UW College of Education Teacher Development Program
Challenge
Many new urban teachers are placed in high-needs schools that do not have the resources to offer support or guidance. These new teachers often have difficulty coping, and a significant percentage quit in their first five years.
Program
The Ackerley Network for Teacher Development is a multiyear program designed to improve teacher retention. The first element in the Teacher Development program establishes a support system for new teachers, including a monitoring program, new technology for improving teaching skills, and meetings that promote shared learning among teachers at the 40 partner schools. The second element is designed to help teachers apply new discoveries in the science of learning, and includes an intensive summer workshop and opportunities for professional development for teachers from the partner schools.
