What should be evaluated to ensure the effectiveness of a school’s professional development program?

To evaluate the effectiveness of a school’s professional development program, it is crucial to look for evidence of teachers' application of the strategies taught in the program. This focus demonstrates whether the professional development has been successfully translated into classroom practice. The true measure of a program's impact lies in its ability to change teaching practices, thereby enhancing student learning experiences.

When teachers actively implement new strategies, it indicates that they found the professional development relevant and helpful. Observing changes in instructional practices allows school leaders to assess if the program is meeting its goals and providing the intended support to educators.

In contrast, while teacher satisfaction ratings can provide insight into how much teachers value the program, they do not directly reflect the effectiveness in terms of teaching practices. Changes in student behavior might suggest an indirect benefit, but the focus remains on the teachers' implementation of learned strategies. Evaluating the duration of the program might be relevant to consider its thoroughness or comprehensiveness, but it does not gauge whether the program's content is being utilized effectively in the classroom. Therefore, monitoring the application of taught strategies is essential for determining the actual impact of professional development on teaching and learning.