To become a member of the Academy, applicants commit to solving a significant problem related to student learning through a team and problem-based learning process, have the endorsement and financial support of their superintendent or CEO of the organization in which they are employed, and agree to engage fully in the Academy learning experiences. Learn more and apply today!
The Learning Forward Academy is an extended and profound learning experience that models the organization's vision for professional learning
and teamwork in schools. Academy members work collaboratively to learn about and solve significant student learning problems that occur within their school, district, or organization. Through immersion in a model of inquiry-based and problem-based learning, participants gain solutions to the problems they and others bring; experience a model of professional learning that exemplifies our Standards for Staff Development; and construct knowledge and develop skills necessary to transform their learning, their work, and their organizations.
Academy members include district administrators, principals, teachers, and personnel from local, state, and national educational agencies, as well as university faculty, independent staff development providers, and leaders from nonprofit
educational organizations.
Academy Goals
Members clarify, study about, and solve authentic problems related to student learning in schools.
Members construct the knowledge and develop the skills and courage to solve significant problems related to student
learning.
Members transform professional learning within their own organizations.
Watch the Academy video
Testimonials
"My participation in the Academy Class of 2009 has transformed my vision of high quality professional development -- one that embraces NSDC's Standards of Staff Development and supports improved student achievement through a continuous cycle of improvement. I have new language, new tools, the support of trusted critical friends and a renewed sense of urgency to affect positive change through powerful professional learning. To describe the Learning Forward Academy experience as profound could only be an understatement."
Debbie Price Teacher-Consultant
"The overall experience of forming our Teachable Points of View, working on our learning plans, collaborating and networking with others, and being able to attend and participate in Learning Forward's opportunities designed specifically for professional learning leaders is one that I would recommend to any educator striving to improve as a leader and as a contributor to increased student achievement."
Nancy Caudell-Trammell Assistant Principal
"Our entire organization is thinking differently about professional learning. It is more of a vital part of our organization than ever before. Our administrative team understands the importance of things like follow-up and evaluating impact... so do a lot of the teachers... slowly, we are building an understanding of professional development as much more than Institute Days."
Jeanne Spiller Staff Development Coordinator
"The Academy was the best experience of my thirty years in public education. The connections, both personal and professional, I made as a member of the Class of 2008 will stay with me until I retire. I believe there should be at least one person from my district enrolled in each Academy class, so there are always individuals in the pipeline who can incorporate their Academy experience into the outstanding professional learning that already takes place in the Carmel Clay Schools."
