In August 1992, I began teaching elementary school in Pickering, Louisiana, to a class full of energetic fifth graders. I floundered my first few weeks, but quickly developed some effective skills. Over the next few years, I continued to hone my skills and began to notice there were differences in teachers in the various schools in which I worked.…

To improve teaching and advance student learning requires weaving together the curriculum that students engage with every day with the professional learning of teachers. This paper is designed as a resource for system leaders at the district, state, and charter-management organization (CMO) levels looking to improve instructional outcomes for…

This report focuses on how better teaching results in better student learning. It is the result of a Think Tank on Professional Development comprised of parents, educators, and business and community leaders that convened to improve education and teaching in Louisiana. Think Tank members determined that they wanted to help build the capacity for…

As part of the Louisiana state teacher assessment program to enhance student learning, this manual provides suggestions and resources for teacher practice keyed to attributes of the "Louisiana Components of Effective Teaching." Each of these attributes is accompanied by suggested strategies, evidence of completion, and resources. The…

The long-range goal of Louisiana's teacher professional accountability programs is to enhance student learning by providing opportunities for teachers to strengthen skill areas and by identifying those aspects of teaching performance that may need improvement. "Strategies for Effective Teaching in the 21st Century" is intended to be used…