Early Childhood Educator Training: Unlocking the MELTS - 1/13/26
About:
Join us for an engaging training designed to bring clarity and confidence to your early childhood instruction. Explore all seven domains of early learning and discover how to use the Missouri Early Learning Tools (MELTS) to support developmentally appropriate, play-based teaching.
Each participant will receive a MELTS book and leave with ready-to-use lesson plans, strategies, and activities for immediate classroom application.
Highlights include:
✔ Clear breakdown of the Missouri Early Learning Standards
✔ Learning scales from Kindergarten to Toddlers
✔ Play-based strategies and cross-domain planning
✔ At-home activities to support family engagement
✔ Lesson planning using the MELTS framework
Empower your teaching with tools that make early learning meaningful, intentional, and fun!
Instructor: Sara Rayl, Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes a Missouri Early Learning Standards (MELT) Book!)
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
4-Core Classroom Confidence Series - 1/20/26
About:
Created for alternatively certified K–5 teachers, this training breaks down the Missouri Learning Standards into easy-to-understand, classroom-ready practices. Teachers leave with practical strategies, a high-quality resource, and the confidence to implement strong instruction from day one.
Instructor: Jessica Gray, Lead Literacy Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes a 4 Core Book)
**Current STEP Up Members get a 25% discount with code “Member25”
Early Childhood Educator Training: Unlocking the MELTS - 1/22/26
About:
Join us for an engaging training designed to bring clarity and confidence to your early childhood instruction. Explore all seven domains of early learning and discover how to use the Missouri Early Learning Tools (MELTS) to support developmentally appropriate, play-based teaching.
Each participant will receive a MELTS book and leave with ready-to-use lesson plans, strategies, and activities for immediate classroom application.
Highlights include:
✔ Clear breakdown of the Missouri Early Learning Standards
✔ Learning scales from Kindergarten to Toddlers
✔ Play-based strategies and cross-domain planning
✔ At-home activities to support family engagement
✔ Lesson planning using the MELTS framework
Empower your teaching with tools that make early learning meaningful, intentional, and fun!
Instructors:
✳︎Sue Herrera, Director of Instructional Development and Consultant, STEP Up
✳︎Shauna Stephanchick, President & Founder, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes a Missouri Early Learning Standards (MELT) Book!)
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Missouri Instructional Testlets - 1/27/26
About:
Preparing for State Assessments: Mastering Missouri Testlets (MITs)
Are you looking for effective strategies to prepare your students for state assessments? Join us for this practical, hands-on session focused on Missouri Testlets (MITs). Educators will explore the power of these valuable tools and learn proven strategies for incorporating them into formative assessments. Through interactive practice and discussion, you'll gain confidence in using MITs to support student learning and readiness.
What you'll receive:
Digital files for all Missouri Testlets
Google Form versions for easy classroom implementation
Practical strategies for effective use in formative assessments
This session is designed to give you immediately applicable tools and techniques to strengthen your assessment practices.
Instructor: Sue Herrera, Director of Instructional Development and Consultant, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Developing Meaningful Pre-K Learning Experiences Across the Seven Domains
About:
This interactive training will provide educators with a comprehensive understanding of the Missouri Early Learning Standards (MELS) and how to use them to plan meaningful, developmentally appropriate instruction for young learners. Participants will explore the seven domains of early childhood, identify what high-quality Pre-K classrooms should look and sound like, and deepen their understanding of developmentally appropriate practices. Educators will also examine Bloom’s Taxonomy in Early Childhood and analyze how higher-order thinking can be supported through play-based and intentional learning experiences. Participants will take a closer look at least one process standard per domain, reviewing its indicators and milestones to better understand student growth and progression. The session will conclude with a hands-on opportunity to model and design a thematic unit using the MELS, ensuring alignment between standards, classroom practices, and student learning outcomes.
Instructor: Sara Rayl, Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
This training allows participants to achieve 3 hours of training that is approved through the MO PD System. Please search for the event by event ID # 208169. Register below.
Building Standards Based IEPs
About:
Learn how to use the Missouri Assessment and Teaching Tools (MATTs) to build standards based IEPs. Explore Step Up's Vertical Progressions to identify Present Level of Academic Achievement and compare to grade level expectations. Compose SMART goals for IEPs using the proficiency scales located in the MATTs and discuss methods of closing achievement gaps with specially designed instruction. Leave with an understanding of the 7-Steps Standards Based IEP Process.
Instructor: Rebecca Kessler, Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Missouri Instructional Testlets - 2/17/26
About:
Preparing for State Assessments: Mastering Missouri Testlets (MITs)
Are you looking for effective strategies to prepare your students for state assessments? Join us for this practical, hands-on session focused on Missouri Testlets (MITs). Educators will explore the power of these valuable tools and learn proven strategies for incorporating them into formative assessments. Through interactive practice and discussion, you'll gain confidence in using MITs to support student learning and readiness.
What you'll receive:
Digital files for all Missouri Testlets
Google Form versions for easy classroom implementation
Practical strategies for effective use in formative assessments
This session is designed to give you immediately applicable tools and techniques to strengthen your assessment practices.
Instructor: Jessica Gray, Lead Literacy Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Portrait of a Proficient Writer
Elevate your school's writing instruction with our Portrait of a Proficient Writer training. This comprehensive session focuses on utilizing proficiency scales and vertical progressions from the STEP UP ELA MATT book to define and develop proficient writers across all grade levels, from Kindergarten to 12th grade.
Key Features:
Proficiency Portraits: Participants will create detailed "portraits of a proficient writer" for each grade level, K-12, providing clear benchmarks for student writing skills.
In-Depth Analysis: Examine and refine the processes, rubrics, and practices necessary for fostering a strong writing culture within your school.
Practical Implementation: Learn actionable strategies for implementing these tools and practices in your classroom, ensuring a consistent and effective writing program school-wide.
Collaborative Learning: Engage with peers to share insights, experiences, and develop a cohesive approach to writing instruction.
Benefits:
Clarity and Consistency: Gain a clear understanding of what proficient writing looks like at each grade level, ensuring consistent expectations and assessments.
Enhanced Writing Culture: Develop and promote a school-wide culture of writing that encourages and supports all students in becoming proficient writers.
Effective Tools and Strategies: Walk away with practical tools and strategies that can be immediately applied to improve writing instruction and student outcomes.
Professional Collaboration: Network with other educators, share best practices, and build a community of support and continuous improvement.
Join us for this transformative training and take the first step towards creating a culture of proficient writing in your school community.
Instructor: Sara Rayl, Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes ELA Vertical Progression Book!)
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Early Childhood Educator Training: Unlocking the MELTS - 3/10/26
About:
Join us for an engaging training designed to bring clarity and confidence to your early childhood instruction. Explore all seven domains of early learning and discover how to use the Missouri Early Learning Tools (MELTS) to support developmentally appropriate, play-based teaching.
Each participant will receive a MELTS book and leave with ready-to-use lesson plans, strategies, and activities for immediate classroom application.
Highlights include:
✔ Clear breakdown of the Missouri Early Learning Standards
✔ Learning scales from Kindergarten to Toddlers
✔ Play-based strategies and cross-domain planning
✔ At-home activities to support family engagement
✔ Lesson planning using the MELTS framework
Empower your teaching with tools that make early learning meaningful, intentional, and fun!
Instructor: Jessica Gray, Lead Literacy Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes a Missouri Early Learning Standards (MELT) Book!)
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Instructional Leadership in Action: Strategies for School Success
About:
This session is for current administrators who are focusing on strategic academic growth in their buildings. This training will review specific systems, processes and protocols that need to be in place in order to build and sustain the foundations of a strong learning environment. Participants will leave with practical next steps and gain artifacts for instructional walkthroughs and professional development plans. We look forward to equipping participants with everything then need for school improvement and growing achievement data.
Instructors:
Sue Herrera, Director of Instructional Development and Consultant, STEP UP
Shauna Stephanchick, President & Founder, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Alternatively Certified Staff Training
About: This session is for long term substitutes or alternatively certified staff who are currently teaching or will be teaching in the upcoming school year.
Through collaborative activities, analysis of real-world scenarios, and reflective discussions, participants will acquire practical and actionable tools to strengthen their instructional practice. The agenda encompasses an overview of effective lesson design, the use of proficiency targets, and the implementation of high-yield instructional strategies. Each attendee will receive a STEP Up MATT Book or 4 Core Book.
Instructor: Sue Herrera, Director of Instructional Development and Consultant, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Building Standards Based IEPs - 4/21/26
About:
Learn how to use the Missouri Assessment and Teaching Tools (MATTs) to build standards based IEPs. Explore Step Up's Vertical Progressions to identify Present Level of Academic Achievement and compare to grade level expectations. Compose SMART goals for IEPs using the proficiency scales located in the MATTs and discuss methods of closing achievement gaps with specially designed instruction. Leave with an understanding of the 7-Steps Standards Based IEP Process.
Instructor: Rebecca Kessler, Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant
**Current STEP Up Members get 25% discount with code “Member25”
Grade Level Mastery Workshop - Registration Closed
About:
This training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
Instructor: Jessica Gray, Lead Literacy Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes a 4 Core book of your choice!)
Grade Level Mastery Workshop - Willard Schools - December 3 - Registration Closed
About:
This training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
Instructor: Jessica Gray, Lead Literacy Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes a 4 Core book of your choice!) Or $200 if you already have a 4 Core Book.
Early Childhood Educator Training: Unlocking the MELTS
About:
Join us for an engaging training designed to bring clarity and confidence to your early childhood instruction. Explore all seven domains of early learning and discover how to use the Missouri Early Learning Tools (MELTS) to support developmentally appropriate, play-based teaching.
Each participant will receive a MELTS book and leave with ready-to-use lesson plans, strategies, and activities for immediate classroom application.
Highlights include:
✔ Clear breakdown of the Missouri Early Learning Standards
✔ Learning scales from Kindergarten to Toddlers
✔ Play-based strategies and cross-domain planning
✔ At-home activities to support family engagement
✔ Lesson planning using the MELTS framework
Empower your teaching with tools that make early learning meaningful, intentional, and fun!
Instructor: Jessica Gray, Lead Literacy Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes a Missouri Early Learning Standards (MELT) Book!)
Portrait of a Proficient Writer
Elevate your school's writing instruction with our Portrait of a Proficient Writer training. This comprehensive session focuses on utilizing proficiency scales and vertical progressions from the STEP UP ELA MATT book to define and develop proficient writers across all grade levels, from Kindergarten to 12th grade.
Key Features:
Proficiency Portraits: Participants will create detailed "portraits of a proficient writer" for each grade level, K-12, providing clear benchmarks for student writing skills.
In-Depth Analysis: Examine and refine the processes, rubrics, and practices necessary for fostering a strong writing culture within your school.
Practical Implementation: Learn actionable strategies for implementing these tools and practices in your classroom, ensuring a consistent and effective writing program school-wide.
Collaborative Learning: Engage with peers to share insights, experiences, and develop a cohesive approach to writing instruction.
Benefits:
Clarity and Consistency: Gain a clear understanding of what proficient writing looks like at each grade level, ensuring consistent expectations and assessments.
Enhanced Writing Culture: Develop and promote a school-wide culture of writing that encourages and supports all students in becoming proficient writers.
Effective Tools and Strategies: Walk away with practical tools and strategies that can be immediately applied to improve writing instruction and student outcomes.
Professional Collaboration: Network with other educators, share best practices, and build a community of support and continuous improvement.
Join us for this transformative training and take the first step towards creating a culture of proficient writing in your school community.
Price: $250 per participant (Price includes ELA Vertical Progression Book!)
Grade Level Mastery Workshop - Willard Schools
About:
This training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
Instructor: Jessica Gray, Lead Literacy Consultant and Trainer, STEP Up
Price: $300 per participant (Price includes a 4 Core book of your choice!) Or $200 if you already have a 4 Core Book.
Registration Closed
About:
This half-day training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
This training will take place in Marshall, MO, at the Marshall School District.
Price: $200 per participant
Registration Closed
About:
This half-day training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
This training will take place in Cassville, MO at the Cassville School District in the FEMA Building.
Price: $200 per participant
EVENT CLOSED
About:
This half-day training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
This training will take place in Fort Osage - Board of Education Building. Free parking is available onsite. Doors remain locked during business hours. Please buzz in and provide valid identification for entrance.
Price: $200 per participant
EVENT CLOSED
About:
This half-day training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
Two Sessions available:
8:00 - 12:00 AM
12:00 - 3:00 PM
This training will take place in Springfield, MO at the Kraft Administration Center - Rooms 135 A & B.
Price: $200 per participant
EVENT CLOSED
About:
This half-day training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
This training will take place in Cole Camp, MO at the Cole Camp School District - Library
Price: $200 per participant
EVENT CLOSED
About:
This half-day training empowers educators with the 4 Core Standards Book, providing Missouri-aligned proficiency scales, rigor, clarity, and scaffolded instruction strategies - equipping teachers to confidently master their K-5 grade-level standards.
This training will take place in Joplin, MO at the Joplin School District - Talon Room 1.
Price: $200 per participant