Professional Development Plan - McDonald County R-1 School ...

**MUST be approved 30 days prior to the test.
BEGINNING TEACHER PLAN
BEGINNING TEACHER ASSISTANCE: The Outstanding Schools Act requires
establishment of professional development programs specifically for beginning teachers
who have no prior teaching experience (Provisional or IPC). By offering peer support and
practical assistance, these programs should help beginning teachers polish their skills,
improve their chances for success, and encourage them to stay in the teaching profession.
The First Year Program includes a district orientation and training for board-approved
curriculum and programs. Additionally, at least five follow-up meetings will be held
throughout the year to focus on improved teacher performance, certification requirements,
and establishing a professional support network.
The Second Year Program provides on-going opportunities for addressing certification
issues, as well as a study group focused on improving classroom instruction practices.
Additionally, a professional support network is maintained. The Second Year Program will
meet at least 5 times throughout the year.
Attendance is reported to all building administrators.
MENTOR TEACHERS: The Outstanding Schools Act suggests and the recently amended
rule for teacher certification (5 CSR 8-800.010) requires that beginning teacher support
systems include a mentor program. The mentor should help the beginning teacher
accomplish the goals identified in the professional development plan and acquire needed
professional skills during the first two years. The mentor teacher will make observations as
determined by plan.
1. The mentor must schedule an observation with the new teacher. The
principal must approve the time.
2. The mentor must visit the new teacher during the mentor’s prep time. If this
is not possible, the principal must approve an alternate time.
3. Prior to the observation, the mentor and new teacher should agree upon any
areas of concern to provide focus for the observation.
4. The observation should last no longer than 30 minutes.
5. The goal of the observation is to give suggestions to the new teacher. These
should help the new teacher feel more comfortable when the principal
formally evaluates them. Everything discussed will be kept confidential.
6. An observation must be made once every nine weeks.
The principal is responsible for identifying mentor teachers. Mentors should be identified
in sufficient time to allow for training.
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