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Instructional Leadership: Instructional Professional Development
Overview: Improvement of instruction is the goal of a quality professional development program. The alignment of PD with district goals for all staff members is essential for improved systemic results. Adequate resources in this area are an obligation of the policy makers and managers of the system.

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	SCHOOL BOARD	SUPERINTENDENT	PRINCIPAL
	What professional development activities have and/or are taking place in the current year? What is the district plan for professional development for instructional staff? How does the district optimize professional development with minimum disruption to the school schedule? How do professional development activities relate to the school action plan and to the Vermont Standards? What resources are budgeting for PD for the instructional staff? Is the required SU policy on professional development in place?	Does the system have an established PD program? Is the system (school) part of a professional development System? How is PD supported by policy? How is PD integrated into the school culture? How are PD needs determined (e.g., needs assessment)? What are the required PD trainings (e.g. Act 51)? What are the NCLB Act and DOE requirements for PD?	What are the instructional development needs as identified in the district and local action plan? What programs and systems are in place to deliver PD at the district/SU level? At the local level? What are the principles that guide instructional development in your school/district? What are the systems for determining the professional development program at the school? Is it defined by the contract? Is it effective? What data is available about the PD program and its impact on learning? What is the budget available for PD?
	Review policy Review the professional development plan prepared by the superintendent and/or principal. Ensure that resources for professional development are included in the budget. Request regular reports on individual staff progress toward meeting the requirements of the state and NCLB.	Review contract for PD funds. Review budget for PD funds. Research grant funds. Investigate collaboratives. Assign PD responsibilities to educational leaders. Review board policies.	Review the action plan for the school Review the current professional development program at the district and local level Review the contract for opportunities, guidelines, etc Establish a system for linking with the district/SU PD program and develop a system if necessary for a local level program Develop a feedback mechanism to measure the effectiveness of the PD program Ensure budget is in place for professional development Work with the central office to ensure professional development $ and programs are systemic and sustainable.