ACT Arts Magnet High School ACT (Arts at the Capitol Theater) is a full-day, comprehensive, arts magnet high school located in the Capitol Theater in downtown Willimantic. The curriculum is arts-integrated and standards-based with differentiated instruction to address individual learning needs. Students study with certified academic teachers and professional artists in this small, arts-focused learning community. Each grade is limited to approximately 35 students, making this an intimate, focused, artistic learning environment for about 140 students, grades 9-12.

Website: www.eastconn.org/act

Advanced Placement - Professional Development Program Access our professional development and support to learn how you can increase not only the number of AP courses offered in your school or district, but also the number of students enrolled in AP courses, and their passing rate on AP exams.

American Citizenship Preparation These classes prepare adults to pass the American Citizenship Test, with a special emphasis on questions used by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS).

Arts in the Afternoon Students in grades 4-8 will work in diverse teams during vacations in February, April and over the summer. Students participate in EASTCONN Adventure activities to promote self-esteem, build confidence and to increase group problem-solving abilities, in addition to building their visual and performing arts skills by working with guest and visiting artists.

Asbestos Inspection & Management Our licensed Asbestos Inspector/Management Planner will help you stay in compliance with state and federal regulations related to asbestos-containing materials in schools, including inspections, three-year re-inspections, training, and management-plan development.

Asbestos-Designated-Person Staffing Services We offer several options to meet your needs for a hazardous-materials-designated staff person to ensure that you remain in compliance with all school-related and AHERA regulations. We can provide you with a trained person on a temporary or permanent basis, or you can contract with us to perform your six-month inspections.

Assessment Strategies Select and begin using methods that go beyond standardized testing to best support your goals for assessing student learning, monitoring student achievement and informing instruction. Our staff can assist in developing common formative assessments to support progress monitoring in Scientific Research-Based Interventions (SRBI).

Assistive Technology Consortium The Consortium is the result of continued collaboration efforts between EASTCONN and the Connecticut Tech Act Project. This collaboration provides access to an expanded library of assistive technology tools for use in professional development, student assessment and trial use of devices within member school districts. Districts can customize a package to meet their district's needs. Consortium membership includes priority scheduling of services, access to the expanding Assistive Technology Lending Library, and participation in four half-day and a full-day of Consortium trainings.

Website: www.eastconn.org/at

Assistive Technology Consultation EASTCONN's Assistive Technology (AT) team works directly with staff and students in the classroom to support the effective use of AT, including Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), to support student learning. Consultative services include maximizing the use of a district's existing AT resources and identifying new and emerging resources to complement a district's curriculum and students' educational programs.

Website: www.eastconn.org/at

Assistive Technology Demonstration Center and Lending Library EASTCONN's Assistive Technology Demonstration Center and Lending Library is housed at EASTCONN's 10 Commerce Drive facility in Columbia. The expanded Lending Library is supported through an award from the Connecticut Tech Act Project, as well as through the assistive technology team's support of vendors, software developers and manufacturers. Consortium member districts can try devices from the Lending Library on a trial basis with students in their customary learning environment. The Demonstration Center offers free open houses every other month, highlighting new product development.

Website: www.eastconn.org/at

Assistive Technology Student Assessment EASTCONN's Assistive Technology (AT) specialists are available to assess your students' needs and identify potential AT and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) solutions, from low- to high-tech, to provide students with access to the general curriculum and support their independence in achieving their learning outcomes. Assessment is on-site and includes review of the EASTCONN Student Information Guide, review of relevant education records, consultation with the student's educational team, trial use of potential AT solutions and a final assessment report.

Website: www.eastconn.org/at

Assistive Technology Training Assistive Technology (AT) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) solutions are constantly changing and expanding as the world of online applications, portable electronics and wireless access continue to make devices more commonly used and often more affordable. Staying current has become increasingly difficult. EASTCONN's AT specialists have established partnerships with a number of AT manufacturers and distributors to ensure that the most up-to-date information can be shared. Districts can participate in an EASTCONN workshop or arrange for a customized AT training to meet the needs of district staff.

Website: www.eastconn.org/at

Audiological Services An educational audiologist supports schools with specific students and/or school-wide initiatives. Contact us for information about students with hearing loss, students with central auditory processing disorders (CAPD), FM systems, classroom acoustics for new construction or existing buildings, and rapid hearing screening. On-site consultation and professional development are available.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Services EASTCONN's Assistive Technology (AT) team can provide a range of services for students with communication needs. Services include evaluation of appropriate communication solutions from low- to high-tech; assistance with documentation for funding; training regarding implementation of communication technology, including device programming; and use and integration into the educational program. Through the Lending Library, established and expanded through an award from the Connecticut Tech Act, and relationships with leading vendors, EASTCONN's assistive technology team can try out various communication devices with students to determine the device that best matches the student's needs.

Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Developmental Disabilities Program, Pre-K through 8 Located at EASTCONN's Commerce Drive facility in Columbia, our program provides a highly structured, intensive and individualized classroom experience for children in grades preK-8 with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Students are supported by a multidisciplinary team, which includes a BCBA, an occupational therapist, a speech-language pathologist, a physical therapist and an assistive technology specialist. Parental involvement is a key component of the program. Extended school year services are available.

Website: www.eastconn.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=section&id=36&layout=blog&Itemid=151

Birth-to-Three Program Early intervention services are provided in the home for young children, birth to age 3, who have been identified with disabilities, and their families; services include parenting support and collaboration with early-intervention providers.

Building Skills, Planning Futures "What skills will I need to succeed in a changing workforce and in changing work environments?" In Building Skills, Planning Futures, students in grades 9-12 will explore this and other concepts as they engage in a sustained exploration of financial management.

Capitol Theater Arts Academy (CTAA) Created for northeastern Connecticut residents of all ages and taught by some of Connecticut's finest arts professionals, CTAA classes explore disciplines like dance, theater, cartooning, creative writing, and individual music lessons. Classes are offered in fall and spring sessions at the beautiful, Art Deco-era Capitol Theater, which houses CTAA in busy downtown Willimantic. CTAA also offers a summer theater program for children entering grades 4-12.

Website: www.registereastconn.org/ctaa

Child-Specific Consultation & Assessment Comprehensive evaluation and on-site observation are available to districts to assist teachers in selecting the most appropriate instructional or behavioral management strategies for individual children. We offer a full range of specialists, from those in early childhood to professionals across the entire spectrum of special needs, preK to grade 12.

Collaborative Initiatives Across Districts EASTCONN facilitates collaboration among school districts around a variety of topics like common curriculum development, staff development, grant-writing, and the design of programs and services for students. Regional collaborations maximize local dollars and expand program options.

Communications Training & Support Our in-house staff can help you increase positive media coverage or enhance your written, graphic, or digital communications, including newsletters, press releases, Web sites, online surveys and multi-media presentations. We can provide direct service, training, or on-site support and coaching.

Community Education Non-credit, recreational, personal improvement and career advancement courses are offered at nearby community sites for northeastern Connecticut residents of all ages. A new selection of reasonably priced courses is offered year-round, including a creative summer program for youngsters, ages 6-17, that combines academics and fun.

Website: Register Online Now!

Conference & Meeting Support We can help you plan and manage your events at our facilities or alternate venues of your choice across Connecticut. From initial planning of your event to assisting with on-site logistical support, we offer comprehensive event management support, such as online and on-site registration, sourcing facilitators and presenters, materials production and mailing, registrant fee and event fiscal management, sourcing and supplying support materials, catering and vendor exhibit management.

Connecticut Accreditation Facilitation Project (AFP) The Connecticut Accreditation Facilitation Project (AFP) is an established resource system of regional teams providing critical leadership and support for the achievement of quality standards and excellence in early childhood programs. AFP services include: overviews of NAEYC's Program Standards and Accreditation Performance Criteria; technical assistance with the process of accreditation; and individualized support for programs engaged in the self-study.

Connecticut Administrator Test (CAT) EASTCONN manages this administrator testing program for the Connecticut State Department of Education. Individuals applying for their Connecticut Administration Certification must take and pass the Connecticut Administrator Test (CAT), which is administered at convenient sites around the state.

Website: CAT Web page

Connecticut Preschool Assessment Framework Web-Based Software This reasonably priced, Web-based application is available for teachers and program directors who use the Connecticut Preschool Assessment Framework. Teacher-friendly and secure, this database eliminates the need for handwritten reports and allows teachers and administrators to view individual, classroom and program results.

Website: www.ctpaf.org

Cool Directions This is a year-round, in-school, youth initiative for students, ages 14-21 (grades 9-12), who participate in team-building, portfolio development and employment activities. The program also offers a summer component with paid jobs.

Cool Directions: Summer Component The summer component is a continuation of the year-round, in-school youth program, Cool Directions. Youth have the opportunity to participate in paid, project-based learning projects, as well as team-building, ropes-course activities, and/or work at individual sites.

Cooperative Purchasing EASTCONN's regional Cooperative offers its members the opportunity to purchase products from established providers. Contracts include quality products and services with competitive pricing and rebate incentives. Current contracts exist for custodial supplies, food service items, office supplies, copy paper, photocopier and printer units, service and supplies, and fuel oil. Reverse auction services are available. Members save their school districts time and money.

Website: Cooperative Purchasing Page

Creating Community Builders Students in grade 5 integrate art, science and technology in the service of others through community projects. Interdistrict teams of students collaborate to plan, design, coordinate and present their finished products to community members. Through literature, 5th-graders explore the concept of character and the ways in which it defines and creates community.

CT REAP: Web-Based Employment System Reach across the global marketplace with Connecticut's statewide, Web-based, employment system for recruiting teachers and other certified administrators.

Website: www.ctreap.net

Curriculum Development & Design We can help you to research, design, and/or develop curriculum in any academic area, using a variety of strategies, including project-based instruction, differentiated instruction and school-to-career organizers. Our staff are trained in using the new Connecticut Curriculum Development Guide, as well as the Common Core State Standards. We can assist you in the development of a quality, comprehensive curriculum aligned to Connecticut standards.

Data Analysis Support & Training EASTCONN staff can provide data analysis support and training to school districts. Whether it's providing on-site coaching to administrators and data coaches in using technology to analyze data, or providing reports, EASTCONN's experienced consultants can assist with all of your data analysis needs.

Data Coach and Data Facilitator Professional Development Effective implementation of district and school data teams requires effective and skilled data-team facilitation. EASTCONN staff are skilled in using a variety of strategies and techniques to support a data-driven dialogue that produces results.

Data Management Services EASTCONN staff provide support and training to key district personnel who are responsible for managing and supporting district data systems. Available tools include student information systems, locally developed databases, and assessment systems.

Data Team Facilitation Certified by the Leadership and Learning Center, EASTCONN's data team facilitators can provide on-site assistance in the planning, development, and implementation of district, school, and instructional data teams. Our consultants are trained in all of the Connecticut Accountability for Learning Initiative (CALI) modules and can support your data team efforts.

Database Development & Assessment Systems We will design or customize an electronic data management system to meet your unique needs within the budget that you have available. Our services include consultation with all stakeholders to ensure that the systems we develop are user-friendly and deliver the reports you require.

Desktop Publishing Services We can design and deliver finished projects or provide on-site coaching to your administrative support staff. From newsletters to posters to presentations, we can improve your capacity to communicate with all your audiences through effective graphic design. Our staff have won state and national recognition for Web and publication design.

Desktop Support Services Our technical support team can help you with all your computer desktop needs, from set-up to preventive maintenance to diagnostics and repair. Our services are delivered on-site.

District and School Improvement Planning Access our menu of planning services to develop a data-driven improvement plan. We can provide facilitation for your team in the analysis of multiple sources of district and school data and assist in identifying key areas for improvement. Your plan will include measurable goals, effective strategies, and indicators of success. We will assist you in developing a monitoring plan to evaluate your progress.

Driver Education Taught by state-certified driver-education professionals, these classes prepare teens and adults, through in-class instruction and behind-the-wheel training, to obtain their Connecticut state driver's licenses. EASTCONN's driving schools are in two convenient locations: Willimantic and Danielson.

Website: www.eastconn.org/drivered

Early Childhood Council Development & Facilitation EASTCONN staff with experience in community collaboration, early childhood policy and practice and comprehensive services, will work with your community to support the development and implementation of an Early Childhood Council.

Early Childhood Parent Education/Parenting Workshops Workshops on a range of topics are available to support parents in increasing their parenting skills, improving their knowledge of children's growth and development and learning how to support learning. Early childhood specialists are available to provide regional or on-site training.

Early Childhood Program Monitoring & Evaluation Our early childhood specialists can help to create or improve early childhood programs, birth through grade 3. Consultation can include program and curriculum design, as well as facility and learning environment design and evaluation.

Early Childhood Staff Training & Consultation EASTCONN provides training and consultation to early childhood educators, birth through kindergarten. Training and consultation are designed to meet program and staff needs. A lending library with curriculum and assessment resources is also available.

Early Childhood Training, Consultation and Coaching Early childhood specialists provide a range of professional development services customized to meet your program and district needs. Professional development related to curriculum, teaching and assessment is directly connected with state and national standards. On-site training and coaching is aimed at accomplishing program improvement goals that lead to increased child outcomes.

Early Head Start EASTCONN administers the Early Head Start program in Windham County. This program serves income-eligible pregnant women and children, birth to age 3, and their families, in a home-visiting and center-based program. EASTCONN offers Early Head Start in northeastern Connecticut, while Windham Public Schools provides the program for the greater Windham area. Stafford Public Schools offers a home-based program in the Stafford area. Benefits of Early Head Start include strong family involvement and support with health, dental, nutrition and mental health needs.

EASTCONN Adventure Program for Adults EASTCONN Adventure custom-designs experientially based programs for team-building, leadership training and professional development. The activities, adapted for participants of all ages and fitness levels, are designed to explore both positive communication and collaboration skills, and identify new strategies for building effective teams. EASTCONN offers both indoor and outdoor Adventure options, all specifically designed to create a safe environment for learning.

Website: EASTCONN Adventure Website

EASTCONN Adventure Program for Students The EASTCONN Adventure Program can fast-track your student group into a cohesive and high-performing team. Plan a single or multi-day Adventure Program for your class, group, or team at your site or our facility in Hampton. Through our experiential activities, participants learn strategies to increase trust and develop communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.

Website: EASTCONN Adventure Website

Education Refresher (ER) Offered at CTWorks East (Danielson, New London, Norwich and Willimantic), the Education Refresher is a short termprogram that helps prepare adults to enter the job market or to meet entry requirements for training programs/post-secondary education opportunities. Each student is assessed and receives an individualized plan of study, as well as appropriate referrals to free-of-charge adult education classes.

Educational and Vocational Center (EVC) The EASTCONN Educational and Vocational Center (EVC) addresses the special educational needs of students, grades 4-12, with behavioral challenges. Conveniently located on Route 66 in Columbia, EVC merges best practice in academic and clinical programming to meet the needs of middle- and high school students with social, emotional and behavioral issues. The center offers an integrated, hands-on, day-treatment program with both on-site clinical support and a highly successful, comprehensive vocational program.

Effective Instructional Strategies EASTCONN can provide training, coaching and consultation to help expand the repertoire of effective instructional strategies used by your classroom teachers. Our staff members are certified in the Effective Teaching module provided by the CSDE through the Connecticut Accountability for Learning Initiative (CALI), which promotes school improvement.

ELL Title III Consortium EASTCONN's English Language Learners (ELL) Title III Consortium provides a forum for area ELL educators to come together around emerging trends and practices in ELL. Practitioners share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide current information on curriculum, assessment, effective instruction and the latest developments from the state and federal levels pertaining to the Title III Grant.

Energy for the Future Students enrolled in Energy for the Future are engaged in a sustained investigation of evolving energy sources. Interdistrict teams explore energy myths, nuclear power technology/controversy, solar photovoltaics, wind turbines and other emerging technologies, while they design and construct their own alternative energy models – such as solar ovens and cars that must meet certain performance criteria.

English Language Learner Professional Development Training and technical assistance are available to school districts with low-incidence English language learners, including ELL Consortium members receiving Title III funding. Services include policy development, program design and development, NCLB and CSDE testing requirements, identification, testing support and professional development.

English-as-a-Second-Language Family Literacy EASTCONN Adult Services partners with Head Start to provide Family Literacy classes to eligible Windham families. Families in need of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) classes are targeted for this program.

English-as-a-Second-Language Instruction Our Adult Education-certified instructors provide free instruction for non-English-speaking adults who are 16 years of age and older. Beginner-to-intermediate-level classes are available. Daytime and evening classes are offered at convenient locations throughout northeastern Connecticut.

Faces of Culture This Interdistrict Grant school-year program is designed for students from participating districts in grades 8-12. Viewed through the indigenous arts and crafts lenses of several different historical periods, this engaging, interdisciplinary study of culture culminates in student art projects and performances that are showcased at an annual arts symposium.

Facilities Audit Services EASTCONN supports school districts that do not have the on-staff expertise necessary to make determinations about long-range facilities needs, including maintenance and overall improvement planning. Call us to explore your options.

Facilities Forum This regional council meets quarterly and focuses on sharing solutions to common issues for both facilities directors and those whose work involves the maintenance and management of school buildings. Council members have an opportunity to discuss regulatory and fiscal challenges, while connecting with peers and sharing useful strategies and resources.

Farming the Land and Sea Why do Connecticut farmers and fishermen grow and harvest the products they do? Students in grades 2 and 3 will learn about state agriculture and aquaculture. Students in 2nd grade will focus on foods that come from the land, with activities that allow them to explore the life cycles of plants, as well as balanced nutrition, while 3rd-graders will focus on adaptations that allow certain plants and animals to thrive in local aquatic environments.

Fingerprinting Services EASTCONN offers fingerprinting services to Local Education Agencies and their applicants in compliance with Connecticut state law.

Forensics 101 Together, about 300 high school students explore not only the science of crime scene forensics, but also the many other areas of study that comprise forensic science. Students also explore a wide variety of careers that use forensic thinking to solve real-life problems.

Grant Development Council This facilitated council promotes a collaborative culture and helps increase the potential for attracting increased resources to local and collective school districts. Led by a professional, proven grant-writer, members build grant-writing skills, share information, both online and at group meetings, and work together to identify and more effectively leverage funding sources for new programs and services.

Grants Development & Management Whether your grant is local, statewide or federal, EASTCONN can help you write and produce grants, facilitate the process with your staff and/or manage the fiscal and administrative sides of your program. We have 30 years of experience and demonstrated expertise in obtaining and managing significant grant dollars.

Growing Green Ideas Growing Green Ideas brings interdistrict teams of students in grades 9-12 together to focus on the differences and similarities across customs and community, while collaborating to explore food cycles, Connecticut farming, the food industry and healthy eating. Diverse guests will include scientists, researchers, farmers, writers and nutritionists, who will conduct collaborative, hands–on workshops.

Hazardous Materials Support & Training for Schools Use us to survey your facilities, develop a chemical hygiene plan and train your staff in both asbestos awareness and hazardous materials communications to ensure compliance with state and federal mandates. All new maintenance and custodial staff are required to be trained with a two-hour asbestos awareness training class within 60 days from date of hire.

Head Start EASTCONN administers Head Start, a comprehensive, federally funded program for income-eligible preschool-age children and their families in Windham and Tolland counties. Center-based programs are available in Killingly, Plainfield, Putnam, Stafford, Vernon, and Windham. The home-visiting program, combined with a play group, is available for families in the Putnam, Killingly, Plainfield and Windham areas. Stafford and Windham Public Schools provide the Head Start program in their respective regions. Benefits of Head Start include strong family involvement and support with health, dental, nutrition and mental health needs.

Healthy Youth, Mind and Body How do I stop a bully? Students in grades 6 and 7, who participate in Healthy Youth, Mind and Body will explore this question and other concepts as they engage in a sustained exploration of health, physical and cyber safety issues.

Heroes and Heroines "Who is my hero?" Students in grade 3 explore this question and other universal concepts of character development and social responsibility through fiction and non-fiction as they engage in a sustained exploration of heroic figures, both past and present.

High School Completion EASTCONN Adult Education offers three alternatives to complete a high school education. Our counselors can help you determine which program is the best option for you! Choose from among the GED, the Credit Diploma and the National External Diploma (NOT recommended for 17-18 year old students). As of July 1, 2011: To enroll in adult education, an individual must be 17 years of age or older. Individuals who are 16 years of age and withdrew from school with parent consent prior to July 1, 2011 may also be eligible to enroll in adult education.

Imagination Connection Using literacy and creative writing as a foundation for multicultural understanding, 300 second-graders from five schools read multicultural stories, folktales and poems and create a collaborative folktale or a collection of poetry. Students exchange pen-pal letters with their interdistrict peers, participate in EASTCONN Adventure team-building and illustrate their poems and folktales. This grant includes a bilingual class. The program culminates with a celebration of books and Adventure activities.

Interdistrict Program Design & Management Every two years, EASTCONN collaborates with area school districts to respond to CSDE-funded Interdistrict Grant opportunities designed to boost students' academic skills and increase their understanding and experience of diversity. If selected for funding, programs are limited to districts that have signed on to participate in that funding cycle. Contact us for more information about currently funded programs or new grant opportunities.

Interim Diagnostic Placement EASTCONN offers short-term, diagnostic placement for up to 45 days for students who need to be educated outside the public-school setting, due to emotional and behavioral issues. This is considered a diagnostic assessment period to identify student needs, identify or clarify disability status and to develop IEP or programmatic recommendations. Call for availability.

IT (Information Technology) Staff Support Services We can provide you with trained IT staff on a temporary, full- or part-time basis, or you can contract with us for short-term projects. Call us to discuss your IT needs.

JFES (Jobs First Employment Services) Case Management EASTCONN Adult Services is responsible for the case management services for Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) clients at the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board's four CTWorks locations.

JFES Intensive Customer Service Training This intensive program prepares JFES (Jobs First Employment Services) participants with intensive training in employability and customer service skills, as well as GED preparation.

Language Arts Council EASTCONN’s Language Arts Council provides a forum for area language arts teachers to come together around emerging trends and practices in language arts. Participants and guest speakers share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide mini-workshops on curriculum, assessment and instruction topics of interest. CSDE consultants also attend and share information on the latest developments at the Department.

Learning Lands: Stewardship and Conservation in Northeastern CT Students in grades 5-8 from four school districts meet several times over the course of the school year to explore the concept of diversity through the study of our natural environments, conservation and biodiversity. Students focus on investigating flora and fauna, as well as vernal pools and the value of biodiversity on Joshua Trust properties in northeastern Connecticut. Joshua’s Trust properties provide a natural classroom where students can conduct scientific research in a living laboratory. Students participate in workshops to learn about regional ecosystems and habitats, biodiversity, invasive species and the ways in which human development is impacting local wetlands. Students conduct field research to identify vernal pools and to understand their value as amphibian breeding habitats. Use of global positioning systems is integral to mapping natural resources on Trust properties.

Legacy Explorations Students in grades 5-8 meet throughout the year to participate in various activities relating to human rights, civil rights and diversity. Participants read different types of literature related to their own rights, contribute a piece of writing to a program anthology, attend speeches given by advocates of civil rights and civil liberties organizations, take part in numerous EASTCONN Adventure activities to enhance team-building skills, and visit a local history museum. Their overall focus is on acquiring a better understanding of rights and the importance of diversity.

Life Skills & Basic Skills Instruction Both group and individualized instruction are available for adults who need to improve their basic skills in reading, writing or mathematics before beginning a high school completion program.

Literacy Professional Development EASTCONN provides training and technical assistance to schools that seek to align their literacy curriculum with the newly adopted Common Core State Standards, strengthen their literacy program to best meet the needs of all learners, implement best practices, administer and analyze literacy assessments and use data to inform instruction.

MAPPS: Matching Areas and People Project Third-graders experience a sense of place and belonging as they explore natural wildlife habitats and study the local history of development and its environmental impact; they also participate in orienteering and map-building activities.

Math Council EASTCONN’s Math Council provides a forum for area math teachers to come together around emerging trends and practices in mathematics. Practitioners share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide current information on curriculum, assessment and effective instruction. Connecticut State Department of Education consultants attend and share information on the latest developments at the Department.

Media Consultation Services Let us help you increase your positive press. We have seasoned journalists on staff who can help you choose newsworthy topics, write successful press releases, and/or distribute your press releases to appropriate media outlets. We maintain a current list of education reporters and local and state media outlets. Our staff can edit and distribute it for you, or teach you how to do it yourself.

Minds in Motion Using real-life explorations and inquiry activities, students in grades 5-12 explore forces/motion, astronomy and optics/photonics. Throughout their hands-on team investigations, students study the big questions science, including humanity's relationship with the natural world.

Mosaic This experientially based leadership training program focuses on students' team-building and community engagement skills as students in grades 6-12 grapple with real-world service learning projects. These projects meet the needs of other students, families, schools and communities. Students will work together with the Center for Community Engagement at Eastern Connecticut State University.

Multidisciplinary Consultative, Assessment and Support Services Access our in-house team, which specializes in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities to build internal capacity through training and support in an optimal, inclusive educational environment. Let us complement your in-house team and support your individualized programming for students in their home school.

MyRTI™ MyRtI™ is a secure, Web-based assessment collection and analysis tool that utilizes cutting-edge Web 2.0 tools to report on student progress in school, district or state assessments and to define indicators that will assist in identifying and monitoring interventions in accordance with the SRBI (Scientific Research-Based Interventions) framework.

NAEYC Accreditation Consultation Information, consultation and training are available to preschool and kindergarten programs that want to pursue accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

New Education Options EASTCONN collaborates with the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE), public schools, higher education and community leaders to promote increased educational options for students and families. From needs assessment to conceptualization of design models, and from funding-source referrals to implementation, EASTCONN staff members are able to help create innovative choices for students.

New Images: CT Youth Learn Together Students in grades 7-12 explore digital photography and creative writing as a way to share their own views of the world. Students focus on composition and theme by examining images at the Lyman Allyn Museum, the Florence Griswold Museum and the New Britain Museum of American Art, and then create visual expressions that reflect the world as they see it through their own eyes.

Non-Traditional Learner Program EASTCONN provides United Services clients with classes to improve their English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) skills and to prepare them for the GED exam. Residents also develop problem-solving, decision-making and other critical-thinking skills.

Northeast Regional Program This highly regarded K-12 program addresses the educational needs of non-traditional students with behavioral challenges. Located in a new facility in Putnam, Northeast Regional Program merges best practice in academic and clinical programming to meet the needs of elementary, middle- and high school students who have social, emotional and behavioral issues. The program offers an integrated, hands-on, day-treatment program with both on-site clinical support and a highly successful, comprehensive vocational program. Lower and upper grades are taught in separate wings.

Northeast Regional Summer Program - Grades K-12 This comprehensive, individualized summer school program helps students maintain basic academic skills and build effective social skills through small-group activities and community-based experiences. For grades K-8, the program is facility-based, providing lively and engaging small-group activities and community-based experiences. For grades 9-12, the program is community-based with a vocational component, enabling students to build work-related skills and earn a summer paycheck. Students may also earn high school credit.

Nursing Staff Support Services We can help you with all aspects of school nursing, from staffing and support with hiring details, to training and supervision.

Occupational Therapy Occupational therapists address student needs related to fine motor skills, visual perceptual motor skills, adaptive skills and sensory processing. Providers support specific students and whole-school Scientific Research-Based Interventions (SRBI) initiatives regarding classroom environments, sensorimotor needs, handwriting and visual-motor skills. Service delivery includes direct student support, consultation and staff training.

Online Surveys and Data Analysis We offer customized design, hosting and data-analysis support for your online survey and data collection projects. Our familiarity with educational data and school improvement will help ensure that these projects yield the data that you need to answer your driving questions.

Our Changing Earth, Our Connected World Students in grades 5-7 engage in a sustained exploration of the geosciences as they explore the relevance and impact that geology has on their lives and on the world around them.

Out-of-School Youth: Get with the B.E.A.T. Get with the B.E.A.T. (Better Education Always Triumphs) is a program for out-of-school youth, ages 17-21, that provides opportunities for completing high school, obtaining post-secondary education and/or securing job training.

Personnel Recruitment Assistance We offer a range of strategies to help you recruit and hire educational personnel, including cooperative advertising and access to our Web-based employment system.

Physical Therapy Physical therapists support the gross motor, sensorimotor and mobility needs of individual students and systems. Specific student services include screening, evaluation, development and implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans, adaptive equipment services and wheelchair evaluations. Consultation and training services focus on motor development, positioning and handling, and body mechanics.

PreK-8 Principals' Consortium A consortium of preK-8 principals meets on a regular basis to address the unique needs and challenges of preK-8 school leaders. Members will identify specific topics of interest, areas for collaboration and opportunities for resource-sharing.

Preschool Curriculum Assessment & Learning Training and consultation are available to your staff on curriculum and assessment (with an emphasis on linking teaching to curriculum and assessment) and aligning the preschool curriculum with that of the primary grades. Training for the Connecticut Preschool Curriculum and Assessment Frameworks is also available.

Professional Development Workshops & Training EASTCONN staff will work with you to customize professional development at the school district level. We are able to offer quality presentations at your site or one of ours. Our trained consultants can design an effective professional development plan that can include ongoing support and follow-up coaching.

Program Evaluation We can help you respond to local, regional, federal, private foundations and grantor questions about how your program design results in benefits to students; how it aligns with program goals; and its degree of effectiveness as compared to other strategies.

Program Planning, Design & Development We can assist program, service and school representatives in designing and developing innovative educational and professional development programs, including designing and conducting needs assessments, developing new and improving existing service models, identifying funding sources, preparing grant proposals, developing action/implementation plans and facilitating the development process.

Quinebaug Middle College (QMC) This regional magnet high school offers an innovative educational experience to non-traditional learners who are capable students, but who are also disengaged from the more traditional high school environment. Located on the Quinebaug Valley Community College campus in Danielson, QMC provides students with the individual support they need to succeed, while they complete their high school education, attend college classes and earn college credits. Community service, internships and student engagement are essential educational components of this unique high school/college experience. Open to grades 10-12 in 2011-12.

Website: QMC

Radon Measurement Service Provider Use the expertise of our nationally certified Radon Measurement Technician to test your school or day care facility for radon. We will determine whether your building(s) meets mandated State of Connecticut Department of Public Health codes.

Regional Management of Mandated Adult Education Programs We manage all aspects of your mandated adult education programs, including grant submission, fiscal management, participant recruitment, assessment services, instructional services, post-program assessment and reporting. Regional cost-sharing has expanded the number of adult education offerings that are available.

Regional Staff Development Council The Regional Staff Development Council at EASTCONN brings district and school leaders together in a collegial forum to dialogue around current educational issues in Connecticut. Topics include curriculum, assessment, professional development, legislation as well as other relevant educational topics. Speakers from CSDE attend and share information on the latest developments at the Department.

Related Services Our staff members are available for assessment and treatment of student needs, as well as for staff development and training to support students and school systems, including Scientific Research-Based Interventions (SRBI) initiatives. Service delivery is designed with student and curricular needs combined, ranging from direct student therapy to collaboration and consultation. Full-time or part-time staffing assignments are accepted for ongoing involvement; student-specific evaluations are also available.

School Nurse & Health-Related Consultative Services EASTCONN is available to help with a broad range of training options for your nursing staff, your administrators and other educational personnel who require OSHA-mandated training. Take advantage of a wide variety of health-related trainings for nurses and other certified and non-certified staff, including quality-of-service evaluations.

School Transportation Services With a fleet of 100-plus vehicles that include GPS tracking and cell phones, EASTCONN offers day-to-day mini-van transportation and "yellow bus" services for both regular and special education students traveling to destinations ranging from local areas to neighboring states. Drivers and aides are experienced carriers of both medically fragile students and students with behavioral challenges. Other services include employment and training transportation, consultation about current transportation vendor contract efficiency, and transportation to special events and field trips.

Science Council EASTCONN’s Science Council provides a forum for area science teachers to come together around emerging trends and practices in science. Practitioners share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide current information on curriculum, assessment and effective instruction. CSDE consultants attend and share information on the latest developments at the Department.

Science Professional Development EASTCONN's Science Cadre can provide you with a variety of science trainings and support, including curriculum alignment, instructional strategies, assessment, and analysis of Connecticut Mastery Test (CMT) results. Cadre members will customize their services to meet your district's needs.

Shared Staffing Use EASTCONN to recruit, interview and hire qualified full-time or part-time staff to fill district positions that include paraprofessionals with specialized training, as well as hard-to-fill certified and administrative support positions.

Skills for Success Students in grades 9-12 participate in team-building activities to master both personal and interpersonal skills for the workplace and post-secondary educational settings. Career development workshops focus on career acquisition and retention skills, technical writing, reading and effective study and learning skills.

Spanish Translation Services Improve your communications with Spanish-speakers of all ages by using our Spanish translator. Experienced and accurate, our translator will ensure that you are able to communicate clearly with your Latino audience/s whenever you need to share either day-to-day or critical information.

Speech & Language Services Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs) are available for full or partial caseloads and/or for individual students (including diagnostic evaluations, consultation and treatment). Speech-language pathologists are integral to school-wide Scientific Research-Based Intervention (SRBI) initiatives, providing universal screening, progress monitoring and intervention services across the tiers.

SRBI and School Climate: Preventing and Addressing Barriers to Learning Districts receive training and technical assistance in assessing and improving school climates that support student achievement through a focus on relevance and relationships, two essential aspects of teaching that engage students in learning.

SRBI Council EASTCONN’s SRBI Council provides a forum for area educators to come together around effective strategies and practices for quality implementation of Scientific Research-Based Interventions (SRBI). Practitioners share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide current information on curriculum, assessment and effective instruction. CSDE consultants attend and share information on the latest developments at the Department.

SRBI Planning and Implementation Support Our staff can help you develop an effective plan for the implementation of your Scientific Research-Based Interventions (SRBI) framework. We can provide assistance with a needs assessment that will identify key areas for implementation. Our staff can also assist you with universal assessment and progress monitoring, as well as curriculum review and the identification of effective intervention strategies.

SRBI: Social-Emotional-Behavioral Barriers to Learning As part of your School Climate Plan, EASTCONN can help you identify and implement strategies and interventions to address your students' social, emotional and behavioral challenges in ways that allow you to improve student learning and that align with a Scientific Research-Based Interventions/Response to Interventions (SRBI/RtI) approach. Consultation, training and technical assistance are available.

STEM Classes (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) These classes are for adults who want to improve their job marketability in the high-tech employment field. Students with or without high school diplomas focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in classes like: STEM Design Squad Workshops, Foundations of Algebra, and The Adult Learner's Guide to College Success. Classes are designed to help prepare students for success as they enter the job market or college.

Strategic Data-Driven Planning for Early Childhood Programs & Services EASTCONN can help communities or programs create long-range or short-term plans for the development, implementation, or improvement of comprehensive, quality programs and services for children and their families. Collaboration within and across communities and service providers is emphasized. Assistance with grant-writing is also available.

Student Transportation Services Flexible, customized transportation services are available for regular and special education students who need to be transported to destinations, ranging from local areas to neighboring states. Our drivers and aides are specially trained to transport medically fragile students, as well as those with severe behavioral challenges.

Successful Journeys Ninth-grade students will have an opportunity to meet several times during the school year to explore diversity and multiculturalism, and to focus on the importance of respecting other cultures and perspectives. A variety of carefully crafted field experiences will challenge students to collaborate with student-peers from other participating towns as they solve challenging experiential exercises. Success will require effective communication and leadership skills, trust and respect. Students develop positive friendships and team-building skills.

Summer Musical Theater Program Each summer, northeastern Connecticut students who will be entering grades 4-12 may perform onstage or work behind the scenes in this exciting, Broadway-style, musical theater experience through EASTCONN's Capitol Theater Arts Academy (CTAA). This highly regarded summer program, which culminates in a fully staged show, takes place at the Capitol Theater, a state-of-the-art theatrical and teaching facility in bustling, downtown Willimantic.

Supporting Students' Behavioral Success: Team Training Training and technical assistance are available to elementary, middle and high school teams in the prevention and early intervention of social, emotional and behavioral challenges that interfere with students' success in school.

Teacher Education and Mentoring (TEAM) Program When you hired your new teachers, you made an investment in their potential. By providing mentoring and comprehensive induction, you can help novice teachers and students reach their potential. EASTCONN provides regional and in-district training and technical assistance to districts implementing Connecticut's Teacher Education and Mentoring (TEAM) Program. TEAM is a state-wide program that provides support for beginning teachers and mentors. In addition to training and technical assistance for mentors, beginning teachers, administrators, and TEAM Coordinating Committees members, our staff can assist your district in the development of a comprehensive induction system and provide coaching and resources tailored to meet your unique needs.

Teaching American History Curriculum & Support Access our free, nationally recognized and locally developed curriculum for teaching American history. Created by a professional learning community of American-history teachers from northeastern Connecticut, lessons focus on the use of primary sources and local resources, including those found at local museums and historical sites. Customization and on-site curriculum integration support are available.

Website: Free Teaching American History Lessons

Teaching American History Project Meeting in classrooms, museums and local historical sites, this dynamic community of learners is focused on making better use of local resources and primary sources in the teaching and learning of American history. Workshops, seminars and a summer institute feature highly regarded historians, university faculty and museum staff.

Website: Teaching American History Project

Teaming & Conflict Resolution EASTCONN can provide training, coaching and support to groups that must function as high-performance work teams. Learning how to manage conflict resolution is a critical part of effective team performance. Provide your teams with the skills they need to achieve their outcomes.

Technology Council EASTCONN’s Technology Council provides a forum for technology educators to come together around emerging trends and practices in technology. Practitioners share best practices and EASTCONN staff provide current information on emerging technology and the latest trends in educational technology. CSDE consultants attend and share information on the latest developments at the Department.

Technology Curriculum Integration Technology integration specialists work with educators to ensure that technology is integrated across the curriculum as a tool for teaching and learning. Our consultants can provide assistance in integrating 21st-century technology skills into your curriculum.

Technology Infrastructure Network Management Supplement your in-house staff with our technology infrastructure experts. We can help you with your infrastructure project, network support, product development or technology audits.

Technology Planning & Evaluation This service provides assistance for districts interested in creating or implementing a systemic and long-term technology plan that meets Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) requirements. Facilitation and support are available for all types of planning, from small projects to community-wide initiatives. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation support are also available.

Technology Professional Development & Coaching Our highly qualified educational technology specialists, who have expertise in curriculum and technology, train and coach teachers, administrators and support staff to integrate technology tools into their educational settings. Four broad areas of training are available that are aligned with the Connecticut Teacher Technology Competencies: educational technology concepts and operations; creating learning experiences; productivity and professional practice; and social, legal, ethical and human issues. Trainings can be held at your school, using your equipment, or at an EASTCONN facility.

The 4th R: Robotics Students in grades 4-8 are introduced to the world of robotics through this engaging program. While working in diverse engineering teams, students use problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to help them understand the role of robotics in today’s manufacturing environment. This program culminates with the annual EASTCONN Robotics Challenge. During the Challenge, students showcase their understanding of robotics by solving a unique engineering/manufacturing challenge that requires computer programming, engineering design and Lego parts.

Transition Planning - Birth-to-Three and Preschool-to-Kindergarten Early childhood specialists offer consultation to communities and schools regarding best practices for transitioning children into kindergarten. By facilitating a broad-based group, we can assist communities and schools in developing comprehensive transition plans that support successful, positive experiences for children and families.

Transitions to Post-Secondary Education This program helps guide students who will be completing one of EASTCONN's high school equivalency programs (the GED Diploma, the Adult Credit High School Diploma or the External Diploma), as they transition into a variety of post-secondary education and training programs.

Virtual High School Access more than 160 full-semester, online, high school and some middle school courses through a statewide consortium program. Courses are available in all content areas, including a selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program Volunteer tutors work with adult learners on basic reading, writing, math or English-as-a-Second-Language skills. Tutoring, provided free of charge, can be on a one-to-one basis or in a classroom setting. Tutoring is offered at multiple sites in EASTCONN-region towns. Adults interested in volunteering, as well as adult students who are in need of tutoring services, are encouraged to apply.

Water, Wildlife, People (WWP) Water, Wildlife & People focuses on ecosystems and man’s impact on water resources and wildlife habitats, as fourth-graders explore the concept of diversity through the study of natural environments — from local, aquatic, freshwater streams to the estuaries of eastern Long Island Sound.

Waves of History For students in grades 9-12, Waves of History combines diversity awareness with activities based on the history of immigration and the many ways in which immigration affects our society. Participants will take part in reading and writing workshops, and attend a conference during which they will hear from speakers who have immigrated to the United States. Students will explore their own families’ immigration history, and will be involved in a variety of other experiential activities that include EASTCONN Adventure team-building exercises.

Web-Based Instructional Strategies As the Internet expands exponentially and students must learn how to effectively harness its power, new Web 2.0 tools provide a wealth of resources and opportunities for educators. Highly qualified EASTCONN educational technology specialists provide training and coaching in using the latest Web 2.0 technologies as tools for teaching, learning and communication.

Wheelchair & Adaptive Equipment Consultation EASTCONN's certified assistive technology professionals (ATPs) are available to consult with school district teams regarding students' positioning and mobility needs. Services include assistance with evaluation, design and acquisition of equipment, such as customized power and manual wheelchairs, and positioning and mobility devices. EASTCONN's ATPs are also available for trainings and follow-up consultation.

Woodstock Academy: Cooperative Program This collaborative program between Woodstock Academy and EASTCONN provides services for high-school-age students (grades 9-12) with intellectual disabilities and other significant developmental disabilities. Individual service plans are developed through the Planning-and-Placement-Team process with the LEA. EASTCONN special education personnel and Woodstock Academy educators work together with individual students and families to facilitate student growth in identified educational areas and transition planning.

Workplace Education & Training Local businesses and non-profit agencies can customize a cost-effective package of literacy and English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) training components that meet their workforce development needs. Training can be provided in the workplace or at a convenient EASTCONN adult education site.

Young Adult Program Young adult students with developmental disabilities, ages 18-21, are assisted in their transition from school to work and with other adult responsibilities. This program is located at the Northeast Learning Center in Danielson.