High-quality professional development is designed to improve the quality of classroom instruction; enable individuals to grow professionally; introduce practitioners to the practical applications of research-based strategies; and help teachers implement new technology and teaching strategies aligned with Minnesota's academic standards.

Support to districts and schools can be provided through a regional delivery system, customized technical assistance, or various means of technology. The Minnesota Department of Education hosts and supports a wide variety of professional development workshops, conference training sessions each year.

Minnesota Statutes – Professional Development
The fundamental purpose of staff development is to improve student learning.  The intent of Minnesota Statutes, section 122A.60 is that schools and districts implement a site-based process for both educational goals and staff development opportunities that will best help meet these goals. 

Providing teachers and other school district staff with individual and professional organizational growth and development opportunities prepares them to provide excellent educational experiences for students, and ultimately helps achieve the fundamental purpose of improving student learning. Revenue requirements for staff development are defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 122A.61.

Document Download:

• 2011 Memo on Staff Development Legislation Changes 
  The 2011 Minnesota Legislature enacted changes in staff development pertaining to revenue.