Teaching & Learning

October Monthly Newsletter by NATALIE BENNER

 

Explore Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation's latest research on the connection between professional development and educator satisfaction!

 

 

 

Steps to Enroll for PD Credit at NNU

Earn professional development (PD) credit through Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) with ease! Follow these simple steps to align your training with graduate-level credit.

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1. Decide What Type of PD Credit You Need

Determine how you plan to use your PD credit. NNU offers:

• Graduate-level, non-degree-seeking semester credits through the Center for Professional Development.

• Credit for PD already provided by your school or district—just align it with NNU’s credit requirements.

This credit may be used for:

• Recertification or license renewal

• Salary advancement

• State teaching certificate or endorsement requirements

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2. Check the PD Hours Required per Credit

NNU follows a standard of:

• 15 hours of instruction/training = 1 credit

• Instruction must be led by an educator with a master’s degree

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3. Register for the Credit

To enroll:

• Complete NNU’s registration process for non-degree or CPD students

• Submit any required forms and agreements

• Pay tuition or applicable fees

• Accept course expectations (grading, assignments, etc.)

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4. Complete the PD Activities

Be sure to:

• Attend all required hours of training

• Complete assignments or evidence of learning (e.g., reflections, classroom applications)

• Meet any NNU requirements for demonstrating learning outcomes

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5. Request Your Transcript or PD Credit Verification

Once you've completed the course:

• Ensure your grade or "Satisfactory/Pass" is recorded

• Request a transcript or PD credit verification from NNU

• NNU provides complimentary electronic transcripts for PD courses

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6. Submit Credit to Your District or State

If needed for:

• License renewal

• Salary advancement

• Endorsements

Submit your transcript or verification to your school district or licensing authority according to their guidelines.

Professional Development Through an Education Service Center (ESC)

Empowering Educators | Enhancing Student Success

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1. What is an ESC (Education Service Center)?

An Education Service Center (ESC) is a regional organization that provides school districts and educators with essential support, services, and training. ESCs are dedicated to improving student achievement and operational efficiency across schools.

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2. How Can an ESC Support My Professional Development?

ESCs offer a wide variety of professional learning opportunities, including:

• Workshops & seminars

• Certification and continuing education programs

• Online and in-person courses

• Instructional coaching

• Curriculum development support

• Leadership and administrator training

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3. Who Can Participate in ESC Professional Development?

ESC programs are typically open to:

• PK–12 teachers

• School and district administrators

• Counselors and support staff

• Instructional coaches

• Aspiring educators and leaders

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4. Are ESC Trainings Aligned with State Standards?

Yes. ESC professional development sessions are carefully designed to align with:

• State academic standards

• Certification/licensure requirements

• Evidence-based instructional practices

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5. Is There a Cost for ESC Professional Development?

Some sessions are free—especially for districts served by the ESC. Others may involve a fee based on:

• Type of training

• Materials provided

• Guest speakers or certifications

Discounts and bundled pricing may be available for districts or groups.

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6. Can I Earn CEU or CPE Credits Through ESC Trainings?

Yes. Most ESC sessions offer Continuing Professional Education (CPE) or Continuing Education Unit (CEU) credits. These can be used for:

• Certification renewal

• District professional learning requirements

Be sure to verify credit availability for each session.

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7. Are Online or Hybrid PD Options Available?

Yes! ESCs offer flexible formats to meet your schedule, including:

• Live virtual sessions

• Self-paced online courses

• Hybrid programs combining in-person and online learning

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8. Does the ESC Provide Coaching or Mentoring Services?

Absolutely. ESCs often support educators with:

• Instructional coaching

• Mentoring for new teachers

• Leadership coaching

• Classroom observation and feedback

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9. How Do I Register for ESC PD Sessions?

Registration is typically available through the ESC’s official website. Most ESCs maintain:

• A professional development calendar

• An online training portal for sign-ups

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10. Can the ESC Customize Training for My Campus or District?

Yes. ESCs can design customized PD tailored to your school or district’s:

• Strategic goals

• Instructional priorities

• Staff needs

On-site and virtual options are available.

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11. What Topics Are Commonly Covered?

ESC professional development covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Reading & math instruction

• Science & STEM education

• Special education and inclusion

• Classroom management strategies

• Technology integration (including AI tools)

• Leadership development

• Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) & mental health support

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12. How Is the Impact of PD Measured?

ESCs use multiple methods to evaluate effectiveness, such as:

• Participant feedback surveys

• Post-training evaluations

• Follow-up coaching and support