With mentoring from a more experienced teacher, two young teachers develop tutoring strategies for fourth graders who have not passed the proficiency tests. These activities reflect some of the new dimensions of professional development that will ensure Ohio's success in achieving a world-class teaching force. Today's teachers are striving for professional excellence not only through advanced degree programs and special workshops, but also through sustained activities in the field that include independent study, professional networking, mentoring, community projects, and, most importantly, learning opportunities woven into the daily practice of teaching. Teachers who engage in this diverse array of activities are reinventing professional development. The standards require teachers to create professional development plans for renewal of their teaching certificates or licenses based on their needs, as well as the needs of their students, schools, and districts.
Teachers have greater freedom to shape their own professional development.
Local decision making will enable teachers to fulfill their licensure requirements not only through college courses but also by working with mentors or colleagues on projects that meet specific needs. Pilot LPDCs in 92 school districts are already beginning to discover the exciting, challenging professional development ideas teachers can create. Ohio offers incentives for meeting challenges. Ohio is a national leader in the number of teachers who complete the rigorous process of becoming certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards . The nation's eyes are on Ohio.