In Greenburgh Central, learning doesn’t stop with students—it extends to everyone who helps them succeed. On the recent Superintendent Conference Day, teachers, aides, and staff from every department came together to engage in professional learning designed to strengthen instruction, deepen collaboration, and ensure safe, inclusive school environments that help all students thrive.
Shaped by Superintendent Dr. Lorenda Chisolm and the Executive Leadership Team, the day underscored a districtwide belief that continuous learning benefits every child. “The research tells us that teachers have the most direct impact on student achievement. Therefore, when we invest in our teachers and staff, we invest directly in our students’ success,” said Dr. Chisolm.
A central theme of the day was productive student discourse—helping students express their ideas clearly, listen respectfully to others, and build understanding through meaningful dialogue. In every building, teachers engaged in activities and discussions about how to create classroom cultures where all voices are heard and students learn to communicate with confidence. “When students talk through their thinking, they develop not only academic skills but also empathy, curiosity, and collaboration,” shared one building leader.
As an International Baccalaureate (IB) district, Greenburgh views productive discourse as directly aligned with the IB Approaches to Learning (AtL)—communication, social, and thinking skills that empower students to engage thoughtfully with complex ideas and with one another. By encouraging discourse, educators are cultivating the curiosity, compassion, and open-mindedness that define IB learners. Students learn not only what to think, but how to think—questioning, reflecting, and building understanding through conversation.
Professional learning throughout the district reflected this same spirit of inquiry and growth. Fine and performing arts educators participated in hands-on workshops through the Westchester Arts Leadership Association (WCALA), where they explored new creative practices and curriculum ideas to inspire students’ artistic expression.
Special education teachers, teacher aides, and teaching assistants took part in sessions on Proactive Classrooms: Tools for Preventing and Managing Challenging Behaviors, focusing on strategies to promote calm, responsive learning environments. This work supports both the academic and emotional needs of students, ensuring that all learners feel supported, understood, and ready to grow.
English as a New Language (ENL) teachers analyzed 2025 NYSESLAT data to identify trends and develop targeted action plans for multilingual learners. Security and operations teams, who play a vital role in maintaining safe and supportive schools, participated in both online and virtual sessions related to school safety, emergency response, and de-escalation to strengthen preparedness and collaboration in real-world situations.
“Professional development days remind us that we are all learners,” said Dr. Chisolm. “Everyone in our schools - teachers, aides, custodians, security staff, administrators - has a role to play in creating the kind of learning environment our students deserve. When we learn together, our students soar.”