In-Service Days Complement Professional Development Activities
Professional Development for Teachers
A rich knowledge base exists on the benefits of thoughtful, multi-year professional development activities for schools, districts, and dioceses. This knowledge, inspired by federally funded research on school improvement, organizational change, and adult learning styles, highlights the importance of professional development for fostering effective teaching and learning. Educational leaders often plan professional development activities that are tied to a school’s strategic plan, embraced by faculty, and conducted over several years. These activities include webinars, simulations, mentoring, and coaching. Well-designed professional development is a hallmark of effective schools.
“While in-service certainly aims at the transmission of knowledge, changing or shaping behavior is best accomplished through professional development programs.”
The Value of In-Service Days
In contrast to professional development, in-service days are often used to introduce emerging concerns or share new information with faculty. These days are an opportunity to quickly address timely topics, provide an overview of new developments, and share expertise. While in-service days focus on knowledge transmission, they can be a valuable complement to more deliberate and strategic professional development programs.
A well-timed in-service day can ignite teachers’ interest in new approaches, encourage reflection, and prepare them for deeper professional development. Although a single workshop may not lead to transformative changes in pedagogy, it can provoke self-assessment and pave the way for sustained growth.
The Timing of In-Service Days
Some school leaders question the effectiveness of in-service days, particularly at the end of the school year. However, this timing can be highly effective. The sense of accomplishment and closure that accompanies a successful school year creates a psychological and emotional space for reflection and renewal. A thoughtfully planned in-service day during this time can inspire teachers, plant seeds of new ideas, and prepare them for future growth.
For example, spring in-service days can align with the encumbrance of Title IIA funds, ensuring that professional growth opportunities are maximized before the academic year concludes.
Conclusion
Professional development activities remain the gold standard for faculty growth and improvement. However, engaging in-service opportunities can also play a vital role in keeping students’ needs at the forefront and supporting the cycle of continuous improvement in schools. Together, professional development and in-service days create a balanced approach to fostering effective teaching and learning.
About the Author
Father Ron Nuzzi, PhD
Ordained in 1984, Father Ron Nuzzi has served as a parish priest, teacher, school administrator, university professor, and retreat leader. He has provided workshops, retreats, and seminars to leaders of Catholic schools in all 50 states, Canada, Ireland, and Australia. His work in faith-based education emphasizes the moral, ethical, and religious dimensions of teaching and aims to ensure the success of all students through robust programming for continuous teacher and leader improvement.
