Professional Learning - WA ISD 129

A crowded room with people standing and sitting around tables, with a projection screen visible in the background.

At West Aurora School District 129 our in-house professional learning system is the cornerstone of our success, providing opportunities that empower our educators, students, and community. Since 2017, our certified staff of just over 900 members have earned 784 micro-credentials and over 2,500 competency-based badges. Our efforts centered around professional learning have resulted in a significant increase in our staff retention rate from 85% to 94%.

With innovative events and opportunities, our staff are always prepared for the future, ensuring a dynamic and enriching learning environment. We invite you to explore the many ways we support our staff and join us in fostering a thriving educational community dedicated to professional growth and excellence.

Job-Embedded Professional Learning Opportunities

IMPLEMENTATION AND INSTRUCTIONAL COACHES
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SUBSTITUTES

IMPLEMENTATION AND INSTRUCTIONAL COACHES

District 129 believes the most effective professional learning occurs in the classroom alongside the teacher. We have invested in 16 Implementation and Instructional Coaches who support teachers across 16 of our buildings, serving PreK through 12th grade. Our coaches are trained in the Student-Centered Coaching model developed by Diane Sweeney, which emphasizes standards-based goals for student learning. Formative assessments guide teachers and coaches in making real-time decisions based on student needs. Teachers can engage with a coach informally or formally through full or mini coaching cycles.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SUBSTITUTES

A teacher laughing with other collegues.

To facilitate the professional learning process, District 129 employs 10 Professional Learning Substitutes. These individuals enable teachers to participate in various professional learning activities throughout the year, including on-site training, classroom observations, Learning Walks, off-site professional learning, and meetings with Implementation and Instructional Coaches.

Professional Learning Events

SPRING STAFF RECOGNITION AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING DAY

SPRING STAFF RECOGNITION AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING DAY

Microcredential and Competency Badge Courses

MICROCREDENTIALS
COMPETENCY BADGES

MICROCREDENTIALS

We offer several microcredentials annually, including 15 in-person classes with graduate-level work and projects, all written and facilitated by our staff. Topics include technology, assessment, SEL, responsive teaching, classroom culture, and teacher leadership, among others. Upon successful completion of a microcredential course, participants earn credits applicable toward the teacher salary schedule. All courses are provided to District 129 staff free of charge.

COMPETENCY BADGES

For those unable to attend in-person courses, we offer self-paced, online courses known as Competency Badges. These cover many tech tools and other instructional and curricular resources. We offer these badges not only to certified staff but also to office professionals, paraprofessionals, and administrators. Participants who successfully complete a competency badge earn a one-time stipend of $150.

TWO-YEAR INDUCTION

All new teachers participate in our two-year induction program, which includes monthly meetings on relevant topics and guest speakers. Our district is unique in having a dedicated person to support new teachers. Laura Beatus, our District Professional Learning Coordinator, has over 25 years of experience in the district. In her role, she regularly checks in with new hires, ensuring they receive the support they need.