Competent Teachers:

• Understand constructivist learning philosophy.
• Understand relevant content in the subject(s) they teach.
• Know classroom strategies that promote student engagement and achievement.
• Plan for effective instruction.
• Effectively implement a standards-based, inquiry-centered mathematics or science curriculum.
• Use assessment strategies to inform instruction.

Environment for Competent Teachers:

• A funded, coherent, continuous system engages all teachers in on-going, extensive professional development that supports goals for instructional improvement.
• Teachers share their expertise with others.
• Efforts to develop and maintain a school-wide learning community are continuing and systemic.

Professional Development Considerations

• Strategies exist for developing awareness and building consensus for accepting the need for on-going professional development.
• Professional development offerings are examined for their value in promoting improved instruction.
• Instructional strategies including cooperative learning, discussion techniques, inquiry, problem solving, literacy integration and assessment are modeled and practiced in the context of promoting student learning in mathematics or science.
• Comprehensive explanations of concepts, processes, and materials utilization relevant to the school’s math or science curriculum are part of all professional development offerings.
• Professional development is appropriate for teachers at various levels of knowledge and expertise.
• Teachers are offered ample time during the school day to consider new ideas, to master new behaviors, and to incorporate new practices into their teaching routines.
• Sufficient time and support is available during the school day for collegial dialogue and reflection on new learning.
• Non-teaching staff are engaged in understanding and supporting instructional improvement.