Education Through Music (ETM) courses are a refreshingly different way to approach learning in accordance with the nature of the child and our contemporary understanding concerning human behavior and cognitive development.  Founded and pioneered by Mary Helen Richards, ETM has been developed, tested, and implemented for more than 40 years in numerous schools in the U.S., Canada, and Japan. Song-experience games enacted throughout childhood frame the core material of ETM.  As children acquire this repertoire, they practice, analyze, and symbolize the song through pattern identification, play, mapping, and the formal reading, writing, and composition of language and song.  

Dates and location: (Nine classes, plus bonus Regional Conference held on April 14) November 3, 4, 5; January 30, 31; February 1; April 26, 27, 28; Floyd Marchus School, Concord

For info: Contact Marilyn Wollenweber at (925) 672-2250

Fee: $365

A webinar series, produced in partnership by the CCCOE, AT&T, Region IV CTAP, and East Bay Computer Using Educators, will be covering the issues surrounding digital citizenship.  These presentations are directed to school-district or school-site administrators, teacher leaders, and technology managers.  The one-hour sessions are presented by nationally recognized guest speakers, representing such services as NetSmartz and Common Sense Media.  Each webinar will leave time for questions from the participants.

Dates: Multiple sessions, October-February

For info: Visit their website

Fee: Free

Presented in six seminars, the series provides a broad range of opportunities for professional educators to learn research-based techniques and strategies from local and national professionals.  Keynote and breakout sessions cover a variety of topics and grade levels, and provide practical and purposeful tools for both general and special educators to improve teaching practice.  Networking opportunities with educators from other schools and districts are another key benefit.  The program meets BTSA Induction professional development requirement. Graduate academic credit or continuing education units may also be earned. 

Dates and location: October 29, November 19, January 28, February 25, March 24, and May 5; Saint Mary's College, Moraga

For info: Contact Lydia Wiley at 925-631-8124, or visit their website

Fee: $250 for full series registration, $60 for individual sessions

Deadline: October 15 for full series registration

ConocoPhillips and the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project have partnered for the 4th year to provide teachers in 26 cities, across 19 states with curriculum and training opportunities.  They believe it is important to provide professional development opportunities for classroom teachers and to introduce exciting and engaging energy curriculum to students in today's classrooms. The one-day energy classroom workshop will feature plenty of lesson plans, curriculum materials, and a set of Energy Infobooks for student research. Along with meals, parking, and materials, all attendees' substitute reimbursements will be covered.

For info: Contact W. Moss at (800) 875-5029 or visit the program's website