Investing in Professional Development: A Key to Future Success in Education

Investing in professional development is more than just allocating time and resources; it is a strategic investment in the future of education. For K-12 educators, effective budgeting for professional growth is crucial. District and school administrators must recognize the value of equipping their staff with the latest educational strategies and technologies.

“The world of education is constantly adapting and changing,” said Carrie Friday, a teacher-librarian and media specialist at Melbourne High School in Melbourne, Florida. “Budgeting for quality professional development opportunities is critical to having a well-equipped staff.”

Friday explained that professional development is not just an investment in staff but in students as well. “When teachers have quality opportunities to develop, they share those skills with their colleagues and others in their district,” she continued. “Their skills are sharper, their teaching is better, and their students have improved opportunities for success.”

Prioritizing Staff Education

While limited budgets and competing priorities can make it challenging for administrators to allocate funds for professional development, it is essential to advocate for a dedicated professional development budget line. This ensures that financial constraints do not hinder learning opportunities for teachers and librarians, or the students they support. Friday emphasized the importance of educators advocating for their growth and learning opportunities.

“As someone who is the only one on my campus with my position, it is critical that I seek out opportunities to grow and learn in my particular field,” she said. “Most of the training we receive from the district or school is really suited more for classroom teachers. By pursuing professional development in my field, I can keep up with the newest ideas, trends, and tools to best support our staff and my students.”

In the ever-evolving landscape of K-12 education, professional development equips educators with the latest tools and strategies to enhance their teaching methodologies and meet the diverse needs of their students. As the custodians of learning, it is essential for teachers, administrators, and support staff to stay abreast of educational trends and technological advancements.

Follett’s Virtual Learning Opportunities

Follett Software offers cutting-edge virtual institutes that provide valuable professional growth opportunities. For users of Follett Destiny® Resource Manager, the upcoming Follett Institute is an ideal forum to learn how to maximize the potential of this powerful tool. Tailored sessions led by Destiny Senior Solutions Consultants offer hands-on learning experiences, enabling resource management staff from various campuses to collaborate and refine their skills to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness in resource allocation.

With the rise of digital learning, teacher-librarians must also evolve. Follett’s virtual training offerings are designed to foster this growth, offering comprehensive training on Follett Destiny® Library Manager. Whether you’re just starting your career or are looking to deepen your expertise, these nine-hour training modules – spread over three workshops and priced at just $198 – are an investment in the future of your institution’s digital learning environment. From mastering the Back Office Basics to the more advanced Back Office and Follett Destiny Discover® protocols, these sessions promise to enrich participants with knowledgeable insights applicable to their daily responsibilities.

Real-Life Testimonials

Debra Kauer, a librarian at Larned High School in Larned, Kansas. highlighted the value of these training sessions. “I have had the privilege of attending three of the Follett Institute trainings,” Kauer said. “I began with Back Office Basics, then took Destiny Discover Training, and finally Back Office Advanced. I came away with a wealth of information from all three training sessions, but I was especially pleased with the training that covered only Destiny Discover. Since receiving that training, I have been able to create a number of useful collections, especially for our English teacher.” 

Kauer emphasized the growth in confidence and proficiency gained from these sessions, which have tangibly enhanced the learning environment. This endorsement showcases the efficacy of the Follett Institute’s training programs and strengthens the argument for why districts and schools should prioritize professional development in their budgets.

Expert Support for Educators

Bonnie Given, MLIS, a Destiny Software Trainer, helps lead the Follett Institute training sessions. She loves connecting with educators and providing cutting-edge professional development opportunities that create a ripple effect through classrooms, libraries, schools, and districts.

“Our recent updates to the Follett Institute curriculum have created a unique workshop webinar,” Given said. “These trainings offer the opportunity to practice the skills we demonstrate, and we are there to help you as you learn.”

Given shared a success story from an attendee who transformed her Destiny Discover after participating in the training sessions. The changes elevated her students’ engagement levels, which was rewarding and inspiring for both the attendee and Given.

Commitment to Excellence

Allocating funds for programs like those offered by Follett Institute signifies a commitment to excellence and acknowledges that the benefits—greater teacher efficacy, improved student outcomes, and a culture of continuous improvement—far outweigh the costs. Building a robust professional development budget is essential to recognizing the vital role educators play in shaping the future.

Remember, professional development within K-12 education is not merely a supplement to day-to-day duties. It is the backbone of a thriving educational environment. Training sessions offered by Follett Software are stepping stones to achieving a higher standard of academic excellence. By continuously investing in professional growth and adopting new approaches, educators can create a more engaging and enriching learning experience for their students. Take advantage of the opportunities provided by Follett to stay ahead and make a positive impact on your educational community.

Register today for Follett Institute:

Destiny Resource Manager  Destiny Library Manager

P.S. For other professional development opportunities, click here!