Focus on Student Achievement: Dr. Kevin McCarthy Accomplished Teaching Academy Update

The Dr. Kevin McCarthy Accomplished Teaching Academy (ATA) was developed in 2003 to facilitate the professional development needs of experienced teachers. One of the unique components that defines the ATA is that the professional training incorporates teachers from all levels of the school system - elementary, middle, and high school - who attend the training as a single group. Another component is the involvement of the Classroom Teachers Association (CTA) in the design and implementation of ATA. The CTA partners with District staff members to plan this high level professional development opportunity that includes National Board Certified Teachers. Nationally recognized speakers focus on each day’s theme. National Board Certified teachers facilitate the break-out sessions where teachers receive research-based information aligned with National Board Certification standards for use within their classrooms or their schools.

All District Goals and Critical Success Factors

The budget includes $190,000 provided by Title II funds, $11,000 from school contributions, $1,000 from CTA, along with other in-kind donations.

Teachers are surveyed to collect qualitative and quantitative data about the sessions they attend to capture relevant information about each day’s activities. The survey results are presented in a report each October following the professional development experience.