PD Opportunities - Wyoming Department of Education

Dear Superintendents,

Just four years ago, professional development opportunities provided by WDE were frequently canceled due to lack of participants. Because of the work we’ve done together, that is never the case today. Our model for delivering statewide professional development has quality, relevance, and input from Wyoming educators in the driver’s seat. I often reiterate that prophets need not come from a foreign land, nor do the best trainings need to take our educators out of the state. Included in this week’s memos are the results from a recent professional development survey. Results indicate that we are all on the same track and moving forward on a path that will help improve student outcomes.

We all know that no matter how dynamic a speaker or idea may be, change is unlikely without follow-up, accountability, and a school culture change that supports transformation. The survey results confirm this–districts value peer support, leadership development, and increased knowledge about new requirements. That is precisely what we aim to deliver using both Title II and general fund dollars.

Here is a snapshot of survey results (full results in memos) that summarize what 805 Wyoming educators indicated what Title II professional development should include:

Support high-quality instruction and instructional leadership in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), including computer science.
Integrate technology into curricula and instruction, which may include training to assist teachers in implementing blended learning projects.
Instructional strategies to integrate career and technical education (CTE) content into academic instructional practices.
Teacher and leader certification to expand options and expertise.
Include early educators in professional development to close crucial school readiness gaps.
Develop school and district leaders who are prepared to lead a culture that promotes improved student outcomes and excellent teachers.

STATEWIDE SYSTEM OF SUPPORT AND PLCs:

We are all very excited to kick off the next phase of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) this month. In preparation, I’ve had conversations with many of you and visited schools across the state. Without exception every school is inspired by and working towards strong PLCs–but every school is unique and in a different stage of growth. One key to success is for you to continue talking to us–when we are in your communities, on surveys, and during conversations, about the successes and challenges so we can learn from each other. Below is an important opportunity.