When I say development, I am speaking of professional development or professional learning. As school leaders, we must develop of staff so that they can continue to grow and develop our students. We must also continue with our professional growth and development.
To develop teachers, classroom observations are growth tools, when approached as such. Being in classrooms, giving timely feedback and having open discussions about what worked, what could be better, and how to support are critical to helping teachers develop. We also use PLCs, staff development days and regular faculty meetings for professional learning opportunities.
With teaching assistants, the teacher or administrator may want to model how to teach a small group or ways to monitor behavior. I’ve found that assistants want to help as much as possible but sometimes need support to offer children more learning opportunities.
To develop myself, I read a lot and take courses that either interest me or boast my own areas that could use growth. I also seek feedback from my staff and central office staff for areas of growth.
Future posts will go more in depth on developing staff at the school level, as well as some ways to further your own professional learning.
LEaD by Dr. B 