Academic Calendar 2015/2016 - Staff Development

EDUC 4956  Staff Development

Hours:

36

Credits:

3

Description:

There is widespread agreement that the quality of the teacher's knowledge and skills impacts substantially on student achievement but much less agreement on how best to involve teachers in meaningful professional growth. As an effective school leader, the vice-principal and principal need to be able to engage teachers in relevant and effective staff development activities that contribute to school improvement. This course focuses on treating staff development as more than counting completed courses. There is a focus on organizational alignment that integrates staff development with the school improvement plan and performance evaluation process. Growth plans and portfolio assessment will be considered as well as ways to identify collectively needed areas for workshops and presentation. The contribution that long term mentoring and support plays in translating theory into effective practice is highlighted.