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As the second semester is upon us, it’s time to reflect and consider how to improve our schools. Tennessee TSC has many free resources available for all Tennessee school districts regardless of partnership status. On our website, you can find a variety of open-access professional learning materials listed under our supports tab.
What kind of professional learning materials might you find? We have self-paced modules, resource packs, toolkits, technical assistance briefs, data tools, and recordings from previous Communities of Practice. These resources cover topics integral to effective leadership, assessment, data-based decision-making, and instruction and intervention.
While there are a multitude of resources, it is important to take the time to select the “right” learning opportunity for staff. We know that educators’ time is limited, so we want to make sure professional learning experiences are effective. To do this, engage in backward planning. Just like new educators are taught when they are planning lessons, begin with the end in mind. So, think: what specific student learning outcomes are we trying to accomplish, and then what specific teacher practices will get us there?
After that, consider what organizational supports are needed to sustain these practices. We know that “one-off” professional development does not work. It takes the continued support of leadership to truly embed the changes in practice we are hoping to see. Support looks like proper funding and materials, sufficient teacher preparation time, fidelity checks, and an often-neglected piece, sharing implementation success with teachers so they see the fruits of their labor. Consequently, they will be more motivated to continue the practices they have learned, and some teachers who might have been resistant to change may adjust their mindsets when they see the new practices having positive results on student learning.
Backward Planning when Selecting Professional Development
Consider if this type of backward planning is a routine you have experienced at your school, both for schoolwide professional development needs or your own personal learning or if there are any steps you are skipping. Then explore our open-access materials to determine which ones can help support your desired outcomes.
Reference
Guskey, T.R. (2014). Planning professional learning. Educational, School and Counseling Psychology Faculty Publications. 15 https://uknowledge.uky.edu/edp_facpub
