Q: “I am an experienced teacher; I’ve been in the classroom for about 10 years. I participate in professional learning activities and work to be actively engaged in those offerings and stay current with current pedagogy. However, I struggle with weaving my learning into my instructional practices during the academic year. I am tired of using all my breaks to do all of the reworking because it’s not timely, and I need the recharge. There has to be a better way.”
-Signed, committed educator
A: Thank you for your dedication and commitment to your teaching practice. Much like doctors, teachers must constantly learn and model what it means to be a lifelong learner, as there is always new research that helps us to know what works for learners. With a decade of experience under your belt, you have undoubtedly impacted countless students’ lives. However, the struggle to weave new learning into your instructional practices is a common challenge many educators face. Let’s explore strategies to help you integrate professional development more effectively throughout the academic year without sacrificing your well-deserved breaks.
Set clear, achievable goals
One of the most effective ways to integrate new learning is to set clear, achievable goals. Instead of trying to implement everything at once, focus on one or two specific strategies or concepts that resonate with you from your professional learning experiences. For instance, if you attended a workshop on differentiated instruction, you might set a goal to incorporate one new differentiation strategy each month. This approach allows you to gradually integrate new ideas into your practice without being overwhelmed. It also allows you to reflect on what is working and where adjustments need to be made. Plus, if you’re focused on one goal, it is easier to know if you’re hitting your goals and applying the new learning as needed.
Create a reflection routine
Reflection is a powerful tool for educators. I learned this when I did my National Board Certification. The reflection aspect of the experience changed the way I learned and the way I taught. Establish a routine where you take time each week to reflect on your teaching practices and how they align with your professional learning. Consider keeping a journal or using digital tools to document your thoughts. I used to do this on my blog, and it is how I built my audience as they respected my transparency, and my reflection helped others! Bonus: Reflecting on what worked, what didn’t, and how you can adjust your methods will help you internalize your learning and make it more applicable to your day-to-day teaching.
Collaborate with colleagues
Collaboration can be a game-changer when it comes to integrating new practices. Contact colleagues who share your interests or have successfully implemented similar strategies. Forming a professional learning community can provide you with support, accountability, and new ideas. You might decide to meet regularly to discuss what you’ve learned and how you’re applying it in your classrooms. This collaborative approach enhances your learning and fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among your peers. I mentioned pineapple charts in my last column, which apply here, too.
Use technology
Incorporating technology can streamline the integration of new practices. Use platforms like Google Classroom or other educational apps to share resources, lesson plans, and strategies with your students and colleagues. There also are numerous online communities and forums where educators share their experiences and insights. These can be as easy as a Facebook group or a local or national organization’s community platforms. I know that PDK has an online community for Educators Rising teacher-leaders on Facebook, and ISTE/ASCD have one, too. Social media and other technologies can help grow collective efficacy and help you develop your professional network. It was on Twitter more than a decade ago that I found my people. Engaging with these resources can provide ongoing support and inspiration without requiring significant time commitments.
Prioritize professional learning during the year
Instead of saving all your professional learning for breaks, integrate smaller learning opportunities throughout the school year. Attend webinars, read articles, or participate in online courses that fit your schedule. These shorter, more focused learning experiences can be less overwhelming and easier to implement in real-time. Make it a goal to dedicate a small amount of time each week to professional learning, whether through reading, watching a video, or engaging in discussions with peers. It’s really easy to sign up with an organization and just get emails for upcoming webinars like EdWeb or the Aurora Institute for example. I receive emails daily letting me know of different webinar opportunities that are usually free. Additionally, conferences are also a great way to network and grow at your own pace.
Seek feedback from students
Your students can be valuable in your journey to integrate new practices. Encourage them to provide feedback on your teaching methods and the learning activities you implement. This feedback can offer insights into what resonates with them and what may need adjustment. Additionally, involving students in the process can foster a collaborative learning environment and empower them to take ownership of their education. And once you teach students how to help you make these decisions, they become adept at taking ownership and providing better feedback to you and to each other. You can ask them one on one or create a form where they can anonymously (if they want) provide constructive feedback from their experiences. Make sure you tell them that you have taken their feedback and suggestions seriously when you implement the adjustments.
Give yourself grace
Finally, it’s crucial to practice self-compassion. Teaching is a demanding profession, and it’s OK to acknowledge that you can’t implement every new strategy immediately. Give yourself the grace to grow at your own pace. Remember that teaching is a journey; every small step you take toward integrating new learning is a significant achievement.
Integrating professional learning into your instructional practices doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By setting clear goals, collaborating with colleagues, using technology, and prioritizing professional learning throughout the year, you can create a more manageable and fulfilling approach to your teaching. Remember to be patient with yourself and embrace the journey of continuous growth. Your commitment to your professional development will undoubtedly enrich your teaching and, most importantly, benefit your students.
Have a question that you’d like Career Confidential to answer? Email ssackstein@educatorsrising.org. All names and schools will remain confidential. No identifying information will be included in the published questions and answers.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Starr Sackstein
Starr Sackstein is the Massachusetts state coordinator for PDK’s Educators Rising program, COO of Mastery Portfolio, an education consultant, instructional coach, and author. She was a high school English and journalism teacher and school district curriculum leader. She is the author of more than 15 educational books, including Hacking Assessment (Times 10, 2015), Making an Impact Outside of the Classroom (Routledge, 2024), and Actionable Assessment (Routledge, 2026).
Visit their website at: https://www.mssackstein.com/
