What is a "Choice Course?"

In an effort to ensure that CPS teachers and paraprofessionals have the opportunity to engage in learning experiences that are relevant and meaningful to their practice, our district has set aside 10 of the 38 contractual professional development hours for educator-driven "Choice Courses." A Choice Course is an approved, 10-hour learning experience that takes place outside of the school day and may include:

• An approved 10-hour educator-directed collaboration and planning experience to extend learning and practice or address a shared professional need. Examples include planning lessons and shared assessments for upcoming instructional units, developing shared materials for upcoming instructional units, participating in a book study, or participating on a school-based team.

• An approved educator-led learning experience about a topic that addresses one of the following topics related to the mission, vision, values & objectives of our District Plan: 

  • • Delivering ambitious instruction & effective supports for all learners.

    • Implementing accessible college & career pathways across the PK-12 continuum.

    • Building welcoming schools and classrooms that foster a sense of belonging.

    • Meeting students’ behavioral needs and supporting SEL.

    • Dismantling educational inequities.

    • Strengthening family and community partnerships.

    • Or another approved topic that supports our district’s Mission, Vision & Core Values.

• An approved self-guided learning experience or an approved learning experience completed outside of CPS, such an in-person or asynchronous training offered by a university or local organization. Please note that outside coursework used to satisfy the "choice course" requirement may not be applied towards salary-lane advancement. (Please click here to learn more about Masters Plus credits).

• Participation in the CPS Teacher Induction & Mentoring Program (click here for more information).

All Teachers and Paraprofessionals are expected to complete a Choice Course each year!