It is crucial for educators to understand the difference between 504s and IEPs, which provide distinct support and accommodations for students with disabilities. Understanding these differences enables teachers to meet student needs effectively and ensures legal compliance. 

By the end of the course, educators will have a high level understanding of the legal requirements and procedural aspects of 504 plans and IEPs. They will be equipped to promote inclusive practices, engage families in the process and foster educational success for all students. This course will empower professionals to ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive in educational settings.

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Analyze the legal frameworks governing the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans.
2. Understand the IDEA child find process, including its purpose, procedures, and legal requirements, to effectively identify and evaluate students who may be eligible for special education services and supports.
3. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) process implemented in your school/district, including its key components, data-driven decision-making, and evidence-based interventions, to effectively support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of all students.
4. Examine the role of family engagement in supporting student success, including effective communication strategies.
5. Recognize the benefits of creating an inclusive learning environment for all students, including increased academic engagement, improved social-emotional well-being, and enhanced cultural competency.

Ready to unlock the secrets of proficient reading? This engaging course, based on Dr. Hollis Scarborough’s Reading Rope Model, will guide you through the complex tapestry of reading and language processes. Designed for immediate classroom impact, this course highlights the need for explicit, direct instruction and provides practical examples and methods, inclusive of learners with Developmental Language Disorder, Dyslexia, and English Language Learners. The course examines the essential role of regular assessments in ensuring reading proficiency. Rooted in proven research and expert insights, you will walk away with a comprehensive toolkit to elevate your students’ reading skills.

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Identify the typical developmental stages of oral language, phonological skills, word recognition, spelling, fluency, comprehension, and written expression, linking child development to literacy development.
• Apply the science of reading to classroom practices and develop strategies to support students with reading difficulties and diverse language learners.
• Critique the foundations of reading, analyzing phonological awareness development and understanding the structure of language.
• Apply knowledge from assessment administration and interpretation to plan effective instruction, enhancing phonics and word recognition related to reading.
• Describe the significance of fluency and the sequential skills needed for becoming a fluent reader, including the causal relationship between phonological skill, phonic decoding, verbal reasoning skill, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing.
• Evaluate factors contributing to deep comprehension, such as background knowledge, vocabulary, verbal reasoning ability, knowledge of literary structures and conventions, and skills and strategies for close reading of the text.

This class is approved by the Colorado Department of Education to satisfy the 45 hours of ELL professional development required for license renewal.

Students who are English Language Learners have very diverse backgrounds, languages, culture, educational experiences, life histories, family contexts and socioeconomic realities.  Accordingly, effective instructional strategies for ELL students are varied and complex.  This course provides a relevant, practical and accessible toolbox of tips and strategies to support English acquisition, improve access to content,  and increase both engagement and achievement for ELL students.

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Analyze different types of English Language Learner (ELL) students and their varied learning profiles.
• Apply practical English Acquisition strategies to improve access to content and increase engagement for ELLs.
• Implement English Acquisition strategies to increase rigor, expectations and achievement for ELLs.
• Develop diverse instructional resources and strategies to enhance English Language Acquisition, encompassing areas such as: personal relationships, grouping, vocabulary, speaking, listening, reading, writing, and differentiated assessment.