Products and Services

Connect and Reflect was founded with the goal of providing quality professional development to teachers, instructional leaders and administrators through the use of state of the art technology – making professional development accessible to subscribers anywhere there is access to the internet – professional development that is part of a larger vision of a comprehensive literacy/school reform model leading to lasting school change.

Currently the focus of Connect and Reflect is professional development supporting kindergarten, first and second grade teachers with plans to move into intermediate instruction in the near future. Based on current research in comprehensive literacy instruction and No Child Left Behind/Reading First federal legislation, the following instructional modules are being developed with plans for additional topics and extensions of these topics in the future:

Instructional Contexts

• Readers Workshop
• Interactive Read-Alouds
• Shared Reading
• Guided Reading
• Writers Workshop
• Interactive Writing
• Environment Supporting Comprehensive Literacy

Elements of Effective Reading Instruction

• Phonological Awareness
• Phonics and Word Study
• Comprehension
• Fluency
• Vocabulary

Each instructional module is based on sound learning theory demonstrating principles of gradual release as teachers are supported in their study of specific instructional strategies. Modules will begin by introducing teachers to a topic leading them towards implementation in their classrooms with the following levels of learning:

• Setting the Stage (Introduction to Topic)
• We’re On Our Way (Demonstration/Modeling of Classroom Strategies)
• Take a Turn (Guided Practice of New Learning)
• You’re On Your Own (Independent Practice with Peer Support of New Learning)

In addition to all of the many features that can be seen in the Guided Tour, ongoing reflection and questions that guide teachers in discussion will support teacher learning groups in their thinking.

Support Services

Knowing that professional development does not stand alone in creating lasting change, CaR is committed to offering Support Services that will help you get the most out of your online professional development experience. Our qualified literacy consultants will help you to create a vision and implement a model that will result in lasting change for your district or school by identifying site-based needs such as:

• Role of administrators as instructional leaders
• Effective use of the online professional development
• Implementation of a literacy team
• Designation and role of a school facilitator or literacy coach
• Establishment of school learning groups

Resources for Funding:

http://www.freshpond.com/funding.html

Funding Programs:
. Title I, Part A
. Title I, Part A-SES
. Title III
. Title II, Parts A & D
. Title V, Part A
. Reading First
. Enhancing Education Through Technology
. 21st Century Community Learning Centers

Contact us today to discuss how we can help with your professional development needs!