In a recent meeting with a small group of teachers we asked them about the professional development at their school. The irony is not lost on us that school districts across the country are changing learning experiences for students without changing how they are training their teachers, so our approach to professional development is different. We do our best to make it memorable and actionable. What have we found that works? Here are just a few ways:

  1. Passion Projects: Through our work at Belmont Station Elementary School in Loudoun County Public Schools, the leadership team created Passion Projects that hone in on a driving question for the school year.
  2. Playlists: We worked with Hartford Public Schools to co-develop ongoing professional development by utilizing a playlist that includes articles, videos, and various artifacts for teachers to explore.
  3. Coffee & Conversation Sessions: Sessions to cover questions, answers, or conversation on teacher-choice topics. Topics range from “what is personalized learning” to “how to lead student-led conferences.”
  4. Pineapple Charts: Did you know the pineapple symbolizes “welcome?” Many schools across the country are implementing the Pineapple Chart to encourage teachers to open their classrooms to other teachers.
  5. Self Reflections: Instructional leaders are utilizing self-reflection as one way to tap into what teachers want.
  6. Badging: And to show progress? In some districts, teachers or schools can earn badges to display, letting everyone know what they’ve learned and how far they have come.

Read the full article about revamping professional development in education by Amy Jenkins and Kelly Freiheit at Getting Smart.