NJEA Consortium Endorses PINE Summit 2026
2026-04-23
About PINE
New York University’s Program for Inclusion and Neurodiversity Education (PINE) partners with schools and communities to build inclusive, accessible, and neurodiversity-affirming learning environments.
Through training, coaching, and practical resources, PINE equips teachers, educational leaders, related service providers, community organizations, camps, and caregivers with the knowledge and tools to implement neuro-affirming practices and build inclusive, accessible spaces wherever children learn and grow.
About the Summit
The PINE Summit is a dynamic virtual conference that brings together educators, administrators, clinicians, community programs, caregivers, and self-advocates who are committed to creating neuro-affirming environments where every child can learn and grow.
The 2026 PINE Summit, Inclusion in Action, goes beyond ideas to spotlight what meaningful inclusion looks like in practice. Across four engaging sessions, participants will gain fresh insights, real-world examples, and actionable tools designed to help translate inclusive values into everyday decisions, fostering more consistent, supportive experiences for neurodivergent children across the settings they move through each day.
Key Information
Organization: Program for Inclusion and Neurodiversity Education (PINE)
Affiliation: An initiative of New York University (NYU)
Event Name: 2026 PINE Summit: Inclusion in Action
Date: April 23, 2026
Location: Virtual
Event Page: pineprogram.org/summit
Hashtags: #2026PineSummit #PinePromise
Registration Questions: info@pineprogram.org

The History of the Indo-Caribbean Community for K-12 Classroom Teachers
2026-04-30 16:30 - 18:30 (America/New_York)
This sessions provides a basic overview of Indo-Caribbean history and culture, specifically geared towards K-12 teachers. The goal is to provide classroom teachers with an understanding of this unique cultural group as well as to open up possible curricular points of entry for teachers so that students can see representation of Indo-Caribbean stories in their curriculum.
Presenters: Antika Singh and Dakashna Lang, EdD

Untold Histories: Double Diaspora: Indo-Caribbeans Past and Present
2026-04-30 16:30 - 18:30
“Untold Histories: Double Diaspora: Indo-Caribbeans Past and Present.” webinar is cosponsored by NJEA and Empowered Voices. This session provides a basic overview of Indo-Caribbean history and culture, specifically geared towards K-12 teachers. The goal is to provide classroom teachers with an understanding of this unique cultural group as well as to open up possible curricular points of entry for teachers so that students can see representation of Indo-Caribbean stories in their curriculum.
Indo-Caribbean people are descendants of the laborers from the Indian subcontinent who were brought to the Caribbean as indentured servants during the colonial era. They are people of a double diaspora as many of them have now moved out of the Caribbean into other areas like Canada, the US, and the UK. They are often mistaken as immigrants directly from India, but are culturally different. They are a mixture of Indian, Caribbean, British Colonial, and Native cultures.
Presenters: Antika Singh, MSEd and Dakashna Lang, EdD
PD Certificates will be provided by NJEA. We are grateful to Dr. Noreen Naseem Rodriguez for funding this webinar.
Register for the webinar using this link.

Trauma-Informed Sex Education
2026-05-04 16:30 - 18:30
Understanding the effects that trauma can have on people is crucial to creating safe and supportive learning environments for students and people of all ages. We will define trauma, explore areas of sex education that may trigger past trauma, and identify strategies for creating trauma-informed learning environments.

ESPAN Spring Technology Night
2026-05-04 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 April 30, 2026.

Borders, Belonging, and What We Leave Out: Teaching Partition
2026-05-06 16:30 - 18:00
“Borders, Belonging, and What We Leave Out: Teaching Partition.” webinar is cosponsored by NJEA and Empowered Voices.
In most U.S. classrooms, South Asia gets covered superficially through religion and Gandhi. Two hundred years of British colonial rule and extraction? Maybe a paragraph. Millions of South Asian soldiers in both World Wars? Not mentioned. Partition, over 15 million displaced, communal violence, 1-2 million dead? A paragraph, if that. The connections to contemporary politics, nationalism, and division? Never made.

This workshop fills that gap. We trace the full arc – from British divide-and-rule policies through hastily drawn borders that split communities overnight, to what came after and continues to shape modern South Asia today. And through it all, the continued resilience of the people. This workshop opens up essential conversations about empire, borders, resistance, identity and belonging, shared trauma, the power of oral histories, and why this matters now.

This workshop is open to everyone. Educators will also walk away with a resource guide of readings, videos, and book recommendations for K-12 classrooms.

Presenter: Antika Singh, MSEd Sponsored by: Dr. Noreen Naseem Rodríguez, Department of Teacher Education, Michigan State University

PD Certificate will be provided by NJEA

Register: click this link.

Disrupting Microaggressions Against Asian Americans: An Anti-Bias Workshop for Educators
2026-05-11 16:30 - 18:30
In this workshop, educators from all disciplines come together to deepen their understanding of their AAPI students. Together, we explore the complex history and multifaceted identity of the AAPI community, unpack shared experiences and stories, counter harmful stereotypes and misconceptions, and address the troubling issue of anti-Asian hate. Educators will leave with a better understanding of the AAPI diaspora, narratives, and lived experiences, empowering them to create more inclusive and culturally responsive educational spaces.

Communities of Practice Connect: Lead & Learn: A Community for Educator Leaders
2026-05-12 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.

AI to Support Inclusion for Students with Learning Differences
2026-05-12 16:30 - 18:30
This session explores how AI can support inclusive practices by assisting with IEP documentation, accommodations, and differentiated instruction. Emphasis is placed on equity and accessibility, and how AI tools can help all educators deliver on that promise.

2026 NJTESOL/NJBE Spring Conference
2026-05-19 - 2026-05-20 | Hyatt Regency New Brunswick, 2 Albany St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, NJ
The in-person conference will take place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Brunswick on May 19-21. You can register for one, two or all three  days. The conference will feature three keynote speakers: Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan, Dr. Sharroky Hollie, and Dr. Margarita Machado-Casas.
In addition, you’ll select from many presentations approved for the continuing education requirement, network with your colleagues, and obtain the latest information on state and national initiatives. You can also meet with representatives at the sponsors’ and exhibitors’ booths to find the latest and greatest teaching tools. You can earn professional development hours throughout the day.
The Video Library Conference is a select collection of presentations you will have access to view starting on May 27 using our conference platform. There is no set schedule, and you will be able to view the workshops from May 27 to Aug. 20. By using your unique login, your hours will be tracked so that you can earn professional development hours. Please note that the select collection of presentations will not include the keynotes or special invited guest speakers.
Presentation topics will include Advocacy, Social Justice, and Policy; Supporting Newcomers, SLIFEs and Refugees; Family and Community Engagement; Dual Identified/Special Populations; Early Learning and Family Practices; Social Emotional Learning; Content-Integrated Approaches; Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking; Technology; Language Assessment; Program Administration and Evaluation
Registration and more information
Registration includes one free year of membership.
Visit njtesol-njbe.org/spring-conference for more information and to register.
For other conference questions, email Caia Schlessinger, conference coordinator, at conference-coordinator@njtesol-njbe.org.

All In Conference
2026-05-28 08:00 - 15:30 | Kean University, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union, 07083, United States
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to spend the day learning from passionate experts sharing valuable insights, practical resources, meaningful support, and real-world experience across a wide range of disciplines — all united by one powerful mission: creating inclusive education for ALL learners.
Regular registration is open through May 14th — secure your spot today!
Register today

Youth Summer Solidarity Summit
2026-06-30 10:00 - 18:00
We welcome high school students to join us for the Youth Summer Solidarity Summit at Princeton University Carl A. Fields Center. All 9th-12th grade students are welcome, whether you already consider yourself an activist or just want to learn how to be empowered to learn the skills and tools to create inclusive and safe spaces.

Would you like to learn more about the movements for social justice and how to participate? Are you interested in strengthening your skills to work for a just, equitable, and sustainable world? Are you passionate about changing the world (e.g., climate change, queer/trans rights, immigration and global conflicts)? Please join us for workshops, panel discussions, breakouts, food and fun!
You will:

learn concrete skills for creating real-world change
sharpen your analysis of race, gender, class and power
connect with a multiracial community of peers and mentors
have a meaningful experience to add to your resume
receive a certificate of volunteer hours for your attendance at the summit

Where: Princeton University, Carl A. Fields Center
Who: All high school students in grades 9–12

Register: Registration Link

Creating a Culture of Kindness
2026-09-15 16:30 - 18:30
Learn various simple yet powerful practices that you and your students can use to develop an attitude of gratitude that will increase resilience, motivate kindness and bring positive results to the whole school community. Presented by SEL4NJ.

Certification 101
2026-09-24 16:30 - 18:30
Figuring out the certification process can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a new teacher or a local leader supporting members, 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.
Presented by NJEA PDII Staff.

Remixing Learning with AI
2026-09-28 16:30 - 18:30
NJEA’s PDII Consultants: Mike Mason, Brian Janik
AI is a powerful tool for educators looking to remix, rethink, and improve their practice. In this hands-on session, participants will explore how AI can generate new ideas and build on existing materials by creating, adapting, and refining resources for planning, communication, feedback, and differentiation. The session also connects these strategies to evolving state guidance on AI, helping educators align instruction with emerging curriculum priorities.

Immigration Rights
2026-10-06 17:00 - 19:00
This one-hour workshop helps New Jersey educators understand the rights of immigrant students and families and the legal responsibilities of schools. Led by an immigration attorney or legal expert, the session covers key protections in K–12 settings, including students’ right to a free public education, privacy requirements, and limits on school cooperation with ICE. Through realworld scenarios, educators learn how to respond appropriately, support families, and maintain a safe, welcoming, and legally compliant environment.
Presented by NJEA & The Latino Institute.

4th annual Pluralistic Education Conference
2026-10-08 09:00 - 15:00
Please join us at Princeton University Carl A. Fields Center for our 4th annual Pluralistic Education Conference on October 8 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

In person seats will be reserved for educators.
Virtual attendance is open to all.

Program
Welcome – Laura Zhang-Choi of The E Pluribus Unum Project
Keynote Address – Dr. Venkat Ramaprasad, NJ Educator and Founder of Heartfirst
Keynote Address – Dr. Kim Pinckney of NJEA Consortium
Workshops Offered

Toward a Pluralistic Approach to Teaching and Learning
Integrating AAPI Studies in the Classroom
Native Women and Allies Speak: What We Weren’t Taught in School
Integrating Latine American History into the K-12 Social Studies Curriculum
How to foster difficult conversations in the classroom
Spirit and Intent: LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Content in the Classroom

Inclusive Leadership: Belonging, Power, and Leading Through Conflict
2026-10-20 16:30 - 18:30
This interactive workshop explores inclusive leadership during moments of tension, change, and conflict. Grounded in research and educational practice, participants examine belonging, bias, power, and decision-making. Through reflection, dialogue, and applied scenarios, participants will strengthen their capacity to lead with clarity and care, confront inequities with intention, and navigate conflict in ways that support individual and collective growth.
Presented by NJEA & Forty Four Training and Consulting.

Supporting LGBTQ+ Students: The Law, Their Lives, Our Jobs
2026-10-28 16:30 - 18:30
This session will provide background on the fundamentals of vocabulary and statistics related to LGBTQ+ youth, as well as an in-depth examination of NJ law related to LGBTQ+ youth and how to support our students. In addition, a section of the presentation focuses on how to address pushback from staff, administration, and the community while complying with the law.
Presented by NJEA’s PDII Consultants: Pam Koharchik & Katie Burke

The Suffrage Timeline (What’s it Worth)
2026-11-09 16:30 - 18:30
Participants are immersed in the sacrifices made to secure the right to vote—from the nation’s founding to the ongoing fight against voter suppression today. They join a human suffrage timeline, taking on assigned avatars who fight for and gain not just the legal right, but also the ability to cast their vote.
Presented by NJEA & Energizing Young Voters.

Road to Wellness
2026-11-16 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.
Presented by Rutgers Behavioral Health.

Survivor Speaks and How to Bring them to your Classroom
2026-11-18 16:30 - 18:30
This program guides educators through the process of identifying, vetting, and hosting guest speakers in their classrooms. Participants will learn best practices for preparing students, coordinating logistics, and maximizing the educational impact of speaker visits. The session then transitions to a powerful account that highlights the lasting impact of genocide and underscores the importance of remembrance, education, and advocacy.

Exploring The Intersection of SECD, Technology and AI
2026-12-02 16:30 - 18:30
This interactive session explores technology and AI through a Social-Emotional and Character Development (SECD) lens. Participants will examine the digital spaces students navigate daily and connect SECD competencies to communication, self-regulation, and responsible decision-making online. The session also reframes digital citizenship as applied SECD while addressing AI ethics, emotional well-being, and critical thinking in tech-saturated environments. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to elevate student voice, agency, and responsible digital engagement.
Presented by NJEA & SEL4NJ.

Arts Integration Foundations
2026-12-03 08:00 - 16:30
Arts integration is an effective strategy for cultivating a positive climate and culture and deepening student engagement. This workshop will immerse participants in the fundamental components of high-quality arts integration and arts enhanced teacher practice. Drawing upon New Jersey’s Arts Integration Think and Do Workbook, participants will identify realistic goals and develop concrete actions to guide their arts integration work. This workshop is effective for preK-12 educators across all arts disciplines, as well as non-arts educators seeking to make interdisciplinary connections.
Presented by NJEA & Arts Ed NJ.

How to be an Askable Adult
2026-12-08 16:30 - 18:30
It’s essential that young people have trusted adults to go to when they have questions about their bodies, relationships, sexuality, and much more. Knowing how to be approachable and effectively answer important questions students ask are critical skills for all adults who have young people in their lives. This workshop provides strategies, tips, and best practices for engaging with young people about their sexual health, answering important questions, and addressing harassing or inappropriate comments students may make in class.
Presented by NJEA & Answer.

Survivors’ perspectives on Human Trafficking and Its Impact on Our Schools
2027-01-06 16:30 - 18:30
This survivor-led presentation will cover the realities of sex and labor trafficking in our state and the risks to school-age children. Online exploitation and the myths of trafficking will be explored, with real-life scenarios provided to illustrate what teachers might encounter in the classroom. The session will also include guidance on how teachers can raise awareness among their students through free online lesson plans offered by the NJ Coalition Against Human Trafficking that align with NJ Learning Standards.
Presented by NJEA & NJCAHT.

Structures & Systems: Unpacking Power, Privilege, and Systemic Inequity
2027-01-12 16:30 - 18:30
This sensitivity training session will have participants delving into the complex layers of injustice and their impact on educational environments. They will explore individual biases, institutional inequities, and structural racism to develop a comprehensive understanding of how these factors intersect and influence educational outcomes.
Presented by NJEA’s PDII Consultants: Brenda Martin-Lee, Shan Byrd, Deanne Martini

LGBTQ+ Curriculum Inclusion
2027-01-20 16:30 - 18:30
This professional development session enables teachers, paraprofessionals, and other stakeholders with practical strategies to create LGBTQ+ inclusive classrooms that meet New Jersey legal requirements while supporting all students’ wellbeing and belonging. Participants will learn age-appropriate ways to integrate LGBTQ+ perspectives across existing curriculum (K-12 lesson examples provided), use inclusive language that affirms diverse identities, and respond confidently to bias incidents, parent concerns, and colleague resistance.
Presented by NJEA’s PDII Consultants: Pam Koharchik, Katie Burke

Finding the Balance: Ethical AI Use in the Classroom
2027-01-27 16:30 - 18:30
Can AI deepen student thinking, or is it quietly eroding students’ ability to think independently? Drawing on current research and policy conversations, this session helps educators find the balance between using AI and limiting technology in the classroom. Participants will discuss and explore how AI is reshaping academic integrity, online safety, and critical thinking, while also examining its impact on the environment.
Presented by NJEA’s PDII Consultants: Mike Mason, Brian Janik

Part 1-We Will Never Stop Teaching Black History
2027-02-01 16:30 - 18:30
This session grounds participants in the historical, political, and educational significance of African American history in K–12 classrooms. We will explore:

The ongoing struggle over whose history is taught and why it matters
Key historical narratives often excluded or minimized in traditional curricula
The connection between African American history, student identity, and academic engagement
Strategies for integrating culturally responsive and historically accurate content across subject areas

Participants will leave with practical entry points, sample resources, and a clearer understanding of how to confidently teach this content in today’s educational climate.
Presented by NJEA Members: Sundjata Sekou, Talena Lachelle Queen, Muneerah Higgs and Sari Alburtus.
