How do you help teachers develop new skills and grow as professionals?

Professional learning and development can be difficult to fit into an already crammed schedule of lesson planning, grading, IEP meetings, and parent teacher conferences.

Staying abreast of new developments and research in education is an important, but challenging task. Adding in the complexity and rapidly changing world of educational technology doesn’t make it any easier.

Sadly, many teachers are less than enthusiastic about district organized professional development.

Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to Andrea Derrick, digital learning coach, and Google Certified Trainer from Lexington County School District Three which is located in Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina.

Teacher training is an essential aspect of a successful 1:1 program

Andrea’s district has a lot of Chromebooks – one for every student. The rapid addition of these devices required the development of a comprehensive training and support program to make sure that teachers were able to use the technology to improve learning.

Andrea has developed an impressive digital learning program to encourage the staff in her district to develop new skills. This comprehensive, detailed program helps teachers regardless of whether they are just starting to use technology in the classroom or are an advanced user.

This program has many different components, including the hilarious “toilet paper tech tips” that you can find posted in bathrooms around the district!

A central component of the program is a series of challenges that teachers can complete to earn badges. These badges serve as a fun reward and opportunity to be recognized within the district as an instructional leader.

Listen to my conversation with Andrea for insights on how to create a successful professional learning program at your school. For inspiration, check out the Batesburg-Leesville website for insights into how the set up and run their badging program.