Example of an Exemplary Induction Program

In the coming weeks school districts will begin induction programs for new staff. There are a number of induction programs across the country that have been recognized for exemplary programming. One such program is the Quakertown (Pa.) New Teacher Academy, which was been highlighted by the National Staff Development Council (NSDC) in a 2002 Journal of Staff Development article. The academy includes unique features, such as a two week training period prior to school starting that involves workshops and even a bus tour of the district and community. Workshops during this period cover such topics as:

• understanding the district standards,
• positive classroom management,
  
• teaching with technology, and
  
• a principals panel.

The image below outlines the complete schedule of the two week training period.

(Image 1: New Teacher Academy, Year One, Beerer, 2002)

To learn more about the components of the New Teacher Academy visit the article by the NSDC: http://www.nsdc.org/library/publications/jsd/beerer234.cfm