se. Private schools may also submit a professional education plan for approval so they can be an approved professional education provider. This, however, is an option to private schools and is not mandated by the state because they do not receive federal funding in the way that public schools do so. Wallenpaupack Area School District is currently in phase one of the strategic plan. The plan is prepared to help school entities and private schools prepare professional education plans that meet the requirements of Act 48. It also establishes criteria for continuing professional education experiences. Certified professional educators not employed by a school entity that has a professional education plan must independently seek professional education opportunities from approved providers and/or colleges and universities. This would include private schools and certain charter organizations. As a reference and for information on approved providers see the Act 48 Continuing Professional Education Approved Provider Guidelines. Increasing student achievement and achieving the Pennsylvania academic standards will require professional education for all educators that changes practice, addresses organizational goals, and provides sufficient support over time to master new skills. Therefore, professional education plans must strike a balance between content, pedagogy and other skills needed and include evidence that they meet the following professional education criteria. This content, however, should not be too specific. It must allow for opportunity to grow from within the boundaries, not limited to specific statements, categories and conditions.Each professional education experience: 1. Is related to attainment of the Pennsylvania academic standards and high quality instruction. This includes state standards and any national standards either in revision or in implementation.2. Is planned in response to a need of the school entity and its professi...
