Planning, coordinating and implementation of purposeful, ongoing, appropriate professional development for instructional staff assist in ensuring that the vision of the jurisdiction is moving forward. Being aware of the curricular and inclusive education initiatives and how various learning strategies supported by various technologies can play a vital support role is critical when determining the types of professional development that is necessary. Working with school principals to assist them in a deeper understanding of their teachers’ proficiencies for instructing using 21st century learning tools allows me to identify and support various professional development events that will support the vision.
It is also important that I model how I can support educational practices by regularly demonstrating this others and collaborating with district instructional leadership. Learning needs for students are diverse and resources are changing rapidly. As a result it is important to be promoting professional development that increases staff awareness and training that is meaningful and purposeful to instruction. Being aware and involved in district and provincially based meetings by representing the jurisdiction is important as educational best practices can be shared and learned with others. Provincial committee involvement further allows many additional benefits to the jurisdiction that result in directly improving student learning opportunities. As a result it is important to serve as a member of various project teams or committees that have a direct benefit back to the organization.
Ensuring professional growth within the all staff across the district is also very important. Working through a process that allows the staff to individually reflect on professional goals, gather feedback from others and form an action plan is part of the necessary guiding role of a leader. Working together on supporting meaningful professional growth will assist in building a stronger team that owns their growth by moving a team from good to great.
COMMENTS FROM COLLEAGUES
Mark always takes into account the task and works with you to find the appropriate tool. Sometimes the process is the most important part. It is about pedagogy and not a shiny new tool. ~Division Office Team Member
Mark is always responsive, accessible and willing to assist us when we have had any issues arise. ~School Assistant Principal
I have only attended one of Mark's inservices on Web 2.0 tools and it was extremely relevant and good. However Mark has worked with me in a variety of ways with respect to technology and his delivery approach is excellent, patient, informative and helpful. ~Division Teacher
I am impressed with the frequency and the quality of the workshops, inservices and presentations that you take on. I hope to be that comfortable in a presentation role at some point in my career! ~Division Learning Coach
I get a lot of new ideas from Mark in the way he presents information. I will often take these ideas and use them at our buildings. ~School Principal
You walk the walk and talk the talk. You are there to assist whenever needed as well as sit down and discuss needs as they arise in order to put a plan into place which will be effective and efficient. ~School Principal
He is an outside the box thinker, looking for the best solution. ~School Assistant Principal
Right tool for the right use - Purpose is Everything. I appreciate that. ~District Office Colleague
INSTRUCTION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOCUS SURVEY RESULTS