Component 4D

Schools are, first of all, environments to promote the learning of students. But in promoting student learning, teachers must work with their colleagues to share strategies, plan joint efforts, and plan for the success of individual students. Schools are, in other words, professional organizations for teachers, and their full potential can be realized only when teachers regard themselves as members of a professional community. This community is characterized by mutual support and respect, as well as by recognition of the responsibility of all teachers to be constantly seeking ways to improve their practice and contribute to the life of the school. Inevitably teachers' duties extend beyond the doors of their classrooms and include activities related to the entire school or district, or both. These activities include such things as school and district curriculum committees and engagement with parent-teacher organizations. With experience, teachers assume leadership roles in these activities.