In the past, the NDCLP used the learning group model with a focus on the specific topics Differentiated Instruction and Understanding by Design. Due to the variety of strategic plans at the local level and the flexibility of the learning group model, the NDCLP is offering groups the opportunity to choose the area of professional development that best meets the needs of the building or district.

Incentives for Participation

The NDCLP provides the structure to engage educators in reflection and growth, keep content and instructive knowledge current, and improve culturally responsive child-centered instructional practices that result in increased student learning. Additional incentives include:

• The NDCLP will provide up to $300 to facilitate the groups activities. These activities may include travel expenses for professional development opportunities on their chosen topic, substitute teacher costs to enable classroom observations, facilitator stipends, or any other activity that would facilitate the group discussion and learning experience.
• Each group will receive $300 for the purchase of a text to center their discussions and other resource materials deemed necessary by the group.
• NDCLP will again offer graduate credit for participation in the program. This continuing education credit will be available through North Dakota State University at a cost of $50/credit.
• Each participant will be given full access to the School Improvement Network’s PD360. Teachers and administrators can use PD360 to access programs-broken into hundreds of fully indexed and searchable segments.

For more information, and to apply, visit the NDCLP website at www.ndclp.org. Hurry to sign up! The NDCLP is limited to 35 groups and the application deadline is September 30, 2007!

• NDCL Announcement Brochure (PDF)