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District 15 staff describe May 2 institute day: new tech tools, curriculum pilots and teacher collaboration
Summary
Administrators summarized the May 2 institute day where teachers and staff worked in over 30 role‑specific sessions on new technology (MobileMind, PowerSchool, ParentSquare), curriculum pilots, and multilingual supports.
District leaders reported on the May 2 institute day, telling the board that teachers participated in more than 30 role‑specific professional‑development sessions designed to prepare for the 2025–26 school year.
District presentations said the day launched three technology platforms for staff preview — MobileMind (on‑demand learning), PowerSchool for Teachers (gradebook/attendance transition) and ParentSquare preparation — and allowed teams to refine curriculum and assessment plans. Presenters noted sessions ranged from algebra and social studies resource rollouts to STEM course planning and multilingual newcomer supports.
Why it matters: Institute days provide dedicated time for teachers to collaborate, align pacing guides and plan resource adoption. District staff said Substitute availability restricts during‑school training, making institute days an important opportunity to ensure consistent implementation across classrooms.
Highlights from the day - Teaching, Learning & Assessment: Middle‑school teams examined new math and social studies resources; pilots for K–5 health and middle‑school algebra were reviewed. - Multilingual and EL supports: Teams worked on asset‑based practices and strategies for newcomers; bilingual preschool staff reviewed behavior supports. - Educational services and special programs: Training addressed de‑escalation practices, literacy and math strategies for special‑education programs, and early‑childhood environment assessments.
Board follow up: Administrators said they will refine pacing guides and share updates with principals to ensure continuity for the fall. No board votes were required for the informational report.
Ending: District staff thanked leaders and highlighted that institute days require extensive cross‑department planning and support to prepare staff for the coming year.
