Professional Learning is essential to the growth and development of both students and staff.
Who would want to go to a doctor that did not stay abreast of the current research and the best practices in their field?
Great teachers help create great students. In fact, research shows that an inspiring and informed teacher is the most important school-related factor influencing student achievement, so it is critical to pay close attention to how we train and support both new and experienced educators.
Teaching is an art and a science and ongoing professional learning opportunities help all of us to continue growing and learning, which is what we are constantly asking students to do.
Valley Central believes in supporting the professional growth of all our teachers and staff members.
Valley Central values professional learning because we know that everyone’s intelligence and talents are susceptible to growth. The best in the world in every profession are usually lifelong learners. They spend their time and energy on books, conferences, classes, and coaches in the pursuit of information that will push themselves and those around them forward.
Our best teachers are always learning because the world is always changing. The art of teaching is more complicated than it used to be. Twenty-first-century teachers must also invest in training in the areas of technology, social and emotional wellness, equity, and interpersonal skills such as empathy, collaboration, and creativity.
Professional Learning at Valley Central
- Teachers sign up for all professional learning through the My Learning Plan platform. On this platform, teachers can access over 20 activity catalogs offering an array of opportunities. Once they submit a request it is reviewed by numerous administrators to determine if it aligns with the teachers’ content areas as well as the goals and needs of the district. https://app.frontlineeducation.com/pd-plm/growth-journey/present
- Teachers are also encouraged to submit a proposal to offer professional learning to their peers. We have found these sessions to be well-attended. Teachers can learn a great deal from one another.
- An amazing learning opportunity is to visit one another’s classrooms on a regular basis and observe each other teaching. This can be facilitated at every level.
- Individual teachers are encouraged to sign up for out-of-district conferences that meet their needs.
- NYSUT ELT is committed to meaningful and appropriate professional development for members throughout their careers. NYSUT ELT provides and supports a wide variety of resources to enhance their professional learning.
- Literary and Math Coaches are located at each elementary school to help teachers with planning and becoming immersed in research-based practices.
- Emails are sent to principals and department chairs weekly with professional learning opportunities.
- Induction- All teachers are required to attend two years of Induction.
- Mentoring Program- All new teachers are required to attend one year of VC’s Mentoring Program and most attend two years.
- Superintendent Conferences Professional Learning days and half-days are planned around the district’s goals each year.