Summer 2026 Session

**New Course** 3 Credits In-Service Course (45 Hours) Summer 2026: August 3^rd-7^th Instructor: Kim Kittredge, kkittredgeliips@gmail.com Class Description: This course discusses anxiety and why it has been rising in students over the past several years.  Educators will explore how student anxiety is increasing due to a shift from play-based to phone-centered activities, creating a landscape of real-world overprotection and virtual underprotection. Teachers will work to address rising levels of anxiety, depression, and social comparison; where they prioritize phone-free learning environments, promote meaningful in-person interaction, and strengthen student resilience. Through guided discussions and collaborative activities, participants will learn how to cultivate learning environments that reduce stressors, foster healthy social connections, and promote meaningful in-person interaction. A major emphasis of the course is on building student resilience—helping learners develop the tools to navigate challenges, manage emotions, and build confidence. Teachers will explore practical approaches such as creating phone-free classroom routines, strengthening classroom communities, and embedding supportive, relationship-centered practices into everyday instruction. By the end of the course, educators will be equipped with a variety of strategies to reduce anxiety, nurture resilience, and create a supportive where every student can thrive. This course is a must for all educators grades K–12.

**New Course** 3 Credits In-Service Course (45 Hours) Summer 2026: August 10^th-14^th Instructor: Kim Kittredge, kkittredgeliips@gmail.com Class Description: This course offers practical strategies to support new teachers as they navigate their first years in the profession.  It also serves as a valuable refresher for early-career educators (and any educators) seeking to strengthen their instructional foundations.  Participants will explore essential topics such as establishing effective routines, managing classroom environments, organizing grade systems, and supporting personal well-being. Participants will leave with a range of actionable approaches to begin the school year with confidence, clarity, and a positive mindset. This course is a must for all educators grades K-12.

**New Course** 3 Credits In-Service Course (45 Hours) Summer 2026: August 17^th-21^st Instructor: Kim Kittredge, kkittredgeliips@gmail.com Class Description: Educators taking this course will question how AI (Artificial Intelligence) is rapidly reshaping the future of education, making it essential for students to understand its impact and for educators to be prepared to guide them. This educator-focused course provides a clear, practical overview of AI and its role in modern learning environments. Participants will develop the knowledge and skills needed to effectively navigate AI tools and concepts within today’s evolving classroom landscape. This course is a must for all educators grades K-12.

**New Course** 3 Credits In-Service Course (45 Hours) Summer 2026: August 24^th-28^th Instructor: Kim Kittredge, kkittredgeliips@gmail.com Class Description: This course is for educators who want to learn to focus on establishing a structured, inclusive environment that encourages students to share ideas and engage in active, purposeful listening. Educators will also work on teaching effective dialogue; often referred to as oracy or accountable talk; that relies on explicit instruction, clear expectations, and targeted strategies that ensure that every student’s voice is heard. Teachers will work to ensure students are able to contribute meaningfully to daily classroom discussions. This course is a must for all educators grades K-12.