Ongoing professional development is an important component of teaching. Many districts offer workshops, in-service programs, and other opportunities which enable teachers to grow both personally and professionally.
As a future teacher, I suggest you investigate professional growth activities in the districts to which you will be applying. Those who interview prospective teachers often feel an applicant has done her/his "homework" when s/he can ask intelligent questions about a district's plans for enhancing the teaching practice of its faculty.
Below are some of the professional growth activities going on in various districts in Wisconsin. Update this page regularly as new information will be added as it is received!
*Tips from former student teachers who have interviewed for positions are included below.
DC Everest:
1. Aligning curriculum with state standards
2. Focus on reading across the curriculum
3. Understanding diversity and implications for the district
4. Addressing bullying and harassment
Oshkosh:
1. Assessment
2. Curriculum alignment with the state standards
3. 6 Traits Writing
Poynette:
1. 6 Traits + 1 Writing
2. Technology training
Wisconsin Rapids:
1. Differentiation of reading materials
2. The Responsive Classroom
3. 6 Traits Writing
4. Studying the new frameworks for the WI Knowledge & Concepts (WKCE) beginning in 2005/2006
*Various interviewees were asked about experiences with or expertise in the following: