Welcome to the Oregon Trail REN Mentor Program. Our goal is to offer the tools, resources, and training that are needed for each district to support their beginning teachers at the highest level. We look forward to working with you as you take on the role of of a mentor. 

The collaborative nature of our program is designed to help mentors gain professional knowledge from training and resources AND from the expertise and experience of other mentors in our region. Mentoring is greatly beneficial to beginning teachers and students.

teachers who have mentors are twice as likely to stay in the profession then those who do not. 

students whose teachers had mentors gained an additional two-five months in reading and math compared to those without mentors.

A 3 hour Foundational Training in September (with a make-up training in early October).

Trainings will be in 3 locations (Hermiston/Umatilla, Pendleton, and La Grande) to meet individual scheduling needs of the mentor teachers.

Monthly 1-3 hour after school meetings (both in person and hybrid) starting in October.

Regular communication with the program lead, Beth Naughton.

***Please note that this event is for MENTORS AND MENTEES.

Welcome to the Oregon Trail REN Mentor Program. Our goal is to offer the tools, resources, and training that are needed for each district to support their beginning teachers at the highest level. We look forward to working with you as you take on the role of of a mentor. 

The collaborative nature of our program is designed to help mentors gain professional knowledge from training and resources AND from the expertise and experience of other mentors in our region. Mentoring is greatly beneficial to beginning teachers and students.

Research shows:

teachers who have mentors are twice as likely to stay in the profession then those who do not. 

students whose teachers had mentors gained an additional two-five months in reading and math compared to those without mentors.

Training commitment includes:

A 3 hour Foundational Training in September (with a make-up training in early October).

Trainings will be in 3 locations (Hermiston/Umatilla, Pendleton, and La Grande) to meet individual scheduling needs of the mentor teachers.

Monthly 1-3 hour after school meetings (both in person and hybrid) starting in October.

Regular communication with the program lead, Beth Naughton.

Attention all regional K-8 counselors, behavior specialists, interventionists, and counseling support staff:

Join fellow K–8 counselors from across the region for a dynamic and collaborative virtual PLC session. This is a dedicated space to connect with peers, share strategies, and engage in meaningful conversations about the real issues impacting your work. Together, we’ll explore hot topics in the counseling field, exchange resources, and work through problems of practice to uncover fresh perspectives and solutions. Whether you’re seeking support, new ideas, or simply the chance to collaborate with colleagues who “get it,” this session is designed to empower and inspire your counseling practice.

Mentorship Program Foundational Training – Mentor Teachers

This session will provide mentor teachers with an overview of program expectations, including roles, responsibilities, and timelines for the year. Participants will explore strategies and resources to support a strong start with their mentees, build positive relationships, and lay the groundwork for a successful mentoring partnership throughout the school year.

If you have any questions regarding the training, please contact Beth Naughton, the project lead.

beth.naughton@imesd.k12.or.us

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
8. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

Superintendent/administrator social. Superintendents and administrators are invited to participate in this social gathering, sharing ideas around best practice and debriefing the beginning month of the school year. Hors d'oeuvres and non alcoholic beverages will be provided.

✨ Attention all Classified staff! Join us for in-person training designed just for paraprofessionals and support staff! Build new skills, gain practical strategies, and connect with colleagues who share your commitment to supporting students.

✨ Training focuses will vary in accordance with participant requests

✨ Intermountain Education Service District will provide free appetizers & non-alcoholic drinks

✨ Share with your colleagues & join us for meaningful learning in a fun and casual setting!

IMESD Board Meeting

Superintendent/administrator social. Superintendents and administrators are invited to participate in this social gathering, sharing ideas around best practice and debriefing the beginning month of the school year. Hors d'oeuvres and non alcoholic beverages will be provided.

Investigations Playbook with Rebekah Jacobson

Attention all regional K-8 counselors, behavior specialists, interventionists, and counseling support staff:

Join fellow K–8 counselors from across the region for a dynamic and collaborative virtual PLC session. This is a dedicated space to connect with peers, share strategies, and engage in meaningful conversations about the real issues impacting your work. Together, we’ll explore hot topics in the counseling field, exchange resources, and work through problems of practice to uncover fresh perspectives and solutions. Whether you’re seeking support, new ideas, or simply the chance to collaborate with colleagues who “get it,” this session is designed to empower and inspire your counseling practice.

PACE Regional Day

IMESD, Lodgepole/Ponderosa

Lunch will be provided

Morrow & Umatilla Counties

OSBA Legislative Roadshow Meeting

Monday, October 6

6:00 p.m. Dinner

6:30 p.m. Meeting

Wildhorse Resort and Casino - Cayuse Room

46510 Wildhorse Blvd

Pendleton, OR. 97801

Districts will be invoiced for dinners - no cancellations prior to two weeks of event

OSBA Legislative Roadshow - Baker & Union Counties'

Tuesday, October 7

6:00 p.m. Dinner

6:30 p.m. Meeting

Eastern Oregon University, La Grande

Gilbert Event Center

Districts will be invoiced for dinners - no cancellations prior to two weeks of event

Rooted in best practices, this training opportunity will grow beginning teachers through their first two years of teaching.

The G.R.O.W. New Teacher Training Series is designed to help first- and second-year teachers build confidence and skills throughout the school year. This series focuses on:

1. Goals — setting clear goals for professional growth and student success
2. Routines, Rules & Relationships — creating effective classroom systems and strong connections with students
3. Organizing — designing organized classrooms and clear communication strategies
4. Workshop — collaborating and learning with other beginning teachers

Teachers will attend three full-day trainings (October, November, and January) and participate in learning walks to see best practices in action. Together, we’ll build a supportive network, share ideas, and GROW as educators.

OTREN Administrator Collaborative Event will be held at the Pendleton IMESD office in Lodgepole/Ponderosa. Dinner will be provided. If you are interested in attending please contact McKennon McDonald at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us

Rooted in best practices, this training opportunity will grow beginning teachers through their first two years of teaching.

1. Goals — setting clear goals for professional growth and student success
2. Routines, Rules & Relationships — creating effective classroom systems and strong connections with students
3. Organizing — designing organized classrooms and clear communication strategies
4. Workshop — collaborating and learning with other beginning teachers

1. August 18th- GROW Kick-Off/Orientation 9:00-4:00pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
2. October 14th- Learning Walk in the morning (please meet at the IMESD La Grande Conference Room at 7:30am) and afternoon workshop until 3:30. Lunch is provided.
3. December 5th- full day workshop 8:00am to 3:30pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
4. February 20th- full day workshop 8:00am to 3:30pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
5. March 12th- Learning Walk in the morning (please meet at the IMESD La Grande Conference Room at 7:30am) and afternoon workshop until 3:30. Lunch is provided.

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
8. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

IMESD Board Meeting

ODE Civil Rights Annual Training on Section 504

ODE Civil Rights Annual Training on Title VI

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

This is a time when representatives from each of the OTREN partner districts come together to evaluate, plan, and inform the work of the Oregon Trail REN for the 2025/2026 School Year and beyond.

The mission of our REN is improve professional support for Oregon's public educators with an emphasis on local context to ensure training is responsive to the local strengths and needs of each region.

Our AIM is: By June 2027, 80% of educators will apply learnings from their participation in Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network Programming to improve their practice, grow professionally, and positively impact student learning.

Lunch is provided

Attention all regional K-8 counselors, behavior specialists, interventionists, and counseling support staff:

Join fellow K–8 counselors from across the region for a dynamic and collaborative virtual PLC session. This is a dedicated space to connect with peers, share strategies, and engage in meaningful conversations about the real issues impacting your work. Together, we’ll explore hot topics in the counseling field, exchange resources, and work through problems of practice to uncover fresh perspectives and solutions. Whether you’re seeking support, new ideas, or simply the chance to collaborate with colleagues who “get it,” this session is designed to empower and inspire your counseling practice.

Rooted in best practices, this training opportunity will grow beginning teachers through their first two years of teaching.

The G.R.O.W. New Teacher Training Series is designed to help first- and second-year teachers build confidence and skills throughout the school year. This series focuses on:

1. Goals — setting clear goals for professional growth and student success
2. Routines, Rules & Relationships — creating effective classroom systems and strong connections with students
3. Organizing — designing organized classrooms and clear communication strategies
4. Workshop — collaborating and learning with other beginning teachers

Teachers will attend three full-day trainings (October, November, and January) and participate in learning walks to see best practices in action. Together, we’ll build a supportive network, share ideas, and GROW as educators.

This virtual gathering is part of the Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network's Administrator Collaborative Series. The roundtable will be facilitated by Mike Scott from RightTime Coaching and will cover relevant, real-time issues that our regional educational leaders are facing. Please make sure to register to get the link. Contact me at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us if you have any questions.

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
8. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

IMESD Board Meeting

What is GROW?

Rooted in best practices, this training opportunity will grow beginning teachers through their first two years of teaching.

The G.R.O.W. New Teacher Training Series is designed to help first- and second-year teachers build confidence and skills throughout the school year. This series focuses on:

1. Goals — setting clear goals for professional growth and student success
2. Routines, Rules & Relationships — creating effective classroom systems and strong connections with students
3. Organizing — designing organized classrooms and clear communication strategies
4. Workshop — collaborating and learning with other beginning teachers

Teachers will attend five days of trainings and learning walks. Together, we’ll build a supportive network, share ideas, and GROW as educators.

1. August 18th- GROW Kick-Off/Orientation 9:00-4:00pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
2. October 14th- Learning Walk in the morning (please meet at the IMESD La Grande Conference Room at 7:30am) and afternoon workshop until 3:30. Lunch is provided.
3. December 5th- full day workshop 8:00am to 3:30pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
4. February 20th- full day workshop 8:00am to 3:30pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
5. March 12th- Learning Walk in the morning (please meet at the IMESD La Grande Conference Room at 7:30am) and afternoon workshop until 3:30. Lunch is provided.

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
8. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

This virtual gathering is part of the Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network's Administrator Collaborative Series. The roundtable will be facilitated by Mike Scott from RightTime Coaching and will cover relevant, real-time issues that our regional educational leaders are facing. Please make sure to register to get the link. Contact me at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us if you have any questions.

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
8. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

Rooted in best practices, this training opportunity will grow beginning teachers through their first two years of teaching.

The G.R.O.W. New Teacher Training Series is designed to help first- and second-year teachers build confidence and skills throughout the school year. This series focuses on:

1. Goals — setting clear goals for professional growth and student success
2. Routines, Rules & Relationships — creating effective classroom systems and strong connections with students
3. Organizing — designing organized classrooms, lessons, and clear communication strategies
4. Workshop — collaborating and learning with other beginning teachers

Teachers will attend three full-day trainings (October, November, and January) and participate in learning walks to see best practices in action. Together, we’ll build a supportive network, share ideas, and GROW as educators.

This virtual gathering is part of the Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network's Administrator Collaborative Series. The roundtable will be facilitated by Mike Scott from RightTime Coaching and will cover relevant, real-time issues that our regional educational leaders are facing. Please make sure to register to get the link. Contact me at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us if you have any questions.

This is a time when representatives from each of the OTREN partner districts come together to evaluate, plan, and inform the work of the Oregon Trail REN for the 2025/2026 School Year and beyond.

The mission of our REN is improve professional support for Oregon's public educators with an emphasis on local context to ensure training is responsive to the local strengths and needs of each region.

Our AIM is: By June 2027, 80% of educators will apply learnings from their participation in Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network Programming to improve their practice, grow professionally, and positively impact student learning.

Lunch is provided

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

IMESD Board Meeting

OTREN Administrator Collaborative Event will be held at the Pendleton IMESD office in Lodgepole/Ponderosa. Dinner will be provided. If you are interested in attending please contact McKennon McDonald at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us

OTREN Administrator Collaborative Event will be held at the Pendleton IMESD office in Lodgepole/Ponderosa. Lunch will be provided. If you are interested in attending please contact McKennon McDonald at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
8. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

IMESD Board Meeting

Rooted in best practices, this training opportunity will grow beginning teachers through their first two years of teaching.

1. Goals — setting clear goals for professional growth and student success
2. Routines, Rules & Relationships — creating effective classroom systems and strong connections with students
3. Organizing — designing organized classrooms and clear communication strategies
4. Workshop — collaborating and learning with other beginning teachers

1. August 18th- GROW Kick-Off/Orientation 9:00-4:00pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
2. October 14th- Learning Walk in the morning (please meet at the IMESD La Grande Conference Room at 7:30am) and afternoon workshop until 3:30. Lunch is provided.
3. December 5th- full day workshop 8:00am to 3:30pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
4. February 20th- full day workshop 8:00am to 3:30pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
5. March 12th- Learning Walk in the morning (please meet at the IMESD La Grande Conference Room at 7:30am) and afternoon workshop until 3:30. Lunch is provided.

This is a time when representatives from each of the OTREN partner districts come together to evaluate, plan, and inform the work of the Oregon Trail REN for the 2025/2026 School Year and beyond.

The mission of our REN is improve professional support for Oregon's public educators with an emphasis on local context to ensure training is responsive to the local strengths and needs of each region.

Our AIM is: By June 2027, 80% of educators will apply learnings from their participation in Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network Programming to improve their practice, grow professionally, and positively impact student learning.

Lunch is provided

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
8. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

Rooted in best practices, this training opportunity will grow beginning teachers through their first two years of teaching.

1. Goals — setting clear goals for professional growth and student success
2. Routines, Rules & Relationships — creating effective classroom systems and strong connections with students
3. Organizing — designing organized classrooms and clear communication strategies
4. Workshop — collaborating and learning with other beginning teachers

1. August 18th- GROW Kick-Off/Orientation 9:00-4:00pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
2. October 14th- Learning Walk in the morning (please meet at the IMESD La Grande Conference Room at 7:30am) and afternoon workshop until 3:30. Lunch is provided.
3. December 5th- full day workshop 8:00am to 3:30pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
4. February 20th- full day workshop 8:00am to 3:30pm at the La Grande IMESD Conference Room
5. March 12th- Learning Walk in the morning (please meet at the IMESD La Grande Conference Room at 7:30am) and afternoon workshop until 3:30. Lunch is provided.

This virtual gathering is part of the Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network's Administrator Collaborative Series. The roundtable will be facilitated by Mike Scott from RightTime Coaching and will cover relevant, real-time issues that our regional educational leaders are facing. Please make sure to register to get the link. Contact me at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us if you have any questions.

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

IMESD Board Meeting

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. March: AI for Visual Learning
8. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
9. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

IMESD Board Meeting

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

OTREN Administrator Collaborative Event will be held at the Pendleton IMESD office in Lodgepole/Ponderosa. Dinner will be provided. If you are interested in attending please contact McKennon McDonald at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us

OTREN Administrator Collaborative Event will be held at the Pendleton IMESD office in Lodgepole/Ponderosa. Lunch will be provided. If you are interested in attending please contact McKennon McDonald at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us

This is a time when representatives from each of the OTREN partner districts come together to evaluate, plan, and inform the work of the Oregon Trail REN for the 2025/2026 School Year and beyond.

The mission of our REN is improve professional support for Oregon's public educators with an emphasis on local context to ensure training is responsive to the local strengths and needs of each region.

Our AIM is: By June 2027, 80% of educators will apply learnings from their participation in Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network Programming to improve their practice, grow professionally, and positively impact student learning.

Lunch is provided

Join us for a yearlong series of virtual Tech Talks focused on how AI is reshaping teaching and learning. Explore practical tools, ethical considerations, and classroom-ready ideas with fellow educators.

Goals

🔹 Build AI literacy for teachers and leaders

🔹 Explore ethical, student-centered applications of AI

🔹 Connect and collaborate in a growing AI-focused educator network

Monthly Tech Talks

Tech Talks will run from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Register for each Tech Talk on the IMESD Events Calendar. Each month is linked to it's specific registration page.

1. September: Teaching AI Literacy: Helping Students Think Critically About AI
2. October: AI for Lesson Planning: Work Smarter, Not Harder
3. November: AI-Powered Differentiation: Reaching Every Learner
4. December: AI for Teacher Workload: Communication, Admin Tasks, and More
5. January: AI for Feedback & Grading — and the Ethics Behind It
6. February: AI & Writing: From Brainstorming to Revision
7. April: AI as a Thinking Partner – Using AI to Spark Deeper Inquiry
8. May: Future-Proofing: Where AI is Headed — and How Educators Can Prepare

Looking to get the most out of IXL in your classroom? Join us for our monthly virtual training sessions designed to help educators explore new features, discover best practices, and strengthen their instructional use of the platform. Each session provides hands-on guidance, tips for integrating IXL into daily practice, and time to get your questions answered. Whether you’re new to IXL or looking to deepen your expertise, these monthly trainings will give you fresh ideas and practical strategies to support student learning and engagement.

**Please note: Participants are welcome to attend these sessions IN-PERSON at the Pendleton IMESD. Our trainer will be on hand to answer questions, coordinate school visits, and provide customized coaching.

IMESD Board Meeting

This virtual gathering is part of the Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network's Administrator Collaborative Series. The roundtable will be facilitated by Mike Scott from RightTime Coaching and will cover relevant, real-time issues that our regional educational leaders are facing. Please make sure to register to get the link. Contact me at mckennon.mcdonald@imesd.k12.or.us if you have any questions.

IMESD Board Meeting

IMESD Board Work Session