Empowering Teachers

 

At ICSB, we believe that when our teachers are given the time and space to grow professionally, everyone wins—especially our students! This semester, ICSB is carving out three dedicated afternoons for professional development (PD), where our educators will sharpen their skills, refine classroom practices, and, ultimately, enhance student learning outcomes. With various activities happening simultaneously, these PD sessions are designed to meet each teacher’s unique professional needs. The first one of the year was this past Wednesday. 

 

1. Teacher Development Goals: Creating an Upward Cycle of Improvement

 

Teachers set professional development goals to push their teaching to the next level. Most worked solo, and a few in small collaborative groups. These goals aim to make meaningful changes that directly impact student learning. In the coming weeks, they will try out these new strategies, and on the next PD day, they will reflect on the results. It’s an "upward cycle" of growth—each step forward builds on the last, leading to better outcomes for teachers and students.

 

 

2. Science Curriculum Review: Shaping the Future of Science Education

 

A small group of teachers, led by Mr. Michael Southwell, reviewed our Science curriculum. Curriculum is a dynamic thing. Over time, the needs of ICSB students can change and resources also change. When that happens, our curriculum may need to adjust. The review team will engage with colleagues, parents, and students in deciding what the science curriculum should look like going forward and what resources the school needs to support it.

 

 

3. New Teacher Support: Laying a Strong Foundation

 

Supporting our new teachers is a top priority at ICSB. The teachers new to ICSB this year met with the Lower School Principal, Ms. Amy Leamon, on Wednesday to help plan units of instruction according to ICSB standards. Future PD sessions will focus on incorporating ICSB's Expected Student Outcomes into lessons and connecting academic content to a Christian worldview.

 

 

Why Professional Development Matters at ICSB

 

At ICSB, one of our core values is growth. By facilitating opportunities for ICSB instructional staff to grow in their teaching, we exponentially increase the opportunities for better learning experiences for ICSB students. Whether setting personal growth goals, reevaluating the curriculum, or helping new teachers flourish, these sessions ensure our teachers are constantly growing. As a result, our students always benefit from it. By investing in our teachers, we’re investing in our students’ futures. When our educators thrive, our students succeed—which we’re incredibly proud of at ICSB.