The Teacher Institute

Primary purpose of the Teacher Institute is to provide professional staff development for the staff at Maplebrook School.  It works closely with the Professional Staff Development (PSD) Committee on campus to develop ideas, recruit speakers, and provide necessary resources for instructional and other staff.

In addition, Maplebrook School is interested in partnering with other educators, both from the public and independent sectors, in sharing ideas and the benefits of training and educational methodologies.  The Teacher Institute offers information to our students' parents and families, as well as to other interested parties in our communities.


SYNOPSIS OF PRIOR WORKSHOPS:

"Creative Discipline."  Sharing experiences with parents, families, and educators about teenage behavior.

"Character Education."  The social development of students with problem solving applications.

"Counseling on the Run: How to Infuse the Educational Process with Emotional Growth."  How mentors can specifically use listening and reflection techniques to engage students in their own emotional growth and development.

"Technology and Language Demands in the Classroom."  Framework to provide intensive instruction in language skills enhanced with the introduction of specific technology.

"Smart Moves and the Mind-Body Connection."    Classroom activities using the principles of the Multi-Intelligences of Dr. Howard Gardner combining the sensory system with whole brain learning.

"ADD/ADHD."  Presentation covering the diagnosis, evaluation, characteristics, and behavioral outcomes of the neurological disabilities.

"NLD."  A discussion of non-verbal learning disorders including motor, visual spatial tasks organization, social performance, memory abilities, language deficits, and impact on academic performance.  Included also were classroom implications, accommodations, modifications, and strategies for curriculum.


EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES:

From the onset, the Teacher Institute has sought the best and the brightest for presentations at on-site workshops and to serve as educational resources for our staff.  We have developed old and new relationships with Institutions such as the International Association of Special Education, Learning Disabilities Association, the Connecticut Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities, Dutchess County BOCES, SUNY at New Paltz, and the Mid-Hudson Teacher Center.  These professional organizations provide our staff with numerous opportunities.