Professional Development Rationale

Professional Development in District 86 are those planned experiences designed to enhance the beliefs, knowledge and skills of educators which result in improved student achievement. These experiences are guided by best practices in professional development, current research, applicable standards, District expectations and school needs. Professional Development supports growth of the individual, the establishment and maintenance of a professional learning community and the achievement of District educational goals. It also recognizes and encourages the professional growth that often occurs apart from these specific experiences through additional formal education, unique classroom experience, and identified personal development.

District 86 Professional Development fosters and promotes a system of beliefs that:

• Enhanced teaching positively affects student learning.
• The classroom and school should be rigorous and creative environments in which all students and teachers acquire, construct and apply knowledge.
• Research, theory and collaborative practical experience all combine to develop effective instructional practices.
• Professional growth demands continuous improvement and life-long learning.

Therefore, District 86 Professional Development will be composed of a continuation of differentiated opportunities that support:

• Teacher needs and interests at various stages of career development.
• Development of teachers and students as thinkers, creators and constructors.
• On-site professional inquiry and a respect for teacher research and expertise.
• Best practice, both general and content specific, rooted in a combination of research, theory and practical experience.
• A focus upon District goals and identified needs.
• Pedagogical and content area skill development.
• The realities as well as the possibilities of the profession.

Finally, it is recognized that the actualization of these beliefs and outcomes is dependent upon a shared responsibility for effective professional development by all faculty as teacher leaders and administration in a spirit of collaboration and support.