Cast members from Sesame Street will participate in a special workshop for teachers sponsored by William Paterson University prior to the groups’ appearance at the University’s Distinguished Lecturer Series on January 30, 2009.

The workshop, which offers professional development credits, will address how the groundbreaking children’s television show can be used effectively as a teaching tool. The program will begin at 4:30 p.m. on the Wayne campus, followed by a light dinner and then the Distinguished Lecturer Series presentation of “Sesame Street at 40---A Night of Celebration and Discovery with the Legendary Cast.” In addition to cast members, the workshop and evening program will include Michael Davis, author of the soon-to-be-published Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street.

A special discounted package arrangement for teachers will include the workshop, dinner and Distinguished Lecturer Series program for $35. For more information, and to reserve a space at this special price, please call 973.720.2971. Parking is free.

Janis Strasser, Ed.D., a William Paterson University professor of education, will moderate the workshop, “Can You Tell Me How to Get to Sesame Street?” which will be held from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. in the University Commons on campus. The discussion is being developed to inform teachers about how to maximize the benefits of Sesame Street in the classroom. The program is designed for preschool, kindergarten, and master teachers; directors; supervisors; early childhood administrators, and early childhood students from the College of Education.

Strasser will focus on lessons that can be learned about diversity and social and emotional development through characters on Sesame Street.

For additional information, please call 973-720-2971. To register online, visit www.wpunj.edu/dlsworkshop.