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Step 2: Assess Current Professional Learning

If you have determined that your district has enough conditions for success in place to support movement toward more closely aligned and well-integrated professional learning, then…

Describe S.M.A.R.T. goals

Based on the district plans gathered in Step 1, describe high-priority district student learning or improvement goals. Describe each goal as as S.M.A.R.T. goal (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely). List and describe current professional learning strategies that address each goal.

Assess the quality of current professional learning strategies

Professional Learning Strategies
Self-Assessment Tool

This tool supports districts in the planning, integration and implementation of professional learning for continuous improvement.

The purpose of the Professional Learning Strategies Self-Assessment Tool is to support districts in the planning, integration and implementation of professional learning for continuous improvement.

Part 1 focuses on characteristics of high-quality and evidence-based professional learning strategies.
Part 2 focuses on characteristics of high-quality and evidence-based online and blended professional learning strategies.

It is recommended that this tool be used by a district team responsible for professional learning and/or continuous improvement planning. You might find it helpful to include additional staff knowledgeable about the professional learning strategies currently in use in your district or those strategies under consideration. It will be especially important to ensure that teacher leaders and other educators knowledgeable about instruction and closest to the classroom are active participants in this process, including individual connected educators who are often on the leading edge of technology and innovation.