Asynchronous Courses Open Until August 31st, 2025

Beyond Classroom Walls: Cultivating Students’ Sense of Wonder and Respect in the Outdoors Asynchronous Course

Audience: Pre-K – 5th grade educators

Sign up to learn how to cultivate a deeper connection between students and the natural world while instilling values of environmental respect and stewardship. Explore the integration of math, literacy, and social studies into your science curriculum and outdoor experiences.

In this course, teachers will learn how to intentionally connect students, families, and community knowledge and practices to scientific concepts; making these connections visible is critical for effective and equitable science learning experiences. Together, teachers will delve into strategies that encourage students to see themselves as active participants in the natural world, fostering empathy and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Educators will learn how to shift students’ perspectives from being apart from nature to being an integral part of it. Teachers will learn how to facilitate wondering conversations that support student curiosity and sensemaking. Participants from eligible schools will have the opportunity to create a grant proposal for the OSPI Outdoor Learning Grant Program.

Teachers are encouraged to sign up with a partner or team to maximize impact of the course and to plan experiences around a shared science curriculum. 

Funding provided by the Washington State Legislature through the ClimeTime Proviso and is available to Washington State teachers only.

Understanding and Engaging Four-Year-Olds in Specialist Classes: Music, PE, Library, and More!

Audience: TK, PreK, and Preschool Specialists (music, PE, library, and others)

Unlock the magic of teaching four-year-olds! This course is designed to help specialist teachers in Transition to Kindergarten, preK and preschool settings (e.g., music, PE, library) adapt their teaching strategies to meet the developmental needs of four-year-olds. It focuses on how teaching four-year-olds differs from teaching elementary-aged children and provides practical tips on implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies and culturally responsive teaching (CRT) to support all learners.

Join this asynchronous course designed specifically for specialist teachers eager to make a lasting impact on their youngest students. The course provides examples for PE, music, and the library, but covers important content relevant to specialist teachers from any subject. Dive into developmentally appropriate strategies that enhance learning through engaging, hands-on activities tailored to each unique class setting. Discover fresh approaches to creating inclusive, joyful learning experiences that build confidence and skills in four-year-olds. Whether you’re new to early childhood education or looking to refine your approach, this online course will inspire you and enrich your practice.

Developmentally Appropriate Practice: An Introduction

Audience: Preschool, Transition to Kindergarten, and Kindergarten Educators

In this self-paced 10-hour online Canvas course, early childhood educators will explore the fundamental principles of Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) specifically tailored for preschool and kindergarten settings. Through engaging modules, participants will gain insights into creating enriching learning environments, fostering age-appropriate interactions, and aligning their teaching strategies with the developmental needs of young learners. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher seeking a refresher or a new educator eager to enhance your practice, this course provides practical tools and evidence-based guidance to elevate your teaching journey.

Modules include a variety of articles and videos to explore each topic, discussions with peers, sorting activities, and brief reviews.  

Module topics:

1. Introduction
2. Classroom Community (caring community, child guidance, social emotional learning)
3. Learning Environment
4. Schedules, Routines, & Transitions
5. Instructional Practices
6. Inclusion
7. Observing, Documenting, & Assessing Children's Development and Learning
8. Intentional Family Engagement
9. Demonstrating Professionalism
10. Course Review