To raise student achievement and effectively close learning gaps it is necessary that we adopt an “all hands on deck” approach regarding school improvement. Every teacher matters if our intent is to increase achievement for all students; the veteran matters, the new teacher, the teacher with a college degree, and even the teacher who is still working on a degree. Accepting this perspective reinforces the importance of teaching quality and teacher development.
Professional learning should meet teachers where they are. RISE not only customizes but also differentiates learning experiences for teachers to ensure all teachers improve.
Professional Learning
RISE ensures that teachers have the skills and knowledge to support diverse learners. Developing teachers who are competent to tackle the challenges of teaching today is our focus.
RISE provide professional development in a number of areas including:
- Standard-Based Planning
- Student-Centered Instruction
- Classroom Formative Assessment
- Conditions for Learning
- Teaming and Peer Collaboration
Tiered Support
Teaching happens in the moment; however, learning occurs over time. RISE is committed to seeing teachers not only as practitioners, but as learners, too. Second order change requires not only a change in behavior, but also a change in thinking. RISE uses a tiered systems-driven approach to provide learning opportunities for teachers to reinforce active learning and application.
Expert staff consultants facilitate teacher development using three key methods: Staff Trainings, Professional Learning Communities, and Study Teams
- Staff Training – Staff trainings provide workshop opportunities for teachers to develop new competencies.
- Professional Learning Communities – Teachers actively collaborate to close achievement and instructional gaps.
- Study Teams – Teacher-Led teams engage in instructional observations to verify implementation, provide feedback, and qualify next steps.
The extent to which teachers develop and are able to support students with diverse backgrounds depends heavily on the quality of professional learning. Improving the effectiveness of teacher development is vital if we are to overcome our past and present educational challenges.
Terry Morgan
