Professional Development » Workshops

Workshops

 
 
 
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Rescheduled to June 22, 2026
AIG Certification-Online-This course is currently FULL. Register to be placed on the waiting list.
Facilitators- Angie Lamb and Cheryl Rhea
This 60 hour course is delivered online through Canvas with one required virtual meeting at the beginning of the course. The course is designed around the 6 standards in the AIG Praxis. The NWRESA AIG Certification is accepted in all of the districts in the NW Regions. You must take the Praxis to have it added to your teaching license.
 
6.0 General CEU
 
Non- member fee- $375
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June 15-19
AIG Certification -IN Person
Wilkes County Schools-Stone Center
9:00-3:00pm
6.0 General CEU
 
Non- member fee-$375
 
Facilitators- Angie Lamb and Cheryl Rhea
This 60 hour course is delivered in person for 5 days and 30 hours of online content through Canvas that is required after the in person sessions.. The course is designed around the 6 standards in the AIG Praxis. The NWRESA AIG Certification is accepted in all of the districts in the NW Regions. You must take the Praxis to have it added to your teaching license.
 
 
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June 17
Writing Unleashed: Empowering Student Voice
Hickory PD Lab
9:00-3:00
.5 Content Credit
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
 
Facilitator- Kendra Cameron-Jarvis, NCCAT
 
This workshop transforms writing instruction by connecting students' digital communication skills with systematic
writing development. It features engaging strategies like "parachute writings," pop-up poems, and paint chip
plotting to build student writing stamina across all genres.

Target Audience: 6-12 ELA and Content Teachers, Media Center Coordinators, Instructional Coaches
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June 18
AI In Literacy
Hickory PD Lab
9:00-3:00
.5 Content Credit
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75
Non-members - $100
 
Facilitator Kendra Cameron-Jarvis, NCCAT
This workshop explores the exciting potential of artificial intelligence in education, equipping secondary educators
with practical skills and creative strategies for integrating AI into their literacy instruction. Participants will discover
how AI can transform reading, writing, and critical thinking.

Target Audience: 6-12 ELA and Content Teachers, Media Center Coordinators, Instructional Coaches
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June 24
Family Engagement Blueprint:  Aligning Compliance and Collaboration
Targeted Audience:  Elementary School Teams
 
9:00-3:00
Wilkes County Board Room
.5 General Credit
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
 
Facilitator- Jill Nolan, Silver Ink Publishing
 
This full-day workshop transforms proven family engagement research into practical strategies schools can implement immediately. Participants explore best practices across three key areas: engaging families to spark interest and increase participation, enriching relationships to build stronger connections with all families, and empowering families with the knowledge and tools they need to support learning and decision-making. Guided by consultants, school leadership teams examine their current practices and set future goals using the Family Engagement Analysis Tool. Through hands-on training, participants gain the skills to implement a sustainable Family Engagement Framework that integrates these best practices into every aspect of family involvement—from home-to-school communication and parent-teacher conferences to schoolwide family events.
This workshop is most effective when a core team—including administrators, family engagement liaisons, and teacher leaders—attends together, allowing schools to create lasting, sustainable change.
 
 
 
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July 16
Classrooms That Click: Routines, Relationships, and Behavior Made Simple
This course is currently FULL. Register to be placed on the waiting list.
Freedman Center, Lenoir, NC
9:00-3:00
.5 General Credit
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75
Non-members - $100
 
Facilitator- Windy Barham
 
What if the most effective behavior strategies happen before a problem ever occurs? This professional learning session focuses on building the foundation for positive student behavior through strong relationships, a sense of belonging, and intentional classroom structures. Rather than relying on reactive discipline, we’ll explore practical strategies that help prevent many behavior challenges in the first place.

Teachers will learn how to strengthen connections with students, create classroom environments where every child feels valued, and establish routines and expectations that set students up for success. You’ll walk away with simple, classroom-ready ideas that can immediately support a calmer, more connected learning environment.
 
 
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July 13-16 (4 days)
Adolescent Literacy Badging, NCCAT
9:00-3:00
Workforce Solutions Center, CVCC
2.0 Literacy CEU
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $300
Non-members - $400
 
Facilitator- Kendra Cameron-Jarvis, NCCAT
 
An overview of the science of reading and its relevancy and application in the secondary classroom. Participants
will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital learning environments.

Using current research and best practices, focus on accelerating vocabulary acquisition and knowledge games in
the secondary classroom. Participants will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital
learning environments.

Focus on participants analyzing current research and best practices for effectively teaching reading comprehension
strategies in the secondary classroom. Participants will apply new learning to create an implementation plan for
teaching reading comprehension in their secondary classroom.

Focus on the connection between reading and writing, the cognitive skills required, and the implications for the
secondary classroom. Participants will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital learning
environments.
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July 6-10 (5 days)
Foundations of Math
This course is currently FULL. Register to be placed on the waiting list.
9:00-3:00
Hickory PD Lab
2.5 Content Credit
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $375
Non-members - $500 
 
Facilitator- Stephanie Nelson
 
Deepen your understanding of how students learn mathematics with our Foundations of Math course. This research-driven learning experience empowers teachers and administrators to identify and bridge gaps for students facing persistent difficulties, ensuring that even those with dyscalculia have the foundational support they need to succeed. This five day course utilizes demonstration, practice and feedback, and learning tasks to teach evidence-based strategies to expand students’ math understanding.
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July 16
Expanding Your Tech Toolbox
9:00-3:00
Catawba County Board Room
.5 General CEU
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75
Non-members - $100 
 
Facilitator- Jason Lineberger, NCCAT
In this slice of NCCAT's popular four-day seminar, Expanding Your Tech Toolbox, teachers will learn about a variety of instructional tech tools designed to engage students, showcase learning, elevate thinking, and promote collaboration. The tools curated in this list will be free, easy-to-use, and versatile. Add new tools to your tech toolbox!
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July 20
Elevate and Engage- Instructional Strategies
Beginning Teacher Room- Catawba County
9:00-3:00
.5 General CEU
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100 
 
Facilitator- Mia Johnson
Looking for proven, high-leverage instructional strategies you can implement immediately to strengthen student outcomes? Join us for a dynamic, full day of in-person professional learning focused on practical, research-based approaches that make a measurable impact. Throughout the day, you’ll engage in hands-on exploration of high-leverage practices, collaborate with colleagues in real time, and participate in interactive learning experiences designed to model the very strategies you can apply from the beginning to the end of the school year!
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July 23
Trauma Informed Practices
9:00-3:00
Stone Center- Wilkes County
.5 General CEU
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
 
Facilitator- Brian Randall, Sr. Program Manager, NC Center for Resilience & Learning
Trauma-Informed Teaching - Awareness to Action: This interactive, hands-on training will equip educators with trauma-informed strategies to create safe, supportive classrooms where all students can thrive. Participants will explore the science of trauma and resilience, reflect on their own practice, and engage in real-world scenarios to strengthen their skills in building restorative relationships with students. Aligned with the NC Center for Resilience & Learning’s model, this session provides practical tools for fostering connection, belonging, and wellness across the school day.
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July 28
Foundation of Fractions
9:00 - 3:00
Wilkes County Schools Boardroom
 .5 Content Credit
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
 
Facilitator - Alycen Wilson
Discover the essential building blocks of fractions in this foundational workshop. This workshop begins with a clear introduction to what fractions are and progresses through hands-on activities that solidify understanding of numerator, denominator, equivalent fractions, and decimals. Through interactive learning and practical examples, participants will gain confidence in manipulating fractions, comparing them, and applying them to real-world scenarios. By the end, attendees will emerge equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate fractions with ease and apply them creatively in everyday contexts.
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Elevate and Engage 2.0
Evidence to Excellence: Turning Evidence into Practice
Presenter: Mia Johnson
Register for 1 or more sessions.
.1 General Credit per Session
Participate in 6 out of 8 sessions to be placed in a drawing for 2 - $25 Amazon gift cards.
 
NWRESA Members: Free
Non-members: $10 a session
 
Session 
Date/Time/Location
Session Name
 
Session 1
9/15/26
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Virtual
 
Clarity Counts: Mastering Direct Instruction for
Maximum Impact
We rely on data to optimize your campaigns for the best possible outcomes.
 
Session 2
 
10/13/26
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Virtual
 
Feedback Fuels Growth
Discover feedback strategies that accelerate learning and student achievement.
 
Session 3
 
11/10/26
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Virtual
 
Power of Review: Make it Stick 
Strengthen retention through simple daily review
routines and practices.
 
Session 4
 
12/8/26
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Virtual
 
Practice with Purpose; Pace for Success
Balance practice and pacing to
maximize engagement and mastery.
 
Session 5
1/12/27
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Virtual
 
Release with Purpose: The Art of
Gradual Independence
Build student ownership through
strategic shifts from
support to independence.
 
Session 6
 
2/9/27
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Virtual
 
Assessment in Real Time
Use formative assessment continuously to
guide instruction and learning.
 
Session 7
 
3/9/27
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Virtual
 
Research to Reality
Turn proven educational research into practical
classroom actions immediately.
 
Session 8
 
4/6/27
4:00 - 5:00 pm
Virtual
 
Connecting Strategies for Success
Combine instructional practices into a powerful
framework for achievement.
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Prevent, Connect, Respond:
A Proactive Approach to Behavior 
Credit
Presenter:
.1 General Credit per Session Windy Barham
 
Join this 8-session series designed to make behavior feel manageable, not overwhelming. Each session is packed with practical, ready-to-use strategies you can implement the very next day—no extra programs, no complicated systems. Shift from reacting to preventing, build stronger relationships, and create a classroom that works for you and your students.
Simple. Doable. Effective. Because when behavior improves, everything improves.
Flyer
 Register for one or more sessions.
Participate in 6 out of 8 sessions to be placed in a drawing for 2- $25 Amazon gift cards.
 
NWRESA Members: Free
Non-members: $10 a session
 
Session Date/Time/Location Session Title
Session 1
Registration Link
Sept 15, 2026
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
1. Setting the Foundation
Session 2
Registration Link
Oct 20, 2026
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
2. Relationships First
Session 3
Registration Link
Nov 17, 2026
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
3. Routines and Consistency
Session 4
Registration Link
Dec 15, 2026
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
4. Engagement is Prevention
Session 5
Registration Link
Jan 19, 2027
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
5. Reinforcing Positive Behavior
Session 6
Registration Link
Feb 16, 2027
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
6. De-escalating & Managing
Big Emotions
Session 7
Registration Link
Mar 16, 2027
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
7. Teacher Language Matters
Session 8
Registration Link
Apr 20, 2027
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
8. Putting It All Together
 
 
 
 
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EDTPA Made Easy:
Virtual Sessions To Help You Prepare For The EDTPA
Register for 1 or more sessions.
NWRESA Members: Free
Non-members: $10 a session
Credit
Presenters:
.1 General Credit per Session
ASU Supervisors
 
Session 
Date/Time/Location
Session Name
Session 1
September 10th
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
General Overview & Candidate Responsibilities
Session 2
September 22nd
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
Materials & Resources
Session 3
October 6th
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
Timeline & Calendar Planning
Session 4
October 19th
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
Deep Dive Task 1
Session 5
November 2nd
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
Deep Dive Task 2
Session 6
November 16th
4:00-5:00 pm
Virtual
Deep Dive Task 3
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The Power of Mattering
 
Date Location Time Credit
September 17 Olive Hill Training Center, Burke County 9:00-3:00 .5 General Credit
 
Presenters:
DeAnna Finger, Stephanie Dischaivi, Terry Worrell, Betsy Rosenbalm
 
This 5-hour professional development (PD) session is designed specifically for school leaders (Principals and Assistant Principals) to foster a culture where every staff member and student feels they belong and contribute significantly. Drawing from the sources, this workshop utilizes Zach Mercurio’s research on mattering, defined as the belief that we are a significant part of the world, resulting from both feeling valued and adding value.
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
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Coaching Collaborative 2.0
 
 
Date Location Time
September 30
Caldwell
Board Room
9:00-3:00
November 3 CVCC Workforce Solutions Center 9:00-3:00
March 3
Wilkes County Schools
Board Room
9:00-3:00
April 30
Wilkes County Schools
Board Room

9:00-3:00
 
Credit
Presenters
2.0 Total General Credit
Additional Optional Credit
NWRESA & ASU Coaches
 
Instructional coaches across Northwest North Carolina are invited to join Coaching Collaborative 2.0, a year-long professional learning experience co-sponsored by the Northwest Regional Educational Service Alliance and Appalachian State University. Designed for educators who coach adults in P–12 school settings, this collaborative experience provides meaningful opportunities for connection, reflection, and professional growth alongside fellow instructional coaches from across the region.

During the 2026–2027 school year, participants will engage in four in-person, full-day learning sessions focused on strengthening coaching practice and building sustainable coaching systems. Coaches will explore topics such as holding crucial conversations, prioritizing coaching needs, facilitating coaching cycles, tracking coaching growth, making intentional coaching moves, and utilizing coaching protocols to support adult learning. Participants will also collaborate to solve problems of practice, share best practices, and network with colleagues who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of instructional coaching.

In addition to the four core sessions, participants may choose to engage in an optional cross-coaching experience hosted in various locations throughout the region, providing opportunities to observe, reflect, and learn alongside other coaching professionals. Team-time with fellow coaches and collaborative reflection will be embedded throughout the experience.

Whether you are new to instructional coaching or a previous participant in Coaching Collaborative 1.0, all coaches are welcome to join this supportive and engaging professional learning community.
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $300
Non-members - $400
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Hands-On Engagement for the K-12 Science Classroom
 
Date Location Time Credit
October 2 Caldwell Boardroom 9:00-3:00 .5 Content Credit
 
Presenter: Gina Barrier
Tired of the "eyes glazed over" look during science lessons? Join us for a fast-paced, high-energy PD designed to turn your students into scientists, not just spectators. We’ll dive into the 5E Model, explore phenomena-based learning, and walk away with a toolkit of 10 "ready-to-use tomorrow" engagement strategies. Whether you teach Kindergarten or Physics, you’ll leave with practical ways to spark curiosity and get students to own their learning.
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
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AI-Powered Personalized Literacy Coaching: Transforming Elementary Teacher Practice
 
Date Location Time Credit
October 8 Wilkes Boardroom 9:00-3:00 .5 Literacy Credit
 
Presenter: Kendra Cameron-Jarvis
 
This workshop explores the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for
elementary teachers to personalize literacy instruction and provide targeted coaching for
their students. We'll focus on practical applications of AI that empower teachers to better
understand student needs in foundational literacy skills (phonics, phonemic awareness,
fluency, vocabulary, comprehension), differentiate instruction, and provide more effective
feedback. This is about teachers using AI to enhance their practice, not about students using
AI for assignments.
Target Audience: K-5 Elementary Teachers,
Media Center Coordinators, Instructional Coaches
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
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School Law Session 1: A Primer on Student
Due Process Rights: Discipline,
Alternative Placements, and Threat Assessments.
 
Date Location Time Credit
October 14 Virtual 9:00-11:00 .2 Admin Credit
 
Presenter: Chris Campbell
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $30 
Non-members - $40
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Science and Engineering Practices in Action
(Grades 5-12)
 
Date Location Time Credit
October 20 Caldwell Boardroom 9:00-3:00 .5 Content Credit
 
Presenter: Jennifer Redfearn
 
The recently approved North Carolina Science Standards call for teachers to lift science curriculum through the lens of the 8 Science and Engineering Practices. Participants in this session will learn the benefits of these practices and how they can be implemented in their classrooms to deeply engage students in meaningful science experiences.
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
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Introduction to Building Thinking Classrooms
(Grades 3-12)
 
Date Location Time Credit
November 10 Wilkes County Schools, Training Room 9:00-3:00 .5 Content Credit
 
Presenter: Emily Meyers
 
This session is based on the book Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl and will
examine highly effective teaching practices that get students up out of their seats and
engaged in thinking mathematically.
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $75 
Non-members - $100
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School Law Session 2: A Primer on Employee Due Process Rights: Investigation, Notice of Charges,
and Disciplinary Appeals
 
Date Location Time Credit
Presenter
December 16 Virtual 9:00-11:00 .2 Admin Credit
Chris Campbell
 
NWRESA Members - Free
Affiliate Members- $30 
Non-members - $40
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HOW DO I KNOW IF MY DISTRICT IS A MEMBER?

You can attend workshops for FREE if you are currently employed by
Academy at Middle Fork,
Alexander County Schools,
Alleghany County Schools,
Ashe County Schools,
Burke County Schools,
Caldwell County Schools,
Catawba County Schools,
Elkin City Schools,
Hickory City Schools,
NC School for the Deaf,
Newton-Conover City Schools,
Watauga County Schools,
Wilkes County Schools, or
Yadkin County Schools.

 

Do you need an interpreter?

If so, please contact Renee Gentry [email protected]  with the name and date of the workshop you plan to attend. note: please submit any request at least 30 days before session.

Workshop Flyers