In-Service Workshops

MPY is committed to bringing cutting-edge information and high-quality professional development to Massachusetts educators, students, and parents. Workshops are facilitated by experts recognized in the fields of education, psychology, social work, counseling, and student safety.

MPY partners with members to tailor workshops to meet the individual school’s unique and varied needs. Each member district/organization may select up to five in-service workshops annually. The following workshops are available for staff and parents. MPY does not offer PDPs and/or CEUs for in-service workshops.

For more information or to schedule workshops, please contact Prevention and Education Coordinator, Amy Welch at amy@mpyinc.org.

Request a Workshop

  • Please submit requests at least two months in advance, if possible.
  • Individuals must register to participate.
  • A minimum attendance of 25 is required for each workshop. In-service workshops may be cancelled at MPY’s discretion due to low attendance.
Request a Workshop

In-Service Workshops

The following workshops are available for staff, students and parents. Workshops are offered both in person and via Zoom. MPY requires a minimum of 25 participants for staff workshops and a minimum of 40 participants for parent and caregiver workshops. Exceptions are made on a case by case basis.

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Featured image for The Importance of Play: Why Playful Learning is Crucial in Early Education (In Person Only)

The Importance of Play: Why Playful Learning is Crucial in Early Education (In Person Only)

"Play is nature's training for life." — Friedrich Froebel

Play is how young children explore, discover, and make sense of the world around them. For children in the early years, play is not a break from learning — it is the learning. It is how they connect with others, develop emotionally, feel safe, and experience a genuine sense of belonging.

In his landmark book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt makes a compelling case that the erosion of play-based childhood — driven by screens, mobile devices, and shifting societal norms — has had a profound impact on the well-being of today's youth. Current research affirms that free play, social play, imaginative play, and nature-based play are not enrichment extras — they are developmental necessities. Add the lasting emotional impact of the pandemic, and the urgency becomes clear: play is needed now more than ever.

Ideal for educators in Pre-K through Grade 3.

Social and Emotional Learning
Featured image for Understanding and Responding to Cultural Influences in Early Childhood Education (Remote Only)

Understanding and Responding to Cultural Influences in Early Childhood Education (Remote Only)

This professional development workshop supports teachers of young children in examining how culture shapes development, learning, and classroom interactions. Participants explore the meaning of culture in early childhood education classrooms and reflect on how children’s identities, family experiences, and community values influence the way they learn and express themselves. This workshop is intended for PreK - Gr. 2 staff.
Social and Emotional Learning
Featured image for Supporting Student Success: Understanding the Transition from IEPs to College Disability Services (Evenings Only)

Supporting Student Success: Understanding the Transition from IEPs to College Disability Services (Evenings Only)

Transitioning from high school to college brings exciting opportunities—and important changes—for students with disabilities. This one-hour presentation will explore how disability services, supports, and student responsibilities shift in the college environment. Participants will learn the key differences between high school and college support as well as what those differences mean in practice for access, accommodations, and self-advocacy. Practical strategies to help students prepare for a successful transition as well as information on a range of college programs and supports will be discussed.
Education and the Law
Featured image for Stronger Together: Supporting Your Teen's Mental Health & Well-Being

Stronger Together: Supporting Your Teen's Mental Health & Well-Being

Get practical tips to listen, respond and create supportive spaces at home. Learn how to support your youth through mental health and relationships and strengthen your skills at being the trusted person your child can turn to when they need to talk.
Parent Student Assemblies