Professional Development

Dr. Celine Coggins, CEO of Teach Plus, spent time with Dr. Berger discussing the role education plays in helping educators build their own understanding for how policy impacts practice and overall enjoyment of practice. Coggins pulls back the proverbial curtain to share her own initial experiences exploring teaching as an option for her own career. The response her parents provided, though less than inspiring, provides context to the underground image so many Americans have about education and the decision to work in the sector. 

Mike Anderson, frequent contributor to edCircuit and known as The Well Balanced Teacher, spent time with Dr. Berger at the ASCD conference in Atlanta, Georgia. Anderson discussed what occurs when students have more choices about their learning, stating that they find ways of learning that matches their personal needs. The result, says Anderson, is that students are more engaged in their work, building skills and work habits that will serve them well in school and beyond. 

Jeremy Rogoff, CEO of kickup, spent time with Dr. Berger at 2016 ASCD Annual Conference discussing how his own teaching experiences inspired him to launch kickup. Rogoff began his teaching career in Clarendon, Arkansas before moving to KIPP D.C.: College Preparatory where he was inspired to start his own venture. 

Fred Ende is the assistant director of curriculum and instructional services for Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES, one of New York’s 37 regional education service agencies. Ende joined Dr. Berger at ASCD’s Annual Conference to discuss the evolution of professional development and his ASCD book, Professional Development That Sticks: How do I create meaningful learning experiences for educators?

Last week I wrote that educational goals without plans are just wishes. Toward the end of that article I wrote:

Last week we published an Around the Web article, Is the U.S. All Wrong? Teacher Training Breaking the Mold, that garnered a lot of conversation. Education thought leader Regie Routman provides her perspective discussing the role Professional Development/Learning play in educating teachers.

Howard Pitler, fresh off his latest op-ed on value added assessments, talks with Dr. Rod to discuss the behind-the-scenes business of educational consulting. Pitler talks about experiences that were sold as thoughtful Professional Development meetings only to reveal cattle call environments. Pitler also discusses the responsibilities of audience members and presenters drawing a stark line between the effort each group should put forth for successful outcomes. 

By Dian Schaffhauser In a shift away from policies enacted with NCLB, Congress’ latest rewrite of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act puts some distance between the federal government and …

Amy Peterson discusses research and the impact of multi-tiered systems of support in educational settings.