Teaching & Learning

Western Buckeye ESC provides opportunities for personalized, professional learning and training, instructional coaching, and access to evidence-based practices. Through workshops, on-site support, and curriculum resources, WBESC empowers educators to meet diverse student needs, align with state standards, and implement effective teaching strategies. WBESC fosters a culture of continuous learning and instructional excellence, ensuring that schools within its region are equipped to promote high levels of student achievement. Click here to register for online courses to complete at your own pace.

Enrolling at NNU

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.

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

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

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.)

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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