Author: A+ Schools of North Carolina
Participating in ongoing, high-quality professional development is one of the three indicators of a highly engaged A+ school (along with principal leadership and teacher engagement), and it is the most important service that A+ Schools of N.C. offers. During the 2024-2025 school year, we have provided more than 25 professional development sessions to schools across the A+ network.
A+ professional development is customized for each school while focusing on refreshing and strengthening A+ practice and implementation. School staff and leadership reconnect with the A+ Essentials, participate in hands-on experiences with standards-based learning, and engage in activities designed to build positive school climate. One participant shared this reflection following A+ professional development, “You guys have been excellent examples for all of us. The privilege of watching you is seeing your consistency, deep planning and preparation, and attention to details to make every experience impactful. Thank you for all you do for students.”
During this academic year, many schools have requested A+ studio classrooms for their professional development. Studio classrooms provide an opportunity for teachers to observe an A+ Fellow facilitating an arts-integrated lesson for their students. Time to debrief and discuss the observation helps teachers and administrators make connections with their own teaching style and strengthen A+ practice across the school. One educator shared the value of the studio classroom experience this way, “I just love being able to watch you work your magic! So many ideas from a simple number line on the floor!” While another participant commented on the importance of the debriefing time, “It allowed us to reflect with others and get other points of view. And it allowed time to discuss how to use this in our classrooms.” The students enjoy the experience, too: “The students in my classroom thoroughly loved it! They were already asking when they can do it again!”
A+ Schools of N.C. also designs professional development for administrators and school leaders across the A+ network and for A+ Fellows who provide training for our schools. A+ leadership meetings and A+ Fellows’ meetings take place throughout the year to keep everyone connected and engaged. A+ leaders and A+ Fellows appreciate the opportunity to participate in professional development designed specifically for them. One leader voiced it this way, “It is a pleasure to be a part of this incredible network. Keep up the great work that develops the total child!” And another A+ leader shared their appreciation, “Thanks for all the hard work and motivation to help us make learning more fun and exciting for our students!”
Enjoy this photo gallery highlighting some A+ professional development in action this school year:
