PD Opportunities Reach New Heights

CVES and its component districts continue to invest in forward-thinking professional development that prepares educators for the evolving landscape of teaching and learning. This work began in fall 2024, when Dr. Bill Daggett, Founder of the Successful Practices Network, challenged regional leaders to rethink the future of education in a world shaped by workforce demands and artificial intelligence.

Dr. Daggett emphasized that educators are no longer simply deliverers of information, as students can access knowledge instantly online. Instead, schools must focus on helping students apply learning, think critically, and prepare for an ever-changing future. His message sparked important conversations among superintendents across the North Country about transforming education to better meet the needs of today’s learners.

Building on this foundation, Thomas Hawkins, Manager of Content and Innovation at the Successful Practices Network and the National Dropout Prevention Center, provided deeper insight into the role of artificial intelligence in education. His presentation explored AI as a tool for efficiency, a creative resource for instruction, and an ethical responsibility that schools must thoughtfully manage.

Educators learned about ethical AI policy development alongside practical applications, including generative tools for creating images, videos, and instructional materials. Throughout the session, Hawkins emphasized responsible implementation that aligns with each district’s values, culture, and instructional goals.

In May 2025, this professional learning journey continued with Dr. Linda Jordan, Educational Consultant with the Successful Practices Network, who focused on the neuroscience behind learning and the impact of modern technology on student engagement.

Dr. Jordan’s training highlighted how understanding how the brain learns can help educators better connect with students and support meaningful learning experiences. Fifteen of CVES’s sixteen component districts participated in this session, demonstrating strong regional commitment to improving instructional practice. Additionally, twelve districts have engaged in ongoing training with Dr. Jordan on the R3 Learning Model, which emphasizes Rigor, Relevance, and Resilience. This work centers on building student resilience as a pathway to deeper learning and higher levels of academic rigor.

One district already putting this learning into action is the Northeastern Clinton Central School District. Superintendent Robb Garrand has been a strong example of how to operationalize the concepts from Dr. Jordan’s training through five focused practice areas, ensuring that professional learning translates into meaningful change for students and staff. His leadership reflects the broader impact of this professional development initiative across the region.

By aligning professional development with research, neuroscience, and future-focused practices, educators across the North Country are strengthening their ability to engage students, build resilience, and prepare learners for success in school, careers, and life.