Professional Development and Training

• Low-cost license-renewal courses at Drake University.
• Reduced-cost graduate courses at Drake University.
• Instructional coaches and behavior interventionists at each school.
• Teacher Quality program money available. Dedicated time for collaboration.
• Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are a foundation of our collaborative and collective work to improve student learning.
• Reimbursed $400 for continuing education credit.

The connections between mentors and beginning teachers are a key component to professional learning. This program supports new teachers and provides time for ongoing mentor training.

Year 1

• Participate in August New Certified Staff Workshop day.
• Participate in quarterly beginning teacher professional learning.
• Receive ongoing guidance and support from a trained mentor.
• Opportunity to participate in demonstration teacher classroom visits.
• Opportunity to collaborate with an instructional coach.

Year 2

• Receive ongoing guidance and support from a trained mentor.
• Opportunity to participate in demo teacher classroom visits.
• Opportunity to collaborate with an instructional coach.
• Participate in quarterly second-year teachers (initial license)professional learning.

Year 3

• Opportunity to participate in demo teacher classroom visits.
• Opportunity to collaborate with an instructional coach in a coaching cycle.

In WDMCS, we want to ensure all employees have the opportunity to learn and obtain the necessary job training. Based on the role, training is available within the department and classes or certifications may be available to support your growth. 

Administrators participate monthly in peer professional growth opportunities. In addition, administrators may attend conferences or pursue additional education.