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2009 Professional Development Institutes

Commissioner's Letter

Dear Massachusetts Educators:

I am pleased to announce the 14th year of the Department's statewide Professional Development Institute (PDI) program. This year's free, graduate level institutes will focus on strengthening teachers' content knowledge and teaching skills in a wide range of subjects.

In December 2008, the Department held its first Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Summit to launch its new Center for Curriculum and Instruction. The Center's mission is to support schools and districts by providing high quality professional development and resources on effective teaching practices. In my opening address at the Summit, I expressed a commitment to narrowing the Commonwealth's persistent achievement gaps; our selection of institutes embodies that commitment.

Educators will find institutes in all subject areas, including some offered online. Taking an institute is a great way to increase your subject knowledge, refine your skills, learn about new teaching strategies, and meet other dedicated teachers. Funded through stated and federal sources, all institutes offer professional development points and optional graduate credit.

Please review the institute list to identify the options that best meet your professional development needs to enhance your teaching and improve your students' achievement.

Sincerely,

Mitchell D. Chester, Ed.D.
Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education