Based off our 5 Key Principles for Distance Learning PD Modules, each session will dive into one KP and then hone in on one big idea within that. We will offer a practical and applicable active learning experience followed by time for optional Q & A. The workshop is teacher facing, but any educator supporting classroom teachers is welcome and encouraged to attend. Attendance is not required at all sessions to sign up.

Tuesday, December 1, 2020 - 3:30 to 4:00 p.m.

Key Principle #1: Student & Teacher Connection

Big Idea: Teacher Presence

Wednesday, December 2, 2020 - 3:30 to 4:00 pm

Key Principle #2: Learning Structure & Sequence of Instruction

Big Idea: Accelerate Student Learning

Tuesday, December 8, 2020 - 3:30 to 4:00 pm

Key Principle #3: Content Presentation

Big Idea: Learner Variability UDL Design

Wednesday, December 9, 2020 - 3:30 to 4:00 pm

Key Principle #4: Collaboration Opportunities

Big Idea: Exploring Collaborative Activities

Tuesday, December 15, 2020 - 3:30 to 4:00 pm

Key Principle #5: Feedback Opportunities

Big Idea: Creating Feedback Opportunities

Audience: TK-12 educators, ALL content areas

For info: Open to all educators, please register at bit.ly/CCCOE5KeyMini-12-2020, we encourage you to share this flyer with your fellow educators

Fee: Free

According to the 2015-16 CA Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS), less than 50% of Contra Costa students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT+) feel SAFE or VERY SAFE at school, as compared to over 70% of their peers who identify as straight/heterosexual.

Dates: December 1, 1:00-4:00 p.m. * December 4, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

For info: Visit the workshops' Eventbrite link for details and registration

Fee: Free

Commercially Sexually Exploited Children (CSEC) refers to the act of sexually abusing a child for economic gain through force, fraud, or coercion. This Workshop will equip school staff, faculty, administrators, and anyone who works with the CSEC population.

CSEC Overview is a 45-minute introductory presentation to support school staff plus

Q &A.

The trainer will focus on:

Date: December 2, 10:00-11:00 a.m., on Zoom

For info: Questions email, register on Zoom,

Fee: Free

The CA STEAM Symposium will provide excellent peer-led professional learning, highlighting ideas, strategies, and innovations that work for ALL students. Our goal: Advancing STEAM Equity In All Learning Environments. This virtual symposium will include on-demand access to sessions to provide greater learning opportunities.

Dates: December 11-13

For info: Visit the event's website for details and registration #CASTEAM20

Fee: $145

In partnership with the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE), the California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA) and the University of California Los Angeles Center for the Transformation of Schools (CTS) offered this free online series. These virtual seminars provide families and educators with the tools and strategies they need to ensure greater equity for students who continue to be impacted by the COVID-19 school closures.

For info: Visit their website for numerous recent webinars

Fee: Free

ASCD's free webinar series brings experts in the field of education to a screen near you. These webinars address timely and relevant topics like student engagement, classroom technology, and instructional strategies. Webinars are archived and available as professional development on demand.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

Common Sense is the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the 21st century. Common Sense can help you prepare with remote teaching resources, family education materials, and research-backed strategies to ease stress and encourage learning.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

Californians Together has witnessed, through various hosted Zoom webinars and meetings, the need for people to be connected and wanting to share and learn from each other. With that in mind, they are offering various opportunities to uplift each other and at the same time make a difference for our students.

Dates: Tuesdays, 4:00–5:30 p.m.

For info: Visit their web page

Fee: Free

Code.org's Professional Learning Program is a year-long professional development experience for middle and high school educators interested in teaching Code.org's Computer Science Discoveries (Grades 6-10) or Computer Science Principles (grades 10-12) courses. Participants will explore Computer Science curriculum and tools, experiment with specific teaching strategies, and join a local community of teachers using this curriculum. Workshops are led by experienced Code.org facilitators and prepare all teachers to use the free curriculum and learn CS (no CS experience necessary). Teachers can apply to earn Continuing Education Units for their work.

Date and location: June 21 - June 25, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.; CCCOE , Pleasant Hill or Virtual (TBD)

For info: Contact Hilary Dito at (925) 942-3396 or Christen Northrop at 925-942-3435 or visit the program's registration page

Fee: See web page for price points, as well as scholarship opportunities

Our program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing as a Professional Preparation Program for the Clear Administrative Services Credential. In partnership with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA), CCCOE-ALP provides high-quality, researched-based professional learning and development for new leaders. Across the two year program, credential candidates expand and deepen their leadership knowledge, skills, and behaviors through individualized, job-embedded induction.

For info: Contact Julie Dooley at (925) 942-3357, or visit the program's web page

Dates: The enrollment window for the 2019-21 winter cohort is open through January 30, 2021, this cohort starts in January 2021

Join Travis Credit Union for FREE virtual events designed to teach youth (ages 13‑21) about financial aid opportunities for post-secondary education, choosing a school, and preparing for next-level education.

Dates: December 3 and 10

For info: Visit their website for additional info and registration

Computer Science Education Week is an annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn computer science, advocate for equity in computer science education, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers, and partners to the field.

Dates: December 7-13

For info:

*Computer Science Education Week website

*Hour of Code resources

*Learn Computer Science at home

*Join Code Bytes daily mini-lessons, streaming during Computer Science Education Week

The CCCOE is looking for additional members of the California Bar Association and second- and third-year law students to serve as Mock Trial scorers and judges at the upcoming 39th Annual Contra Costa County Mock Trial Program. New volunteers will be joining close to 100 practicing and retired Bay Area lawyers, district attorneys, public defenders, and judges who will be returning as Mock Trial scorers and judges. Due to COVID-19, this year's Mock Trials will be held virtually.

Dates and locations: January 26, 28, February 9, 11, 16, 5:00-8:00 p.m.; Virtual

For info: Contact Jonathan Lance at (925) 942-3429, or visit the Mock Trial web page

The Contra Costa County Community Awareness and Emergency Response (CAER) provides up to $2,500 grants to improve the preparedness of Contra Costa County schools and agencies in responding effectively to shelter-in-place emergencies. The proposed drills and exercises must have a stated list of objectives and goals that must be addressed.

For info: Contact Lori McDonald at (925) 313-9296 or visit CAER's website

Deadline: February 12

The National Science Teachers Association offers 17 different awards, with more than $80,000 in cash and prizes are just waiting to be claimed, that recognize teachers for their development and implementation of unique science programs and curricula, outstanding leadership and dedication to the profession. The NSTA awards offer recognition and a multitude of prizes for educators. Prizes include cash awards and grants, school supplies and materials, and trips to our national conferences. For more information or to download an application, visit the NSTA Teacher Awards Program website.

For info: Visit their website for additional information and registration

Deadline: December 10

The California State Library has launched a new website that streamlines all available state agency grants for education, small businesses, nonprofits, individuals, tribal governments, and more!

For info: Visit their website

The 2021 Civic Learning Award will shine light on the people and programs elevating a school's fundamental commitment to civics. Typical grants are between $2,500 - $10,000. This year, the Civics Learning Award seeks applicants/nominations for:

A SINGLE PROGRAM: One program that supports, promotes, and improves civic learning and advocacy opportunities for students. Programs paused during the pandemic, adapted for remote delivery, or created during quarantine all qualify.

CHAMPION OF CIVICS: Every great cause needs a champion who goes the extra mile to promote active citizenship among their students. Business owners, school personnel, parents, and members of the general public have all taken on the charge to make sure students in California take part in their democracy. If you know one, nominate them for a Champion of Civics Award!

For info: Visit their website

Deadline: February 12

ecoSolution™ Grants (previously called "Small Grants") have been the defining basis of Captain Planet Foundation's work over the last 25 years. In that time, they've funded more than 2,100 projects that have impacted 1.2 million youth around the world - actively fulfilling their mission to build the next generation of environmental stewards and change-agents. The grants range from $500-$2,500 and are intended to support solution-oriented, youth-led projects that result in real environmental outcomes. They are available to educators working with youth in the United States (international projects are by invitation only).

For info: Visit their website

Deadlines: Cycle 1: Opens September 15-Closes January 15 * Cycle 2: Opens March 15-Closes July 15

ecoTech™ Grants were created to combat the notion that students needed to choose between "the screen" or "the green" and to encourage educators and students to explore the role technology can play in designing and implementing solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges. We believe that technology can present innovative ways to address environmental challenges - and that when dealing with digital natives, we do ourselves a disservice by asking them to unplug. ecoTech™ Grants are specifically offered to engage children in inquiry-based, STEM-related projects that leverage technology and/or use nature-based design to address environmental problems in local communities.

For info: Visit their website

Deadlines: Cycle 1: Opens September 15-Closes January 15 * Cycle 2: Opens March 15-Closes July 15

The Contra Costa County Office of Education invites the community to explore its 2019-20 Annual Report to the Community online. The summary report for the agency includes information about how schools are funded, professional development courses offered, CCCOE student programs, plus much more.

For info: Visit this web page 

Poetry Out Loud is an exciting National competition started in 2005 by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation. The contest challenges high school students to memorize and recite poetry, a chance to showcase their talents, build self-confidence, and gain both an appreciation and understanding of poetry.

The Arts and Culture Commission of Contra Costa County has been an California Arts Council’s official local partner for Poetry Out Loud since 2007. Every Contra Costa County high school is encouraged to participate, and for the first time this year non-profit organizations and libraries may participate as well. Each year ten to fifteen high schools representing East, West, and Central County have participated. These include public schools, private schools, charter schools, alternative schools, court schools, and homeschool groups.

For info: Visit their website to learn more and enter

Deadline: January 8

Every year, the EngineerGirl website sponsors a contest dealing with engineering and its impact on our world. The topic and detailed instructions for the contest are posted in the fall with a deadline for submissions early the following year. Winners are announced in the spring.

For info: Visit their website for submission guidelines and contest details

Deadline: February 1

This scholarship opportunity is perfect for creative students. There is no required “theme,” but check out the Gallery website so that your card creation falls under one of the card lines featured. The Gallery website states that while Christmas cards are their biggest sellers, birthday and anniversary cards are also popular. Have a penchant for sympathy or “get well” messages? Those themes are also welcome.

For info: Visit their website

Deadline: March 9

The Contra Costa County Office of Education is working closely with Contra Costa Health Services to keep our communities informed regarding the Coronavirus emergency. The CCCOE is providing updated information and resources to schools and school districts in our county so they can offer accurate news to their communities.

The CCCOE Coronavirus web page features:

For info: Visit our web page at cocoschools.org/coronavirus

To encourage youth to reflect on the beauty and spirit of our state's beaches and ocean, this special contest challenges California students to create artwork or poetry using a California coastal or marine theme. Prizes, awarded to five separate grade-level categories, include $100 gift certificates to an art-supply or book store. Winners and honorable mentions will receive tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific. Each winner's teacher will receive a $50 gift certificate for education materials.

For info: Visit their website for submission guidelines and contest details

Deadline: January 31

The California Department of Education (CDE) is pleased to continue supporting the annual Directing Change Program and Film Contest. This event is sponsored by Each Mind Matters: California’s Mental Health Movement and the California Mental Health Services Authority as part of a collaborative statewide effort to prevent suicide, reduce stigma and discrimination related to mental illness, and promote the mental health and wellness of students. This statewide program invites California students from grades seven through twelve to create 60-second films about suicide prevention, mental health, and related cultural perspectives. The primary goal of the Directing Change Program is to support implementation and expansion of mental health and suicide prevention awareness efforts on school campuses.

For info: Visit their website for submission guidelines and contest details

Deadline: April 20

We encourage anyone who is interested in receiving monthly updates on adolescent health and wellness-related issues, including upcoming professional development opportunities and parent/family webinars to check out Health & Wellness Matters.

For info: To learn more and subscribe to Health & Wellness Matters, visit their web page

Fee: Free

The New York Times is working with Verizon to provide qualifying high school students and teachers with a free digital subscription through September. 1, 2021 — helping them stay connected to the world, even as it continues to change. Teachers or school administrators must first create a free account to be verified and then will be able to send their students an invitation email to access the subscription.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

Tools for Teachers is a new website featuring lessons and activities designed to enhance instruction, save time, and boost student learning. This online collection is the new formative assessment component of the Smarter Balanced assessment system and was developed with teachers across the state. Resources are aligned with the California Standards to help K–12 teachers target student needs using the formative assessment process. Formative assessment and accessibility strategies are embedded in every instructional resource and can be used in distance or hybrid learning environments.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

The Burn Institute offers free fire and burn-prevention programs to students in grades K to 6. Fire Safe Kids is a 25-minute presentation currently being provided remotely and designed in a fun, interactive format to teach children about fire safety through video clips, music, and colorful illustrations.

For info: Visit their website for more information and to request a free virtual presentation for your class; additional educational tools are also available at The Burn Institute website

Fee: Free

To help keep the online interactions of kids and teens safe, productive, and positive, @CommonSenseEd offers helpful guidance for families on social media basics. Learn about the latest apps and websites, and get tips on talking to your kids about sharing, posting, and avoiding digital drama.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

With the global coronavirus pandemic pushing kids' lives even more online, it's safe to say that the need for easily accessible mental health tools is more critical than ever. @CommonSenseED has identified a handful of resources designed for kids that allow for immediate support whenever and wherever they need it.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

East Bay Regional Park District is committed to the idea of lifelong learning and helping people make their own discoveries about our local parks. These resources are designed to be used at home, in a classroom, or part of any online education. Use these resources to build your own learning opportunities.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

High profile acts of violence, particularly in schools, can confuse and frighten children who may feel in danger or worry that their friends or loved-ones are at risk. They will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

When a large-scale tragedy occurs, it can cause strong and deeply felt reactions in adults and children. How adults express their emotions will influence the reactions of children and youth. Caregivers can help youngsters manage their feelings by modeling healthy coping strategies and closely monitoring their own emotional state and that of those in their care.

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

CASEL CARES is a new initiative that connects each of you in our global community with experts to address how Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) be most helpful in response to today’s circumstances. The program is filled with free resources and a weekly webinar.

For info: Visit their website

Cash for College workshops provide students and their families an opportunity to receive free, professional help to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CA Dream Act Application.

For info: A full list of upcoming workshops in your area is available online

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) website lets users create and administer online tests to their students and then compare their students' performance to national norms. You can assemble tests by selecting questions from more than 700 items that have been developed by AAAS Project 2061 to measure what students know in 16 key science topics.

For info: Visit their website

Looking for some additional quality Monday-Friday educational programming at home or in the classroom? Check out the latest edTV broadcasts here.

Programs scheduled include (times are approximate):

edTV can be found on Contra Costa County cable channels 32 (Comcast) or 99 (AT&T U-Verse)

For info: Daily schedule can be found here

The Library Commission is looking for new members. The commission serves in an advisory capacity to the Board of Supervisors and the county librarian, meets six times a year, and is currently holding meetings via Zoom. If you are passionate about libraries and live in Contra Costa County you could be the perfect candidate.

To see a list of the current vacancies and learn more about the commission, visit ccclib.org/commission. Applications, interviews, and appointment procedures vary for each city, town, or special district. If you would like to express your interest in serving on the commission, email Walter Beveridge.

The new Library of Things page on the website includes items like the Outdoor Explorer backpacks that can be used to explore East Bay parks and trails. The energy-efficiency kits include an electric use meter for testing home electric appliances and thermometers to test refrigerators, freezers and room temperatures. The kits can help improve energy efficiency in your home and may save you money. Visit ccclib.org/library-of-things for details and other fun and useful items available for checkout.

Library book drops are open. Please return any long-overdue library materials to your local community library. All items are quarantined for a minimum of 96 hours before being removed from the account. We do not charge daily overdue fines. Replacement and processing fees for long-overdue items will be removed when the items are returned in good condition. Visit any of the 24 libraries open for front-door service to return items. Grab bags of kids’ books are also available to borrow via front-door service. Check out a bag of five books, picked by library staff, in upper elementary, early elementary, easy reader, picture book, and board book genres.

A new resource is available for library cardholders. The Brainfuse JobNow and VetNow programs feature live online assistance and a wide range of tools for job seekers, students, and veterans. Job seekers can work with a career coach for help with searching, applying, and preparing for jobs and get access to free resume templates, a free resume builder, and feedback from experts.

VetNow was developed to help veterans’ transition to civilian life through live and interactive career assistance, academic tutoring, and more. This service can help veterans trying to translate military experience into a civilian resume and with understanding veteran benefits and community resources. Visit ccclib.org/resource to get started.

This is a free service that we are now piloting at six of our libraries. To print at the library, please email your request to one of the below locations:

Antioch Library: cccant2020@gmail.com

Bay Point Library: cccbay2020@gmail.com

Concord Library: ccccon2020@gmail.com

Hercules Library: cccher2020@gmail.com

Pittsburg Library: cccpit2020@gmail.com

San Pablo Library: cccspl2020@gmail.com

When picking up at the library, please let staff know your email address. Staff will then print your materials at a designated computer and bring them to the front door. Materials will be printed after you arrive at the library and you will have one week to retrieve print requests. To scan at the library, please go to the front door of one of the above six locations. You can request scanning of documents for printing or emailing to your email address.

Printing is in black and white only.

Double sided printing counts as one page per side.

Limit is 10 pages per person per day.

Visit ccclib.org to sign up for a library card and get connected to books and resources. For questions about library services and programming or account information, contact the library system via online chat, text questions to 925-290-7627 or email ask@library.cccounty.us.

For info: Contact the CWS Staff at (925) 655-0111 or visit their website