Professional Development

NEA Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly
2025-07-03 - 2025-07-06
This year’s Representative Assembly will take place in Portland, Oregon from Thursday, July 3 through Sunday, July 6.
Learn more at ra.njea.org and nea.org.

NJEA PDII Impact Conference
2025-07-16 | Hyatt Regency Princeton, 102 Carnegie Center, Princeton, NJ, United States
Empowering Education Ecosystems: IMPACT on Tomorrow

Engage in restorative learning sessions, wellness activities and networking opportunities. Let’s explore strategies for creating inclusive classrooms and communities.
Featuring a keynote by Dr. Shelley Moore. Based in British Columbia, Dr. Moore is a highly sought-after inclusive education researcher, teacher, consultant and storyteller. She has worked with school districts and community organizations around the world. Her research explores how to support teachers to design for all learners in grade level academic classrooms that include students with intellectual disabilities using strength-based and responsive approaches. Shelley completed her undergraduate degree in special education at the University of Alberta, her master’s degree at Simon Fraser University and her Ph.D. at the University of British Columbia.
Cost
$95 for NJEA members.
Registration and refund deadline: July 8, 2025.
Fee includes program, breakfast and lunch.
Conference provides five hours of professional learning credit.
Make an IMPACT with us!

NJEA R.I.S.E. Conference
2025-07-23 | Rowan College at Burlington County, 900 College Cir., Mt Laurel Township, NJ, 08054, United States

NJEA Jack Bertolino Summer Leadership Conference (SLC)
2025-07-26 - 2025-07-30 | Harrah’s Atlantic City, 777 Harrah’s Boulevard, Atlantic City, 08401, United States
The 2025 NJEA Jack Bertolino Summer Leadership Conference will offer a broad menu of workshops that equip members to become stronger association advocates. Most workshops offer 7.5 hours of training. A longer workshop providing additional hours of training is available for newer presidents.
If you are an NJEA member, you are eligible and encouraged to attend. You will find topics among the 31 workshop offerings that will prepare you for your current or future roles, sharpen your leadership skills, and show you how your local can develop to its full-functioning capacity.
There are two sets of three-day programs:

Workshop I – July 26-28 (Saturday to Monday)
Workshop II – July 28-30 (Monday to Wednesday)

Not all of the 31 workshops are offered in each workshop period. The workshop descriptions indicate when any given program is scheduled. To accommodate educational support professional members (ESP) who may wish to limit use of vacation or personal time, Workshop Number 24 runs from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon.
For all other workshops, registration begins on Day One at 1 p.m. The opening session commences at 3 p.m. Day Three ends with a brunch, which is served at 10:30 a.m. following the final workshop session.
This year’s summer leadership conference will take place at Harrah’s Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. The conference is dedicated to developing association advocate representatives. Accordingly, no professional development credit is given for attendance in any seminar.
How do I register?
The purpose of this article is to alert members to this training opportunity and describe the workshop programs available this year, but to register you need to talk to your local and/or county association president.
Local and county association presidents will receive registration brochures with detailed information on the 2025 NJEA Jack Bertolino Summer Leadership Conference. You must contact your local president and consult that brochure to learn more about lodging, daily schedules, accommodations for members with special needs and registration.
Special needs
If you have a special physical or communication need or other disability that may require assistance or accommodations to permit or facilitate your attendance and participation, or if you have any questions or concerns about housing arrangements, please contact NJEA at 609-599-4594, ext. 2270 by June 1.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available for first-time attendees. See your local and/or county president for more information.
Pricing and payment
Conference costs for all attendees include workshop materials, self-parking, organized meals and coffee breaks, entertainment, taxes and service fees. Pricing for members staying overnight also includes hotel accommodations and taxes.
The pricing for all workshops, except Workshop #1 is as follows:

Commuter – $275 per session
Double Occupancy – $325 per session
Single Occupancy – $450 per session

Since an additional training occurs in September for Workshop No. 1, Now That I’m President, What Do I Do?, the costs are higher for it. Pricing for Workshop #1 is Commuter: $425; Double Occupancy: $475; Single Occupancy: $600.
Registrations will only be accepted online this year. Members will have to register themselves for the conference – there is no group registration using this online system. When registering, members will need to know their NJEA PIN and have all necessary conference information, including workshop choice, accommodation needs, and roommate selection if a double room is chosen. Members can either pay with a credit card or indicate that the payment will be made by check. All registrations are pending until payment has been received. Credit card payments will be processed within three business days and confirmations will be emailed at that time. Check payments take approximately two weeks to be processed from when they are mailed. Pending registrations, whether paid by check or with credit card, are not guaranteed and are subject to hotel and workshop space availability. Final confirmations will be emailed once the payment has been received and processed by the conference registrar.
Most associations pay for members to attend SLC. Each association will determine the best way for them to either reimburse their members or pay NJEA directly. Once a member completes their registration, they can print a registration receipt and will also receive a pending confirmation email. If a member pays with a credit card or personal check, they can submit their confirmation email/registration receipt and proof of payment for reimbursement. If the association is paying for its members to NJEA directly, members should forward the confirmation email/registration receipt to the association designee who will collect and print them, and then mail copies, along with a check made payable to “NJEA Summer Leadership Conference” to the address listed below. Please note that credit cards can only be used for individual registrations and group payments must be made using a check. It is strongly recommended that check payments be mailed within three business days after the registration process has been completed.
Checks must be made payable to “NJEA Summer Leadership Conference” and returned with registration material to:
NJEA Summer Leadership Conferencec/o WSFS BankPO Box 13661Philadelphia, PA 19101-3661
Please note that registrations and payments are mailed to the bank first where checks are deposited. Afterwards, registration materials are sent to NJEA for processing. Therefore, deposited checks should not be viewed as confirmation that a registration has been accepted and processed. If the conference is sold out, a refund will be issued.
Which workshop(s) should I take?
NJEA offers many advocacy conferences with a large array of workshops. Selecting which to take can be a daunting task. Whether you are currently serving in a leadership position or you aspire to become involved in some capacity within your local association, there are trainings that can help develop and hone your skills. To guide you, positions within the association are listed on this page, followed by workshops that would be beneficial to you.
You will discover that being an officer is not the only position within your association, and there are opportunities to get involved in other ways. Additionally, we have included a track for those exploring future leadership. Please note that not all of these workshops are offered at the Summer Leadership Conference and may be offered at other conferences throughout the year. These courses are not listed in any particular order and are not mandatory to serve in any position. Not all of the workshops offered at the Summer Leadership Conference are listed on the next page, so please review the entire booklet before making your selection.

Safer Science Summit
2025-07-28 - 2025-08-01 | Harvard University, Boston
In career settings, scientists are expected to design experiments with hazard analyses and safety protocols built into the system. The Safer Science Summit helps teachers design science lessons that equip students to graduate safety-conscious and career ready.
This conference is for educators from grade 6 through higher education.
The Safer Science Summit ensures students become scientifically literate individuals who can effectively:

Apply scientific thinking, skills, and understanding to real-world phenomena and problems in a safe manner that anticipates hazards and risks.
Engage in systems thinking and modeling that integrates safety considerations in every step.

Irrigating Books Deserts
2025-09-08 16:30 - 18:30 (America/New_York)
BookSmiles (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) promotes literacy and the joy of reading by giving books to children throughout Philadelphia and NJ. They provide students and younger siblings with high-quality new or gently used books, laying the groundwork for academic success. Educators – especially those who represent Title I schools – receive books for classroom libraries, students to keep at home, and pop-up book fairs. Their motto is: “We irrigate book deserts!”

AI in Action: Enhancing Student Learning Through Artificial Intelligence
2025-09-09 16:30 - 18:30
This session explores how students can use AI tools responsibly, with a focus on academic integrity, safety, and critical thinking. Participants will examine real classroom examples and discuss ethical concerns around equity and misuse.

Certification 101: A Panel for Novice Educators
2025-09-25 16:30 - 18:30
If you’re just starting out as a teacher in New Jersey, figuring out the certification process can feel overwhelming. Featuring a panel of experts, this webinar will break it all down! We’ll walk you through the different types of certificates and endorsements, how to apply through NJEdCert, and how to move from provisional to standard certification. You’ll also get tips on timelines, avoiding common mistakes, and where to find support.

ESPAN Fall Technology Night
2025-09-25 17:30 - 19:30 | NJEA Headquarters, 180 W. State Street, Trenton, New Jersey, 08608, United States
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools for ESPs
This session is designed for ESPs and provides an entry point to AI by exploring ChatGPT and other tools that are relevant to their roles. Throughout the workshop, participants will have
the opportunity to ask questions, collaborate with their peers, and engage in hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of AI.
Google Open Forum
Google Open Forum is an opportunity for participants to ask and answer all their burning questions about using google tools in the classroom. This session is designed so NJEA Google experts can walk participants through the steps to answer questions as well as facilitate conversations between members. Google open forum is a unique experience every time.
It is highly recommended that participants bring a laptop or Chromebook. Mobile devices will result in a diminished experience.
Pre-registration is required by Sept. 22.

Teaching English Literacy Skills to SLIFE Students
2025-09-29 16:30 - 18:30
Many Multilingual Learners come to U.S. schools with gaps in formal education, making literacy development especially challenging. This workshop offers practical strategies to support these students in building foundational literacy skills while learning English. Educators will explore tools for scaffolding instruction, creating inclusive environments, and addressing the unique needs of students with limited or interrupted education.

Black Boys: A Journey into Identity, Opportunity & Hope
2025-10-04 10:00 - 12:30
Join us for a screening of Black Boys, a powerful documentary by Executive Producer, Malcolm Jenkins, exploring the intersection of race, education, and identity in America through the lens of Black men and boys. This poignant film challenges stereotypes and celebrates the beauty, vulnerability, and resilience of Black identity. Following the screening, engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the film’s themes and their implications for social justice, equity, and systemic change. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn and inspire change.

Communities of Practice Connect: Thriving, Not Just Surviving: Strategies for Educators During Challenging Times
2025-10-09 16:00 - 17:30
“Communities of Practice are groups of people who share a common concern, set of problems, or passion about a topic, and deepen their knowledge and expertise in this area by interacting on an ongoing basis.”
– Etienne Wenger
Katherine Burke and Pamela Koharchik
The education landscape is constantly evolving, and navigating challenging times can be exhausting. This highly interactive community provides educators with practical tools and strategies to build resilience, manage stress, and create a positive classroom environment even in the face of obstacles.
Learn more about the NJEA PDII Community of Practice here.

Communities of Practice Connect: Leaning into AI
2025-10-09 16:00 - 17:30
“Communities of Practice are groups of people who share a common concern, set of problems, or passion about a topic, and deepen their knowledge and expertise in this area by interacting on an ongoing basis.”
– Etienne Wenger
Michael Mason and Brian Janik
This interactive conversation dives into the transformative potential of AI in education. Explore ethics & impact, discover powerful learning tools & strategies, and gain the confidence to integrate AI effectively. Share your own favorite AI tools, strategies, and questions to foster a collaborative learning environment!
Learn more about the NJEA PDII Community of Practice here.

Communities of Practice Connect: The Anxious Generation Book Club
2025-10-14 16:00 - 17:30, 2025-12-09 16:00 - 17:30
“Communities of Practice are groups of people who share a common concern, set of problems, or passion about a topic, and deepen their knowledge and expertise in this area by interacting on an ongoing basis.”
– Etienne Wenger
Deanne Martini and Brenda Martin-Lee
Description: Join us for a thought-provoking book club exploring The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. This powerful read unpacks how today’s digital world is reshaping childhood—and what that means for the students we teach. Together, we’ll discuss the rise in youth anxiety, the impact of screen time, and what educators can do to foster connection, resilience, and well-being in and beyond the classroom. Whether you’re new to the topic or already deep in the conversation, this is a chance to reflect, share, and grow with fellow educators. Let’s explore how we can better support this generation—together.
Learn more about the NJEA PDII Community of Practice here.

Communities of Practice Connect: Lead & Learn: A Community for Educator Leaders
2025-10-14 16:00 - 17:30, 2025-11-11 16:00 - 17:30, 2025-12-09 16:00 - 17:30
“Communities of Practice are groups of people who share a common concern, set of problems, or passion about a topic, and deepen their knowledge and expertise in this area by interacting on an ongoing basis.”
– Etienne Wenger
Brenda Martin-Lee, Christine Candarella, Deidre Varga, Estefania Rios, Hillary Raszka, Jonathan Ayer, Johanna Amaro
Are you a teacher who inspires others and helps move education forward? Whether your role is formal or informal, if you’re someone who supports colleagues, shares expertise, and works to strengthen teaching and learning—this community is for you.
You might be an instructional coach, PLC facilitator, I&RS team member, mentor, cooperating teacher, or someone who simply steps up to lead from the classroom. Whatever your title, you’re playing a vital role in shaping practice and influencing positive change.
This community of practice is your space to connect with fellow educator-leaders, exchange ideas, celebrate wins, navigate challenges, and grow together. Join us to collaborate, reflect, and energize your work alongside others who share your passion for impact.
Learn more about the NJEA PDII Community of Practice here.

Turning Empathy into Social Action
2025-10-14 16:30 - 18:30
Join us for Turning Empathy into Social Action, a workshop exploring how empathy and social entrepreneurship can empower students to drive change. Learn strategies to cultivate global citizenship and guide students in creating innovative, impact-driven projects. Gain practical lessons, activities, and resources to inspire the next generation of changemakers.

NJEA Konscious Educators Virtual Training Series - Laying the Foundation for Transformational Teaching (Part 1)
2025-10-16 16:30 - 18:30
Join us for a six-part immersive experience designed to empower NJEA educators with mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and heart-centered leadership tools to reduce stress, deepen connections and enhance teaching impact. Each session included energizing activities, guided practices, community connection, and knowledge sharing—creating an engaging and supportive space for reflection, learning, and growth.
This session introduces Konscious Educators’ core philosophy — Embodiment, Transformation, and Awakening — and how this approach supports educator well-being and student engagement.

Educator Evaluation in 2025 and Beyond
2025-10-16 16:30 - 18:30
Curious about what’s on the horizon with educator evaluation in New Jersey? This webinar gives you the latest updates. We’ll cover recent developments and what may be different this year, what’s being talked about for the future (including 2027 revisions), and how local educators and associations can play a role in shaping the system. Join us for helpful, up-to-the-minute information that will help you feel more informed and prepared.

Broadening Horizons: Highlighting the Diversity of Scientific Discovery
2025-10-28 16:30 - 18:30
Science has always been a global pursuit, and reclaiming this legacy helps engage students from diverse backgrounds. This workshop offers lesson plans and strategies to integrate stories of ancient and modern scientists into middle and high school instruction. From early alchemists to innovators like Percy Lavon Julian and Katalin Karikó, these narratives help create a more inclusive and inspiring science classroom.

Who We Are & What We Bring: A Journey into Bias and Belonging
2025-11-10 16:30 - 18:30
In this foundational session of sensitivity training, participants will embark on a journey of self-discovery and awareness of their biases. Through interactive activities and thoughtful discussions, attendees will explore their multicultural identities, confront personal and societal biases, and learn strategies to promote inclusivity in their daily lives.

Reflective Listening: The key to productive conversation
2025-11-17 16:30 - 18:30
Many of us have had training in public speaking, but when was the last time you had formal training in listening? A necessary part of any conversation, listening is a complex activity that encompasses many components that come together to help us better understand others. In this highly interactive session, participants will learn key ways to listen, understand, and engage with each other to practice these skills. Because of the highly participative nature of this program, participants will need to be in a stable environment (not driving) and have their cameras on throughout this experience.

An Introduction to AI
2025-11-18 16:30 - 18:30
This two-hour workshop provides a basic overview of artificial intelligence and its practical applications. We will explore text, image, and presentation generators such as ChatGPT. Throughout the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, collaborate with their peers, and engage in hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of AI.

NJEA Konscious Educators Virtual Training Series - The Power of Mindfulness & Emotional Intelligence in Teaching (Part 2)
2025-11-20 16:30 - 18:30
Join us for a six-part immersive experience designed to empower NJEA educators with mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and heart-centered leadership tools to reduce stress, deepen connections and enhance teaching impact. Each session included energizing activities, guided practices, community connection, and knowledge sharing—creating an engaging and supportive space for reflection, learning, and growth.
This session focuses on self-awareness and emotional regulation, helping educators cultivate calm, balance, and focus to create a thriving learning environment.

Road to Wellness
2025-11-24 16:30 - 18:30
The session presents strategies for personal wellness and teaches members how to take care of themselves during stressful times. Participants will have a chance to practice the eight dimensions of personal wellness and learn how to incorporate small, simple changes into their daily lives in order to promote general well-being. Promotional items to encourage healthy habits are provided.

Fostering a Sense of Belonging in Your Students
2025-12-02 16:30 - 18:30
A strong sense of belonging is essential to student success; however, helping all students feel a sense of belonging requires more than just good intentions. With diverse identities and needs in every school, how can we foster inclusive environments where everyone feels seen and valued? This interactive session explores the foundational role of belonging, the adult’s responsibility in shaping school climate, and the common barriers that hinder connection. Participants will leave with practical strategies and best practices to create a more inclusive and supportive learning community for all.

Using the Learning Forward Standards in the Classroom and Beyond
2025-12-04 16:30 - 18:30
This webinar explores how the Learning Forward Standards for Professional Learning can be used to strengthen teaching practice, support collaboration, and drive continuous improvement—not just during PD sessions, but in everyday classroom life. We’ll look at practical ways to apply the standards to lesson planning, team meetings, and schoolwide initiatives, helping educators connect professional learning to real-world impact. Whether you’re new to the standards or looking to go deeper, this session will offer ideas you can use right away

From Silence to Solidarity Confronting Microaggressions with Intention
2025-12-08 16:30 - 18:30
This second session delves into the nuanced yet profound realm of microaggressions and their profound impact on marginalized groups. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of various types of microaggressions, including racial, gender, LGBTQ+, religious, and intersectional examples. Through interactive discussions and real-world scenarios, attendees will learn to identify microaggressions in everyday situations and educational settings.
