Since social-emotional qualities of relationships seem more complex than other aspects of teaching, educators often ignore this essential element of their instructional practice. Unless trusting relationships develop, students who exhibit challenging behaviors will negatively impact the entire class.

Teacher professional development is any type of continuing education effort for educators. It’s one way teachers can improve their skills and, in turn, boost student outcomes.

Learning can take place in formal or informal settings. Formal settings include conferences, courses, seminars, retreats and workshops. Informal opportunities for teacher professional development include independent research or investigation, peer learning initiatives or even just chatting with a colleague in the staff room.

Professional development for teachers takes place on a number of different levels: district-wide, among teachers in a given school, or individual basis.