November 8, 2024

Berkley Schools Staff Engage in Two Days of Professional Learning

Group of individuals collaboratively working around a table with laptops and papers, engaged in a workshop inside a room with a whiteboard that includes notes and a projection screen displaying a presentation.

On November 4th and 5th, Berkley Schools staff engaged in two days of professional learning. Elementary staff spent time analyzing data and engaging in learning about evidence based instructional practices in literacy and math in order to make instructional shifts. Secondary staff also analyzed test data and spent time editing local assessments. Additionally, secondary teachers participated in training about recognizing mental health cues and researched equitable grading practices. Special education staff focused on best practices for inclusion. Every Berkley Schools staff member engaged in learning around building initiatives and had collaborative inquiry time within their grade levels/departments. All learning focused on the District mission: Student engagement, learning and growth are at the center of all we do.

Supervisor of Instructional Services, Jen Wilcox, shared, “The impact of this time together is two fold. First, staff had the chance to connect with peers, share experiences, and learn from each other's perspectives. This collaboration strengthens the sense of community and educator growth. On a practical level, the tools, strategies and frameworks staff explored will help improve our day-to-day practice, making us more efficient, more innovative and more responsive. Beyond the technical skills, this professional learning has inspired staff to think differently—challenging us to step outside our comfort zones, reflect on our current practices and find new ways to approach challenges.”

Professional learning days show the importance of continuous learning. Ms. Wilcox said, “Professional growth isn't a one-time event; it's an ongoing process that we are committed to in order to stay adaptable, relevant and impactful in our roles. These two days have been a powerful reminder of the value of professional learning, not just for staff development, but for the benefit of the students we serve.”