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The Blog


The Importance of Quality Professional Development
We all know that teaching is a profession that truly is a calling. Teachers who stay in the profession for a long-time care deeply about the students and the subject they are teaching. I know, I was in the classroom for over 33 years. We also know that the demands on teachers have increased greatly over recent years.
Here in Indiana, this year is especially hard on teachers with a completely new set of academic standards that were adopted in June. There are new high-sta
Dianne McKinley
Sep 18, 20234 min read


Why Instructional Coaching is Critical
According to the research, instructional coaching has proven to be the most effective type of professional development. The professional relationship between the coach and the teacher allows for maximum growth, a deep understanding of the classroom teacher and students, modeling of best practices, and consistent support.
Dianne McKinley
May 22, 20233 min read


Time To Stretch
It is finally Spring. Spring Breaks are over, and we are in the home stretch to the end of the school year. As we all know it is a marathon and not a sprint! With that in mind, this is where we will begin. Like all great marathoners everyone must start with stretching and warming up. That is where I would suggest you all start. With a good stretch.
Dianne McKinley
Mar 29, 20232 min read


Top 5 Books for Curriculum Directors in 2023
Whether you are a Curriculum Director by title or by assignment, an aspiring CD, or someone who just loves learning about curriculum design and development this booklist is for you. Every title on the top 5 books for curriculum directors in 2023 should be on your bookshelf this year.
Dianne McKinley
Jan 25, 20233 min read


Top Websites and Online Resources for Educators in 2021
Educators, do you want to be in the know? Here are some great Indiana education resources and very brief Indiana political resources that you can subscribe to and get the latest information to keep you in the know in under 15 minutes!
William Reed
Jan 13, 20212 min read


Your Strategic Planning as a School Leader
When it comes to being a school leader, there are many issues that need to be addressed. Strategic planning as a school leader does not just consider studies and preparing children for possible futures but also working to develop pathways to reach an envisioned future. This means challenging students to think for themselves as well as developing core values and beliefs.
Dianne McKinley
Jul 6, 20193 min read


Why Does the US Use Standardized Testing?
Standardized testing has fueled a national debate in the last few decades. Some argue that standardized tests narrow the curriculum and encourage teacher-centered instruction. Many parents also don’t feel comfortable with the fact that their children are being judged on the basis of tests that puts too much emphasis on test scores, and too little on personal background, innovation, and critical thinking. In this post, we will answer the question, “Why does the United States u
William Reed
Apr 8, 20194 min read


Top 10 Education Books to Read
Every time you open a new book, you’re embarking on a new intellectual and emotional journey. The ideas contained in a book can open your mind, helping you gain a deeper understanding of things that are significant to your personal or professional life. In particular, books about education can expand the knowledge database of educators, increase their awareness on the latest trends, and help them improve practices.
Dianne McKinley
Jan 6, 20186 min read


The Role of Parents in Education
Although most structured learning takes place in the confines of the school, that doesn’t mean that parents cannot have an active role in their children’s education. On the contrary, parents can encourage, motivate, and even influence their kids to do well in school. This article will discuss the roles that parents play in the education of their children.
Dianne McKinley
Aug 4, 20173 min read


The Importance of Mentoring New Teachers
Approximately 50% of new teachers leave the profession within the first five years of teaching. Why are they leaving? There are several reasons, ranging from high stress levels, heavy workload, or poor working conditions.
Many teachers experience physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion, especially those who are working in low-performing schools (where the demands are high, and the challenges are immense). But even in high-performing schools, some teachers experience bur
Dianne McKinley
Jul 14, 20175 min read


The Role of Data in Education
Data from multiple sources guide decisions about professional learning which can impact outcomes for students. Schools can improve learning for all students by gathering and using various categories of data more effectively. This article will take up the different types of data, how teachers can use data, and the importance of data in education.
Dianne McKinley
Jun 16, 20173 min read


The Importance of Professional Development in Education
Professional development (PD) in education or educational consulting refers to a wide variety of advanced professional learning, specialized training, or formal education that intends to help teachers, educators, and administrators improve their skills, knowledge, and effectiveness.
Schools, districts, federal, state or foundation grants, or private sources can shoulder the cost of professional development training. It can be delivered in person, online, through 1-on-1 int
Dianne McKinley
Apr 19, 20174 min read
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