BTU Events and Announcements
NEW! Building Rep Orientation: Aug. 27th & 28th
The BTU Building Rep Orientation is Aug 27 at 10am or Aug 28 at 4:30pm at the BTU. All building reps, including veteran reps, are encouraged to attend. The orientation will cover everything you need to know as a building rep for the new school year, including all the materials you need to conduct a 30 minute union meeting in the first week of school. RSVP here.
Early Childhood Co-Planning Drop-In: August 26 8:00am-12:00pm
Early Childhood Lesson Planning Sessions: Time to lock in for SY 25-26 with co-planning drop in sessions in July and August! This is an opportunity to reflect on your teaching and the curriculum from SY 24-25 and start planning for this year with your colleagues. BYO instructional materials, refreshments provided. Fill out this form if you plan to attend. Contact Caitlin Gaffny cgaffny@btu.org with any questions.
BTU Back to School Kickoff Party: September 19th, 4:30-8:30pm
Join us for the BTU Back to School Kickoff Party being held on Friday, September 19th from 4:30-8:30pm at the BTU (180 Mt. Vernon St. Dorchester, MA 02125).RSVP here!
BTU Back to School Book Fair: Saturday, Sept. 27th
Our 12th annual BTU Back to School Fair for BPS families will take place on Saturday Sept. 27th, 2025 at the BTU Hall. Come by for a day full of music, face-painting, snacks and story time with local authors. We have over 40,000 FREE books for students, families, and educators as well as dozens of representatives from local community organizations.
2025 Annual BTU Fall Leadership Conference: October 17-19 at Sea Crest Beach Resort in North Falmouth
We have so much work to do to advance our vision for the schools our students deserve… the time to act is NOW. The BTU will pay ALL BTU member expenses for this conference, including meals and hotel stay. Building Reps and other member leaders are highly encouraged to register and attend. Learn more and register today at btu.org/fallconference.
AFT Welcome to Teaching Conversation Series
The American Federation of Teachers has created a series to support those starting a career in teaching. The Welcome to Teaching Conversation Series is an on-demand podcast from Share My Lesson and the AFT. Read the full article to access the full podcast series, bonus content, and ideas to support educators at every stage.
Creating Community and Support in the Classroom: Sept. 2nd and 3rd 10am
This course for paraprofessionals will be offered at two sessions: Sept. 2nd at 10am and Sept. 3rd at 10 am. Come and learn about the “what and why” of the Focus Curriculum. You will also learn how to support children and teachers in the classroom. Please Register Here!
De-escalation Training: September 3rd at 10am & 2pm
This de-escalation training, designed specifically for Boston Public Schools staff, offers practical, easy-to-use strategies grounded in trauma-informed practices. You’ll learn how to recognize the early signs of student escalation, prevent power struggles, stay calm under pressure, and support students through every stage of a behavioral crisis. Join us and build your skills to make a bigger impact every day! Please use this link
Prioritize YOUR Well-being with Educators Thriving & the BTU: Due 9/17
“Thank you for creating this course. It helped me have a better year and thinking through the things that are important to me and really did help me change my mental state while at work. Things are still stressful and there’s always too much work, but it helped me prioritize, and keep my life in order.”
In this free course for BTU members, learn and practice concrete strategies to prevent burnout and support your own well-being. See our flyer to learn more. Application due Wed. 9/17. Earn 3 ALCs for completing all course requirements. Space is limited.
De-escalation Training: Sept 18th @10am at BTU Hall
This de-escalation training, designed specifically for Boston Public Schools staff, offers practical, easy-to-use strategies grounded in trauma-informed practices. You’ll learn how to recognize the early signs of student escalation, prevent power struggles, stay calm under pressure, and support students through every stage of a behavioral crisis. With clear guidance, real-life examples, and tools you can use right away, this session will empower you to create safe, respectful, and supportive learning environments. Join us and build your skills to make a bigger impact every day. Register here!
Supporting Classrooms Through a Trauma-Informed Lens: Sept 18th @2pm at the BTU Hall
Join us for “Supporting Classrooms Through a Trauma-Informed Lens,” a dynamic and practical professional development session designed especially for substitute teachers. This session unpacks the impact of trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on student behavior and learning, and offers concrete, easy-to-use strategies for building predictability, emotional safety, and resilience in the classroom. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of stress responses in students, tools to support de-escalation and routine-building, and a roadmap for improving collaboration with your team. If you’re looking to feel more confident, supported, and effective in your role—this session is for you.
Register here!
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk: Join the BTU Team on October 4th!
The BTU is once again organizing the BTU Walkers for another year of walking and fundraising in support of the effort to eradicate breast cancer. Each year, the BTU provides a shuttle bus from the BTU Hall to the Hatch Shell so volunteers can participate in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk on the Esplanade. Check out more information here and search for the BTU Walkers Team to register with our group! |
