Teachers who have used these programs have improved their professional practice as well as increased their students' achievement. Professional development opportunities for Providence teachers include such topics as effective classroom management strategies, behavior contracts, attributes of effective teachers, reflective practice, effective use of homework, effective instructional grouping and effective communication. The PTU also offers workshops in the effective teaching of reading and mathematics. These programs are available to substitute and regularly appointed Providence K-12 teachers. They are applicable to teachers of regular education, special education, ESL and bilingual education.
Space is limited in some workshops.
Flyers will be mailed to Providence teachers in advance. The broad design of the mentor program allows for individualized support for both new teachers and veteran teachers, including regular education, special education, ESL, and bilingual teachers. Each teacher in the program is assigned a mentor. Through classroom visits and professional development discussions, mentor teachers provide customized support to their colleagues. Teachers who join this program may attend some professional development workshops offered by the union.