BCPDI 2025-2026
Workshop & Webinar Lineup
Motivational Interviewing 101: Building Confidence and Hope
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
March 12, 2026 12:00 - 3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Milton Fuentes
Workshop Description:
This workshop will provide an overview of the principles, core skills, spirit and the major tasks of motivational interviewing. Special attention will be given to building confidence and hope in clients.
Learning Objectives:
- Define Motivational Interviewing (MI), Hope and Confidence Talk
- Describe the Spirit of MI
- Explain how to identify, evoke and respond to confidence talk
About the Presenter:
Dr. Milton A. Fuentes received his MA in psychology with a Latinx psychology focus from Montclair State University and his doctorate in clinical psychology from Rutgers University. He completed a pre-doctoral fellowship in clinical and community psychology at Yale University and secured post-doctoral training in epidemiology at Columbia University. He is the 2012 President of the National Latinx Psychological Association and was recently awarded fellow status in the American Psychological Association for his outstanding contributions in the field of psychology. Dr. Fuentes is also the recipient of the 2023 Society for the Teaching of Psychology Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. Dr. Fuentes’ professional interests are in the areas of diversity science, program development, pedagogy, and motivational enhancement. He serves as a consultant to academic campuses, community-based agencies, and corporate clients, helping them center equity, diversity, and inclusion in their mission and strategic planning efforts. Dr. Fuentes is currently a Professor in the Psychology Department, Interim Chair of the Social Work and Child Advocacy department as well as Special Advisor to the Provost at Montclair State University. He is also a licensed psychologist.
Bringing AI into the Classroom
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
*FREE FOR ALL BURLINGTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS*
NEW DATE: March 18th, 2026 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Evan Abramson
Workshop Description:
This isn’t your basic “let’s try ChatGPT” session—this is the future, and it starts with you. Join Evan Abramson, recently named 2025 Education Week's National Leader to Learn From, as he takes school leaders on a high-energy, hands-on journey into AI you can actually use. You’ll create custom AI agents that help you practice hard conversations and give you feedback—like your own leadership coach that never sleeps. You’ll meet Special Education training agents that give your teachers on-the-spot guidance during the school day. And yes, get ready to see what your action figure would look like if it were designed to lead a school district into the future (cape optional, power moves guaranteed). If you're ready to make your work more impactful, your team more confident, and your leadership legendary then this session is your launchpad. Come for the tools, stay for the transformation.
About the Presenter:
Evan Abramson is a distinguished leader in educational technology, currently serving as the Director of Technology and Innovation at the Morris-Union Jointure Commission. He holds a degree in Business Administration from Northwood University in Florida and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Thomas Edison State University.
Recently named one of Education Week’s National Leaders to Learn From in 2025, Evan has gained national recognition for his trailblazing work in education. He was also honored as NJ Tech Innovator of the Year for his contributions to the integration of AI in education. Among his most notable achievements is the creation of the first national esports arena designed specifically for students with autism, which highlights his commitment to fostering inclusive educational environments.
In addition to his work in AI and esports, Evan served as Chair of Future Ready Schools New Jersey, where he focused on strengthening data privacy and building robust infrastructure for schools. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the future of educational technology, particularly in creating career pathways and improving learning opportunities for students with special needs. Through his innovative approach, Evan continues to drive positive change in the intersection of technology and education.
Re-Thinking Interventions, Building Conceptual Understanding in our Students I
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
March 23, 2026 10:00am-2:00pm
Presenter: Jose Tomas (JT) Hidalgo, Innovamat
Workshop Description:
We will explore how math education can be transformed in intervention settings by fostering deep conceptual understanding. The session will focus on learning about teaching methods backed by research, how this could work in an MTSS, and identifying resources to support both educators and students. The presentation will include practical examples from school districts and engaging math activities.
About the Presenter:
JT serves as a Math Success Manager and Key Account Manager at Innovamat. On the instructional side, he partners with teachers, math coaches, and interventionists to rethink and implement MTSS and MAth Core Curriculum. On the administrative side, he collaborates with district leadership and administrators to establish mathematics as a strategic priority, supporting those embarking on instructional change journeys. Originally from Chile, JT holds a joint master’s degree from Harvard University. His previous experience includes serving as a policy advisor to the Chilean Secretary of Education and working as a high school math and science teacher.
Restorative Practices
IN- PERSON WORKSHOP
*New Date* March 25, 2026 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Bobbie Downs
Workshop Description: This interactive workshop will focus on the theoretical and practical foundations of Restorative Practices. Topics include how to set high expectations while being supportive, how to provide direct feedback and ask questions that foster accountability, and the most effective methods to resolve common conflicts. You will also learn to facilitate circles, an essential process for creating a positive learning environment and school culture. Circles may be used to build social capital, resolve social problems and respond when harm occurs. Additionally, our instructors address many issues related to building relationships and community.
About the Presenter: Dr. Bobbie Downs is currently the Director of the Educational Services Unit (ESU) for Burlington County Special Services School District. Ms. Downs decided to pursue a career in education after serving as a teacher and administrator in a school for Sudanese refugees in Cairo, Egypt. Since that time, Ms. Downs served in the role of teacher and administrator at the Burlington County Alternative School before being named Director of the ESU. Ms. Downs received her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Master’s Degree in Teaching from Drew University. Later, Dr. Downs earned her Master’s degree in School Leadership from Rowan University and her Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Rowan University. Dr. Downs also holds a Graduate Certificate of Autism Education. She is a certified mindfulness instructor for Mindful Schools and an instructor for Youth Mental Health First Aid. Dr. Downs is an active member of the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association and the Council for Exceptional Children
Youth Mental Health First Aid- *certification course
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
April 14, 2026 9:00am- 3:00pm
Presenter: Jennifer Moses, Kathy Nizio, Deanna Scannell
Workshop Description:
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.
DIR Floortime 101 - 2 Day Course
2 DAY IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 2nd, 2025 8:15am-3:15pm AND
October 3rd, 2025 8:15am-2:30pm
Presenter: Jeffrey J. Guenzel
Workshop Description:
This is an introductory course that reviews the theoretical framework, scientific evidence, and scope of application of the model promoting functional emotional developmental capacities, reflective thinking, and overall mental health for all children and adults, including those with developmental disabilities.
Learning Objectives
Identify at least three common features of autism and other challenges of relating and communicating.
Identify at least four key features of relationship-based approaches.
Describe all 6 Functional Emotional Developmental Capacities (FEDCs) in the DIR® model and potential challenges that children face at each capacity.
Describe at least three characteristics of how individual differences (the "I" in DIR®), including health, sensory processing, and regulatory challenges, can impact a child's development.
Identify at least three key principles and basic strategies of Floortime.
Describe at least three characteristics of relationship and family in the DIR® model.
Describe the essential role of affect as it is related to the D, the I, and the R.
About the Presenter:
Dr. Guenzel is a professional counselor, psychotherapist, and a leader. As a counselor and psychotherapist, he has a wide range of experience counseling adults and children for over 30 years with specialized expertise in child development, child and adolescent behavioral health, and autism. As a leader, he has a proven track record of leadership in both the public and private sectors.
Prior to joining ICDL, Dr. Guenzel served as the Deputy Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families and previously served as the Director of the New Jersey Division of Child Behavioral Health. In these positions, he led many innovative initiatives including restructuring the New Jersey service delivery system for children with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Prior to his appointments with the State of New Jersey, Dr. Guenzel was the inaugural Executive Director of the Partnership for Children of Essex, a not-for-profit agency providing Wraparound care management services for children with complex behavioral health challenges. Under his leadership, the agency became one of the largest Wraparound agencies in the nation gaining him national recognition.
Dr. Guenzel earned his B.A. degree in Psychology and his M.A. degree in Counseling from Montclair State University and his Doctorate in Education from Spalding University.
Trauma-Informed Classroom Management within Multi-Tiered Systems of Support
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 7, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Nicola Schneider
Workshop Description:
Participants will walk away from this workshop with practical, ready-to-apply, neurodiversity-affirming strategies to increase student cooperation within the classroom. When school staff incorporate proactive procedures that align with the principles of trauma-informed care with all students, it increases the likelihood that students with diverse needs will be supported and integrated into their school community (Avery et al., 2020). By infusing strategies that embed the principles of trauma-informed care into all three tiers of the multi-tiered system of support, we can create a trauma-sensitive environment that decreases crisis intervention, staff burnout and administrative resources to address interfering and challenging behaviors in the long run.
About the Presenter:
Nicola (Nicky) Schneider is a Special Educator and Behavior Analyst with 20 years of experience working with vulnerable individuals of all ages and skill levels. Nicky holds NJ Department of Education certifications as a special education teacher, supervisor and principal. In addition, Nicky has been a Board Certified Behavior Analyst for over 10 years. Nicky has served as a special education teacher, behavior analyst and supervisor in private and public schools. Nicky’s passion lies in empowering educators to teach from a place of joy. Nicky believes that through acceptance and authenticity, we can create a foundation of mutual respect and cooperation with our students.
AI in the Classroom
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 9, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Thomas Semko
Workshop Description:
This full-day training introduces educators to practical ways AI can enhance teaching and learning. Participants will explore emerging AI tools, experiment with real-world applications, and identify strategies they can immediately implement in their classrooms.
Drawing from extensive experience training districts, this session focuses on how AI supports—not replaces—critical thinking and foundational skills. Educators will learn to navigate AI's role in instruction, assessment, and professional growth.
Through hands-on activities, teachers will engage with AI-driven teaching aids and reimagine how assessments can measure deeper understanding beyond memorization. Grounded in effective pedagogy and proven frameworks, this training ensures AI integration is accessible, practical, and aligned with student success.
Participants will leave with actionable strategies and a clear understanding of how to integrate AI into their teaching practice immediately.
About the Presenter:
Dr. Thomas Semko is an educator, consultant, and district-wide trainer specializing in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. His work is driven by a passion for STEM education, transformative pedagogy, and cutting-edge technology that enhances both teaching and learning.
Dr. Semko has been training school districts across New Jersey on how to leverage AI in the classroom and for professional development, helping educators harness this groundbreaking technology to extend the abilities of both students and teachers.
With a proven track record of successful implementations across diverse educational settings, Dr. Semko tailors solutions to the unique needs of each institution. His commitment to continuous improvement, teacher support, and forward-thinking education makes him an invaluable resource for any organization looking to elevate its teaching practices, assessment strategies, and technological integration.
The Science of Reading
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 20, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Erin McBride
Workshop Description:
What does it look like to move beyond the basics of the Science of Reading and bring research to life in the classroom? In this full-day workshop, we’ll take a deeper look at the five pillars of reading—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—and explore how to strengthen instruction in each area. Participants will reflect on current practices, engage in hands-on planning, and walk away with practical strategies to elevate literacy instruction.
About the Presenter:
Erin McBride is an experienced literacy coach with over a decade of expertise in supporting educators and advancing reading instruction. She currently provides professional development across the state and has served as a literacy content expert for the NJDOE. Erin also provides literacy coaching to teachers across New Jersey through the Rutgers Center for Literacy Development and supervises student teachers at Georgian Court University. She is highly knowledgeable in current evidence-based literacy practices and dedicated to helping educators implement effective, research-backed strategies to improve student outcomes.
AI Training - 2 Sessions
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
*FREE FOR ALL BURLINGTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS*
October 23, 2025
Session I: AI Training for Data Specialists, 9:00-11:30am
Session II: AI Training for Administrative Secretaries, 12:30-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Thomas Semko
Session I Description: AI Training for Data Specialists
This hands-on training session is designed to empower K-12 data specialists with practical AI tools and techniques to enhance their analytical capabilities. Participants will learn how to leverage artificial intelligence to streamline data analysis workflows and extract meaningful insights from complex datasets.
Key Learning Outcomes:
Discover AI-powered code generation tools to automate data processing tasks and create custom analytical scripts. Develop skills in using AI to identify patterns, themes, and trends within qualitative data sources such as survey responses, interview transcripts, and open-ended feedback
Apply AI techniques to transform unstructured text data into actionable insights for educational decision-making. Integrate AI tools into existing data analysis workflows to increase efficiency and accuracy
Session II Description: AI Training for Administrative Secretaries
This practical training session focuses on helping K-12 administrative secretaries harness AI tools to enhance productivity and streamline daily operations. Participants will discover how artificial intelligence can transform routine administrative tasks and improve workflow efficiency.Key Learning Outcomes:
Learn to use AI for converting meeting notes, phone conversations, and handwritten notes into professional, well-structured documents and correspondence. Master AI-powered organization techniques for sorting contact lists, scheduling information, inventory data, and other administrative records. Develop skills in creating automated workflows for repetitive tasks and processes. Utilize AI tools to track and analyze task completion status, project progress, and administrative metrics.
Effective Leaders Do These Four Things
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
October 28, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Tracey Severns
Workshop Description:
Effective leaders do four things really well. They establish and embody a clear and compelling mission and vision for their school or district. They create a culture of care and connection, where every person feels known, respected and appreciated. They build the capacity of faculty and staff to work in relentless pursuit of desired outcomes for all students. And they lead with courage, willing to risk whatever it takes to make a real and lasting difference in the learning lives of students and the adults who serve them. Participants in this session will leave inspired, informed and equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to lead schools that balance the need for rigor and relationships.
Learning Objectives
1. Understand the leader’s role in creating and maintaining a professional culture that optimizes growth and achievement.
2. Learn how to use a unifying mission to motivate faculty and mobilize efforts to improve.
3. Discover ways to create a collaborative community of educators who work together to ensure optimal outcomes for all students.
4. Explore strategies to build relationships, reduce toxicity, and shift the narrative of your school.
5. Learn how to build relational trust and lead with the courage necessary to leave a legacy.
About the Presenter:
Dr. Tracey Severns is a nationally recognized educational leader. During her rise from classroom aide to New Jersey's Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Severns was named Visionary Principal of the Year, a National Distinguished Principal, and Educator of the Year. In addition to her Doctorate in Educational Leadership, she received an honorary Doctorate in Public Service, was selected to represent the USA as educational leader in Brazil, and achieved the National School Change Award.
In 2024, in response to growing concerns about the increasingly negative emotional tone in schools, Dr. Severns took comedy lessons. Since then, she has done stand-up comedy for various educator audiences and her presentations on how to bring the joy back to schools have become one of the most sought-out sessions at professional conferences.
Dr. Severns is an author, passionate presenter, and dedicated provider of professional development, coaching and consultation services throughout North America. Dr. Severns has written numerous articles about leadership and learning. Her first book, Mistakes, Missteps, Missed Opportunities: Lived Lessons from the Real World of Educational Leaders has received critical acclaim and is available through YouthLight Publishers and Amazon.
Practical Advice and Games to Advance Meaningful Classroom Talk About Texts (Grades 3-12)
WEBINAR
November 13, 2025 3:00-5:00pm
Presenter: Laurie Burke
Webinar Description:
This workshop provides practical strategies for teaching important purposes for talk that exist in the classroom and extend beyond as educators work to raise active, global citizens. Participants will explore talking to build academic partnerships and secure relationships, talking to grow ideas, talking to clarify, analyze, and argue, and more! Laurie believes in the need to help young people develop strong talk skills across content areas, to help them navigate not only their academic lives, but also their lives as active citizens in their communities. Participants will study a cycle of talk that emulates the writing process and learn ways to efficiently coach into this process via engaging games and strategies.
About the Presenter:
Laurie Burke is an innovative educator, teacher advocate, and education consultant with vast experience in literacy education across content areas, teacher professional development, and curriculum design. She is known for inspiring confidence, and guiding educators to elevate positive student impact through creative, culturally relevant and sustaining instructional strategies. Laurie has a notable background as a senior staff developer, where she has supported schools to navigate complex and nuanced issues to propel the health of their literacy lives. She is currently advancing equity facilitator and leadership abilities through the Post-Graduate Educational Leadership program at SUNY Stony Brook University and the Literacy Equity Institute with Paul Gorski and Marceline DeBose. She is committed to cultivating equitable learning environments that promote personally meaningful opportunities, inclusion, and academic health in our time. Laurie's heart work includes helping educators, young people, and community members, feel heard, loved, and empowered to be active global participants.
The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About by Mel Robbins
BOOK STUDY *Back by popular demand!*
Limited to 40 participants.
November 10th & 17th, 3:30-4:30pm
Participants will attend two interactive sessions. A copy of the book will be sent to the participants before the start of the book study.
*Space is limited to 40 participants.
Presenter: This will be a group discussion via Zoom.
Book Description:
What if the key to happiness, success, and love was as simple as two words?
If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with where you are, the problem isn't you. The problem is the power you give to other people. Two simple words—Let Them—will set you free. Free from the opinions, drama, and judgments of others. Free from the exhausting cycle of trying to manage everything and everyone around you. The Let Them Theory puts the power to create a life you love back in your hands—and this book will show you exactly how to do it.
In her latest groundbreaking book, The Let Them Theory, Mel Robbins—New York Times bestselling author and one of the world's most respected experts on motivation, confidence, and mindset—teaches you how to stop wasting energy on what you can't control and start focusing on what truly matters: YOU. Your happiness. Your goals. Your life.
Using the same no-nonsense, science-backed approach that's made The Mel Robbins Podcast a global sensation, Robbins explains why The Let Them Theory is already loved by millions and how you can apply it in eight key areas of your life to make the biggest impact. Within a few pages, you'll realize how much energy and time you've been wasting trying to control the wrong things—at work, in relationships, and in pursuing your goals—and how this is keeping you from the happiness and success you deserve.
Written as an easy-to-understand guide, Robbins shares relatable stories from her own life, highlights key takeaways, relevant research and introduces you to world-renowned experts in psychology, neuroscience, relationships, happiness, and ancient wisdom who champion The Let Them Theory every step of the way.
Learn how to:
- Stop wasting energy on things you can't control
- Stop comparing yourself to other people
- Break free from fear and self-doubt
- Release the grip of people's expectations
- Build the best friendships of your life
- Create the love you deserve
- Pursue what truly matters to you with confidence
- Build resilience against everyday stressors and distractions
- Define your own path to success, joy, and fulfillment
The Let Them Theory will forever change the way you think about relationships, control, and personal power. Whether you want to advance your career, motivate others to change, take creative risks, find deeper connections, build better habits, start a new chapter, or simply create more happiness in your life and relationships, this book gives you the mindset and tools to unlock your full potential.
Behavior Management Strategies for Pre-K
November 19, 2025 3:00-5:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Amanda Mazin
Webinar Description:
This session is designed to equip preschool educators with practical, proactive strategies for managing behavior in early childhood classrooms. Participants will explore techniques for setting clear expectations, creating structured routines, and fostering positive teacher-child relationships. The session emphasizes building supportive environments that encourage cooperation, emotional regulation, and social-emotional growth. Through interactive discussions and real-life scenarios, educators will leave with actionable tools to reduce challenging behaviors and promote a calm, nurturing classroom culture.
About the Presenter:
Dr. Amanda Mazin is a certified special education teacher and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with 25 years’ experience working with students with a variety of academic, behavioral, communicative and social needs and their families. She has consulted to high needs schools and districts focused on teacher training and inclusive models of instruction. She specializes in effective models of teacher education in the areas of classroom design and curriculum modification to best meet the needs of individuals with disabilities in general and special education classrooms. Dr. Mazin has been preparing special education teachers at the graduate level for over ten years, in learner-first models of teaching. Current scholarly interests include preparing teachers to work with neurodivergent learners.
Fix the System, Not the Student
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
January 6, 2026 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Bobby Morgan
Workshop Description:
Too often, schools respond to student behavior and academic struggles as if kids themselves are the problem. But what if the issue isn’t the student? What if it’s the system that surrounds them?
This session invites educators to flip the script. Instead of rushing to fix kids, we pause to interrogate the adult choices, policies, and systems that shape student outcomes. We’ll explore what it means to create environments where every learner is seen, supported, and challenged rather than controlled.
Through the lens of restorative practices and culturally responsive teaching, we’ll reimagine classrooms not as places of punishment, but of purpose. We’ll reframe discipline as a path to accountability, not exclusion; where culture isn’t just acknowledged, but celebrated.
Educators will walk away with tools to:
- Audit current systems through an equity and inclusion lens.
- Design instruction that is rigorous, relevant, and identity-affirming.
- Build school cultures where students and staff lead change together.
The truth is, our students don’t need fixing. What they need and deserve are systems bold enough to believe in their brilliance and responsive enough to nurture it. The question isn’t, “How do we get students to behave?” The question is, “What kind of system cultivates their genius?”
About the Presenter:
Bobby Morgan is a principal, speaker, and former teacher with over 15 years of experience leading school culture and discipline reform K-12 schools. He specializes in restorative practices, staff development, and systems change to support student growth and community accountability.
Co-Teaching for K-5 Teachers
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
January 14, 2026 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Barb Golub
Workshop Description:
Grounded in the frameworks of Dr. Marilyn Friend, this workshop will explore the essential elements of successful co-teaching partnerships, including shared planning, differentiated instruction, and flexible grouping.
Participants will engage in interactive learning, analyze video examples, reflect on their current practices, and leave with concrete strategies and planning tools to strengthen their own co-teaching partnerships.
About the Presenter:
The day will be led by Barb Golub, a nationally respected literacy and instructional consultant who brings deep expertise in evidence-based practices and a career-long background in co-teaching within New York City public schools. Barb’s experience as a collaborative team teaching leader and her practical, warm approach will support teachers in applying co-teaching models across content areas to meet the needs of all learners.
Special Education Leader Series - 2 Sessions
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
*FREE FOR ALL BURLINGTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS*
January 15, 2026
Session I: The Special Education Leader's Landing Page, 9:00am-12:00pm
Session II: Successful State Monitoring Starts Here, 1:00-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Cheryl Blankman
Session I: Special Education Leader Series: The Special Education Leader’s Landing Page
Special education leadership is just that– special. Even experienced educators sometimes find themselves navigating unfamiliar territory. With a leadership lens, we will review essential aspects of N.J.A.C.:6a:14, identify priority special education data points, and target key areas of IEP development for quality and compliance. Leave with an eye on your program’s strengths and needs and reliable resources for when (not if) questions arise.
Session II: Special Education Leader Series: Successful State Monitoring Starts Here
State monitoring is an opportunity to demonstrate the strength of your special education program—and doing so means knowing your data and having systems in place to support compliance. This training is designed for New Jersey special education leaders who want to approach state monitoring with confidence and competence. We'll walk through what monitors look for, how to become fluent in your own special education data, and practical tools and strategies to ensure your program is audit-ready year-round. You'll also discover the value of self-initiated audits and how proactively examining your program can help you identify strengths, address gaps, and lead monitoring processes from a position of preparedness rather than reaction. Being well-prepared isn't just about compliance—it's about exemplifying your commitment to excellence and demonstrating how your program delivers.
Increasing Engagement in the Classroom: Student Choice, Self-Designed Projects and Other Authentic Learning Opportunities (K-12)
WEBINAR
January 22, 2026 3:00-5:00pm
Presenter: Valerie Mattessich
Webinar Description:
This workshop will focus on increasing students’ engagement in the classroom through incorporating more opportunities for student choice, allowing students to build upon their interests and personal goals for learning a new language. Teachers will learn ways to incorporate more student choice in daily instruction, as well as through projects and various forms of assessment.
About the Presenter:
Valerie Mattessich is a veteran high school English teacher who currently serves as a High School District's Supervisor of English, Art and Libraries. Ms. Mattessich has been a teacher-consultant for 20 + years for the National Writing Project at Rutgers and Drew Universities. She is also the President of the New Jersey Council of Teacher of English, the state affiliate of NCTE, which she has led for the past four years. Ms. Mattessich has planned, implemented and facilitated professional development workshops for teachers in all content areas throughout the state and across the country.
Using AI and Digital Tools as a Way to Support Readers
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
January 21, 2026 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Laurie Burke
Workshop Description:
In this interactive session, explore how AI and digital tools can elevate the reading experience for students in grades 6–12. Participants will examine how technology can provide personalized feedback, support self-assessment, and help students set meaningful reading goals. Learn how AI can guide readers to make intentional choices about reading strategies, and build greater ownership of their reading journey—all while cultivating engagement and more sophisticated thinking
About the Presenter:
Laurie Burke is an innovative educator, teacher advocate, and education consultant with vast experience in literacy education across content areas, teacher professional development, and curriculum design. She is known for inspiring confidence, and guiding educators to elevate positive student impact through creative, culturally relevant and sustaining instructional strategies. Laurie has a notable background as a senior staff developer, where she has supported schools to navigate complex and nuanced issues to propel the health of their literacy lives. She is currently advancing equity facilitator and leadership abilities through the Post-Graduate Educational Leadership program at SUNY Stony Brook University and the Literacy Equity Institute with Paul Gorski and Marceline DeBose. She is committed to cultivating equitable learning environments that promote personally meaningful opportunities, inclusion, and academic health in our time. Laurie's heart work includes helping educators, young people, and community members, feel heard, loved, and empowered to be active global participants.
Empower, Create, Innovate: Preparing for Google & Gemini Certification
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
February 3, 2026 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Evan Abramson
Webinar Description:
Ready to take your Google skills to the next level?
This interactive session is designed to help educators and administrators prepare for the Google Certified Educator Level 1, Level 2, and Gemini Certification exams without the pressure of an actual test.
During our time together, we’ll explore practical tips, time-saving shortcuts, and real-world examples that you can use right away in your classroom or leadership role. You’ll learn how to streamline communication with Gmail and Drive, design engaging learning experiences in Classroom and Slides, and discover how Gemini can help you work smarter and not harder.
This is a hands-on, collaborative session where you’ll have the chance to ask questions, practice essential skills, and leave feeling confident and inspired to take the next step toward certification.
(Note: No exams will be given during this session — just great learning and plenty of ideas to take back to your school!)
About the Presenter:
Evan Abramson is a distinguished leader in educational technology, currently serving as the Director of Technology and Innovation at the Morris-Union Jointure Commission. He holds a degree in Business Administration from Northwood University in Florida and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Thomas Edison State University.
Recently named one of Education Week’s National Leaders to Learn From in 2025, Evan has gained national recognition for his trailblazing work in education. He was also honored as NJ Tech Innovator of the Year for his contributions to the integration of AI in education. Among his most notable achievements is the creation of the first national esports arena designed specifically for students with autism, which highlights his commitment to fostering inclusive educational environments.
In addition to his work in AI and esports, Evan served as Chair of Future Ready Schools New Jersey, where he focused on strengthening data privacy and building robust infrastructure for schools. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the future of educational technology, particularly in creating career pathways and improving learning opportunities for students with special needs. Through his innovative approach, Evan continues to drive positive change in the intersection of technology and education.
Practical Functional Assessment and Skill-Based Treatment: 3 Part Series
HYBRID- Virtual/In-person Series
*FREE FOR ALL BURLINGTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS*
Part I: Introduction to PFA-SBT
Virtual - February 4, 2026 1:30-3:00pm
- Values, aims & assumptions of PFA-SBT
- Overview of the Steps of the PFA-SBT process
- Collect data needed to inform the PFA
Part II: Conducting the PFA & Planning for SBT
In-Person - February 11, 2026- 9:00am-3:00pm
- Design & Run the PFA analysis through case examples and roll-play
- Overview & Advanced Considerations for SBT Implementation
- Teaching Communication - sFCR &cFCR
- Teaching Toleration Response - TR
- Teaching Relinquishing - CAB 1
- Teaching Transitioning - CAB 2
Part III: The Art of Shaping Cooperation
Virtual - February 17, 2026 1:30-3:00 pm
- Teaching Cooperation - CAB 3-5
- Teaching Persevering - CAB 6
- Nuances of PFA-SBT Implementation in Schools
Presenter: Nicola Schneider
About the Presenter:
Nicola (Nicky) Schneider is a Special Educator and Behavior Analyst with 20 years of experience working with vulnerable individuals of all ages and skill levels. Nicky holds NJ Department of Education certifications as a special education teacher, supervisor and principal. In addition, Nicky has been a Board Certified Behavior Analyst for over 10 years. Nicky has served as a special education teacher, behavior analyst and supervisor in private and public schools. Nicky’s passion lies in empowering educators to teach from a place of joy. Nicky believes that through acceptance and authenticity, we can create a foundation of mutual respect and cooperation with our students.
The Nurtured Heart Approach
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
February 18, 2026 9:00am-3:00pm
Presenter: Dr. Bobbie Downs
Workshop Description: The Nurtured Heart Approach® (NHA) is a therapeutic method developed by Howard Glasser in 1992 to help children and adults with challenging behaviors. It is behavior inspiration, not management. Repeated experiences of being seen and acknowledged when things are not going wrong inspires people to build a positive portfolio of themselves: an expansive and expanding reserve of what NHA calls Inner Wealth™.
The approach focuses on creating connected relationships, emphasizing positive behavior, and transforming difficult intensities into abundant Inner Wealth. NHA is based on the premise that an individual’s intense energy can be positively channeled and transformed into a positive force. The approach teaches parents, caregivers, and educators to recognize and amplify positive behavior using "the 3 Stands™.
By implementing NHA, individuals are empowered to develop positive relationships, self-regulate, and build Inner Wealth. It has been used successfully in a variety of settings including schools, homes, foster care, criminal justice, healthcare, and therapeutic environments.
About the Presenter:
Dr. Bobbie Downs is currently the Assistant Superintendent of The Burlington County Special Services School District as well as Director of the Educational Services Unit (ESU). Dr. Downs decided to pursue a career in education after serving as a teacher and administrator in a school for Sudanese refugees in Cairo, Egypt. Since that time, Dr. Downs served in the role of teacher and administrator at the Burlington County Alternative School before being named Director of the ESU. Dr. Downs received her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Master’s Degree in Teaching from Drew University. Later, Dr. Downs earned her Master’s degree in School Leadership from Rowan University and her Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Rowan University. Dr. Downs also holds a Graduate Certificate of Autism Education. She is a certified mindfulness instructor for Mindful Schools and an instructor for Youth Mental Health First Aid. Dr. Downs is an active member of the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association and the Council for Exceptional Children
About us
Email: clong@burlcoschools.org
Website: www.edservicesunit.com
Location: 20 Pioneer Boulevard, Westampton, NJ, USA
Phone: 609- 702-0500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Educational-Services-Unit-134704423658284/
Twitter: @ESUBurlco