Focus on Student Achievement: Dr. Kevin McCarthy Accomplished Teaching Academy Update (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

The Dr. Kevin McCarthy Accomplished Teaching Academy (ATA) was initiated in 2003 to facilitate the professional development needs of experienced teachers. One of the unique components that defines ATA is that this professional training includes teachers, including National Board Certified teachers, from all levels--elementary, middle, and high school--who attend the training as a single group. Another component is the collaboration with the Hillsborough Classroom Teachers Association (CTA) in the planning, design, and implementation of this high-level professional development opportunity.

Each year the program agenda includes nationally recognized speakers that focus on each day’s theme. National Board Certified Teachers facilitate the breakout sessions where teachers receive research-based information aligned with National Board Certification standards for use within their classrooms. The 2007 Academy was held June 5-8, 2007, at Jefferson High School with 454 participants.

All District Goals and Critical Success Factors

The budget includes approximately $200,000 from Staff Development funds, $12,000 from school contributions, $1,000 from CTA funds, along with other in-kind contributions.

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 year following the professional development experience.