The goal of the SWCEC Professional Development is to present a variety of opportunities to member and non-member districts that are of high quality, timely, engaging as well as informative. Some of the Collaborative focus areas include: restraint training; surface behavior management; therapy programming in the school system; adapted physical education; special education law and much more.
SWCEC would be happy to work with your district to provide professional development training. Please complete the Professional Development Inquiry Form and we will be in touch shortly.
Crisis Management, Deescalation, and Least Restrictive Physical Intervention Strategies (Safety Care)
Southern Worcester County Educational Collaborative Professional Development in crisis management, de-escalation, and least restrictive physical intervention strategies (Safety-Care) prepare educators to respond safely and effectively to student behaviors that may pose a risk to themselves or others. Training emphasizes proactive prevention, early identification of escalating behaviors, verbal de-escalation techniques, trauma-informed responses, and strategies for maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment. Participants also learn to implement least restrictive physical interventions only when necessary to ensure immediate safety, in accordance with district policies, state and federal regulations, and best practices.
Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS)
Southern Worcester County Educational Collaborative Professional Development in the foundations of Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) provides educators with the knowledge and skills to create supportive, proactive learning environments and creating consistent schoolwide practices that promote positive student behavior and academic success. Training focuses on establishing clear behavioral expectations, teaching and reinforcing appropriate behaviors, using data to guide decision-making, and implementing tiered interventions to meet diverse student needs.
IEP Development and the Team Process
Southern Worcester County Educational Collaborative Professional Development in Individualized Education Program (IEP) development and the IEP Team process provides educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop legally compliant, student-centered IEPs that support meaningful educational progress. Training focuses on understanding federal and Massachusetts special education regulations and timelines, writing measurable annual goals, identifying appropriate accommodations, modifications, and services, and ensuring active collaboration through the Team meeting process among educators, related service providers, families, and students.
Paraeducator Training
Southern Worcester County Educational Collaborative Professional Development for paraeducators provides the knowledge and practical skills needed to effectively support students, teachers, and the overall learning environment. Participants will acquire strategies for strengthening instructional practices, methods for reinforcing expected behavior, functions of behavior, systematic data collection, mindfulness, implementing Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS), and understanding professional boundaries.
Classroom Behavior Management Strategies
Southern Worcester County Educational Collaborative Professional Development in the area of classroom behavior management strategies focuses on equipping educators with effective, research-based techniques to create positive, productive learning environments. Participants will be provided with strategies for establishing clear expectations, implementing proactive behavior supports, restorative practices, fostering positive student relationships, and using consistent interventions to address challenging behaviors, reduce disruptions, and support the social-emotional growth and academic success of all learners.
Trauma Informed Care
Southern Worcester County Educational Collaborative Professional Development in trauma-informed care equips educators with the knowledge and skills to recognize the impact of adverse childhood experiences and trauma on students' behavior, learning, and overall well-being. Training emphasizes creating safe, supportive classroom environments through relationship-building, emotional regulation strategies, restorative practices, and culturally responsive approaches.
Reading/Writing Intervention Strategies
Southern Worcester County Educational Collaborative Professional Development in reading and writing intervention strategies will provide educators with evidence-based instructional practices to support students who require targeted literacy interventions. Training focuses on identifying student needs through assessment data, implementing differentiated instruction, and using research-based strategies to strengthen foundational reading skills, reading comprehension, written expression, and vocabulary development.
Post-Secondary Transition Supports and Career/Vocational Programming
Southern Worcester County Educational Collaborative Professional Development in post-secondary transition supports and career/vocational programming equips educators with the knowledge and skills to prepare students for successful post-secondary education, employment, and independent living. Training focuses on conducting age-appropriate transition assessments, integrating career exploration and vocational skill development into instruction, and collaborating with families, community agencies, and employers to support meaningful post-school outcomes.
Augmentative Alternative Communications
This program is designed to help professionals work with individuals with complex communication needs to determine the most appropriate technologies and communication strategies for communicating with partners in various context.