Members of the Oneonta City School District staff spent March 12 and 13 learning, collaborating, and planning for the continued success of their students during the district’s Superintendent’s Conference Days.
The professional learning began Thursday afternoon following a half day of classes for students. Teachers transitioned into collaborative grade-level team time, using the opportunity to reflect on instruction, review student progress, and plan together for the weeks ahead.
Across the district, staff participated in a variety of workshops and training sessions designed to strengthen instruction and support students both inside and outside the classroom.
Elementary teachers in grades K–5 engaged in Eureka Math training, continuing their work with the district’s mathematics curriculum and exploring strategies that help students deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts.
Speech-language staff participated in a virtual Story Champs training, a program designed to support students’ language development and storytelling skills through structured, evidence-based practices.
Another group of staff focused on student well-being as school social workers and Department of Social Services caseworkers met to begin planning and preparing for Mental Health Awareness Month in May, discussing ways to support students and families and strengthen community partnerships.
On Friday, staff also had the opportunity to connect with community resources as representatives from The ARC Otsego visited the district to share information about the tiered supports and services available to adults in the region after high school. Erin Seeley and Faith Tiemann spoke with educators about the many opportunities available to students as they transition into adulthood, as well as the important role schools play in helping students prepare for those next steps.
At Oneonta High School, Library Media Specialists participated in a workshop titled BookTalks, led by Stacy Ratner and Alicia Abdul. The session explored creative ways to introduce books to students and spark excitement about reading.
Meanwhile, members of the Oneonta Middle School team participated in a session presented by The Reading League, focusing on the Science of Reading and research-based literacy practices that support strong reading development.
Superintendent Thomas Brindley also took time to recognize Assistant Superintendent Coleen Moore for the leadership and dedication she has brought to planning professional learning for the district. As these conference days represent the final ones organized under her leadership, he expressed gratitude for the vision and care she has brought to supporting staff and students throughout her time serving the Oneonta City School District.
Across both days, the message was clear: strong schools are built through teamwork, learning, and a shared commitment to students.
Over the course of March 12 and 13, members of the Oneonta Yellowjacket team came together to reflect, learn, and collaborate—continuing the work that supports students in classrooms today and prepares them for the future.
