Improving Inclusive Instruction: Professional Development Best Practices

Increasing Number of Students Receiving Special Education Services

The number of students qualifying for special education services has increased from 13% to 15% of the student population over the last 10 years (National Center for Education Statistics, Fast Facts), adding more than a million students in need of services. This increase and other factors have led to more than 21% of schools across the country stating that they are not fully staffed in special education (National Center for Education Statistics, School Pulse Survey), making providing professional development around working with students with diverse needs critical. According to NCES statistics, 67% of special education students are spending 80% or more of their time in the general education classroom, which underscores the need for additional professional development not only for special education teachers working in stand-alone classrooms but for all staff working with students with diverse needs including paraeducators and general education teachers to better support inclusive instruction.

Expanding Inclusive Instruction-Focused Professional Development

Vector Solutions’ new Inclusive Instruction & Interventions Implementation Guide is designed to provide districts with invaluable recommendations, best practices, and additional resources to support their successful implementation of an online professional development (PD) program specifically designed to improve inclusive instruction. The primary objective of the Guide is to ensure that educators are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of their students. By providing a broad array of strategies and resources, we aim to empower educators to effectively implement the PD program in a manner that best suits their specific circumstances.

Key Steps for Successful Professional Development Program Implementation

The guide outlines six essential steps for successful implementation:

1. Identify Key Staff

Selecting the right personnel is crucial for the successful implementation of the PD program. This includes establishing a strong implementation team with clearly defined roles and responsibilities.

2. Establish Goals

It is vital to set clear, achievable objectives. These goals should align with district and school priorities and be measurable to track progress and success.

3. Select Courses

Course selection criteria should be based on the specific needs of educators and students. Customizing courses ensures that the PD program is relevant and impactful.

4. Create a Schedule

Developing a realistic and effective timeline helps balance training with other responsibilities. This includes scheduling course rollouts and providing adequate time for educators to complete their training.

5. Communicate

Effective communication with stakeholders is essential for successful implementation. This involves regular updates and transparent communication to ensure everyone is informed and engaged.

6. Implement, Monitor, and Celebrate

Rolling out the program involves monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments. Celebrating milestones and successes keeps the momentum going and reinforces the value of the PD program.

Extended Resources to Support Successful Implementation and Professional Development Results

The guide includes the following resources to further support implementation:

• K-12 Training Planner: This planner helps in organizing and optimizing your training schedule for educators.
• MTSS Alignment Guide: The guide includes a new MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) alignment guide that demonstrates how Vector’s Inclusive Instruction & Interventions online courses help educators effectively support all students.
• Implementation Guide Checklist: A comprehensive checklist ensures that all critical steps are covered.
• Implementation Team Suggestions: Recommendations on the composition of the implementation team, highlighting the roles and expertise needed.
• Sample Principal Letter: A template for communicating with school principals, emphasizing the importance of their support and involvement.

The Inclusive Instruction & Interventions Implementation Guide is an invaluable resource designed to help educators effectively implement our online PD program. By following the outlined steps and utilizing the additional resources provided, educators can ensure a successful implementation that helps equip teachers, administrators, and paraeducators to meet the diverse needs of their students. We encourage you to explore this guide and adopt the strategies and resources that best suit your unique needs, ultimately leading to improved instruction and learning outcomes.