An Insider's Perspective on Innovation in Urban Education: From Professional Development to District-Wide Change

• In Event: 67.065 - Teacher Development in Diverse Urban Settings

Abstract

How can a teacher professional development model become a district-wide innovation supporting urban school change? This paper describes the transformation of a literacy professional development model into a district-wide, urban education innovation. The initial project focused on improving the literacy outcomes for urban elementary school children many of whom are multiple language learners and living in under-resourced neighborhoods. To impact advanced literacy achievement students need skilled teachers. To move beyond a small group of teachers within isolated schools the project transformed into district-wide innovation. Using a case study methodology, with quantitative and qualitative data, the paper takes up the conference theme in exploring the complexities of “collaborating across borders” in sharing a dynamic district/university partnership.

Authors

• Sherryl B. Graves, Hunter College School of Education

• Jenny Tuten, Hunter College - CUNY