinyasa, Restorative, Yin,

Are you a special educator seeking collaboration? Join

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Interest Groups

idea but need help honing and developing it. Join us in this informal setting to find out what it takes to create a successful proposal. MƒA Master Teachers

us to share best practices and strategies to streamline our workload and improve our efficacy and joy. As we discuss the successes and challenges of being a special educator, we will consider our roles inside the

experienced with course proposal and facilitation will share their successes and challenges and you will have an opportunity to present, discuss, reflect, and receive feedback on your ideas.

classroom supporting students with and without IEPs, co-teaching partnership dynamics, and IEP writing and goal tracking. This session is best for special educators, but is open to all.

Trivia Night Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Keith Lau TUESDAYS, SEP 24, OCT 1, NOV 12 MƒA & ONLINE

Teachers as Parents Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers Sharon Collins and Kent Hansan

 COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY AND PREFERENCE FOR IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL MEETINGS.

WEDNESDAY, OCT 23

Are you interested in testing your knowledge? Then put

MƒA

your lesson plans aside and enjoy a night of pub-style

 COMMUNITY

trivia! Come on your own or with a team. All types of

Are you interested in grappling with the challenges

knowledge and random facts are welcome.

of being a teacher and a parent? Join us to explore questions such as how can we enter conversations with school communities as parents with significant experience and deeply held beliefs on education;

Tutoring: Growing Your Tutoring Side Gig Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teacher Joseph Buro and MƒA Emeritus Teacher Felicia Giunta

bring that same perspective and advocacy to our own

MONDAY, SEP 23

schools and practices; and achieve work-life balance?

ONLINE

Informed by experiences leading the Community Education Council for District 3, we will provide space for MƒA teacher-parents to examine pathways to parent leadership in PA/PTAs and beyond.

 COMMUNITY

Are you interested in discussing ways to take the classic teacher side job of tutoring and turn it into an amazing source of income? We have been tutoring for years and will share our strategies to make the business practice

Think Tank for MƒA Course Proposals Facilitated By: MƒA Master Teachers TBD MONDAY, NOV 18 WEDNESDAY, JAN 22

of tutoring something you can scale to your desire— without any worries about conflicts of interest or inconvenience to your free time.

ONLINE  INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY. ONE OF THE MEETINGS WILL BE SPECIFICALLY GEARED TOWARDS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS.

Are you interested in facilitating a course at MƒA but don’t know where to start? Maybe you have a course 69

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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.

70

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

MƒAdventures

Escape the Room Adventure Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj and Annycardeli Lopez

springs, tidal wetlands, beaver dams, human-made mountains, glass eel sanctuaries, and, if fortune favors us, majestic bald eagles soaring overhead.

THURSDAY, SEP 19

Bowling on the Lower East Side Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Ben Morgenroth and Will Russell

OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS MUST COVER THE $39 COST OF THE ESCAPE THE ROOM.

THURSDAYS, SEP 19, NOV 7

Are you interested in tackling puzzles, piecing together

OFFSITE

clues, and forging connections with other MƒA teachers?

 COMMUNITY

Join us for an exciting adventure as we collaboratively

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN FOOD, DRINKS, AND BOWLING COSTS. YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

navigate challenges and, hopefully, escape the room! We

East Side. Teachers are not required to bowl and are welcome to socialize.

FRIDAY, SEP 27 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN FOOD AND DRINKS.

Are you interested in building community with other MƒA teachers who work or live in the Bronx or Upper

together. All teachers are welcome!

Calling all craft beer enthusiasts! Join the MƒA community at breweries around NYC for networking, community

Family Fun Astronomy Night Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers David Deutsch and Alia Jackson OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

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!

building, and some games!

MƒA on Broadway Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Brittany Beck and Courtney Ferrell TBD

Are you interested in stargazing? Join us with your family

OFFSITE

for an evening of fun astronomy-related activities and an

 COMMUNITY

opportunity to look at various objects through several

+ PLEASE NOTE: FACILITATORS WILL EMAIL TEACHERS ABOUT DATES AND PRICES, AND TEACHERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYING FOR THEIR TICKETS.

different types of telescopes. There will be a few activities for children to create something astronomy related, and several telescopes will be available for viewing. All MƒAers and their families interested in the night sky are welcome!

Are you interested in attending Broadway shows with other MƒA teachers? Are you drawn to the lights of Broadway and the magic of performance? Join us to experience Broadway together, bond and network within

Manhattan? Let’s get to know each other while sharing teaching experiences and resources over drinks, snacks,

OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

FRIDAY, JAN 10

Bronx and Upper Manhattan Meetup Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Ramona Fittipaldi-Deoraj

FRIDAY, SEP 27 SATURDAY, NOV 2

will meet at MƒA for pizza and walk to Escape the Room

Are you interested in bowling with MƒA colleagues? Join us for an evening of bowling at The Gutter on the Lower

MƒAle: A Brewery Adventure Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Courtney Ferrell and Dave Richardson

Hiking Staten Island’s Greenbelt Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Didi O’Brien SATURDAY, NOV 16

our community, and perhaps be inspired to enrich our classrooms! We will choose shows based on interest and availability.

OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

Are you interested in hiking the scenic Greenbelt? Join us for an exhilarating four-mile journey through quiet trails full of diverse native species now thriving in their natural habitats, once polluted by sewage drainage from the Fresh Kills Landfill. Expect to encounter remnants of ancient mills and abandoned settlements, freshwater 71

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

MƒAdventures Mosaics for Beginners Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jackie Rivas and Scott Wassmuth THURSDAYS, OCT 17, OCT 24 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A TWO SESSION MƒADVENTURE.

Are you a puzzle enthusiast? Then you will love mosaics!

Join us in this two session MƒAdventure to learn how to create mosaics with stained glass. We will explore the basics of creating a pattern, cutting, nipping, gluing, and grouting to create our own mosaic art pieces! The first session will focus on planning our mosaic designs as we choose, cut, and nip glass then glue the pieces down. For the second session, we will grout and finish our mosaic art pieces—our very own puzzles! No previous artistic abilities needed.

National Museum of the American Indian: Indigenous STEM Innovations Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Patricia Yee and Mehmet Zubaroglu SATURDAY, OCT 5 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

Prospect Park Bike Ride Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Ben Morgenroth

Sewing for Beginners Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Dorothy Cupka, Ph.D.

SUNDAY, OCT 20

WEDNESDAY, NOV 13

OFFSITE

OFFSITE

 COMMUNITY

 COMMUNITY

Are you interested in biking with your MƒA friends and

Are you curious about how to make clothing or bags?

colleagues? Join us for a bike ride in Prospect Park! We

Join us to learn sewing machine basics and leave

will set our own pace while taking three laps around the

with a self-sewn grocery tote bag. You can jump into

3.3-mile Prospect Park loop. The ride will take about

many crafting spaces from there, including garment

Are you interested in learning about Indigenous

one hour, but teachers are welcome to peel off early or

sewing, quilting, upholstery, and costume-making! All

contributions to STEM? Join us at the National Museum

to keep riding. Teachers are invited to grab a bite to eat

are welcome, and no previous experience in sewing is

of the American Indian to discover Native innovations,

together afterward. Please bring your own bike (rentals

required!

technologies, artwork, and history. Teachers will leave

and CitiBikes are great, too!). Helmets are strongly

with ideas to share with students in celebration of

encouraged!

Indigenous People’s Day. Admission to the museum is free!

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

MƒAdventures

Westchester County MƒA Bowling Meetup!

Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Diane Thole SATURDAY, OCT 26 OFFSITE

Stained Glass Creations: Beginner Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Emmett DiPadova, Jackie Rivas, and Scott Wassmuth TUESDAY, OCT 1 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY

 COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN FOOD, DRINKS, AND BOWLING COSTS.

Are you interested in building community with other MƒA teachers who live in Westchester County? Let’s share teaching experiences and resources over drinks, snacks, and bowling. This meetup is a fantastic opportunity to

Are you interested in how stained glass crafts are made?

reconnect with and meet new friends and neighbors!

Do you want to make stained glass items for yourself or

STEM colleagues interested in learning more about MƒA

as a gift for someone else? Join us at the NYC Museum

are also welcome.

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 single session workshop offered later in the semester. No previous artistic ability is needed to sign up and create stained glass!

Teachers, Take a Hike!

Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Courtney Ferrell and Yishan Lee SATURDAYS, SEP 28, OCT 19 OFFSITE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY SIGN UP FOR EACH MEETING SEPARATELY IN ACCORDANCE WITH YOUR AVAILABILITY.

Are you interested in hiking as a way to rejuvenate and reflect as a teacher? If you need an escape from the city to explore nature, join us on the trail! Before each hike, we will communicate about transportation needs.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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 fall 2024 semester, in-person Thursday Think attendance is creditbearing, meaning it will count towards your fellowship minimum attendance requirements.

74

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

teach us how induction motors work, highlighting the

Thursday Thinks

role of electromagnetism and making them come alive with props easily transferable to the classroom. The talk will be followed by a hands-on opportunity for teachers to explore, play with, and build their own induction devices.

Jeremy Fielding is a self-taught mechanical engineer with seven years of experience in industrial machine design, prototyping, and automation. He also has a deep love for teaching engineering concepts and demonstrates them through projects on his YouTube channel. Built with teaching in mind, the channel has received over 50 million views and draws an international audience. Jeremy aims to make complex engineering concepts accessible with clear explanations and engaging real-world applications. His videos on engineering and electric motors are widely used by college classrooms around the world—one of his most watched projects centers on building an industrial-grade robot from scratch. Jeremy has received several awards, including YouTube’s “Next Up” Award, the Silver Play Button Award, and the Creator Honor Award for best engineering YouTube channel. Jeremy is married with four children who are often seen in his videos as they participate in the build process. In his free time, he enjoys playing board games with his children, learning about other cultures, and practicing his Mandarin Chinese through reading and language exchanges.

Pondering Playfulness: How to Unveil the Mathematics That Matters Speaker: Eddie Woo TUESDAY, NOV 19 MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE

You Spin Me Right Round: Tesla’s Greatest Invention Speaker: Jeremy Fielding THURSDAY, OCT 10 MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE  COMPUTER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 MATHEMATICS

Teaching goes beyond covering the syllabus and preparing students for standardized tests. Rather, our goal is to connect with our students and deeply engage them in learning—an often challenging task! One of the best ways to create a classroom environment that

Nikola Tesla was just 21 years old when he created

fosters student motivation is by rediscovering the

a device that would transform the world. Today, this

joy of learning through playful mathematics. When

device is everywhere—in the bathroom, bedroom, living

implemented thoughtfully, play offers a powerful way to

room, and even the garage. Your kitchen likely has at

challenge students and nurture their cognitive curiosity.

least five of them. What is this revolutionary device? The

In this interactive talk, Australian teacher and YouTuber

AC induction motor. Considered to be Tesla’s greatest

Eddie Woo will present the pedagogical principles

invention, the AC induction motor is one of the most

behind a range of activities, providing a low floor,

reliable, efficient, and widely used tools today and

high ceiling, and wide walls approach to encourage

the primary reason homes worldwide use AC current.

mathematical thinking. Throughout, Eddie will engage

Invented in the 1800s when other motors used brushes,

teachers in a variety of collaborative, play-centered,

this motor transfers power wirelessly, making it the

and skill-based activities ready to implement in any

most durable spinning device on the planet. In this talk,

mathematics classroom.

tinkerer, teacher, and engineer Jeremy Fielding will

Eddie Woo is a high school mathematics teacher and Mathematics

75

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

presentations by MƒA Master Teachers. The 13th annual

to harmful effects in humans and animals, including

Master Teachers on Teaching theme is “Be the Change:

liver damage, decreased immunity, and congenital

Think Global, Teach Local.” Speakers will explore

disabilities. To address the growing challenge of

this theme, what it means to them personally and

PFAS, the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics

professionally, and how it applies to their classroom and

Laboratory is developing multiple technologies that

classrooms across New York City. Join us to experience

work together to achieve complete PFAS remediation.

lessons with students and teachers across the world. His channel has

these innovative and inspiring talks given by our very

These technologies include materials for PFAS capture

more than 1.8 million subscribers and over 160 million views. Eddie

own MƒA Master Teachers. If you would like to present

and separation, chemical strategies for environmentally-

leads a statewide government program, the Mathematics Growth Team,

at this year’s event, please propose your talk idea here.

friendly PFAS destruction, materials for byproduct

Thursday Thinks Education Professor in Sydney, Australia. Eddie is also the creator of Wootube, a YouTube channel where he shares his everyday classroom

and has presented to educators around the world, including Dubai,

sequestration, and the development of PFAS-free

Uganda, and across Southeast Asia. In 2018, the Global Teacher Prize recognized him as one of the top 10 teachers in the world. When he’s

Aqueous Film Forming Foams, like those needed in fire

not teaching or uploading YouTube videos, Eddie is a children’s TV host

extinguishers. In this talk, Dr. Leslie Hamilton will discuss

and author. He has published four books on his love of mathematics:

these technologies and present strategies for all of us to

It’s a Numberful World (recognized as a Mathical Honor Book in 2020),

work towards PFAS-free waters.

Woo’s Wonderful World of Maths, Eddie Woo’s Magical Maths 1 & 2, and

Dr. Leslie H. Hamilton leads the Materials Research portfolio in

Whodunnit Eddie Woo?

the Research and Exploratory Development Department at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL). She is an interdisciplinary scientist with materials science, chemistry, and biology expertise. She has extensive experience leading multidisciplinary teams towards innovative solutions for technically challenging problems.

An important thrust within the Materials Research portfolio is the development of materials and chemistries to enable environmental resilience, with a focus on technologies to ensure the availability of clean water. Dr. Hamilton received her B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from North Carolina State University and her Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Stanford University. Prior to joining JHU/APL, she worked at the Microelectronics Center in Provence, France, and the National Institute of Standards and Technologies.

Eliminating “Forever Chemicals” From the World’s Water Speaker: Leslie Hamilton, Ph.D. THURSDAY, JAN 9

MT²: Master Teachers on Teaching - Be the Change: Think Global, Teach Local Speaker: MƒA Master Teachers

MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE  SCIENCE

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are

THURSDAY, DEC 12

a group of ~15,000 widely used, long-lasting chemicals

MƒA AUDITORIUM & ONLINE

that have caused widespread contamination in our air,

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP

Similar to a TEDx event, MT²: Master Teachers on Teaching features original and thought-provoking

76

water, and soil. Compounds in PFAS are so resilient that they persist in the environment rather than degrading naturally, earning them the label “forever chemicals.”

Studies have shown that PFAS exposure may be linked MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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 fall 2024 semester, Equity Webinar attendance is 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.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Self™” approach, an action-oriented process grounded

Equity Webinar Series

in love, humility, reflection, an understanding of history, and a commitment to working against racial injustice. In this talk, Dr. Sealy-Ruiz will invite teachers to (1) engage in deep self-reflection to uncover and critically examine their own racial beliefs and practices, (2) learn about racial literacy, and (3) embark on an action-oriented journey, committing to ongoing work against racial injustice and promoting a more equitable and inclusive educational environment. Teachers will leave with practical tools and strategies to implement racial literacy in their classrooms and schools.

Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz is a Professor of English Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, where she is also the founder of the Racial Literacy Project@TC and Racial Literacy Roundtables series. Her research has appeared in several academic journals, and she is the co-author of the award-winning book Advancing Racial Literacies in Teacher Education: Activism for Equity in Digital Spaces. Dr. Sealy-Ruiz is a multiple honoree of EdWeek’s EduScholar Influencers—a list of the top 1% of educational scholars in the United States. Yolanda appeared in three documentaries: Spike Lee’s “2 Fists Up: We Gon’ Be Alright,” about the Black Lives Matter movement and the campus protests at the University of Missouri, “Defining Us, Children at the Crossroads of Change,” about supporting and educating the nation’s Black and Latinx

Archaeology of the Self: Toward Sustaining Racial Literacy in Education p Speaker: Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz, Ph.D.

male youth, and the forthcoming “Black Girls,” about advocacy among Black girls and women in society. Yolanda has also published two poetry collections, Love from the Vortex & Other Poems and The Peace

Addressing Race, Health, and Equity in the Science Classroom p Speaker: Udodiri R. Okwandu, Ph.D., and Ilyana Sawka THURSDAY, JAN 9 ONLINE

Chronicles. She opened the 2022 TEDx UPENN conference with her

 SCIENCE

MONDAY, OCT 28

talk: “Truth, Love & Racial Literacy.” Connect with Yolanda on Twitter at

ONLINE

@RuizSealey and on Instagram at @yolie_sealeyruiz.

+ PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO STAY FOR THE ENTIRE SESSION, INCLUDING THE TALK AND SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION.

 INQUIRY, PRACTICE, AND LEADERSHIP + PLEASE NOTE: TEACHERS ARE EXPECTED TO STAY FOR THE ENTIRE SESSION, INCLUDING THE TALK AND SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION.

Race permeates every aspect of our society, influencing it profoundly. How do we begin to understand race and its impact on science and medicine and better

Educators who develop racial literacy engage in

prepare our students to explore these questions? In this

necessary personal reflection about their racial beliefs

talk, Dr. Udodiri Okwandu and Ilyana Sawka will briefly

and practices, and can teach their students to do the

discuss the history of racism in science and examine the

same. Racial literacy in schools includes reading, writing

structures that prevent racialized groups, specifically

about, discussing, and interrupting situations and events

Black Americans, from equitable access to opportunities

that are motivated and upheld by racial inequity and bias.

in healthcare, education, and STEM fields. Then, they

As we navigate a world where current events continually

will discuss the Racial Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

highlight these challenges, it is crucial to consider how

in Science Education (RDEISE) content and resources

we can support all students, fostering environments

available on LabXchange, a free online platform for

where every student feels seen and valued. Sustaining

race and science curriculum from Harvard University.

racial literacy is possible through an “Archaeology of the

Developed in collaboration with leading scholars,

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Equity Webinar Series including Dr. Okwandu, RDEISE aims to challenge the idea that science is separate from social issues, promote inclusive and accessible science education, and equip educators with the necessary tools to address these topics in the classroom. This webinar is best for science and health teachers, but anyone seeking resources to advance equity through inclusive teaching is welcome.

Dr. Udodiri R. Okwandu is a historian of science and medicine whose scholarship and teaching contextualize profound racial, gender, and class inequities within the U.S. healthcare landscape. She is particularly interested in examining the historical contexts of psychiatric and reproductive health injustices and sociocultural understandings of health and disease. She is a Presidential Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. As a Presidential Scholar at Harvard University, Udodiri earned her Ph.D. and M.A. in the History of Science.

Ilyana Sawka is the Outreach and Communications Manager for LabXchange. By sharing the LabXchange story with learners, educators, and administrators, and developing collaborations with mission-aligned organizations, the platform has garnered over 51 million visitors. Prior to her current role, Ilyana held positions at the Harvard Kennedy School and collaborated with the late Dr. Robert Lue, molecular and cellular biology professor at Harvard University. She holds a B.A. in history from Yale University and an ALM in international relations from Harvard University.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 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.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Community Contributions

2025 MƒA Summer Think Planner Coordinated By: MƒA Staff WEDNESDAYS, DEC 18, JAN 15, FEB 12, MAR 12, APR 2, MAY 7, JUN 11 MƒA & ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A YEAR-LONG HYBRID COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION. SESSION 1 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 2 THROUGH 7 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

Have you attended at least one MƒA Summer Think? Are you a creative and passionate teacher with innovative ideas about conference programming, time management and organizational skills, and an open and collaborative spirit? Then this community contribution is for you!

Planners meet monthly from Dec 2024 through Jul 2025 to design, plan, and lead the 2025 MƒA Summer Think. Between sessions, planners read proposals, email teachers, and brainstorm ideas. Additionally, all planners must attend the 2025 MƒA Summer Think, which will take

our community. All teachers with a passion or curiosity for

action plans to foster an inclusive and empowering

planning, regardless of skill level, are welcome to join.

learning environment for every MƒA teacher. Previous EAC subgroups have focused on admissions and recruitment,

Course Proposal Support: Think Tank Facilitators Coordinated By: MƒA Program Officer Nakita VanBiene MONDAY, NOV 4 ONLINE + PLEASE NOTE: BEFORE SIGNING UP, PLEASE BE SURE YOU CAN ATTEND BOTH THE MONDAY, NOV 4 ORIENTATION AND AT LEAST ONE OF THE THINK TANK SESSIONS ON NOV 18 AND JAN 22.

Have you successfully proposed and facilitated courses at MƒA? Are you interested in supporting and encouraging other MƒA teachers to do the same? Join us as we create a warm, inviting space for teachers to share and workshop their course proposal ideas. As a Think Tank Facilitator, you will design and co-lead a relaxed space for teachers

the school year.

Equity Webinar Series Facilitator p Coordinated By: MƒA Associate Director, Scientific Outreach & Partnerships, Uzma Shah TBD ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: YOU MUST BE AVAILABLE FOR AT LEAST ONE OF THE EQUITY WEBINARS TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION. DATES TBD

The MƒA Equity Webinar Series brings nationally recognized educators and champions for STEM equity

process, have an idea and want to solidify it, are looking

to the MƒA community. Each webinar begins with an

for a co-facilitator, or all of the above, you can help guide

engaging talk followed by small group discussions for

them on their journey.

teachers to brainstorm classroom applications. As an Equity Webinar Series Facilitator, you will co-facilitate

Equity Advisory Committee p Coordinated By: MƒA Staff

one webinar this fall which includes introducing the speaker, managing the question and answer period, and facilitating the small group discussions using the

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 16, JAN 8, APR 23 THURSDAYS, DEC 5, FEB 27 TUESDAYS, MAR 25, MAY 20

Open Space protocol. Equity Webinar Series Facilitators

MƒA & ONLINE

facilitating one Equity Webinar. All sessions take place

MƒA & ONLINE

+ PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A YEAR-LONG HYBRID COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION. SESSIONS 1, 2, 5, AND 7 WILL TAKE PLACE IN-PERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 3, 4, AND 6 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

planning? Have you ever wondered how to plan events

How might we ensure equitable learning opportunities for

that foster belonging and create lasting impacts? Would

all teachers at MƒA? As a member of the Equity Advisory

you like to be part of a team that aims to encourage

Committee (EAC), you will have opportunities to advise

a sense of community at MƒA? Join this community

MƒA leadership in our efforts to prioritize and build

contribution to refine your event planning skills through

on diversity within the MƒA community. This team will

hands-on experience. We will collaborate to develop a

consider the different perspectives on equity held by MƒA

series of creative and engaging events and workshops

teachers, help refine a shared definition of equity, and

that promote connection and wellness within and beyond

work in subgroups to provide feedback and implement

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work with MƒA staff to ensure the work continues beyond

don’t know where to start, have questions about the

 COMMUNITY

Are you interested in discovering the power of event

members have further opportunities to opt into summer

to think through potential proposal ideas. Whether they

TBD

 COMMUNITY

pedagogical impact, and professional growth. EAC

 COMMUNITY

place Jul 8-10, 2025.

Community Builder and Event Planner Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teacher Arah Lewis and MƒA Associate Director of Program Operations & Events Kiara Rodriguez

teacher leadership, equity, inclusion, and belonging,

attend two planning sessions (dates TBD) in addition to virtually.

MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Community Contributions Information Session Host Coordinated By: MƒA Admissions & Recruitment Team

MƒA Connector Coordinated By: MƒA Manager of Admissions & Community Engagement Keoma Distan and MƒA Program Officer Nakita VanBiene TBD ONLINE  COMMUNITY

Praxis Prep Session Facilitator Coordinated By: MƒA Admissions & Recruitment Team TUESDAY, OCT 1 ONLINE  COMMUNITY

+ PLEASE NOTE: REGISTRATION DOES NOT GUARANTEE A MATCH. MƒA WILL EMAIL YOU IN EARLY SEPTEMBER WITH THE STATUS OF YOUR MATCH.

+ PLEASE NOTE: BEFORE SIGNING UP, PLEASE BE SURE YOU CAN ATTEND BOTH THE VIRTUAL ORIENTATION ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, AND A PRACTICE SESSION DATE ALIGNED TO YOUR CONTENT AREA:

 COMMUNITY

Would you like to welcome new teachers into the MƒA

NOV 12, DEC 11: BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY, EARTH SCIENCE, ELEMENTARY SCIENCE, PHYSICS, GENERAL SCIENCE

+ 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 ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, AND AT LEAST TWO OF THE FOLLOWING DATES:

community? Then become an MƒA Connector! In this

TUESDAY, OCT 1 MƒA & ONLINE

community contribution, you will help a teacher new to MƒA navigate the early months of their fellowship. From

NOV 13, DEC 9: COMPUTER SCIENCE, ELEMENTARY MATHEMATICS, MATHEMATICS, PHYSICS JAN 14: BIOLOGY, GENERAL SCIENCE, MATHEMATICS

giving insight into course selection and registration tips to

Praxis Prep Session Facilitators are critical in helping

answering questions and discussing how to get involved,

prospective MƒA applicants prepare for the Praxis content

MƒA Connectors share information to help teachers get

test. Specifically, facilitators often serve as point people

Are you interested in helping create an MƒA community

the most out of their new MƒA fellowship. We will match

for recruitment, answering content-related questions and

built on diversity and excellence, all while sharing your

MƒA Connectors with a teacher based on a similar subject

responding to general inquiries about MƒA fellowships.

MƒA experiences with others? Become an Information

area, borough, grade level, and interest. Once connected

For this community contribution, Praxis Prep Session

Session Host this fall! Current MƒA teachers are essential

via email, the MƒA Connector and partner teacher may

Facilitators first attend a virtual orientation and then lead

in encouraging and supporting prospective applicants

communicate as often as they like and through whichever

a two-hour virtual Praxis Prep Session with prospective

by sharing tips, tricks, and strategies for successfully

format works best for them. This community contribution

applicants in the subject area they teach.

navigating the application process. All Information

aims to facilitate connections between current and new

Session Hosts must attend a virtual orientation meeting

MƒA teachers in flexible, informative, and rewarding ways.

and then help facilitate two Information Sessions this fall.

If you want to become an MƒA Connector, please add

IN-PERSON: OCT 16, NOV 25, JAN 7 VIRTUAL: NOV 7, DEC 18

yourself to the waitlist AND complete this short survey.

Restorative Justice Collaborator Coordinated By: MƒA Program Officer Pooja Bhaskar and MƒA Director of Admissions and Recruitment Sharine Stevenson TUESDAYS, OCT 29, DEC 3, JAN 14, FEB 11, MAR 4, APR 8, MAY 20 MƒA & ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A YEAR-LONG HYBRID COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION. SESSION 1, 2, 3, 6, AND, 7 WILL TAKE PLACE INPERSON AT MƒA. SESSIONS 4 AND 5 WILL TAKE PLACE VIRTUALLY.

Restorative justice is a set of principles and practices based on respect and accountability. These practices, rooted in Indigenous communities, can build and

*Community Contributions are opportunities for MƒA teachers who have completed at least one Master Teacher Fellowship.

maintain relationships, repair instances of harm, and transform a community. Join us to explore the foundations of restorative and transformative justice and community accountability by co-creating strategies for transforming MƒA into a braver space, personally and

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024

Community Contributions

Small-World Network Community Mobilizer Coordinated By: MƒA Director of Data Systems Miriam Ignatoff THURSDAYS, SEP 12, NOV 14

structurally. Our goal is to establish a restorative justice program and help nurture MƒA as a space supporting and respecting the inherent dignity and worth of all teachers and staff.

ONLINE  COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: MOBILIZERS MUST LOG INTO THE SWN WEEKLY TO INTERACT WITH ONLINE POSTS.

Are you interested in sharing your knowledge with the MƒA community and connecting with your colleagues

Shared Knowledge Materials Screener Coordinated By: MƒA Master Teachers Jeffrey Lowenhaupt and Michelle Sims and MƒA Program Officer Nakita VanBiene

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, ask their own

MONDAYS, SEP 30, JAN 13

questions, and highlight at least one post per week for the

ONLINE

Sunday community digest email.

 COMMUNITY + PLEASE NOTE: SCREENERS MUST WORK ASYNCHRONOUSLY FOR ABOUT TWO HOURS BETWEEN SESSIONS.

Shared Knowledge Screeners have procured an extensive database of curricular tools. These resources, developed by the MƒA teacher community, now live on the SmallWorld 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 review materials submitted

by MƒA teachers, add these materials to the repository, and support the pedagogy and practice of MƒA teachers across the city.

*Community Contributions are opportunities for MƒA teachers who have completed at least one Master Teacher Fellowship.

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MƒA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE CATALOG: FALL 2024