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VDOE Issues Draft Guidance for Cell Phone-Free Education
On July 9, Governor Glenn Youngkin issued to help bring cell phone-free education to Virginia schools. After listening to and reviewing the thousands of comments and suggestions from Virginians, VDOE has developed on policies and procedures to establish cell phone-free education and remove cell phones and personal electronic communication devices from Virginia’s public school classrooms. That draft guidance developed has been published on VDOE’s website and is available for review and comment through September 15, 2024. The draft guidance defines cell phone-free education in Virginia’s schools as “bell-to-bell", meaning phones should be turned off and stored away from the first bell at the start of the school day to begin instructional time until the dismissal bell rings at the end of the academic school day. “Bell-to-bell” includes lunch and time in between class periods. To learn more about the draft guidance and provide feedback, visit the webpage.
Fall 2024 World Language Teacher Education Workshop Series
FLAVA will host a series of free virtual workshops for world language teachers throughout the 2024-25 school year. Nationally recognized presenters will engage and inform on a variety of topics and offer ideas and resources that you can use right away in your classroom. The first session will take place on Tuesday, August 20 at 4:30pm with a focus on the effective use of feedback, rubrics, and self-evaluation. Register individually for each session on the FLAVA website.
Virginia Children’s Engineering STEM Institute -September 21
This Institute is designed to inspire and equip Pre-K to Middle School teachers and students with innovative strategies in STEM education. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. John B. Gordon III, the esteemed Superintendent of Suffolk Public Schools, the institute will explore hands-on engineering challenges, creative problem-solving, and the integration of STEM across the curriculum, aligned to the VA Standards of Learning. Participants will gain valuable insights and tools to foster a love for STEM in young learners, preparing them for future success in an increasingly technological world.
Year-long PD Opportunity for Language Teachers
The Center for Applied Second Language Studies (CASLS) is offering a free year-long professional development community focused on Intercultural Communication in K-16 language classrooms. Meetings will take place last Monday of every month, September-April (excluding December). Outcomes include the creation of materials for collaboration with your local professional team and/or learners. Sign up by September 7 and request specific topics of interest.
History and Social Science Standards of Learning
The full implementation of the 2023 History and Social Science Standards of Learning will be the 2025 -2026 school year. The 2024 – 2025 school year will be the crosswalk year for the History and Social Science Standards. Contact the history and social science program if you have any additional questions.
Fall World Languages Conference
FLAVA's Fall Conference, Navigating a Changing World with Languages, will be held October 10-12, at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. Register before October 5 for the best value with included breakfast on Friday morning and awards luncheon on Saturday. On site registration will not include meals.
Virtual school Partnerships for German Teachers Information Session
The German American Virtual Exchange (GAVE) program offers a comprehensive framework, materials, and support for teachers to connect their students with partner schools in Germany remotely. Join a live event on August 29, at 5 p.m. to learn more about launching a virtual exchange program at your school, either in German or English.
Updates for Science Leaders
The VDOE Science program has instructional updates regarding the Standards of Learning and upcoming safety training. For more information, see:
Article 2024-30-286 Science Standards of Learning Review
Article 2024-30-296 Science Safety Training for Division Leaders webinar on August 14
LFVA Coaching Academy: Igniting the Fundamental Skills of Coaching & Leadership
Learning Forward Virginia is hosting two days of powerful learning with Dr. Kim Richardson who is a Virginia educator and ICF professional certified coach. Ignite the leader in YOU with this people-centered approach to coaching and leadership! Specially designed materials are included as well as a certificate for 14 hours of professional learning and several meals. Learn more from LFVA about the Academy, costs, and speakers held at Renyolds Community College on October 17 & 18.
Fentanyl Education and Awareness Resources
The VDOE and the Virginia Department of Health worked collaboratively to develop information and resources for fentanyl education and awareness (HB 1473). The Fentanyl Awareness informational one-sheet was created through that partnership. School divisions should ensure that all 9-12 graders have this sheet within the first two weeks of the 2024-2025 school year. School divisions can choose distribution methods that best meet the needs of their students and families. Additionally, the webpage includes resources for educators on substance use prevention. Read more from VDOE.
CSAAPT Fall Event
The Chesapeake Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers will be holding their Fall 2024 Meeting on October 19, at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility in Newport News. All physics/science teachers and students may attend with no membership required. This semi-virtual meeting will be broadcast on Zoom so that people from afar, both presenters and attendees, can join in.
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