What is an effective way for leaders to assess the implementation of professional development?

Gathering feedback through surveys from students serves as an effective way for leaders to assess the implementation of professional development because students are directly impacted by teaching practices and curriculum changes. Their insights can provide valuable information about the effectiveness of the professional development training that teachers receive. When students share their experiences and perspectives, school leaders gain a clearer understanding of how well the strategies taught in professional development are being applied in the classroom and how they affect learning outcomes.

This method allows for a more comprehensive evaluation, as student feedback can highlight areas of strength and areas needing improvement from a unique viewpoint that might not be captured through other assessment methods. By focusing on student experiences, school leaders can make informed decisions about future professional development initiatives, ensuring they align with the actual needs in the classroom and facilitate improved teaching and learning.