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Call for Presenters for TCTM's Fall 2025 Conference!

Tuesday, April 29, 2025 10:50 AMTamara Smith-Moyler (Administrator)

Conference Theme: Exploring the Future of Mathematics--Unlocking the Possibilities

Location: King’s Fork Middle School, Suffolk, Virginia

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025

Session Length: 50 minutes

Application Deadline: June 30, 2025

We’re Looking For:

✅ Sessions aligned with Virginia’s 2023 Mathematics SOLs

✅ Strategies for inquiry-based learning, technology integration, and hands-on engagement

✅ Ideas for using AI tools to enhance instruction and boost participation

✅ Ways to empower math educators across the Tidewater region

Presenter Perks:

FREE Conference Registration

Networking Opportunities with fellow educators and leaders

✅ Ready to Present?

Submit your proposal by June 30, 2025!

Click Here to Apply!

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ARTISTS AND MUSICIANS

Submit your creations to

the 2025 Polypad Art

and Music Contest

Polypad Art and Music Contest

Seeking an exciting way to end the year on a high note? Engage your students with the ultimate end-of-year activity: the Polypad Art and Music Contest!

We want to see the incredible art and music you’ve made with our dynamic Polypad virtual manipulatives. Submit your entries soon—the June 13 deadline is approaching fast. You could be the next to join the ranks of our celebrated past winners!

Polypad

2024 Polypad Art Contest winners

Create, teach, and learn with Polypad and more on Desmos Classroom. There are hundreds of free lessons, along with tools to create and customize your own lessons.

Not sure how to turn your ideas into a Polypad creations? We've got you covered! These activities will help you on your journey to becoming a Polypad artist and musician.

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These grants are available to AP teachers who are teaching one of the following courses in the 2025-2026 school year: AP African American Studies, AP Precalculus, AP Computer Science Principles, and AP Seminar. Participant grants support the tuition cost of an in-person or virtual Advanced Placement Summer Institute in June, July, or August. Additional information on how to apply is available in this flyer.

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Flippity.net: Flashcards and Other Resources for Educators and Learners

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Create an interactive virtual breakout activity.

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Hog Island Marsh Cam
Explore the classroom takeover, resources, and sign up for your class for the Marsh Cam Takeover program this spring from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Learn about the various species and their environment in Surry County.

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Some exciting changes are headed your way! On June 28, Desmos Classroom will become Amplify Classroom as we expand our free lessons to science and literacy. Desmos Classroom has long been a beloved platform for math, and we're delighted to bring this experience to even more students and teachers across the country. Continue to enjoy all the activities and features you love, along with new lessons and enhancements. Read our FAQ.

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Some exciting changes are headed your way! On June 28, Desmos Classroom will become Amplify Classroom as we expand our free lessons to science and literacy. Desmos Classroom has long been a beloved platform for math, and we're delighted to bring this experience to even more students and teachers across the country. Continue to enjoy all the activities and features you love, along with new lessons and enhancements. Read our FAQ.

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What do I need to know?

Timing and access: On June 27–28, the ability to log in to Desmos Classroom will be temporarily disabled. Once the update is complete, your login experience and teacher.desmos.com bookmarks will automatically redirect you to Amplify Classroom.

You get to keep everything: If your account(s) are verified, you’ll have access to your existing content in the new experience, including all your custom activities and collections. Be sure to check your platform upgrade status to ensure your content is ready for migration.

New features and pages: Enjoy the features you love, like free lessons, Activity Builder, and Polypad, while exploring new enhancements like the Discover page, upgraded search capabilities, and more.

A single platform for Desmos Classroom and Amplify users: You’ll be able to access any Amplify programs used by your district, along with hundreds of free lessons. If your Amplify and Desmos Classroom accounts use the same email, they will automatically be merged.

Commitment to free content (and math!): We stand by our promise—what is free will always remain free. Access your favorite lessons, as well as new activities from literacy, science, and high school math starting in July! Our team will always remain dedicated to providing exceptional math instruction as we expand our content and tools.

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Newsela | How To Keep Students Engaged Until Summer Break

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Discover how to use mini-inquiry lessons to keep students engaged in their social studies lessons in the last weeks of the school year before summer break.

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You are invited to learn how you can use free digital manipulatives to model a wide range of math concepts for your students and seamlessly incorporate Polypad into your activities—including Desmos Classroom lessons. Register here for this training.

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You are invited to learn how you can use free digital manipulatives to model a wide range of math concepts for your students and seamlessly incorporate Polypad into your activities—including Desmos Classroom lessons. Register here for this training.

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Amplify | Math professional learning webinars

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Live and on-demand webinars designed to support teachers in using collaborative, effective, and engaging math practices in their classrooms.

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The First 5- an automated email that gives SEL strategies for immediate use. It comes directly to your inbox!

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The First 5- an automated email that gives SEL strategies for immediate use. It comes directly to your inbox!

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Edtomorrow- Supporting Today's Educators through Restorative Practices PD

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What Is The First Five? - Edtomorrow- Supporting Today's Educators through Restorative Practices PD

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Users pick 1 of the 9 activities from either the Primary or Secondary First Five.

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CP to United Nations Summer Registration OPEN

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CP to United Nations Summer Registration OPEN

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About the Program

The Global Youth Excellence & Leadership Program (GYEL) is a leadership initiative established by UN-affiliated organizations, including Permanent Observer Missions, non-governmental organizations in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), and intergovernmental organizations. Driven by a deep commitment to youth advancement, these Coalition Partners provide resources and support to cultivate unparalleled experiences and opportunities, offering direct exposure to international decision-makers and facilitating exclusive learning experiences.

Programs Tailored for Different Age Groups

GYEL Leadership Program (Grades 9-12)

AI Horizons & Emerging Tech (Grades 9-12)

Promising Young Leaders (Grades 6-8)

A Comprehensive Virtual Learning & Program Environment

UN & Industry Leaders Guest Lectures

Interactive Weekly Sessions

Exclusive Office Hours

Globally Recognized Certification

Internships with World-Class Institutions

Letters of Recommendation from Global Leaders

Scholarships Still Available!

Learn more about our generous scholarship opportunities and eligibility requirements. Apply now before funding runs out!

Apply Now

Limited Space Available

Application Committee Decision Deadline Approaching

Learn more: GYEL.org

© 2023 Global Youth Excellence & Leadership Program. All rights reserved.

Featured Links

Register

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K-12 students and the Hampton Roads community come and discover the importance of our planet and science at Old Dominion University! All Hampton Roads students in grades K-12 and people of all ages will dive into an exciting day filled with S.T.E.M.-based activities.

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Innovation Summit: Rethinking Learning and Teaching for the Future Across Virginia! April 23-24
Hosted by the ODU Center for Educational Innovation & Opportunity, this free professional learning conference showcases the innovative work of the Virginia College Partnership Lab Schools and other visionary educators and leaders. Join your peers on the main campus of Old Dominion University to explore strategies that inspire and drive educational innovation. Register today.

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Reflect on the Previous Semester

Start by reflecting on the previous semester. Consider what worked well, what didn't, and the feelings associated with those experiences. It's crucial to identify areas that need improvement before moving forward.

Making Assumptions

One common pitfall is assuming that secondary students already know how to behave. Challenge this assumption and recognize the need for a review. Elementary teachers often prioritize revisiting basics, and secondary educators can benefit from adopting a similar approach.

Implementing the Secondary Classroom Reset

Choose Your Focus

Think about one thing that, if improved, would make the most significant difference for both you and your students. Whether it's classroom organization, student behavior, or effective group management, focus on that one aspect.

Small Shifts

Implement small shifts based on your chosen focus. For example, if clutter affects your productivity, ensure all horizontal surfaces are clean. These adjustments can have a cascading effect, positively impacting both you and your students.

Address Routines and Procedures

Revisit and reinforce the routines and procedures established at the beginning of the school year. Ensure clarity on entering and leaving the classroom, moving during class, submitting assignments, and other critical aspects.

Using the Classrooms, Procedures, and Routines Planner

If you need guidance, consider using the Classrooms, Procedures, and Routines Planner. It provides explicit instructions on setting up routines for various scenarios in secondary classrooms.

Communicate Changes

If making adjustments not mentioned in your syllabus, communicate these changes to parents and students. Emphasize that these tweaks aim to enhance the learning experience for everyone.

Set Realistic Goals and Expectations for Your Secondary Classroom

As you embark on the second semester, set realistic goals and expectations. Reflect on policies and rules that may have caused more work than anticipated. This is your chance to make adjustments and ensure a smoother experience for both you and your students.

Conclusion

Starting a new semester after a break is an excellent time to refresh and make necessary adjustments. Remember to reflect, choose a focus for improvement, revisit routines and procedures, and set realistic goals. You are the expert in your classroom, and with these strategies, you'll navigate the second semester successfully. Best of luck!

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Last-Minute Strategies to Reset Your Secondary Classroom for the Best Second Semester -

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Whether you've already started the new semester or are gearing up after a holiday break, we understand that things might not have gone as...

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Science activity from Data Classroom.

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Interpret the Data:

3. Add up the total amount of birds for each Habitat to answer scientific question 1. Make a claim that answers scientific question 1 - What is the effect of cacao farms on bird abundance?

4. Scientific question 1: What evidence was used to write your claim? Reference specific parts of the tables or graph.

5. Scientific question 1: Explain your reasoning and why the evidence supports your claim. Connect the data back to what you learned about how agriculture may act as a disturbance.

After exploring scientific question 1, Skye was shocked to see so many birds in cacao farms! She decided to take a closer look at her data. Skye wanted to know how the types of birds she saw in the cacao farms compared to the types of birds she saw in the rainforest. She predicted that cacao farms would have different types of birds than the undisturbed rainforest. She thought the bird types would differ because each habitat has different types of food available for birds to eat and different types of plants for birds to live in.

6. What is the hypothesis? Find the hypothesis in Skye's next steps (above) and paste it below. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for an observation, which can then be tested with experimentation.

7. Make a claim that answers scientific question 2 - What is the effect of cacao farms on the abundance of different bird types?

8. Scientific question 2: What evidence was used to write your claim? Reference specific parts of the table or graph.

9. Scientific question 2: Explain your reasoning and why the evidence supports your claim. Connect the data back to what you learned about diet and living preferences of the different types of birds.

10. Scientific question 2: Did the data support Skye's hypothesis? Use evidence to explain why or why not. If you feel the data were inconclusive, explain why.

Your next steps as a scientist:

11. Your next steps as a scientist: Science is an ongoing process. What new question(s) should be investigated to build on Skye's research? What future data should be collected to answer your question(s)?

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Is chocolate for the birds? - DataClassroom

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What is the effect of cacao farms on the abundance of different bird types?

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1/30/2025: (not on the PL menu- but free) Don’t miss your chance to join this interactive journey exploring how to bring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s timeless lessons into your classroom. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll give you strategies to make Dr. King’s teachings resonate with students and inspire meaningful discussions about equality, justice, and leadership.

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1/30/2025: (not on the PL menu- but free) Don’t miss your chance to join this interactive journey exploring how to bring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s timeless lessons into your classroom. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll give you strategies to make Dr. King’s teachings resonate with students and inspire meaningful discussions about equality, justice, and leadership.

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What you’ll gain:

Engaging, ready-to-use resources for teaching Dr. King’s work.

Tools to spark student curiosity and critical thinking.

Insight into making historical lessons relevant and impactful.

Date: January 30, 2025

Time: 6-6:30 PM ET/ 3-3:30 PM PT

The countdown is on! This is your last chance to register!

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GRIP LAB is looking for Geometry teachers to explore story circles. Check out the interest form that has more information here! 

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GRIP LAB is looking for Geometry teachers to explore story circles. Check out the interest form that has more information here! 

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Complete the When2Meet Poll so I know majority of our team CoP's availability for this semester. This will help me with planning our live meetings!

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WIDA WCEPS Mathematical Workshop-December 3

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WIDA WCEPS Mathematical Workshop-December 3

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This is not on the CHOICE portal, but FREE!

WCEPS will host a free webinar for educators called “A Functional Approach to Language for Mathematical Reasoning" on Dec. 3 at 6 p.m. This workshop will dive into a functional language approach and developing mathematical reasoning with research-based practices. Register today.

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CTE teachers- does your schoolhttps://fcclainc.org/ have a FCCLA chapter? If not, are you interested? This promotes leadership opportunities for your students within your school!

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Learn Real World Skills

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a Career and Technical Student Organization that functions as an integral part of the Family and Consumer Sciences education curriculum and operates within the school system. Since 1945, FCCLA members have been making a difference in families, careers, and communities by addressing important personal, work, and societal issues. Through participation in Competitive Events, becoming involved in community service opportunities, student leadership, and attending leadership conferences, members develop real world skills, explore Career Pathways, and become college- and career-ready.
View All Real World Skills

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Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a Career and Technical Student Organization that functions as an integral part of the Family and Consumer Sciences education curriculum and operates within the school system. Since 1945, FCCLA members have been making a difference in families, careers, and communities by addressing important personal, work, and societal issues.

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Did you know the National Air and Space Museum has a monthly newsletter just for educators? Subscribe below!

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Did you know the National Air and Space Museum has a monthly newsletter just for educators? Subscribe below!

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Truth For Teachers - How to beat the October Blues and regain your enthusiasm for teaching

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I know that October can be a really tough month for teachers, even though that’s not really talked about much. My fabulous and hilarious friend Roxanna Elden, who’s a high school teacher in Miami and author of the book See Me After Class, was one of the first people I’ve heard address what she calls … Continued

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Don't forget to engage in our discussion board thread and Padlet! 

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Don't forget to engage in our discussion board thread and Padlet! 

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Did you know we pay for NB certifications and once complete, most divisions offer a stipend?

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National Board Certification is the most respected professional certification available in education and provides numerous benefits to teachers, students and schools. It was designed to develop, retain and recognize accomplished teachers and to generate ongoing improvement in schools nationwide.

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National Board Certification National Board Certification is the most respected professional certification available in education and provides numerous benefits to teachers, students and schools. It was designed to develop, retain and recognize accomplished teachers and to generate ongoing improvement in schools nationwide. Why Certify?

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MagicSchool.ai - AI for teachers - lesson planning and more!

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Join over a million teachers saving hours of time using the #1 AI Platform for Education, MagicSchool, to help lesson plan, differentiate, write assessments, write IEPs, communicate clearly, and more!

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Check out what's happening in the ag world in Rappahannock, VA!

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Check out what's happening in the ag world in Rappahannock, VA!

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Fall Semester Meeting Poll

To invite people to this event, you can email them, send them a Facebook message, or just direct them to https://www.when2meet.com/?25752734-2n7v8

Group's Availability

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Fall Semester Meeting Poll To invite people to this event, you can email them, send them a Facebook message, or just direct them to https://www.when2meet.com/?25752734-2n7v8 Group's Availability

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Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program
VKRP offers annual in-person and virtual training options for division-designated VKRP Trainers to learn the VKRP Assessment System and prepare teachers and leaders for VKRP administration. School divisions may select one or more educators to serve as their "in-house" VKRP Trainer. Training for the Kindergarten and Pre-K screeners may require different audiences. Register for Summer/Fall Train the Trainer  today. If you have questions, c ontact VKRP at or 866-301-8278.

Legislative Updates
VDOE has published a legislative update regarding legislation affecting education passed by the 2024 General Assembly that has become law. This video presentation ( PDF slides) covers many of these new laws. To further assist you with understanding these laws, VDOE has prepared summaries that explain how they affect school divisions, teachers, leaders, students, and parents.

Virginia's Learning Loss Recovery Efforts Recognized in National Report
The Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University and The Educational Opportunity Project at Stanford University have highlighted Virginia's efforts in addressing learning loss recovery and expanding tutoring programs throughout the Commonwealth. The national report released highlights Virginia's focused, evidence-based academic recovery efforts, specifically the Commonwealth's expansive high-intensity academic tutoring programs. Learn more about Virginia's learning loss recovery efforts and the report from VDOE!

NAELPA Quarter 3 Webinar
The NAELP webinar will be held on August 6 at 4p.m. with the theme Linguistic Goal Setting: Strong Starts lead to Stronger Finishes. Featured panelists include Holly Sawyer, Chesapeake Public Schools, Dr. Ryan Rumpf Kansas City Public Schools, and Dr. Malki Williams, Aldine ISD. Register today!

Lexia is a partner with VDOE in helping fulfill the Commonwealth's priority to accelerate literacy growth for students in grades 3-8 through the ALL In Tutoring Initiative and the Learning Acceleration Grant. -Updated or professional learning session are available. -Review Lexia information sessions with -
families to support your school community. Resources are available for support with rostering or the VATutoring code.

2024 VATESOL Conference
Registration is now open and the Conference theme is T he Future of Multilingual Education: Innovative Approaches for Supporting Multiliteracies. Attendees can build partnerships for language, content, and community. Join your peers at the Richmond Downtown Marriott on Sept. 27-28.

VIRGINIA COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS

Provisional Pathway for Special Education
The University of Virginia's College at Wise Center for Teaching Excellence offers a Provisional Pathway for Special Education: General Curriculum K-12 Teaching Licensure. The coursework is discounted and available online to provisionally licensed teachers in Virginia. The survey course is now open for registration seven (7) times per year so school divisions can move their teachers into a fully aligned pathway to full licensure throughout the school year. Fall registration is open until Sept. 9 and running from Sept. 16 -Dec. 6. All courses are completed on a non-degree seeking basis and receive three undergraduate college credit hours.

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Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program VKRP offers annual in-person and virtual training options for division-designated VKRP Trainers to learn the VKRP Assessment System and prepare teachers and leaders for VKRP administration. School divisions may select one or more educators to serve as their "in-house" VKRP Trainer.