Administrator Updates: ATH RIC
August 2025
Curriculum & Instruction (C&I) Meetings
- Tuesday, September 23
- Tuesday, January 27, 2026
- Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Secondary Leadership Exchange (APLDS Hrs)
- Thursday, September 25
- Session 1 - PLC/Leadership
- Thursday, December 4
- Session 2 - Instructional Strategies & Progress Monitoring
- Thursday, February 5, 2026
- Session 3 - Master Scheduling & Data Analysis
- Thursday, March 26, 2026
- Session 4 - Authentic Assessment
PLN Athens North Cohort Meeting Dates
- Statewide Virtual Session - Wednesday, October 1, 2025
- Session # 2 - Wednesday, November 12
- Session # 3 - Thursday, December 11
- Session # 4 - Thursday, February 26, 2026
Everyone Counts: OMI/AMSTI
In-Person:
September 17, 2025 - Athens State - Sandridge Ballroom
October 8, 2025 - Wallace State
January 28, 2026 - Athens State - Sandridge Ballroom
February 11, 2026 - Wallace State
Virtual PLCs:
October 28, 2025
November 5, 2025
March 5, 2026
March 12, 2026
Social Studies Textbook Caravan: December 8 - 9
- Monday, December 8 - Elementary (K-5)
- Tuesday, December 9 - Secondary (6 - 12)
- Location: New Classroom Building on the Athens State campus
- Address: 412 Pryor Street Athens, AL 35611
Registration Link Below
- Powerful Learning Network
- Peer Coaching Workshops
- In-District Professional Learning
APLDS Updates - August 27 (11:00 am - 11:45 am)
Alabama Principal Leadership Development System (APLDS) Updates: CLAS Lunch & Learn
August 27, 2025 | 11:00 am - 11:45 am
Presenters: Anna Shepherd-Jones & Telena Madison
Alabama State Department of Education
The School Principal Leadership and Mentoring Act was passed in 2023 to create and implement a leadership development system for principals and assistant principals in Alabama public schools. The program is called the Alabama Principal Leadership Development System (APLDS). Join this session to learn updates regarding the APLDS program. You will gain an understanding of the law, what principals and assistant principals must do to receive a stipend for the 2025-26 school year, and how the Alabama Principal Leadership Development System will support school leaders in their leadership journey.
APLDS Presenter - Anna Sheipard-Jones
APLDS Presenter - Telena Madison
Empowering Partnerships: Engaging Parents for Student Success (Lunch & Learn)
Calling all 1st and 2nd year principals!
New Principals Institute
September 9 - 10, 2025
Marriott Legends - Prattville, Alabama
Jump start your current assignment and become better prepared for the opportunities and challenges of your new position. This conference will provide relevant information to ensure a firm foundation in the practices of instructional leadership and school management.
Don't Miss These Timely Topics!
- Finance
- Legal
- From Thriving to Surviving
- Special Education
- School Culture
- Mental Health for Administrators
- Being the Total Principal
- Principal Panel Discussion
Room Reservations: Room Reservations: You may call the Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel & Conference Center at Capitol Hill at 800-228-9290 or 334-290-1235 and ask for the "CLAS New Principals Institute" group rate of $185 per night plus taxes and fees. Reservations must be made by August 8, 2025, to receive the group rate.
Cancellations: Please be informed that no refunds will be granted after September 1, 2025. Our commitment to delivering a successful event requires us to guarantee resources such as food, meeting space, and other resources in advance. If you do not attend the event or fail to cancel by the appointed date, you will be held responsible for the full event registration. We understand unforeseen circumstances can arise and advise you to contact us at events@clasleaders.org as soon as possible in the event you are unable to attend.
Earn up to 9 APLDS clock hours for the
2025-2026 year at this event!
- REGISTRATION in PowerSchool PL will open on September 8, 2025. Search for Course # 332512 on/after this date. It cannot be found before this date. Click here to register. Enroll no later than September 15, 2025, at which time the Course will close.
- SCAN IN for each session by the required time to track attendance.
Completed training will serve as one PLU activity for:
Standard I: Planning for Continuous Improvement
(PLUACLD1252)
Conference fees must be paid before PLU can be awarded.
Available to 1st or 2nd year principals only
APLDS - Alabama's Teacher Observation Tool: An Overview for New Administrators
Title: Summer 2025 Alabama's Teacher Observation Tool: An Overview for New Administrators
Description: Newly appointed administrators will gain insight into all aspects of the Alabama Teacher Growth Program (ATGP). Participants will leave the session with insights into applying the scoring rubric to accurately and consistently rate teachers’ instructional practice. Participants will also enhance their ability to provide focused, formative feedback to classroom teachers by correlating items in the Alabama Teacher Observation Tool (ATOT) with sub-standards in the Alabama Core Teaching Standards (ACTS).
*This is an initial overview of how to use the Alabama Teacher Observation Tool and will fulfill the requirement of the 6-hour training on the Alabama Teacher Observation Tool when seeking the ACLD PLU in the future.
Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Time: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Format: In Person
Location: Regional Inservice Center (Room A)
1115 Hwy 31 S.
Athens, AL 35611
Facilitator: Barry Wiginton, ALSDE-ATGP Support Specialist
Clock Hours: 6 Hours
Register HERE!
APLDS -AL Teacher Growth Program and ATOT:A Refresher for Administrators
Title: Alabama Teacher Growth Program (ATGP) and Alabama Teacher Observation Tool (ATOT) - A Refresher for Administrators
Description: In this informative session, classroom observers gain invaluable insights into effectively applying the Cognia Scoring Rubric to accurately and consistently rate the instructional practices of classroom teachers. Participants will leave the session with increased skill, confidence, and readiness to conduct post-observation conferences.
Viewing teacher practices through the lenses of implementation, authenticity, and effect on learner
Systematic approach to assigning rating values to observed teacher practice
Correlation of ATOT items with Alabama Core Teaching Standards to provide a common language of what effective teaching looks like in the classroom
Six-step protocol for conducting post-observation conferences
Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Time: 8:30 - 11:30 AM
Format: In Person
Location: Regional Inservice Center (Room A)
1115 Hwy 31 S.
Athens, AL 35611
Facilitator: Barry Wiginton, ALSDE-ATGP Support Specialist
Clock Hours: 3 Hours
Register HERE!
2025 WE Lead Alabama
September 24, 2025 | 8:30 am - 3:00 pm
Thompson High School, 1921 Warrior Pkwy, Alabaster, AL
Join inspiring women in education for a transformative one-day event designed to elevate your leadership skills, expand your professional network, and prioritize your well-being. Gain valuable insights on time management, communication, and career growth—all tailored specifically for women by experienced educational leaders. WE Lead empowers you to move forward with confidence and competence. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and your future!
$279 CLAS/AASCD Member | $299 Non-CLAS/AASCD Member
AAESA Fall Conference: November 16 - 19
AAESA Fall Instructional Leadership Conference
November 16 - 19, 2025
Perdido Beach Resort
Orange Beach, AL
Join the Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators (AAESA) at the Fall Instructional Leadership Conference, November 16–19, 2025, in beautiful Orange Beach, AL. This professional learning event brings elementary principals together under the inspiring theme, “Imagine, Believe, Lead.” Attendees will engage in powerful sessions focused on student engagement, relationship building, differentiated discipline strategies, teacher retention, attendance, ELL, professional development, culture, proven programs for success, and special education. Featuring nationally recognized speakers alongside experienced building administrators, this conference delivers relevant insights, practical strategies, and renewed inspiration for today’s leaders. Beyond the sessions, it’s an unmatched opportunity to network, collaborate, and share ideas with elementary administrators from across Alabama.
This conference has been submitted for APLDS credit approval – 9 hours (11.5 hours with pre-conference). Once approved, this information will be updated.
Search all state-approved professional learning experiences by provider here!
- Pre-Register by Oct 13
- Onsite/After Nov 15
Hotel Reservations: Call The Perdido Beach Resort at 800-634-8001 to make your reservation. Ask for booking ID # 20224 for a nightly rate of $132 (standard rate plus taxes and fees) or book online here. To ensure this rate, please book by October 16, 2025.
Special Pre-Conference Session
Sunday, November 16, 2025, from 3:00 - 5:00 pm.
Carlos Ojeda, Jr.
Strategies for Leveling Up Your Student Engagement with High Impact Programming
Learn strategies to maintain high expectations for all staff and students, with a focus on the quality of instruction to actively pursue continuous improvement, enhance collaborative skills and collectively share the responsibility for enhancing learning outcomes for all students. Learn how to implement new energizers and ice breakers and activities to make lessons more engaging.
Pre-Conference Only - $75
Add Pre-Conference to Conference Registration - $50
2025 - 2026 APLDS Sessions
- Fall APLDS Schedule for Region 2
- ALL APLDS Sessions Scheduled in June will be credited to the 2025-2026 School Year
- DISCLAIMER: If session has less than 10 participants enrolled, the session may be canceled.
Cognia Impact Conference: September 9 - 10 in Montgomery
Join Cognia in Montgomery on September 9-10 for their annual Cognia Alabama IMPACT Conference. This year’s theme is: Shaping What’s Next in Education and will have sessions for teachers, as well as building and district leaders.
NOTE: This conference is included on the Alabama Principal Act State Approved Professional Learning List!
Register today: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/AL25IMPACT/summary
Supporting School Climate (8 APLDS Clock Hours) Starts July 28
PowerSchool PL Course Number
331800
APLDS - PL: 2025-26 Online Course: Supporting School Climate through Engagement
Description:
This self-paced online course is designed for principals and assistant principals in Alabama public schools. Aligned with the Alabama Standards for School Leadership and the Alabama Principal Leadership Framework, the course focuses on three key areas of school climate: classroom management and learner engagement, relationships, and stakeholder participation.
8 APLDS Clock Hours
Contact: Barry Wiginton (barry.wiginton@alsde.edu)
Framework Reference: Appendix E - Alabama Administrator School Climate Surveys
July 28 - September 19, 2025
March 2 - April 24, 2026
Supporting School Climate through Engagement Starts July 28
PowerSchool PL Course Number
332171
APLDS - PL: 2025-26 Online Course: Supporting School Climate through Environment
Description:
This self-paced online course is designed for principals and assistant principals in Alabama public schools. Aligned with the Alabama Standards for School Leadership and the Alabama Principal Leadership Framework, the course focuses on three key areas of school climate: physical environment, instructional environment, and discipline.
8 APLDS Clock Hours
Contact: Barry Wiginton (barry.wiginton@alsde.edu)
Framework Reference: Appendix E - Alabama Administrator School Climate Surveys
July 28 - September 19, 2025
March 2 - April 24, 2026
Supporting School Climate through Safety (8 APLDS Clock Hours) - Starts July 28
PowerSchool PL Course Number
331828
APLDS - PL: 2025-26 Online Course: Supporting School Climate through Safety
Description:
This self-paced online course is designed for principals and assistant principals in Alabama public schools. Aligned with the Alabama Standards for School Leadership and the Alabama Principal Leadership Framework, the course focuses on three key areas of school climate: physical safety, emotional safety, and emergency management/school readiness.
8 APLDS Clock Hours
Contact: Barry Wiginton (barry.wiginton@alsde.edu)
Framework Reference: Appendix E - Alabama Administrator School Climate Surveys
July 28 - September 19, 2025
March 2 - April 24, 2026
Effective Feedback to Enhance Instructional Practices (8 APLDS Clock Hours) - Starts August 1
PowerSchool PL Course Number
332184
APLDS - PL: 2025-26 Online Course: Effective Feedback to Enhance Instructional Practices
8 APLDS Clock Hours
Description:
This self-paced course provides information and strategies to assist school administrators in collecting, documenting, and utilizing observational evidence to offer classroom teachers targeted, formative feedback for improving instructional practices.
Contact: Barry Wiginton (barry.wiginton@alsde.edu)
Framework Reference: Appendix D12: Provide Effective Feedback to Enhance Instructional Practices
August 1 - September 30, 2025
January 6 - February 28, 2026
March 3 - April 25, 2026
The Role of the Alabama Teacher Growth Program in Teacher Effectiveness (8 APLDS Clock Hours) - Starts August 1
PowerSchool PL Course Number
332172
APLDS - PL: 2025-26 Online Course: The Role of the Alabama Teacher Growth Program in Teacher Effectiveness
8 APLDS Clock Hours
Description:
This self-paced course offers an overview of the Alabama Teacher Growth Program (ATGP), focusing on the administrator's role in articulating a shared vision for enhancing instructional practices.
Contact: Barry Wiginton (barry.wiginton@alsde.edu)
Framework Reference: Indicator 3c Map; Indicator 3e Map
August 1 - September 30, 2025
January 6 - February 28, 2026
March 3 - April 25, 2026
New Ed. Tech Director Summit
New Tech Director Summit
Sept. 24-26, 2025, Perdido Beach Resort
If you are a novice technology director with three years of experience or less, please mark your calendar and make plans to attend this important event!
Complete this registration form to attend.
Need Help with SRIPs and Student Plans? Check out Virtual Office Hours
- MTSS Virtual Office Hours - ALSDE Support
- Every 3rd Friday of each month at 10:30 am.
- Webex Link located in AL-MTSS Sway https://sway.cloud.microsoft/cPgdAqvQ26TWPCnL?ref=Link&loc=play
AL - Multi-Tiered System of Supports
New Math APLDS Options
Christy Lockhart - Region 2 Math Specialist
Special Ed. Curriculum Resources
ARI August Newsletter
- August Newsletter
- August Leadership Tasks (OSI Checklist, Structure Generates Behavior doc)
- Central Office Virtual Sessions (registration info)
- ARI Support Designations
- 2025-2026 Assessment Windows
- ACAP - Proficiency Levels & Subtest Scores
- Kindergarten & 1st Grade Readiness Assessment & AL-ELI
- Analytics & Insights - September Reporting Requirements
- Summer Learning Reflection
- Principal - LRS Collaboration
- EL Quarterly Admin Meetings
- Coaching Communities Information
- Leadership Labs Information
- APLDS Opportunities
- LETRS Cohort 9 Information
- Family & Community Newsletter (link)
- Quick Links to Support District Leaders & Administrators
How to Create ATOT Accounts in Education Directory
PowerSchool Professional Learning Guidance
- All Principal Act state-approved professional learning clock hours must be awarded through the PowerSchool Professional Learning platform under the Office of APLDS (Alabama Principal Leadership Development System) (ALSDE).
- For ACLD PLUs, participants must also register for the PLU course in PowerSchool Professional Learning to receive PLU credit.
- Look for the APLDS Name or LOGO to ensure the PD is Principal Act Approved.
A+ Best Practices Center Peer Coaching Workshops - APLDS Approved PD
- Peer Coaching Registration
- Contact Dakota Punzel for more Information at dakota@aplusala.org or (205) 908-0059
Funding Summer Learning
- Braiding Funds to Maximize Student Outcomes in Summer Programs.
- Video from Dr. Molly Killingsworth
ARI Updates
Office of Student Learning
Emergency Certification Resources
PREP - Emergency Certificates, Long-Term Subs, and New Teacher On-Demand Training.
Region 2 - RIC
Alabama Regional Inservice Centers
AMSTI - Region 2
Assistant Director - Emily Byrd
ASIM - Region 2
Assistant Director - Emily Byrd
Ed. Tech (State Website)
ATIM
ARI
Ken Kirby - Regional Literacy Leadership Specialist (RLLS)
Kimberly Hargett - RLLS: Limestone, Hartselle, & Morgan.
Kim Goodwin - RLSS: Blount, Cullman City & Co. & Oneonta
Melissa Penley - RLSS: Athens City & Lawrence Co.
Katie Davis - RLS
Heather Spradlin - RLS
OMI
Christy Lockhart - Region 2 Math Specialist
PowerSchool/Unified Insights
ALEX
Office of Student Learning
Principal Mentoring Act - APLDS
Dr. Anna Shepard-Jones - APLDS Specialist
Office of School Improvement
Office of Instructional Services
AL - MTSS
EL
Region 2 School Improvement
Office of Extended Learning
ABPC
