Beyond the ‘One-and-Done’: Professional Development That Sticks
May 18, 2026
Effective teachers matter more to students' success than any other in-school factor. Effective principals matter a great deal, too, creating the conditions for improved student achievement, higher teacher retention, and a safe and supportive school climate.
But what kind of on-the-job learning helps a teacher or principal become effective and continue improving, and how much of it is happening in U.S. schools?
This new special report from Education Week explores those questions and more about the state of professional development, highlighting examples of best practices for teachers and principals, how school districts make the space for professional learning on their calendars and in their budgets, and exclusive data on what educators have to say about the professional development they're receiving—or not.
But what kind of on-the-job learning helps a teacher or principal become effective and continue improving, and how much of it is happening in U.S. schools?
This new special report from Education Week explores those questions and more about the state of professional development, highlighting examples of best practices for teachers and principals, how school districts make the space for professional learning on their calendars and in their budgets, and exclusive data on what educators have to say about the professional development they're receiving—or not.
Professional Development How a District Stopped Relying on 'One-and-Done' Professional DevelopmentAs its population of English learners grew, a district invested in coaching and co-teaching.
Professional Development Lessons Learned About Effective Professional Development for PrincipalsThe best professional development for principals has a lot in common with the best PD for teachers.
Professional Development When Should Schools Make Time for PD? What Educators—and Families—ThinkEducators see in-service and early-release days as practical times for PD. Families don't always agree.
Professional Development A Federal Fund for Professional Development Is Clouded by UncertaintyPresident Trump has repeatedly proposed axing the feds' biggest investment in professional development.
Classroom Technology More Schools Are Providing AI Training for Teachers. Is It Any Good?As more schools offer teacher training on AI, they need to move beyond basics, experts advise.
