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Shenendehowa rolls out professional learning platforms, emphasizes ethical AI and wellness
Summary
District leaders described a professional learning plan that added on‑demand platforms (KickUp Learning and Otus), wellness offerings, peer‑led professional development, and training on generative AI for staff and students.
A district staff presenter described the Shenendehowa Central School District’s professional learning plan at a study session, highlighting new platforms and a continued push for staff wellness and teacher‑led learning.
Why it matters: The plan guides professional development across the district and includes tools the district will use to manage compliance training, track professional learning and offer on‑demand courses to teachers and staff.
The presenter said the district had more than 1,200 participants in last year’s professional development offerings and expanded wellness and mental‑health workshops at the January superintendent’s conference day, with partners including the Capital District YMCA and CDPHP. Staff‑led PD is increasing; the district reported having a professional learning committee and growing interest from teachers to present to peers.
For 2025‑26 the district purchased two software products: KickUp Learning, a professional learning management system that the presenter said will allow the district to track training and analyze participation, and Otus for Educators, which provides on‑demand courses. The presenter said the district will move mandatory compliance trainings to the new platform to encourage adoption and that videos of key orientation sessions had already been uploaded so mid‑year hires can view them.
The plan also includes training for operational staff on generative AI tools and an interest in micro‑credentialing so staff can complete training on their own schedules. The presenter said the initial focus is on ethical and developmentally appropriate use of generative AI for students and staff.
Board members asked about licensing and whether the district will require completion; the presenter said the platforms are yearly licenses and that some online modules include embedded quizzes.
Ending: The presenter said rollout will continue with small‑group pilots and that the district will use the platforms to centralize training and compliance records.
