They need the opportunity to apply new ideas to the classroom, receive feedback and support, and then refine those ideas. Most importantly, professional development must be carefully assessed for its ultimate impact- its effect on student achievement. Schools and classrooms must be organized to meet individual student needs Each student has specific and unique instructional needs, and teachers must organize their classes to meet these needs as effectively as possible. Schools must be organized to facilitate teacher collaboration and reflection around student learning Teacher collaboration can take many forms in the successful school. Teachers may meet on a regular basis to discuss students and their work or to develop curriculum and assessment to meet the specific needs of their students.
Teachers also benefit from access to teacher study groups and networks.
Schools must be organized to encourage teacher leadership. Teachers who take on leadership roles in the development of instructional practice can help their students achieve at higher levels. However, teachers in leadership roles have encountered multiple obstacles to providing leadership and teaching full-time in the classroom. A restructured workplace is needed to ensure the continued growth of teacher leadership. Schools must be organized to support innovative ideas.