1. Dr. Randall T. Freeman Walden University October 2, 2011

2. The teacher teams collaborate with administrative leaders and each other on a united vision of what form and content the classroom instruction should take. There exists a common understanding of how the classroom instruction should be developed, implemented, and continually improved.

3. Collaboration from a common vision leads to collaboration on instruction and taught curriculum. Teachers analyze data together and create common goals based upon analysis. Teachers create and teach research- based standards-based lessons. Student learning improves.

4. Relevant and ongoing teacher training that aligns classroom instruction with state and district curriculum standards, utilizing the adopted curriculum, and improves student learning and achievement.

5.  Supports the school site’s overall improvement plan  Research-based  Relevant to classroom instruction  Is actually implemented by the teachers  On-going follow-up training (Richards, 2009)

6. Professional development supports teaching skills, which in turn promotes greater student learning and overall academic achievement (Richards, 2009).

7. A team of players working together compete better than all-stars working individually behind closed doors. Teachers working collaboratively produce standards-based instruction with greater focus on student achievement.

8.  Evolving educational philosophies (Ornstein & Hunkins, 2009).  Teachers not reflecting upon, analyzing, and implementing professional development training in the classroom instruction (Richards, 2009).

9. Curriculum is the ‘what’ to be taught, instruction is the delivery of the curriculum, and professional development is the ongoing training on ‘how’ to deliver the curriculum. Curriculum is the gas, instruction is the car, professional develop- ment is the steering wheel.

10. References

11. GraphicShunt.com (2007). Instruction clipart. Retrieved September 25, 2011. Keengwe, J., Onchwari, G., & Wachira, P. (2008). The use of computer tools to support meaningful learning. AACE Journal, 16(1), 77–92. Retrieved October 1, 2011.

12. Ornstein, A. & Hunkins, F. (2009). Curriculum foundations, principles, and issues (5 th edition). Pearson Education, Inc., Boston. Richards, M. (2009). Closing the gap between professional development and student achievement. Retrieved October 1, 2011.

13. Stonehill College (2009) Business meeting clipart. Retrieved September 25, 2011.