Child sex trafficking (CST) is the exchange of something of value for any sexual act with a minor. Public child welfare agencies are responsible for serving CST victims. In response to the critical need for training child welfare workers on engaging survivors of CST, we describe an innovative game-based training model used to train over 1000…

The spiritual environment in America has transformed due to demographic shifts, disaffiliation, and political polarization, forcing religious organizations and ministers to adapt their practices. Ministers often face challenges as a result of inadequate training and a lack of preparedness for complex ministry demands, leading to burnout and…

Transition services, particularly those that feature work-based learning experiences, often require designated staff to spend the majority of their time in the field. They also require that staff have the skills and supports to properly and effectively deliver these services. Training and monitoring these staff is critically important to ensure…

Despite significant social and legal progress, LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other sexual and gender minority) populations continue to experience higher rates of mental health and substance use disorders than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. Effective LGBTQ+ affirmative mental health care is essential for…

Across the U.S., schools are seeing improved outcomes tied directly to actions aligned with the Standards for Professional Learning developed by Learning Forward -- a research-based framework for designing and implementing professional learning that transforms teaching and boosts student success. Investments in these types of high-quality…

This study examined school staff reported behavioral responses to bullying, general likelihood of intervening and perceived self-efficacy for intervening with student bullying. We explored if the existence of school bullying-related policies and/or policy trainings was associated with the ways in which school staff responded to bullying. Data came…

This study examined school staff reported behavioural responses to bullying, general likelihood of intervening and perceived self-efficacy for intervening with student bullying. We explored if the existence of school bullying-related policies and/or policy trainings was associated with the ways in which school staff responded to bullying. Data…

With the growing population of English Language Learners, there is a need to focus on ELL education from a new perspective as principals' school priorities and practices directly influence teacher priorities and practices (Dufour & Marzano, 2011; Walker et al., 2004). Elmore (2000) stated that "leadership is the guidance and direction of…

Our paper, "Relationship between self-efficacy measured by the TSES scale and teacher participation in PDS activity," focuses on the collaboration between 19 professional development schools [PDSs] with whom Notre Dame of Maryland University has a partnership. The researchers surveyed in-service teachers in those 19 schools to determine…

This qualitative research study explored how the special education teachers describe the administrative support needed to stay in the profession and the barriers to obtaining administrative support in the school district of southcentral Maryland, United States. This study answered two research questions: first, on how the special education…

In 2017, the National 4-H professional research, knowledge, and competencies (PRKC) taxonomy was updated reflecting the current needs of 4-H youth development professionals. Knowledge and skill gaps of 4-H professionals need to be identified to optimize resource allocation for professional development on the state and regional level. We developed…

In collaboration with the Arts Education Partnership, Education Commission of the States is turning its attention to STEAM education (adding the "A" for arts), which can promote a more comprehensive approach and provide state policymakers with more policy levers. Several states have already begun implementing STEAM education and are…

This article explores the process of an action research project undertaken by a PDS partnership. Participants in a one day professional development seminar shared their perspectives on action research within a PDS network, and findings indicate that participants valued the collaborative effort and opportunities to share their research efforts.…

A leadership academy is a formal professional learning opportunity for current school leaders, focused on augmenting knowledge and skills, increasing specialization, and refreshing leadership practices. States interested in supporting leadership academies through federal or other funding sources can look to current models of leadership academies…

As a two-time winner of the Exemplary Professional Development School (PDS) Achievement Award and the only historically Black college and university (HBCU) to be presented with this award, Bowie State University offers a unique perspective on the power of partnership. This year's honor is particularly special, given the obstacles many educators…