While students enjoyed a day off on Tuesday, Nov. 3, Woodhaven-Brownstown School District teachers and staff were back in the classrooms, participating in a full day of professional development focused on strengthening instruction, collaborating with colleagues and continuing to support student success.
The districtwide training day offered a variety of learning opportunities tailored to grade levels, subject areas and individual staff roles. From mathematics and literacy instruction to STEM collaboration, dyslexia awareness and specialized training, educators spent the day building knowledge and sharing strategies they can bring back to their classrooms.
Strengthening Math and Literacy Instruction
Several grade-level teams participated in mathematics training through Strategic Intervention Solutions. Young 5s and kindergarten through second-grade teachers attended morning sessions, while third- through fifth-grade teachers participated in afternoon training. Fifth-grade teachers also took part in a dedicated session.
For educators in grades 6-12, English language arts teachers and reading interventionists participated in literacy training focused on structured instructional strategies connected to Reading Law PA 146. English Learner and secondary special education staff also participated in this training.
Supporting Every Learner
Dyslexia awareness was another important focus of the day. Staff members participated in training on the characteristics of dyslexia, with sessions offered to third- through fifth-grade teachers, English Learner staff, and Young 5s through second-grade teachers.
These sessions provided dedicated time for educators to learn more about identifying and understanding dyslexia as they continue working to meet the diverse learning needs of students.
Collaboration Across Grade Levels and Departments
Professional learning also included dedicated Professional Learning Community (PLC) time, allowing teachers to work with their colleagues on shared instructional goals and areas of focus identified during the district's fall professional development planning.
Additional collaborative sessions brought together K-4 STEM teachers at Wegienka's STEM Lab and physical education teachers for department collaboration.
Social studies teachers in grades 6-7 also participated in training focused on the My World Interactive curriculum.
Specialized Professional Development
Staff members across several other departments also had opportunities for role-specific training throughout the day.
GSRP staff: CPR and First Aid training.
Art teachers: AMACO training at Brownstown Middle School.
Music teachers: Downriver Music professional development in Wyandotte.
K-5 Math Interventionist: A full-day professional development session at Bates Elementary.
From collaborative planning and instructional strategies to specialized training and professional certifications, the day provided opportunities for WBSD educators to continue growing in their respective fields.
At WBSD, learning doesn't stop when students leave for the day. Professional development days like this one give educators valuable time to learn from one another, explore new approaches and continue building the skills and knowledge that help our students succeed.