Professional Development
Professional development is a system of continuous growth and learning that builds the capacity of the
education community to 
respond to the needs of all learners.
Quality professional development is derived from multiple data sources and
embedded in nature. Through an ongoing process, educators
are given time to learn, implement and reflect. Quality professional
development is monitored throughout implementation and upon culmination, data is
used to determine impact on instruction and ultimately on student achievement.
The Rhode Island Department of Education has reviewed the
Rhode Island Quality Professional Development Standards
in relation to the Federal Definition and to the National Staff
Standards. The foundation for the re-design of teacher
certification is high quality professional development in order
to improve student success. The Rhode Island Quality
Professional Development Standards will serve as a
cornerstone as Rhode Island moves forward toward success for
every child.