Through Teaching is grounded on several key beliefs about teacher development. Each classroom is different. There are no magic solutions for all classrooms, all situations. Our best guidance comes from careful observation of our students and ourselves, and from professional conversation with colleagues. Sharing information is vital.
Teaching is too often a lonely profession.
The greatest resources available are other teachers trying similar approaches in their classrooms. Visits to other classrooms are essential for exploring new directions. Individual priorities need tailored solutions. Each teacher has his or her own set of priorities for professional growth, be it improving parent communication, integrating writing into the science curriculum, or guiding students to discuss literature in new ways. An effective in-service program should be individualized to help deal with various priorities.