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Professional development coordinators Katie Augustine and Melanie Kitchen recently represented Erie 1 BOCES at a statewide conference. The pair presented at the SCDN Project Based Learning and Assessments (PBLA) Professional Learning Day in Albany, NY. Their presentation focused on the introduction and implementation of PBLA. They voiced their support of initiatives to introduce Project Based Learning into classrooms and institute instructional practices that utilize multiple measures to assess student learning. Over 250 colleagues from BOCES throughout New York State were in attendance.

Katie Augustine’s expertise in Project Based Learning stems from her first-hand classroom experiences. She was trained by the “Buck Institute,” now “PBL Works,” in 2016 and implemented the hands-on project-based work into her classes. Intrigued and energized by the power of Project Based Learning, Katie continued learning about the instruction and assessment methods available to teachers. She now brings that knowledge into her role as a professional developer for teachers across WNY where she works with districts in getting Project Based Learning programs “off the ground.”   

Melanie Kitchen developed the “Consortium for Student Empowerment Through Innovation (CSETI)” and the new “Students to Start Ups Consortium” to support teachers in bringing Project Based Learning into their classrooms. Melanie began has been trained by the “Buck Institute,” now “PBL Works” and has been providing PBL coaching since 2017. Her belief that students are most successful when they are pursuing their passions and working collaboratively, has guided her work and made her an expert in bringing Project Based Learning programs to life.

Katie and Melanie are two of thirty-five professional development coordinators working for Erie 1 BOCES. The expertise of this team has positively impacted teachers and students throughout out our component districts. Erie 1 BOCES is so proud to have this incredible work showcased on a statewide stage.