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While virtually every school leader wishes they had more resources to support their school improvement efforts—more time, funding or staff—they also know their most valuable resource isn’t a line in the budget, calendar, or policy manual. It’s their staff’s minds: their knowledge, mindset and motivation. School leaders routinely invest in professional development aligned to improvement goals because of its potential to grow not only new skills but also staff buy-in. Yet often professional development (PD) that educators experience fails on both fronts, because of its transactional, sit-and-get approach. Luckily, there is a better way: To grow your team’s practice and positively influence mindsets, give teachers the kind of learning you want them to design for students. Learn more from 51¸£ÀûÉç's business partner, sideby.

Do you know a paraeducator, emergency substitute or community member who is interested in becoming a special education teacher? Washington Education Association (WEA) Apprenticeship Residency in Teaching is an innovative pathway to earn a teaching certificate with an endorsement in special education on the job while receiving a salary and benefits. Candidates must have obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher (prior to the program start date) and be available for residency (student teaching) in a partner district: Auburn, Federal Way, Issaquah, Mukilteo, Pasco, Peninsula, Sedro Woolley, Sumner-Bonney Lake or Walla Walla. Applications for 2025-2026 residents are open until October 9, 2024.

Teacher Appreciation Week is not just about saying thank you; it's about showing teachers that their hard work and dedication are valued and appreciated. As principals, we have the privilege and responsibility to create a positive and supportive environment for our teachers to thrive. By implementing some of the ideas shared in this article, we can make this week truly special for our educators.