Professional Learning

Part of the mission of the Telescope Network is to seek out and magnify the successful teachers, effective practices, and models of teacher-driven professional learning. 

Models of Professional Learning

Let’s collaborate to design professional learning experiences that meet your needs and fit your constraints. Here’s an overview of our most popular programs:

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Edcamps (low intensity)

Edcamps are “an innovative form of training with no predetermined speakers or sessions, led by the participants themselves.” Participants create the session topics at the start of the event based on their interests and questions. Participants can learn new practices, connect, and share expertise with others in the session.  more info



Connect & Share Panels (medium intensity)

During a Connect & Share panel webinar,  participants can hear from BPS colleagues about what’s working in their classrooms and schools. Presenters share a 10-minute presentation about an effective practice. Participants connect with peers from across BPS, get new ideas, and earn PD hours as well. 

Learning Sites (high intensity)

In a Learning Site, educators come together for a full day in a live classroom around a common area of practice (also can accommodate a ½ day model). Participants talk with the host teacher and set goals for their own classrooms. Participants who continue the learning through virtual follow-up sessions are also able to earn an academic ladder credit.

Learning Cohort (high intensity)

In a Learning Cohort, you join with a group of BPS colleagues to learn together as a team. You will address a common challenge, visit a peer to discuss their practice, develop ideas to bring back to your own setting, and get support as you try out new ideas.

Planning Cohort (high intensity)

A Planning Cohort is a space for educators to collaboratively plan with the support of a teacher expert. During the planning cohort you will have time to unpack curriculum to develop a thoughtful unit plan, pool resources with other teachers in a similar context, and receive feedback from peers and coaches. 

Professional Learning Communities

We have experimented with a few different PLC structures, including Planning Groups, Learning Circles, and VPLCs (Virtual Professional Learning Communities). Some are role-based , some are topic-based. Some are fully remote, others are hybrid or in-person. All are designed to bring colleagues together on a regular basis to share their challenges and their learning with each other. 


Peer Observations

Work with the Telescope Networkers to identify a focus question and observe and talk with a BPS colleague. We will coordinate logistics, help find host educators, and facilitate the debrief conversation.