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Region 4 Newsletter: UA/UWA

November Update

Region 4 Newsletter:UA/UWA November Update
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Thank you!

As Thanksgiving approaches, all of us at the UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center want to take a moment to express our gratitude for the educators, administrators, and support staff who serve Region Four each day. Your dedication, compassion, and commitment to student success make a lasting difference in the lives of children, families, and communities across our region. During this season of thankfulness, we are especially appreciative of the work you do to inspire, encourage, and support learners throughout the year.


In this month's newsletter, you'll find a variety of professional learning opportunities taking place throughout November and December, along with information about upcoming offerings for the second semester. In addition to sessions open to all educators in our region, we continue to provide customized support tailored to the unique needs of individual schools and districts. Administrators, please contact the center directly at hgmorgan@ua.edu or through this link to request targeted support.


We invite you to stay connected with us on Facebook (@uauwaric) and Instagram (@uauwaric) for announcements, resources, and updates throughout the year. As always, current and archived newsletters can be found at: https://inservice.ua.edu/professional-learning-opportunities.


As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving season, we hope you find time to reflect, rest, and celebrate the meaningful impact you have on others. Thank you for your partnership and for the difference you make every day. We are honored to support your work and wish you a joyful Thanksgiving and a successful remainder of the fall semester.


Dr. Holly Morgan
Director, UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center

Announcements Announcements

Annual Needs Assessment

Help us plan next year's professional development offerings by completing the Annual Needs Assessment. Fill out the survey and tell us what you need!

Promotional poster with a bright red background announcing the ARIC Annual Needs Assessment. At the top, white text reads “ARIC ANNUAL NEEDS ASSESSMENT,” with a glowing white light bulb hanging from the top center. Large white text in the middle states “NOW OPEN.” Below, bold white text reads “Oct. 15, 2026 through Nov. 14, 2026.” At the bottom is the circular ARIC logo for the Alabama Regional Inservice Centers, featuring the outline of Alabama, the letters “ARIC,” and the slogan “Never Stop Learning.” The design uses white text and graphics against a red background for high visual contrast.
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PowerSchool Registration Changes

PowerSchool registration has been updated to reflect changes to credit types. When you register for courses, you will now see an option to select a credit type. If there is only one credit type available, simply choose the available option and then click "register." If there is more than one credit type available, choose the credit type that corresponds to your teaching certificate.
Screenshot of a “Course and Credits” registration page. The page contains collapsible sections labeled “Course Information” and “Credits.” Red arrows and instructional notes highlight key actions. One note points to the triangle next to “Course Information” and says users can click it to view more details about the course. Another note points to a selected radio button for “English Language Arts Clock Hours” and instructs users to choose the credit type that matches their teaching certificate. Additional credit options shown include “General Science Clock Hours,” “General Social Science Clock Hours,” and “Mathematics Clock Hours.” At the bottom of the page, a red arrow points to the “Register” button with instructions to click “Register” when finished. A “Cancel” button appears next to the “Register” button.
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Screenshot of a “Course and Credits” registration page. The page includes expandable sections labeled “Course Information” and “Credits.” Under the Credits section, a single available credit option, “General Social Science Clock Hours,” is displayed with an unselected radio button. Red instructional annotations explain that even if only one credit type is available, the user must still select that credit type. Another annotation points to a grayed-out “Register” button and explains that registration cannot be completed until a credit type is selected. A “Cancel” button appears beside the disabled “Register” button at the bottom of the page.
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AMSTI AMSTI

Flyer pinned to a red textured bulletin board beneath The University of Alabama logo. A blue pushpin holds two overlapping white sheets. The front sheet displays the AMSTI (Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative) logo, the message “Explore the AMSTI-UA website and register for professional learning!”, a QR code, and the website address “amsti.ua.edu.” The design uses red, blue, gray, and black text and graphics.
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ASIM (Alabama Science in Motion) ASIM (Alabama Science in Motion)

AMSTI Science in Motion professional development flyer for Fall Semester Training. The flyer features the AMSTI logo at the top, an image of stacked books with autumn leaves and a pumpkin, and training schedules for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Biology sessions are listed for September 11, October 2, and November 6; Chemistry sessions for September 22, October 6, and November 9; and Physics sessions for September 3, October 29, and November 11. An “AMSTI For All Trainings” section lists Science Foundational Training on October 19 and DESMOS for Secondary STEM (6-12) on November 11. The bottom section displays contact information and photos for three specialists: Lisa Clark (Biology), Brooks Moss (Chemistry), and Julie Covin (Physics). A QR code labeled “Register Here!” appears in the lower-right corner. The flyer uses blue, red, gray, and white colors with science-themed icons throughout.
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ATIM (Alabama Technology in Motion) ATIM (Alabama Technology in Motion)

Promotional graphic for “Fall 2026 Opportunities with Dr. Robert Mayben.” The image features a cartoon-style character kneeling and holding a large orange pumpkin overhead. The pumpkin displays the Alabama Achieves logo and the text “Alabama Achieves” and “Alabama State Department of Education.” Yellow rays radiate from behind the pumpkin against a white circle on a dark red background. Large white text in the center reads: “FALL 2026 Opportunities with Dr. Robert Mayben.” The lower section contains logos for Alabama Technology in Motion, The University of Alabama, and The University of West Alabama, alongside the text “Regional Inservice Education Center.” The design uses red, white, orange, black, and gray colors and promotes educational and professional opportunities for Fall 2026.
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Promotional flyer for Cohort #3: AI Digital Ethics PLG, a five-part virtual professional learning series on digital ethics and responsible AI use in education. The design features a dark blue technology-themed background with network graphics and large white text reading “AI Digital Ethics PLG.” Main text explains that as artificial intelligence becomes embedded in classrooms, curriculum design, and student work, Alabama educators need practical guidance on using AI responsibly and effectively. The series helps teachers navigate AI adoption through the lens of professional and ethical obligations under the Alabama Educator Code of Ethics. A right-hand sidebar lists event details: Presented by Dr. Robert Mayben, Alabama Technology in Motion, UA-UWA Inservice Center Region 4 Meeting time: 3:45 PM to 4:45 PM (CST) Meeting dates: December 10, January 14, February 11, March 11, and April 8 Format: Five one-hour Zoom meetings and five one-hour homework assignments Professional development credit: Up to 10 hours of ethics credit At the bottom, a registration box displays “REGISTER: PSPL #585453” and the link “tinyurl.com/uatimethics26c3.” A cartoon figure holds a sign with “#3,” and the Alabama Technology in Motion logo appears in the lower-right corner. The flyer uses bright blue, lime green, and white text against a dark blue digital-network background.
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Cohort 3 for the AI Digital Ethics PLG is currently at capacity, but you can add your name to the waitlist. If a space opens up, we'll contact you!

Certification Certification

Updated renewal requirements from Educator Certification are now posted on the Certificate Renewal page of the Alabama Achieves website. Please contact edcert@alsde.edu with any questions regarding these updates.

Searching for Ethics Courses

To find courses that offer ethics clock hours, please follow the instructions provided in the "Announcements" section in PowerSchool. They are copied below for your convenience.

Instructional graphic titled “Find Courses That Award Ethics Clock Hours.” The page shows Steps 1 and 2. Step 1: “Log into PowerSchool Professional Learning.” Step 2: “Click the Courses menu and select the Advanced Search link under the Search box.” Below Step 2 is a screenshot of the PowerSchool Professional Learning Platform. The top navigation bar includes Home, Professional Learning, Courses, Transcript, External Credit Request, Resources, and PD Playlists. A large red arrow points to the Courses tab. In the main content area, a Course Search panel contains a search field and Search button. The Advanced Search link below the search box is outlined in red, and a second red arrow points directly to it. To the right is a My Courses panel with a visible My Transcript button. The screenshot uses a blue-and-white interface and features a decorative torn-paper border along the right and bottom edges. The instructional page has a dark blue header, gray background, and numbered circular step markers on the left. Red arrows and red outlines emphasize the actions users should take.
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Screenshot of a Course Catalog page with a Filters panel on the left and a list of courses on the right. Red arrows highlight the steps to expand the Credits filter, select the Ethics Clock Hours checkbox, and click the blue Apply Filters button at the bottom of the filter panel. Instruction text at the top reads: “On the Course Catalog screen, open the Credit Types by clicking the Credits handle, then check the box for Ethics Clock Hours, and then click the Apply Filters button.” The course list shows multiple instructor-led courses and a search bar above the results.
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Classroom Management / Student Engagement Classroom Management / Student Engagement

Promotional flyer with a football-themed design titled “Tackle the Chaos: A Game Plan for Calmer Classrooms.” A yellow football goalpost and white playbook diagrams appear on a dark green background. The virtual session is scheduled for Thursday, November 5, from 4:00 to 5:00 PM. A presenter headshot appears beside a description of strategies for creating calmer, more collaborative classrooms and supporting meaningful inclusion. Registration information includes PowerSchool Section #570824. Logos for The University of Alabama, The University of West Alabama, and the Regional Inservice Education Center are displayed at the bottom, along with football graphics.
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Promotional flyer for the Classroom Organization and Management Program (COMP). The design features a large teal circle on the left with the title “COMP Classroom Organization & Management Program” in large white and gold text. Classroom-themed objects, including a globe, a cup holding scissors and pencils, and a stack of books labeled “COMP,” appear near the bottom left. The right side contains a description of the program, explaining that COMP is a research-based professional learning program designed to help educators create and manage effective learning environments, improve student achievement, reduce discipline problems, and develop classroom management strategies. Program details include: Facilitated by: Dr. Holly Morgan Location: UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center, 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 Registration: Via PowerSchool, Section #587564 Dates and times: January 7, 2027 (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) February 1, 2027 (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) February 16, 2027 (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) A banner across the bottom states: “You must attend all 3 dates to receive full credit.” Logos for The University of Alabama, The University of West Alabama, Regional Inservice Education Center, and COMP appear along the bottom of the flyer. The color scheme includes teal, gold, black, cream, and white, with a professional educational theme.
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Flyer for the Classroom Organization and Management Program (COMP). The design features a large teal circle with the words “COMP Classroom Organization & Management Program” in white and gold. On the left are educational items including a globe, a container holding scissors and pencils, and a stack of books topped with a block labeled “COMP.” On the right, a paragraph describes COMP as a research-based professional learning program that helps teachers create effective classroom learning environments and improve student achievement, classroom management, and teaching satisfaction. The training location is listed as Tuscaloosa Magnet Elementary, 315 McFarland Blvd. E, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404. The flyer states the program is facilitated by Chamayra King and instructs participants to register via PowerSchool, Section #587601. Program dates are: January 29, 2027 (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) February 5, 2027 (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) February 26, 2027 (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) A notice at the bottom states: “You must attend all 3 dates to receive full credit.” Logos for The University of Alabama, The University of West Alabama Regional Inservice Education Center, and COMP appear along the bottom of the flyer.
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Flyer for Kagan Cooperative Learning Day 2, a professional development workshop for educators in grades K-12. The blue-themed flyer features the slogan “Kagan: It’s All About Engagement!” and notes a focus on bullying and violence prevention. The workshop will be held at Berry High School in Berry, Alabama, on February 10, 2027. Workshop highlights include boosting student engagement, preventing bullying and discipline problems through cooperative learning, building teamwork and friendships, improving group work, learning strategies for forming student teams, developing student collaboration skills, gaining classroom management tips, and implementing effective cooperative learning practices. The event location is Berry High School, 18242 Highway 18 East, Berry, AL 35546-2208. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m., and the workshop runs from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A testimonial from an educator is included, along with social media icons and Kagan branding. The flyer is intended for Region Four educators and includes registration information: PowerSchool PL Section #584593. A banner at the bottom directs viewers to www.KaganOnline.com.
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English Language Arts / Literacy (Elementary and Secondary) English Language Arts / Literacy (Elementary and Secondary)

Flyer for a professional learning event hosted by the University of Alabama, University of West Alabama, and Regional Inservice Education Center. The event, titled “Build a Shared Language for Writing Within Different Disciplines,” is a three-session cohort for grades 6-12 educators focused on improving writing instruction across subject areas. Featured presenter is Kristina Smekens, President and Lead Consultant of Smekens Education Solutions. Learning outcomes include developing shared writing vocabulary, using mini-lessons, and assessing student writing with rubrics. Sessions are scheduled for January 20 and March 10 at the University of West Alabama in Livingston, Alabama, with a third session date to be determined. Registration information includes PowerSchool Section #571002.
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Kristina Reel - Alabama Inservice Centers
Click here to register now!
Secondary teachers -- join us for this cohort with Kristina Smekens, national author and consultant who is an annual speaker at the Model Schools Conference!
Flyer for a virtual professional learning event presented by The Reading League Alabama titled“Continuing Our Science of Reading Journey: From Evidence to Practice to Impact.” The featured speaker is Kari Kurto, National Director of Policy and Partnerships for The Reading League. The event takes place Wednesday, November 5, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM CT and is offered virtually. The description invites Alabama educators to explore practical tools and resources from The Reading League’s Compass and learn how they support the application of Science of Reading research in classrooms to improve student outcomes. A“Register Now!” call to action is included.
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Flyer for a professional learning session titled “The Reading League – Advanced Word Study/Building Comprehension,” presented by the UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center. The headline appears in large red text at the top. The flyer states that facilitators from The Reading League will provide two half-day content components: Advanced Word Study and Building Comprehension. Event details are prominently displayed: Date: December 8 Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Registration: PowerSchool #586356 The flyer includes descriptions of both sessions. The Advanced Word Study section focuses on phonics, syllable types, morphology, and evidence-aligned instruction to help students read and spell multisyllabic words. The Building Comprehension section addresses knowledge building, complex texts, metacognition, background knowledge, scaffolding student understanding, and research-based reading instruction. Location information is listed at the bottom: UWA Black Belt Regional Development Center, Livingston, Alabama. Decorative elements include abstract blue and red shapes, a red border line along the left side, The Reading League 10th Anniversary logo near the center-right, and an illustration of a tall stack of colorful books in the lower-right corner. The background is light beige with colorful educational-themed graphics.
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Flyer promoting a virtual book talk with Dr. Kymyona Burk on December 14, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:15 PM CST. The event, hosted by The Reading League Alabama and The Reading League Mississippi, focuses on how evidence-based policy, Science of Reading-aligned implementation, and sustained educator coaching helped Mississippi improve from 49th in the nation to a top-ten ranking in reading growth. The session includes audience questions and answers and features a QR code for registration.
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Flyer for Beginning Sound Walls Professional Development sponsored by the UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center. The flyer uses a yellow, orange, gray, and white color scheme with geometric accents in the top right and bottom right corners. The left side explains that Sound Wall professional development is a 6-hour fundamentals class focused on the science of sound walls, their design, and their implementation in phonological awareness and phonics instruction. The description states that participants will learn: What a Sound Wall is and why it can replace a traditional word wall. How to set up a Sound Wall and explicitly teach all 44 phonemes. How to incorporate Sound Walls into phonics instruction. How to use a Sound Wall during whole-group and small-group instruction. The flyer instructs participants to Register via PSPL #585560. The right side provides event details: Class Limit: 40 participants When: Thursday, January 28, 2027, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Where: UWA Black Belt Museum & Development Center, Rooms 205/207, 126 Franklin Street, Livingston, AL 35470 Who: K-5 Reading Specialist Interventionists, K-3 Teachers, administrators, and Special Education Teachers A highlighted orange box at the bottom right states: “Must teach in the UA/UWA Region (Region 4) to be eligible to attend training.” The bottom of the flyer includes logos for The University of Alabama, The University of West Alabama Regional Inservice Education Center, Tools 4 Reading, and 95 Percent Group, along with the tagline: “Trusted, proven literacy solutions.” Contact information shown is 95percentgroup.com and sales@95percentgroup.com, with a 2026 copyright notice for 95 Percent Group LLC.
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Flyer promoting the Connecting the Dots literacy conference presented by The Reading League of Alabama. The event takes place March 3-4, 2027, at the Foley Event Center in Foley, Alabama. The flyer invites educators, leaders, and advocates to join two days focused on evidence-based instruction, structured literacy, research to practice, collaboration, and literacy leadership. Registration costs are $325 for early bird registration through January 15, 2027, and $400 for regular registration beginning January 16, 2027. The flyer notes that purchase orders will not be accepted and includes a QR code and registration website: al.thereadingleague.org/literacy-reimagined-conference/.
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English Language Learners English Language Learners

Flyer for the Alabama State Department of Education English Learner Education program. The flyer highlights regional support services for English Learners (ELs) and features an Education Specialist with qualifications including elementary teaching, EL teaching, a master's degree in ESL, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Law. Services listed include professional development, resource development, ACCESS readiness support, classroom support, newcomer training, vocabulary development, data analysis, goal setting, and HQIA training. The right panel promotes ALSDE-EL sponsored platforms: Ellevation, Language Link, and ParentNotices, with brief descriptions and website addresses. Three QR codes at the bottom link to the 2026-2027 EL Guidebook, the ALSDE-EL Google Site, and the Alabama Framework for EL Success.
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Teal, black, and white graphic that says "Save the Date"
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Save the Date! April 19 OR April 20 at UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center

Academic Language Learning for all learners is back! This training is a repeat of our fall session targeting best practices and strategies in Tier I Instruction. The training consists of one day, and you can choose which day you would like to attend. There will be 3 different rooms. Room A- Elementary Teachers, Room B- Secondary Teachers, Room C- K-12 Administrators/EL Coordinators/Federal Programs Specialists/Instructional Coaches/Local Reading Specialists/etc. PowerSchool Registration will come at a later date.

WIDA Virtual Training

This training is available for a variety of audiences, but mainly classroom and EL teachers.

Upcoming Ellevation Virtual Training

This is a reminder that we are offering several virtual Ellevation training sessions this year. Please see the Ellevation S'more link to find the session you would like to register for. We will offer 2 repeat sessions for each day (morning- 10:00 am and afternoon- 1:00 pm). These sessions are advanced. Each session targets a specific area and a specific audience.

2026-2027 Ellevation Statewide Professional Learning Catalog

Health & Physical Education Health & Physical Education

Circular infographic titled “Physical Literacy for a Lifetime” centered on the outline of Alabama. Five colored segments surround the center, labeled: Physical Activity and Fitness, Movement and Performance, Movement Concepts, Value of Physical Activity, and Personal and Social Behavior. The graphic illustrates the key components of lifelong physical literacy.
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Click here to view the most recent Health & PE newsletter!

Leadership (APLDS Credit and/or PLU) Leadership (APLDS Credit and/or PLU)

Promotional flyer for a professional development session titled “Complicated People in the Workplace: Navigating Relational Dynamics to Create Teams That Thrive.” The flyer features a pastel blue-to-yellow gradient background. On the left is the book cover How to Work with Complicated People by Ryan Leak. Beneath it are the logos for the University of Alabama and the UWA Regional Inservice Education Center. The main text explains that educators and educational leaders often encounter challenging workplace relationships and introduces strategies based on Ryan Leak’s research and communication expertise. Listed learning outcomes include understanding difficult individuals, managing expectations, communicating effectively in complex environments, embracing healthy disagreement, and setting boundaries. A featured quote reads: “On the other side of complicated is the wonderful, wide-open world of effective collaboration and a workplace you love.” Event details at the bottom include: Led by Jackie Hudgins, Something Greater, LLC PLU: PLUALSDE1478 PowerSchool Section Number: 587604 Dates: January 15 and February 3, 2027 Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Location: UWA Black Belt Museum & Development Center, Rooms 205/207, Livingston, Alabama A circular Maxwell Leadership Executive Program logo appears near the bottom center. In the lower-right corner is a professional headshot of the presenter wearing a light-colored blazer over a patterned red top.
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Promotional graphic for the 2026-27 APLDS Aligned Impact Series, “Self to System Skill Sessions.” The featured session is Skill 1: A Proactive and Holistic Approach to School Security, offered online. The description explains that participants will examine school safety and security, categorize issues for staff and students, assess physical and social strengths, and improve both technical and cultural approaches to safety. Part One sessions are scheduled October 13 (8:00-10:00 AM, Section #567127; 12:00-1:30 PM, Section #567128) and October 14 (12:00-1:30 PM, Section #567129; 4:00-5:30 PM, Section #567131). Part Two sessions are scheduled January 19 (8:00-10:00 AM, Section #567132; 12:00-1:30 PM, Section #567133) and January 20 (12:00-1:30 PM, Section #567134; 4:00-5:30 PM, Section #567136). The design features APLDS, Alabama Regional Inservice Centers, and WestEd logos, with the phrase “The Choice is Yours!!” and contact information for Sonya Scott at sonya.scott@alsde.edu.
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Promotional graphic for the 2026-27 APLDS Aligned Impact Series, “Self to System Skill Sessions.” The featured online session is Skill 2: Leading Through Conflict. The description explains that participants will identify three common types of school conflict, learn practical conflict-resolution strategies and tools, and build a network of first responders to address conflict early and effectively. Part One session options are October 13 from 8:00-10:00 AM (Section #567137) and 12:00-1:30 PM (Section #567139), and October 14 from 12:00-1:30 PM (Section #567140) and 4:00-5:30 PM (Section #567141). Part Two session options are January 19 from 8:00-10:00 AM (Section #567142) and 12:00-1:30 PM (Section #567143), and January 20 from 12:00-1:30 PM (Section #567144) and 4:00-5:30 PM (Section #567145). The blue, black, red, and white design includes the APLDS logo, Alabama Regional Inservice Center logo, WestEd logo, “Online” icon, directional arrows for Part One and Part Two, the phrase “The Choice is Yours!!,” and contact information for Sonya Scott at sonya.scott@alsde.edu.
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Promotional graphic for the 2026-27 APLDS Aligned Impact Series, “Self to System Skill Sessions.” The featured online session is Skill 3: Creating Vibrant Learning Communities. The description states that strong professional learning communities drive student success and that participants will explore frameworks for PLCs, incorporate mindfulness into professional learning activities, and examine coherence within professional communities to maximize collective impact. Part One session options are October 13 from 8:00-10:00 AM (Section #567146) and 12:00-1:30 PM (Section #567147), and October 14 from 12:00-1:30 PM (Section #567149) and 4:00-5:30 PM (Section #567150). Part Two session options are January 19 from 8:00-10:00 AM (Section #567151) and 12:00-1:30 PM (Section #567152), and January 20 from 12:00-1:30 PM (Section #567153) and 4:00-5:30 PM (Section #567154). The graphic uses red, blue, and white colors and includes the APLDS, Alabama Regional Inservice Center (ARIC), and WestEd logos. An “Online” icon, arrows labeled “Part One” and “Part Two,” the phrase “The Choice is Yours!!,” and contact information for Sonya Scott at sonya.scott@alsde.edu appear on the flyer.
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Join us for the following FREE APLDS Clock Hour-Approved Sessions! Register soon to secure your spot!

Connect, Collaborate, and Grow with Regional Network Sessions!

Title: 2026-27 APLDS Aligned Impact Series: Self to System Network Sessions

PowerSchool Course Number: 347844


Invest in your leadership through a new professional learning opportunity designed specifically for Alabama principals and assistant principals. The APLDS Aligned Impact Series: Self to System Network Sessions bring together regional school leaders to learn alongside researchers and national experts.


The series includes three 6-hour, in-person sessions offered in September, November, and February at locations across Alabama. Each session is also available virtually, delivered as three 2-hour online sessions to provide greater flexibility.


Strengthen your leadership, build meaningful professional connections, and collaborate with regional colleagues to create lasting impact in your schools and districts.


Brought to you by:

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Promotional flyer from the Alabama State Department of Education Office of Educator Development advertising free online professional learning: 2026-27 APLDS Online Courses, facilitated by Dr. Barry Wiginton. The flyer lists six online courses with PowerSchool registration numbers and clock-hour credits: Supporting School Climate through Engagement (PowerSchool PL #343045) – 15 hours Supporting School Climate through Environment (PowerSchool PL #343051) – 15 hours Supporting School Climate through Safety (PowerSchool PL #343044) – 15 hours Effective Feedback to Enhance Instructional Practices (PowerSchool PL #343043) – 8 hours The Role of ATGP in Teacher Effectiveness (PowerSchool PL #343053) – 8 hours Peter DeWitt & Michael Nelson: Coaching for Collective Leader Efficacy (PowerSchool PL #343311) – 1 hour The courses are available August 2026 through April 2027. For additional information, the flyer directs participants to contact barry.wiginton@alsde.edu. The design features a navy-blue header with the Office of Educator Development logo, a light-gray background, navy and gold text accents, and rounded course listing panels with gold hour badges aligned on the right.
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Additional APLDS sessions are also posted in the ARI section. Additional APLDS sessions are also posted in the ARI section.

Library Media Library Media

Alabama Library Media Online logo
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Click here to view Alabama Library Media's most recent newsletter!

Mathematics and Science Mathematics and Science

Promotional flyer for ACT Instructional Mastery Math TEAMS PD, a state-approved two-day virtual workshop. The flyer announces sessions on January 14 and January 21, 2027, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM each day. The workshop focuses on preparing educators to help students succeed on the ACT Math test through problem-solving strategies, calculator use, and methods for addressing student misconceptions while improving math performance. The design features large black and gray text on a light gray background with math-themed graphics, including a protractor, compass, calculator, check mark, and inequality symbol. A callout highlights that the workshop is state approved. Registration information reads “Register via PSPL Section #569427.” Logos for Alabama Technology in Motion, The University of Alabama, The University of West Alabama, and the Regional Inservice Education Center appear along the bottom of the flyer.
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MTSS / Supporting the Whole Child MTSS / Supporting the Whole Child

Flyer for The Secondary Learning Exchange, a professional learning series for secondary instructional leaders in Alabama. The program includes regional in-person sessions on collective leader efficacy, tiered instruction, attendance and scheduling, and transcript audits, career tech, and graduation pathways. Night Shift virtual sessions are scheduled for December 8, January 12, and April 13. Registration is available through a QR code. Presented by Alabama MTSS, the Office of Student Learning, Alabama Regional Inservice Centers, APLDS, and related state education partners.
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National Board Certification National Board Certification

Promotional flyer for an NBCT professional learning session titled “NBCT Component 2: Differentiation in Instruction / Instructions and Planning.” The design features a navy-blue geometric banner with gold and white text on the left and a classroom photo on the right showing an educator standing at the front of a room holding a tablet near a whiteboard while participants are seated in the foreground. The flyer announces a hybrid session on Nov. 10 from 4:30–7:00. The description explains that candidates will collect student work samples demonstrating student growth over time, analyze how instructional choices contribute to growth, review student samples, discuss next instructional steps, and review required forms specific to Component 2. An additional note states that, after registering in PowerSchool, participants will receive a form to indicate whether they will attend in person at the UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center or virtually via Zoom. The lower section displays the logos of The University of Alabama, The University of West Alabama, and the Regional Inservice Education Center. A registration message at the bottom reads: “Register via PowerSchool! Section 563139.” The flyer uses a navy, gold, white, and light gray color palette with angular graphic accents throughout.
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Promotional flyer for an NBCT Fall Writing Retreat with a rustic wood plank background decorated with orange and yellow autumn leaves around the border. Large white text at the top reads “NBCT fall writing retreat.” The flyer explains that National Board candidates will work on analysis of evidence and written commentary for Components 3 and/or 4. It states that full-day substitute reimbursement will be provided for each participant and that appointment times will be scheduled with CSPs. Centered in large white text are the event details: November 16, 2026 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Additional registration information reads: PowerSchool section #563078 Location information appears below: UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center 260 Kilgore Lane Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 The lower-right corner displays the logos for The University of Alabama, The University of West Alabama, and the Regional Inservice Education Center. The overall design uses a fall theme with scattered maple leaves and a dark wood texture background.
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The fall writing retreat is currently at capacity, but you may add your name to the waiting list if you're interested in attending. If a spot opens up, we'll contact you!

Promotional flyer for National Board Office Hours featuring a teal gradient background, a large portrait photo of a person wearing glasses and a black polo shirt, and information about virtual support sessions for National Board Certification candidates. Large white text at the top left reads: “NATIONAL BOARD OFFICE HOURS.” Beneath the title, bold black text asks: “Got questions? Unclear on component instructions? Just need a thought partner?” The flyer invites participants to join Rachel Goggins, Alabama NBCT Network Board Member and Saban Center Education Liaison, for quick, on-the-spot support and encouragement while working toward certification. A schedule of Zoom office hours is listed: September 30 – Component 4 October 22 – Component 3 November 18 – Component 2 December 2 – MOC & General Questions A round yellow-and-black National Board Certified Teacher logo appears beside the schedule. Near the bottom, the flyer states: “All sessions will be held via Zoom from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.” Additional text notes that office hours are designed to be come-and-go, allowing participants to drop in at the most convenient time. The lower right corner displays the logos for The University of Alabama, The University of West Alabama, and the Regional Inservice Center. Decorative teal, white, and black curved graphic elements frame the bottom of the flyer.
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PowerSchool PowerSchool

Promotional flyer from Alabama Achieves, Alabama State Department of Education titled “Upcoming PowerSchool Trainings” for November 2026. The flyer has a dark navy-blue background with the Alabama Achieves logo at the top and a red banner displaying the title. A green ribbon-shaped banner in the center invites PowerSchool coaches to discuss current topics in PowerSchool and notes that sessions are offered multiple times, with repeated content. The banner includes the text: “Search PSPL for Course #348072.” A button graphic on the left reads “Click the dates to register!” and an Office of Student Information Systems logo appears on the right. Below are 12 training session boxes arranged in a four-column grid. Each box lists a topic, dates, times, and presenter: GPA, Class Rank & Honor Roll – Nov. 2 and Nov. 9, 10:00–11:00 a.m.; presented by Caitlin Maddox. Correcting Audit Reports in SIS – Nov. 4, 10:00–11:00 a.m. and Nov. 12, 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Quandria Robinson. Grad Planner & Grad Progress – Nov. 2 and Nov. 9, 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Caitlin Maddox. ALSDE Credit Tracker – Nov. 16 and Nov. 17, 10:00–11:00 a.m.; presented by Caitlin Maddox. Attendance Best Practices – Nov. 2, 10:00–11:00 a.m. and 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Kendall Tankersley. Searching & Exporting – Nov. 12, 10:00–11:00 a.m. and Nov. 4, 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Quandria Robinson. Correcting Common PS Data Errors – Nov. 9, 10:00–11:00 a.m. and Nov. 5, 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Quandria Robinson. New Discipline Workflow – Nov. 10, 10:00–11:00 a.m. and 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Kendall Tankersley. Analytics & Insights: Student Plans – Nov. 12, 10:00–11:00 a.m. and 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Kendall Tankersley. Analytics & Insights: Interventions – Nov. 5, 10:00–11:00 a.m. and 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Kendall Tankersley. Walk-In Scheduling & Schedule Changes – Nov. 5, 10:00–11:00 a.m. and Nov. 9, 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Quandria Robinson. Schoology: Creating Groups & Shared Collections – Nov. 16 and Nov. 17, 1:00–2:00 p.m.; presented by Caitlin Maddox. Decorative red corner lines frame the flyer at the top left and bottom right.
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Social Studies Social Studies

Click here to see the latest Alabama Social Studies Chronicle!
Flyer for “Alabama History in Action: Resources for Meaningful Instruction,” presented by Dr. Blake Busbin. The professional learning session helps grades 3-5 social studies teachers explore Alabama-centered standards, lesson plans, primary sources, and classroom activities. The event takes place November 3, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Participants will receive instructional resources and a set of books. Registration is available through PowerSchool Section #569990. The flyer features a vintage Alabama history theme with maps, historical documents, and Alabama state seal graphics.
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lyer for “Exploring Civic Themes in Ancient, Medieval, and Early Modern History,” presented by Dr. Blake Busbin for grades 7-8 teachers. The session examines civic concepts such as leadership, rule of law, and citizenship through the new World History standards and includes collaboration, discussion, and planning time. The event takes place November 4, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Participants will receive instructional resources and a set of books. Registration is available through PowerSchool Section #569997. The flyer features a library background and a parchment-style design.
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Promotional flyer titled “From World War to Cold War with the Cartoons of Theodor Seuss Geisel.” The title appears in large curved orange text across the top of a cream-colored background decorated with whimsical blue doodles, stars, books, and school-themed illustrations. Centered beneath the title is the subtitle “presented by Dr. Courtney Halloran” in teal text. The main content is displayed inside a large pale-yellow decorative frame outlined in teal. The text explains that political cartoons are valuable tools in social studies education because they encourage critical thinking and perspective analysis. The session focuses on examining the eras of World War II and the Cold War through the political cartoons of Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss). Participants will learn ways to incorporate these resources into classroom instruction and will receive teaching materials and a set of books. Decorative illustrations resembling framed portraits of Dr. Seuss wearing a red-striped hat appear on both the left and right sides of the central text. Additional illustrations of books, stars, and doodles are scattered throughout the design. At the bottom, three cloud-shaped sections provide event details: PowerSchool Section #570000 January 27, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. UA/UWA Inservice Center, 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 The overall design uses soft cream, yellow, teal, orange, black, red, and blue colors with a playful, educational theme.
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Promotional flyer titled “Mapping History: Integrating Geography into World History” presented by Dr. Courtney Halloran. The design has a vintage map theme with a large antique-style globe on the right, a folded map stretching across the middle, and a compass rose in the bottom-right corner. The background is parchment-colored with decorative borders and earth-tone colors. Text on the left describes a professional development session on integrating geography into World History instruction, covering topics such as migration, exchange, human usage, best practices, standards, and teaching methods. The flyer states that participating teachers will receive resources and a set of books. Location information reads: UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center, 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401. A highlighted box at the bottom lists: Date: January 27, 2027 Time: 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. PowerSchool #: 570003 A dotted path winds across the map toward the globe, reinforcing the geography and exploration theme.
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Professional development flyer titled “Beyond Myths: Teaching Indigenous Histories with Accuracy, Empathy, and Respect.” The design uses earth tones with dark green, cream, tan, and rust-orange colors. The large title “BEYOND MYTHS” appears in bold dark green letters at the top left. Below the title, the subtitle reads: “Teaching Indigenous Histories with Accuracy, Empathy, and Respect.” The session is presented by Dr. Courtney Halloran. The body text explains that Native American history is integrated throughout the new social studies course of study. Participants will learn effective strategies for teaching Indigenous histories, identifying instructional resources, connecting content to standards, and collaborating with colleagues. Teachers who attend will receive instructional resources and a set of books. The right side of the flyer features layered vintage-style materials, including handwritten historical documents, maps, and a sepia-toned landscape photograph. Decorative Indigenous-inspired geometric patterns appear along the top right edge and lower left corner. A subtle topographic map pattern forms the dark green background sections. A large information box at the bottom contains the event details: Date: February 2, 2027 Time: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Location: UA/UWA Regional Inservice Center, 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 PowerSchool Section #: 570005 The overall design presents a historical and educational theme using archival imagery, maps, and natural earth-tone colors.
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Opportunities From Our Partners Opportunities From Our Partners

Logo for the Alabama State Department of Education Office of Student Learning. The design includes a light blue silhouette of the state of Alabama behind the words 'Office of Student Learning.' Above the text is a multicolored semicircle divided into sections labeled OSI, Instructional Services, EdTech, Professional Learning, AMSTI, and ARI. The words 'Alabama State Department of Education' appear below
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Click here to see OSL's running updates!
Flyer announcing the ALEX Lunch & Learn Series for Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE), regional, and district support staff. The flyer promotes free 30-minute virtual training sessions on the Alabama Learning Exchange (ALEX), including how to explore content standards, locate and organize instructional resources, create standards-aligned lessons using the ALEX Lesson Plan Companion (LPC), and use AI-powered lesson suggestions. Session dates and times are listed as: Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM Wednesday, January 13, 2027, 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM A link invites viewers to access the course description and session details. The lower portion features colorful graphics with the headline “New ALEX Lunch and Learn Sessions!” alongside an illustration of a laptop displaying the ALEX logo, a coffee mug, and a plant. Four icons highlight learning objectives: exploring content standards, organizing instructional resources, creating standards-aligned lessons with LPC, and using an AI-powered suggestion tool. A banner at the bottom repeats the session dates and notes that the trainings will be held online via Zoom.
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University of Alabama Online

Where Opportunity Meets Affordability

Advance your career without putting it on hold. With The University of Alabama Online, you can continue teaching while earning your degree and save an average of $239.25 per credit hour.*

Whether you're seeking additional certification, preparing for school leadership or earning your next degree, UA Online offers:

  • Flexible online learning

  • Scholarships and tuition grants available

  • Dedicated support from application to graduation

Learn more: online.ua.edu

*Average savings based on tuition rates found in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings.

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UWA Online

Start Your Journey Today At UWA!

Choose from more than 70 degree and certification programs at the University of West Alabama Online.

Learn how an online program can give you the convenience and flexibility you need. Scholarships are available, and information can be found at our website.


Learn more at https://online.uwa.edu/

Informational flyer for the Cultivate: Growing STEM Educators program. The top section features the Cultivate logo alongside a photograph of a person outdoors using binoculars. A large headline reads, “Engaging Educators Statewide with STEM Teaching Tools Based in Plant Science and Literacy.” The main content explains that Cultivate is a professional development program for Alabama PreK-8 educators, providing lesson plans and resources to support STEM instruction. A bulleted list highlights program benefits, including a three-hour hands-on teacher development course, collaboration with other educators, plant science and literacy curriculum for PreK-K through grades 6-8, strategies to increase student engagement, and professional development credit opportunities. Along the left side are three photographs showing students and educators participating in plant science and outdoor learning activities, including watering plants, observing plants in a garden setting, and examining a seedling. A green banner across the bottom encourages educators to register and includes contact information, a QR code, and a registration web address. The design uses green and gray tones consistent with plant science and environmental education themes.
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Promotional flyer for the Cultivate STEM Educators program. The left side contains information about literacy and STEM, describing how plant science-based lessons support student engagement, creativity, reading, and hands-on learning. A bulleted list highlights curriculum features, including literacy-focused plant science lessons, engaging activities, educational resources, and STEM-based reading and creativity lessons. The lower left section explains that Cultivate is a collaborative initiative of Huntsville Botanical Garden, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, and The ATTA Library of STEM & History, with an AMSTI Affiliate logo displayed. The right side features a large photograph of a green seedling sprouting from dark soil against a softly blurred background. Logos for the partner organizations appear across the bottom, along with contact information and funding acknowledgments.
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NASA TechRise Student Challenge flyer with a blue-to-tan gradient sky background featuring stylized rockets, balloons, and aerospace graphics. The flyer explains that the challenge invites teams of U.S. students in grades 6 through 12 to design, build, and launch experiments on commercial suborbital flights. Sixty winning teams receive $1,500, technical support from Future Engineers, and a spot on a NASA-sponsored flight. A timeline shows: Contest Opens at the start of the school year, Entries Due in fall, Winners Begin Build in winter, and Experiments Launch in summer. A QR code and registration information appear at the bottom, with the website: www.FutureEngineers.org/NASATechRise.
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UA/UWA Regional Inservice Education Center logo
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UA/UWA Regional Inservice Education Center

Dr. Holly Morgan, Director

Mrs. Tami Barron, Accounting Specialist

Mrs. Misty Caddell, Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Tenika Milsap, UWA Coordinator

Email: hgmorgan@ua.edu
Website:https://inservice.ua.edu/

Location: 260 Kilgore Lane, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
Phone: 205-348-3319
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uauwaric/
Instagram: @uauwaric

Holly Morgan
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