Amie Dean – Behavior Interventions that Work – March 2025
2025-03-21 09:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | WCU Health and Human Sciences Building, 3971 Little Savannah Road, Cullowhee, NC, 28723, United States
Date: March 21, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm

Type: In-Person

Location: Western Carolina University
Health and Human Sciences Building
3971 Little Savannah Road
Cullowhee, NC 28723
Fee: $25
NCNTSP Participants: FREE - See your BT Coordinator for code

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at
lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change the
name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: K-12 Teachers
What to Bring: A charged device
Description:
Through teaching and coaching in classrooms with many behavioral challenges for almost 30 years, Amie knows what works to help students succeed. Her goals have always included helping students build confidence, promoting social emotional literacy, and teaching positive habits that will help them be successful adults. The strategies shared in this course are practical, simple, and proven. Behavior Interventions that Work is Amie’s most requested course.
Topics covered in this course:

Setting up a classroom system
Setting up a positive classroom community
Purpose of behavior
Building motivation in your students
Dealing with defiance and maintaining self-control
Consistency – Setting up a Classroom Discipline Cycle
Minimizing noise with group contingencies

Presenter: Amie Dean
Amie is also the author of four books, including her workbook, Your Roadmap for Creating a Positive Classroom Community, which includes over 200 pages of strategies and ideas for building a positive classroom community and responding to behavior. She has worked with thousands of teachers across the U. S. and is thrilled to work with Western Carolina University and WRESA!
If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
COURSE FULL – REGISTRATIION CLOSED

Leading Through A Trusting Culture
2025-03-18 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: March 18, 2025
Time: 9:00 -3:00
Type: In -Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct., Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $60.00 WRESA Member
$85.00 Non-WRESA Member

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you are welcome to send a
colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102)
if you need to change the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact hours
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: K-12 Administrators, Aspiring Administrators, School Improvement Teams
What to Bring: A charged device
Description: A culture of trust within any organization is key. It not only enhances team unity and strength but empowers employees to take ownership of their roles and ultimately build a stronger school. However, trust doesn’t just happen. Developing a culture of trust requires deliberate actions taken by the school’s leadership and nourishing healthy relationships throughout the school community.
Presenters:
Sid Bailey, Arizona Department of Education Associate Superintendent
Sid Bailey, is the Associate Superintendent Educator Leadership and will lead the effort for the School Safety Program; Certification; Educator Recruitment and Retention (Principal Academy); Title II and school discipline (classroom management development) and the Charter School Program. In his 40-plus year career, Bailey served as Principal for 14 years in two different High Schools. Both received national attention for academic success. He was Director of AZ. Leads (leadership development) for ADE for 3.5 years; Director of Leadership Development for the Arizona Charter Schools Association for more than 6 years; Adjunct professor for Grand Canyon University and an Independent Educational Consultant assisting schools, several of whom were in need of academic turnaround. He holds a B.A. in History, Government and Political Science, Masters in Special Education and an Administrative Certificate from Northern Arizona University.
Jim Saltz, Leadership and Improvement Specialist.
Jim Saltz is a Leadership and Improvement Specialist at Ed Direction. He enjoys working with schools and seeks the challenge of implementing data-driven school improvement strategies without sacrificing the quest for a positive, nurturing school culture. With over thirty years of educational experience, Jim has dynamically led schools and programs by promoting a success-oriented culture that transcends tests over time. Described as a visionary, Jim strives to assist organizations in building capacity so that schools can function at the highest level so the learning community will have both immediate and sustained impact.
Jane Williams, School Turnaround and Human Behavior Specialist
Jane is a Director at Ed Direction, a K-12 Public Education practice. She is a veteran educator with 30 years of experience in the NC public school system serving as a teacher (5-time TOY), athletic coach, Principal, and district administrator. She co-chaired a task force that created the first Alternative School in the district and was Chairperson of the County Juvenile Justice Crime Prevention Council for 5 years.
As Vice-President of Prevention Services for a private, non-profit substance abuse agency in Winston-Salem, NC she grew the practice from a staff of five which served three NC counties to a staff of forty that provided services to youth, families, schools, and communities in 14 counties. As an educational consultant for New View Publications for 12 years, Jane had the opportunity to partner with businesses, community agencies, and schools in numerous states throughout the US.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org.
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Unlocking Word Power: Proven Strategies for Success
2025-03-12 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: March 12, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at
lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change the
name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: K-8 Educators and Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
Join us for a transformative session dedicated to unraveling the intricacies of the lower
strand of The Reading Rope: word recognition. Delve into the essential components of
phonological awareness, decoding, and sight recognition of familiar words, crucial for
building proficient readers. Explore how the science of reading informs teaching strategies
for word recognition, ensuring alignment with evidence-based practices. Gain invaluable
insights into shifting instructional approaches to cultivate accuracy, fluency, and automaticity
in young readers and discover what effective instruction in word recognition entails when
it’s aligned with the Science of Reading. This session is designed for literacy leaders,
administrators, and instructional coaches. Participants will leave with a literacy guide that
outlines look fors, red flags, and coaching moves to propel instruction forward in your building.
Presenter: Cindy Hutchins is a district wide literacy coach for Buncombe County
Schools. She has previous experience as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, and
instructional coach. As a product of Buncombe County Schools, she is passionate
about literacy in WNC and believes that every student has the right to read.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Engaging Minds and Inspiring Growth in the English I and II Classroom
2025-03-11 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: March 11, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at
lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change the
name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: Teachers of English I and II, Instructional Coaches
Limit: 45 Participants
Description: Discover innovative approaches to enhance student learning and engagement in the English I and II classroom. This session will explore key strategies for fostering literary analysis and critical thinking, engaging reluctant readers, and facilitating meaningful discussion-based learning. Dive into metacognition techniques to help students become reflective learners and learn how to use data to inform instruction and drive student success. Walk away with actionable tools and insights to create a dynamic learning environment for all students.
Presenter: Dr. Amy Marlowe has dedicated over 27 years to education, including 24 years teaching English in Cleveland County Schools and the last three years as a Literacy Instructional Coach for Rutherford County Schools. Holding a Master’s and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Marlowe is deeply passionate about adolescent literacy. As a Reading Apprenticeship Facilitator, she specializes in promoting disciplinary literacy across secondary classrooms, empowering educators to create engaging, literacy-rich environments for all students.
If you have additional questions, contact April Spencer at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

WRESA Science Collaborative: New Support Document Sharing for Grades 5-12
2025-03-06 09:00 - 15:00, 2025-02-06 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: February 6, 2025 or March 6, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $25 WRESA Members
$50 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: Grades 5-12 Science Educators

Description:
In response to the new North Carolina Science Standards for Grades 5 – 12, WRESA has partnered with NCCAT and has recruited a team of regional science education professionals to create science support documents. This session aims to acclimate science teachers to these new resources. Participants in this session will do the following:

Understanding the New Standards: Delve into the key changes and expectations outlined in the updated science standards.

Essential Resources: Discover a curated collection of teaching materials, lesson plans, and activities aligned with the new standards.

Effective Implementation Strategies: Learn practical tips and strategies for integrating the new standards into your classroom curriculum.

Addressing Common Challenges: Explore potential obstacles and discuss effective solutions.

Jennifer Redfearn, NCCAT’s Senior Stem Specialist and members of her team will share the new resources and be available to answer questions you might have.

Presenter: Jennifer Redfearn, Senior Stem Specialist at NCCAT
***NOTE: WE ARE OFFERING THIS TWICE SO THAT MEMBERS OF THE REGION HAVE A CHOICE AS TO WHEN TO ATTEND THIS TRAINING FOR GRADES 5-12 SCIENCE EDUCATORS.
For more information, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

A School Leader’s Guide to Reclaiming Purpose
2025-03-04 09:00 - 10:30, 2025-02-12 09:00 - 10:30, 2025-01-20 09:00 - 10:30, 2025-01-14 09:00 - 10:30, 2024-11-20 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date/Time:Day #1 Nov 20, 2024 9:00am-3:00pm (In-person at WRESA)

Day #2 Jan 14, 2025 9:00-10:30am (Virtual)
Day #3 Jan 20, 2025 9:00-10:30am (Virtual)
Day #4 Feb 12, 2025 9:00-10:30am (Virtual)
Day #5 Mar 4, 2025 9:00-10:30am (Virtual)

Type: Hybrid (Day #1 In-Person, Days #2-5 Virtual)

Location: WRESA (for Day #1)
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $110 WRESA Members (includes book)
$135 Non-members (includes book)

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at
lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change the
name of the person attending.

CEUs: 20 Contact Hours (includes Reading Time)
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: School leaders (principals, assistant principals, and instructional
coaches) who want to invest more of their time supporting and
growing teachers but feel trapped in a cycle of responding to
urgent tasks.
What to Bring: A charged device
Description:
Frederick Buskey, author of the book: A School Leader’s Guide to Reclaiming Purpose will take the school leader on a journey through the book and will facilitate discussions on the following:

Learn to structure their days around their priorities
Discern between essential and non-essential tasks
Build systems and habits that free up minutes each day to invest in people
Use high-leverage practices to grow teachers in minutes
Move from symptoms-based to problem-focused action

Even when you do slow down long enough to remember your purpose, it can be difficult to act on it. The book: A School Leader’s Guide to Reclaiming Purpose was written to help busy leaders reconnect with their passion and values. The guide is a roadmap through the six stages of escaping the gravitational pull of urgency. In each stage you will find a unique combination of common sense and wisdom, combined with concrete tools and strategies.
About the Author/Leader:
Frederick Buskey was a K-12 teacher and administrator for 17 years. He is a National Board-Certified Teacher, former middle school and high school teacher and coach, and county office Special Education Coordinator. He has experience working in international schools and rural schools in Ohio, North Carolina, and South Carolina. At Western Carolina University and Clemson University, Frederick led redesigns of principal licensure programs, which he also coordinated and taught in. Frederick has worked with over 100 principal-interns, affording him the opportunity to observe and learn from hundreds of school leaders. He has used his unique combination of personal experiences, the experiences of others, and understanding of the research to create simple and practical frameworks to turn complex challenges, like change and teacher support, into simple, actionable practices. In 2018 Frederick founded Strategic Leadership Consulting to focus full-time on serving school leaders.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org.
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

All Things Finance
2025-02-25 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: February 25, 2025 (COURSE CANCELLED)
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: K-12 Administrators, K-12 Assistant Principals, and Aspiring Principals

Description: This course will focus on best practices for individual school finance and
accounting. Topics covered will include cash management, payroll, and accounts
payable. We will discuss the importance of establishing strong internal controls and
financial record keeping. We will briefly touch on the budgeting process and allotments.
Presenter: Deborah Frisby – I started my career in school finance in 1984 as a payroll
clerk at Buncombe County Schools for three years. In 1991, I started working at
Madison County Schools as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). I worked there for 23
years and then moved to Buncombe County Schools as their CFO in January 2014. I
retired on June 1, 2021 with 33 years of experience. In September 2021, I became an
independent contractor/consultant and now provide training for new finance officers.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
COURSE CANCELLED

Early Planning for a Successful Retirement: Feb 2025
2025-02-12 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: February 12, 2025
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm

LOCATION: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

FEE: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

LIMIT: 40 Participants

This one-day session focuses on teachers/administrators who have taught 0 – 30 years and want assistance with critical retirement information and decision making before they retire. This session will review the implications and repercussions of early-mid career decisions, laws, policies and processes, benefit options and investment plans. Whether you are just starting your career or close to the end- you will learn how to maximize your benefits and be ready to make better decisions for the future. The workshop will be conducted by Woody Ayers, April Spencer and Deborah Rapetski. You will leave the day tired, but much better informed.
If you have questions, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

National Boards: A Closer Look at Components 2, 3, and 4 for Initial Candidates
2025-02-08 09:00 - 15:00 | NC
Date: February 8, 2025 (Saturday)
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 25 Participants
Audience: All teachers who have started their National Boards process
Bring: Your Own Charged Device

Description:
This session will explore the standards for all Components – taking a deep dive at
how those standards apply to the requirements for the components as well as a
close reading of the directions and requirements for completion of each of the
Components. Please make sure you are in the process currently. In Component 2
we will examine how candidates individualize student work. For Component 3,
candidates will review what makes good discourse for both small and large group
discussion. Videoing tips and techniques will also be offered. A look at Component
4 entails how teachers utilize data for formative, self and summative
assessment, effectively impact student learning.
Attendees will review how to make use of the scoring rubric as they work on their
submissions.
Participants should bring their own devices or printed copies of the National
Board Standards and directions for all Components for their National Board
Certificate Area.
Presenter: Lynn Carter will lead this workshop.
For more information, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Co-Teaching for Educators
2025-02-05 08:30 - 15:30, 2025-02-04 08:30 - 15:30 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Administrators Session: Co-Teaching – Calling All Administrators
Dates/Times: Tues, Feb 4th, 2025 8:30am - 3:30pm (In-Person)
Wed, Feb 5th, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm (meet with teacher teams - might be virtual)

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806
Cost: Free
Audience: Designed for school-based administrators and coordinators who support co-teaching teams
currently or will support teams in the future.

CEUs: 6 Contact Hours

Course Description: School administrators are provided an overview of the service delivery model of co-teaching, practical tools used to give substantial support to both the general and special educators implementing co-teaching in their schools. Administrators will discuss considerations for the selection of staff and students for co-teaching, planning for implementation, scheduling, the importance of collaborative planning, the six approaches utilized in the classroom that enhance universal design for learning, and evaluation of effective co-teaching implementation.

Teachers Session: Co-Teaching for Teachers: Going Beyond the Basics

Date/Time Wed, Feb 5th, 2025 8:30am - 3:30pm (In-Person)

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Cost: Free

Audience: Designed for Co-Teacher Teams of Teachers
(General Education Teacher + Exceptional Children Teacher Teams or potential teams)

CEUs: 6 Contact Hours
Course Description: This professional learning supports best practice by providing teams of teachers (general and
special educators) with the six approaches of co-teaching, their implementation and practical tools, can be utilized
by teams implementing co-teaching as a service delivery model in their schools. The teams will gain knowledge of the
essential elements of co-teaching: co-planning, co-instructing and co-assessing.
Co-Teaching Instructor Process:

Instructor candidates will need to attend both the Co-Teaching
Calling All Administrators and the Co-Teaching for Teachers: Going
Beyond the Basics course.
Once both days are completed, the instructor candidate will be provided
access to the PowerPoint presentations, handout materials, communication
examples, as well as access to the Co-Teaching Instructor Notebook.
Instructor candidates will then be able to redeliver the course in their PSU
only.
You will be prompted in the registration link whether or not you are taking
the course in order to be an instructor.

Presenters:
Teri Queen currently serves as the Northwest and Western Region Literacy Consultant for the
North Carolina Public Schools Office of Exceptional Children for the Program Improvement and
Professional Development section. In this role, she facilitates building capacity and
sustainability of the NC State Improvement Project grant through systems level coaching. In
addition to providing guidance in the data driven continuous improvement needs, she works
with professional, parent, and service organizations and Institutions of Higher Education to
promote appropriate public education and improved services for students with disabilities for
North Carolina Public Schools and private Universities. Teri has previously served as an
Exceptional Children Director, EC Program Specialist, EC Instructional Facilitator, Federal
Programs Coordinator, Exceptional Children Transition Specialist, Accountability Coordinator
and an Exceptional Children Teacher in North Carolina and Virginia over the course of 26 years.
Kelly Doppke is an IDEA Consultant for the Western Region with the Office of Exceptional
Children, where she provides regional support to EC leadership and school teams in LEAs and
Charters across the area. Originally from South Carolina, Kelly moved to Western North Carolina
with her family in 2007. She holds an undergraduate degree in Elementary, Early Childhood,
and Special Education from Lander University, a Master of Education from Southern Wesleyan
University, and a Post-Master’s Certificate in School Administration from Western Carolina
University.
Kelly’s favorite job, aside from her current role, was serving as a camp counselor at Camp
Spearhead, a camp for children and adults with special needs in upstate South Carolina.
Throughout her career as a teacher, program specialist, and EC director, Kelly developed a deep
passion for creating inclusive systems for students with disabilities. Her leadership focus is on
reducing exclusionary practices for students with challenging behaviors and finding ways to
ensure equitable opportunities for all students.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers csellers@wresa.org

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED

Math Running Records: A Framework for Assessing and Promoting Basic Fact Fluency in Grades K-5
2025-01-23 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: January 23, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm

Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at
lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change the
name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: K-5 Teachers
What to Bring: A charged device
Description:
Math Running Records: A Framework for Assessing and Promoting Basic Fact
Fluency in Grades K-5.
The purpose of this training is to learn how to assess where students are in their
fluency of basic math facts and steps towards developing comprehensive fluency.
During this session teachers will learn how to complete an addition running record
and the implications for teaching addition and multiplication fluency.
fluency.
Presenter:
Leslie Buchanan just completed her 13th year in education. Her background consists of
teaching multiple grades and special education in Haywood and Jackson County. Five
years of her teaching career was spent at Riverbend Elementary School, a Title 1
Distinguished School and National Blue Ribbon School. In 2020, Leslie became the Title
1 Lead Coach for Haywood County Schools for K-5 teachers in literacy and math. In
May of 2023, Leslie obtained her Master’s of School Administration and is currently
serving as an assistant principal at Canton Middle School. Leslie has a passion for
coaching teachers in order to propel all students towards their potential.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

"All Things HR" and "Unleashing the Power of AI to Improve Educational Outcomes"
2025-01-22 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: January 22, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm (Morning and Afternoon Session)
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at
lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change the
name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: K-12 School Leaders and anyone aspiring to be a school leader
Description:
Morning Session: “All Things HR”
Join us for “All Things HR”; a dynamic 2.5-hour workshop designed for educational
leaders at WRESA. This session kicks off with an engaging ice breaker, setting the stage
for an in-depth exploration of HR’s critical role in education. Delve into Todd Whitaker
and John Maxwell’s philosophy on school improvement and effective leadership,
examine the four pillars of effective leadership, and discover how to cultivate a vibrant
school culture through the 5 C’s. Plus, master effective hiring practices that align with
your school’s values. Leave equipped with actionable strategies to enhance your
leadership and foster an environment where students and staff thrive.
Afternoon Session: “Unleashing the Power of AI to Improve Educational Outcomes”
Join us for an engaging professional development session designed for teachers and
school leaders. Discover how AI can transform teaching practices and enhance student
outcomes. In “Unleashing the Power of AI to Improve Educational Outcomes”, you will
explore innovative AI tools and strategies that can streamline lesson planning,
personalize learning, and provide timely feedback to students. Learn how AI can help
you reclaim valuable time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – fostering
student growth and success. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your educational
impact with AI!
Presenter: Scott Rhodes
Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources
Henderson County Public Schools
Mr. Rhodes is finishing his 32nd year in public education. He has served in Henderson
County as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, middle and high school principal, and
now serves as assistant superintendent for Human Resources. He received
his undergraduate degree in Health and Physical Education from Western Caroline
and his Masters degree in School Administration from Gardner Webb University.
Mr. Rhodes was selected as the 2015 NASSP, North Carolina High School Principal of
the Year.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

STEM to Your Doorstep - Dec 2024
2024-12-12 09:00 - 15:00 | Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center, 455 Research Drive, Mills river, NC, 28759, United States
Date: December 12, 2024
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Ext. Center
455 Research Drive
Mills River, NC 28759

Fee: $65 WRESA Members
$100 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at
lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change the
name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: K-12 Teachers
What to Bring: A charged device
Description:
K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics teachers, what do you need to boost the STEM curriculum in your schools? How about free access to technology, resources and lab materials for use in the classroom? Now, the real question is how can you make this happen? You can participate in a day of training presented by The Science House of NC State University. You will use MacBooks, LabQuests and various probes to explore science and math concepts. After the training session, you will be eligible to participate in the equipment loan program through The Mountain Satellite Office of The Science House. Participants will be trained on equipment use and equipment implementation through the use of grade level activities.
If you have questions about the workshop, contact Michelle Taylor (828-206-3014 / mtbenign@ncsu.edu).
If you have questions about registration, contact LaDonna Sluder at WRESA (828-774-5681 ext 102 / lsluder@wresa.org )
REGISTER

Science Lab Safety for Schools and School Systems
2024-12-03 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: December 3, 2024
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $25 WRESA Members
$50 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: Teachers and/or Administrators who work with science labs and
school science safety plans

Description:
Are your science labs or classrooms safe for teachers and students? Have you had some turnover in your schools and want to make sure the people in your schools are properly informed on safety procedures? Are your chemicals stored properly? Are emergency procedures in place at your school?
How can you be sure? Join us to create or improve upon your school science safety plan. Make your classroom, your school, or your school system as safe as it can possibly be!
Presenter: Gina Barrier, Director of Summer Programs & Extended Partnerships at the NCSSM Morganton will be your instructor.
For more information, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

WRESA Regional AIG Credentials Course
2024-07-24 09:00 - 15:00, 2024-07-23 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: July 23 & 24, 2024
Time: 9:00am-3:00pm
Type: In-person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $85 WRESA Members Only

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you are welcome to send a
colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102)
if you need to change the name of the person attending.

Audience: K-12 Classroom Teachers, (Licensed AIG Specialists are welcome)
CEUs: 10 Contact hours
What to Bring: Your own charged device
AIG Coordinators across the NC Western Region have recognized the need for classroom teachers to understand the unique characteristics and needs of gifted learners.
In this 2-day course, teachers will review and understand their own district-specific Academically/Intellectually Gifted Services Plans. They will learn how to recognize the characteristics of gifted learners and understand their unique learning needs. Differentiation strategies for the regular classroom will be a focus and teachers will leave with tools for planning, working in PLCs, and using differentiation strategies in their classrooms.
Participants will receive a WRESA Regional AIG Credentials certificate. While it is important to note that this is not NC AIG Licensure, it will provide a practical level of knowledge and skill that will benefit gifted and advanced learners in classrooms across the region. These credentials will be recognized and accepted by the WRESA member school systems. Stephanie Knox, the AIG/Advanced Learning Lead Specialist for Buncombe County schools will be leading this workshop.
If you have additional questions, contact April Spencer aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Portrait of an Administrator
2024-04-23 09:00 - 15:00, 2023-09-19 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
DATE: Day #1 Sept 19, 2023
Day #2 Nov 14, 2023
Day #3 Jan 23, 2024 Jan 23rd cancelled. New Date TBD!
Day #4 Feb 20, 2024
Day #5 Apr 23, 2024
TIME: 9:00am – 3:00pm (for all days)

Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $325 WRESA Members (for all 5 sessions)
$490 Non-members (for all 5 sessions)

CEUs: 30 Contact Hours
Limit: 50 Participants

Audience: K-12 Administrators with 5 or few years of experience, assistant principals, and
Aspiring Administrators

The Portrait of a school administrator is a multifaceted and dynamic role that encompasses
various dimensions of leadership. To gain a comprehensive understanding of this role, we invite
you to join us for a series of five informative and interactive professional growth opportunities.
Throughout this series, we will explore and delve into the different key roles of strategic
leadership, instructional leadership, cultural leadership, human resource, and managerial
leadership, as well as ethical and micro-political leadership. Throughout this series, participants
will engage in interactive discussions, case studies, and practical activities that promote
reflection and application of knowledge. Join us on this professional growth journey to develop
and enhance your leadership skills as a school administrator.
Additional questions contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTRATION CLOSED

Data Based Individualization, MTSS and School Improvement Planning - 2 day
2024-01-10 09:00 - 15:00, 2023-10-24 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: Oct 24, 2023 and Jan 10, 2024 (makeup for missing original Dec 6th session)
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm

Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $75 WRESA Members
$115 Non-members

CEUs: 10 Contact Hours
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: K-8 MTSS Coordinators/Leads, Administrators, School Improvement Teams

This 2 day course will help support school leadership teams to develop the necessary structures to connect data based individualization, MTSS and school improvement plans. Leadership teams will assess their own structures and create action steps to move school improvement work forward. Instructors will coach teams individually and support the connection between DBI, MTSS and School improvement through the use of the FAM-S and NCStar.
Presenter(s): Elsa Iglesias and Liz Massey from Buncombe County Schools will be your presenters. Elsa is currently the EC Curriculum and Instructional Specialist for Buncombe County Schools, and currently provides PD for teachers in reading and math in her county. Liz Massey is the Multi Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Coordinator of Buncombe County Schools and a Literacy Specialist trained in the Science of Reading.
If you have additional questions, contact April Spencer aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED

Reading Research to Classroom Practice
2023-12-05 08:30 - 15:30, 2023-09-26 08:30 - 15:30 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
DATE: Day #1 Sept 26, 2023
Day #2 Oct 16, 2023
Day #3 Oct 25, 2023
Day #4 Nov 9, 2023
Day #5 Dec 05, 2023
TIME: 8:30am – 3:30pm (for all days)

Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $250 WRESA Members (for all 5 sessions)
$375 Non-members (for all 5 sessions)

CEUs: 4 CEUs
Limit: 30 Participants

Audience: K-12 Teachers, Out of State NC Licensure Candidates, Coaches, Interventionists,
Administrators, and Curriculum Specialists

Description: Reading Research to Classroom Practice is a high-quality professional learning
IDA certified course based on the most current research in the field of literacy. It provides
educators and administrators with the foundational knowledge needed to support students with
persistent reading challenges, including dyslexia. This rigorous course includes literacy
instruction utilizing evidence-based strategies along with a comprehensive assessment system
to guide instruction. Topics include Phonological Awareness, Phonics, Word Recognition,
Spelling, Fluency, Vocabulary, and Comprehension. Specific strategies using explicit,
multisensory, systematic instruction are modeled and delivered using case studies and active
participation.
***Note: This course can be taken in lieu of the praxis for out of state licensure candidates for NC
teaching license.
Presenters:
Elsa Iglesias: Currently I am the EC Curriculum and Instructional Specialist for Buncombe County Schools in
Asheville, North Carolina. I am the North Carolina State Improvement Project Math Coach for
the Western Region of North Carolina. I hold B.S. and M.S. degrees in Special Education and I
am a Nationally Board Certified Teacher of High School Mathematics. I am also an instructor of
Foundations of Math and Reading Research to Classroom Practice.
Although most of my experience has been in teaching high school mathematics, I have taught
math, science, social studies, reading and writing to dyslexic students using explicit and direct
instruction. I currently provide professional development for teachers in reading and math in
Buncombe County.
Liz Massey: I am a Literacy Specialist trained in the Science of Reading with 30 years of public school
experience. I currently serve as the Multi Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Coordinator for
Buncombe County Schools. I have a B.S in Special Education and a M.ED degree in Literacy
Instruction. I was a special education teacher, behavior specialist and reading specialist for 20
years working with students and families PreK-12. For the last 10 years, I have been in western
North Carolina supporting schools in developing MTSS systems and structures.
Most of my classroom experience has been supporting struggling readers. I am a Reading
Research to Classroom Practice Instructor and thoroughly enjoy coaching teachers in the area
of literacy.
For additional information, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

ACT Prep Class - Dec 2023
2023-12-03 13:00 - 17:00, 2023-12-02 08:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
***Note - The ACT Prep Class has been moved from Oct 21-22 to December 2-3, 2023
Date: December 2nd and December 3rd, 2023
Time: Session #1: Saturday, December 2nd: 8:00am – 3:00pm
Session #2: Sunday, December 3rd 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $ 95 Saturday, Dec 2nd only
$ 75 Sunday, Dec 3rd only
$140 Saturday and Sunday (Dec 2nd and Dec 3rd) - both days

***NOTE: This course is Non-Refundable. Please make sure you are able to attend the course
before registering.

Limit: 30 Participants (each day)

Audience: High School students wanting help in preparing for the ACT

What to bring: - Bring a lunch; snacks will be provided
- Bring a calculator and an internet-accessible device

Presenters: Martin & Donna Talbert
We have over 50 years of teaching experience and have coached students in both ACT and SAT since 1998. Certifications include English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Both hold Masters Degrees and Donna has National Board Certification.
Martin & Donna Talbert
appytrailseducconsultants@gmail.com
434-429-9042
In conjunction with WRESA

DAY #1: Saturday, December 2nd – (8:00am-3:00pm)
Title: ACT 101
Our ACT course takes a rigorous look at the four sections of the ACT giving the student guided instruction and practice on all aspects of the test. It includes test-taking strategies, practice assessments with diagnostic data, review of ACT concepts tested, and instruction on difficult problems. Students will have email access to the instructors. The course is designed to complete in a short amount of time in preparation for an upcoming ACT.

$95 includes a one-day class and digital resources with hundreds of practice problems & a full diagnostic test
Bring a lunch – Snacks will be provided

DAY #2: Sunday, December 3rd – (1:00pm-5:00pm)
Title: ADVANCED Topics ACT – Math & English
Math concepts like trig functions and identities, matrices, and multi-step word problems are a few of the topics in this session. English reviews and practices the most often missed difficult grammar concepts. This class is designed for students with previous exposure to ACT and striving for a top score.
If you have any questions about registration, please contact LaDonna Sluder at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext. 102)
If you have any questions about the ACT Prep Class, please contact Martin and Donna Talbert at appytrailseducconsultants@gmail.com or at 434-429-9042.
REGISTER
