High-Quality Professional Learning
We know that what is learned and how it's learned matters if principal professional learning is going to have an impact on student and school outcomes (Darling-Hammond et al., 2022). We are dedicated to providing high-quality professional learning (HQPL) for principals and assistant principals in the state of Alabama. HQPL experiences target school leadership development and are comprehensive, sustained, job-embedded, and collaborative approaches to improving the effectiveness of school administrators in elevating student achievement through professional study. Additionally, HQPL experiences align with the Alabama Standards for School Leadership and the Alabama Standards for Professional Learning.
One requirement for successful completion of the Alabama Principal Leadership Development System (APLDS) program each year is that principals and assistant principals must complete
at least 30 APLDS clock hours of high-quality professional learning from the state-approved listed.
Selecting Professional Learning
Consider the following questions when selecting
high-quality professional learning from the following state-approved lists.
PLP Goals
Will the professional learning help me meet my PLP goals related to growth, achievement, and school climate?
Standards
What skills and practices in the Alabama Standards for School Leadership do I need to develop?
Context
What areas of professional growth do I need to focus on the most right now based on my leadership context?
Reviewing Transcripts for APLDS Clock Hours
updated November 26, 2024
All APLDS clock hours must be awarded through the PowerSchool Professional Learning platform
under the Office of APLDS (Alabama Principal Leadership Development System).
Other Guidance:
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Please contact the professional learning provider with questions regarding session offerings.
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The state-approved list will continue to be updated throughout the school year.
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For ACLD PLUs, participants must also register for the PLU course in PowerSchool Professional Learning to receive PLU credit.
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Professional learning must be approved by supervisors through the Professional Learning Plan (PLP).
Requirements for Elementary School Administrators
(Principals and Assistant Principals)
In accordance with the law, elementary school administrators (principals and assistant principals) are required to participate in early literacy and early numeracy high-quality professional learning experiences. You can find approved professional learning experiences that meet this requirement below.
For more information about session details (e.g., date, time, location), please contact the professional learning provider.
Area
Early Literacy (K-3)
Title
APLDS - ARI: Neuhaus Structured Literacy Modules, Informed by the Science of Reading
Description
The Neuhaus Structured Literacy Modules are a set of more than 15 modules that discuss the components of evidence-based structured literacy instruction. The modules provide an in-depth explanation of the ways research grounded in the science of reading informs structured literacy, why the components of structured literacy are necessary for developing skilled readers, and how these components can be practically applied during direct instruction.
It is the only non-certification Neuhaus course that covers a variety of essential literacy topics in a single class. The modules are not attached to any curriculum.
Note: This course is available to K-12 administrators.
Link: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=xR8fNaFG3EW3EUPMffG2K7JRGtbJ-QRGvqhPhzfueq5UMkZQTzRUSERLSDVNUTROWlkzSzVCWklKNC4u
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
18
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320378
Area
Early Literacy (K-3)
Title
APLDS - ARI: LETRS for Elementary Teachers
Description
The LETRS course of study has provided educators and administrators with a deeper understanding of the science of reading by covering all layers of language organization (phonology, orthography, morphology, syntax, semantics) and their relevance for teaching reading, spelling, and oral language. This is a 2 year course. However, the clock hours reflect the number of hours that will be awarded each year.
Note: This course is only available to K-3 administrators.
Link: https://www.lexialearning.com/alabama-letrs
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
84
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320377
Area
Early Literacy (K-3)
Title
APLDS - ARI: LETRS for Administrators
Description
The LETRS course of study has provided administrators with a deeper understanding of the science of reading and structures for effective implementation by covering all layers of language organization (phonology, orthography, morphology, syntax, semantics) and their relevance for teaching reading, spelling, and oral language. This is a 2 year course. However, the clock hours reflect the number of hours that will be awarded each year.
Note: This course is only available to K-3 administrators.
Link: https://www.lexialearning.com/alabama-letrs
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
30
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320376
Area
Early Literacy (K-3)
Title
APLDS - ARI: Moves that Maximize Connecting the ELA COS Proficiency Scales & ACAP Resources to Guide Instructional Decision Making
Description
PLEASE NOTE: This offering is based on regional availability. Please contact your RIC Director for further information.
Participants will have the opportunity to examine the 2021 ELA COS Standards for K-3. The focus will be on interpreting the critical components of these standards and identifying resources that can be effectively utilized to unpack them. Additionally, participants will gain an understanding of the basic components of proficiency scales and delve into the process of implementing these scales to guide both instruction and assessment. This session will further explore how to use proficiency scales as a tool for determining student mastery and planning targeted instruction based on assessment outcomes.
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
Region 7 - Montevallo; Region 8 - ASU
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
3
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320681
State-Approved List
updated November 26, 2024
You can search all state-approved professional learning experiences below by provider and Regional Inservice Center.
For more information about session details (e.g., date, time, location), please contact the professional learning provider.
Title
APLDS - AMSTI: Supervising High-Quality Science Instruction (K-12)
Description
To view a calendar of events and REGISTER for this professional learning experience, please go to the link: https://www.amsti.org/professional-learning
APLDS clock hour credit will be awarded for this course after the professional learning session. For questions, please contact your AMSTI facilitator.
Requirements for Credit:
1) Attend at least 3 of the 4 virtual sessions as scheduled (all sessions will be recorded), 2) Complete all reflection assignments in Google Classroom (requires "The Instructional Leader's Guide to Implementing K-8 Science Practices" book - https://a.co/d/3rI4oNE), and 3) Complete all evidence of application assignments in Google Classroom (requires observations in a classroom during science instruction).
Session 1 Outcomes (November): 1) Examine the shifts in science education; 2) Analyze the structure of the 2023 Alabama Course of Study: Science standards, and 3) Utilize groups of Science and Engineering practices to identify focus areas.
Session 2 Outcomes (December): 1) Construct an understanding of the Science Practices Continuum: Supervision, 2) Apply key levers to understand the differences in levels of science practices, 3) Connect the Science Practices to the ACTS and ATOT, and 4) Engage in a preliminary planning process to develop a targeted supervision cycle.
Session 3 Outcomes (January): 1) Become familiar with the Science Instruction Observation Form through application, 2) Determine focus for informal observations, and 3) Understand the feedback process and what it involves.
Session 4 Outcomes (February): 1) Determine the professional growth needs of science teachers, 2) Develop a professional learning plan to support high-quality science instruction, and 3) Discover resources available to support high-quality science instruction.
Professional Learning Provider:
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
6
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
324489
Title
APLDS - ARI: Strong Leader, Strong Reader: Leadership Labs
Description
Leadership labs are an opportunity to engage in school-embedded professional development as a team of principals. Leadership labs are structured around an observation of a principal leading the coaching effort, accompanied with a debrief to unpack implications and points of learning that relate to leading a successful coaching effort. A prebrief also provides time for the principal to set the focus and share tools and strategies that are being used at the school.
Note: This course is only available to K-3 principals.
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
K-3
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
15
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320371
Title
APLDS - ARI: LETRS for Administrators
Description
The LETRS course of study has provided administrators with a deeper understanding of the science of reading and structures for effective implementation by covering all layers of language organization (phonology, orthography, morphology, syntax, semantics) and their relevance for teaching reading, spelling, and oral language. This is a 2 year course. However, the clock hours reflect the number of hours that will be awarded each year.
Note: This course is only available to K-3 administrators.
Link: https://www.lexialearning.com/alabama-letrs
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
K-3
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
30 (per year)
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320376
Title
APLDS - ARI: LETRS for Elementary Teachers
Description
The LETRS course of study has provided educators and administrators with a deeper understanding of the science of reading by covering all layers of language organization (phonology, orthography, morphology, syntax, semantics) and their relevance for teaching reading, spelling, and oral language. This is a 2 year course. However, the clock hours reflect the number of hours that will be awarded each year.
Note: This course is only available to K-3 administrators.
Link: https://www.lexialearning.com/alabama-letrs
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
K-3
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
84
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320377
Title
APLDS - ARI: Live Virtual Sessions with Diane Sweeney on Leadership Supporting Coaching
Description
This professional learning experience applies to all grade levels and multiple content areas.
Diane Sweeney, author of Leading Student-Centered Coaching, will provide a series of trainings to support principals creating positive changes in their building through Student Centered Coaching Practices and how to support the coaches in their building to increase student achievement. Each session will last one hour and 15 minutes, for a total of four sessions.
Please register for the WebEx series and all FOUR PowerSchool sessions in order to receive credit for the Principal Act.
Webinar series registration link:
https://alsde.webex.com/webappng/sites/alsde/webinar/webinarSeries/register/7a1f07a0099f403c804574ea9ff7bd6a
For more information about Diane Sweeney, visit the link below.
Link: https://www.dianesweeney.com/
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
5
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320386
Title
APLDS - ARI: Live Virtual Sessions with Mel Ilk on Supporting a Schoolwide System for Literacy
Description
These sessions will be led by Mel Ilk, author of LETRS for Administrators. Participants will learn about the critical systems and structures necessary for the successful implementation of a system of literacy instruction. A model for implementation will be provided for participants to analyze current school practices and define the next steps for a successful implementation.
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All K – 3 Administrators
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
3
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
323425
Title
APLDS - ARI: Neuhaus Structured Literacy Modules, Informed by the Science of Reading
Description
The Neuhaus Structured Literacy Modules are a set of more than 15 modules that discuss the components of evidence-based structured literacy instruction. The modules provide an in-depth explanation of the ways research grounded in the science of reading informs structured literacy, why the components of structured literacy are necessary for developing skilled readers, and how these components can be practically applied during direct instruction.
It is the only non-certification Neuhaus course that covers a variety of essential literacy topics in a single class. The modules are not attached to any curriculum.
Note: This course is available to K-12 administrators.
Link: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=xR8fNaFG3EW3EUPMffG2K7JRGtbJ-QRGvqhPhzfueq5UMkZQTzRUSERLSDVNUTROWlkzSzVCWklKNC4u
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
18
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320378
Title
APLDS - ARI: Oral Language, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia Series Presented by June Shelton School and Evaluation Center
Description
The Shelton School will be providing state-wide PD on oral language, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia on the following dates and times:
Oral Language Friday, July 12, 2024, 2:30-3:30 (for Grade Levels K-3)
Dyscalculia Friday, August 9, 2024, 2:30-3:30 (for Grade Levels K-12)
Dysgraphia Friday, August 30, 2024, 2:30-3:30 (for Grade Levels K-12)
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
K-3 (Oral Language); K-12 (Other Sessions)
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
3
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320379
Title
APLDS - ARI: ELA Dyslexia Awareness Training - Dyslexia: An Overview
Description
PLEASE NOTE: This offering is based on regional availability. Please contact your RIC Director for further information.
Experience Dyslexia is designed to increase awareness of the difficulties and frustrations that people with dyslexia, as well those with the characteristics of dyslexia, encounter daily. We hope this experience will provide insight into working more effectively with these students and lead to greater empathy and understanding.
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
3
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320626
Title
APLDS - ARI: Moves that Maximize Connecting the ELA COS Proficiency Scales & ACAP Resources to Guide Instructional Decision Making
Description
PLEASE NOTE: This offering is based on regional availability. Please contact your RIC Director for further information.
Participants will have the opportunity to examine the 2021 ELA COS Standards for K-3. The focus will be on interpreting the critical components of these standards and identifying resources that can be effectively utilized to unpack them. Additionally, participants will gain an understanding of the basic components of proficiency scales and delve into the process of implementing these scales to guide both instruction and assessment. This session will further explore how to use proficiency scales as a tool for determining student mastery and planning targeted instruction based on assessment outcomes.
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
Region 7 - Montevallo; Region 8 - ASU
Target Audience:
K-3
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
3
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320681
Title
APLDS - ARI: Help! I'm an Elementary Administrator in Charge of Implementing the Alabama Literacy Act
Description
PLEASE NOTE: This offering is based on regional availability. Please contact your RIC Director for further information.
As the 2024-2025 school year begins, there are additional facets of the Alabama Literacy Act (ALA) that must be put into place to support students in achieving reading proficiency. This includes students who have been retained in third grade and those who have been promoted to fourth grade utilizing a good cause exemption. This session will highlight the steps necessary to build structures at the local level. These structures support full implementation of instruction, based in the science of reading and lead to increased efficacy among teachers. Participants will also have time to collaborate with peers regarding structures that are working to improve literacy outcomes for students. There are some great things happening in Alabama schools!
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
K-3
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
3
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320312
Title
APLDS - ATiM: Beyond Human Minds and Machines: Exploring Artificial Intelligence (PLUACLD1185)
Description
TO RECEIVE PLU CREDIT, PARTICIPANTS MUST ALSO REGISTER FOR THE PLU COURSE IN POWERSCHOOL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the world as we know it, leading to countless innovations and advancements across various fields. This technology has immense potential, and when used effectively, it can change the way we work, learn, and live. Artificial Intelligence is a branch of computer science that involves the development of intelligent machines that can work and learn like human beings. AI utilizes advanced algorithms and technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision to simulate human-like behavior. In this PLU, participants will explore and discover the positive and negative impacts of AI and how it can used to transform education. Participants will cover:
1. Positive and Negative Impacts of AI
2. Ethical Considerations; Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
3. Data Governance and Acceptable Use
4. Teaching and Learning with AI
5. AI Powered Ed Tech Tools
6. Gamification and AI
7. Lesson Redesign
8. AI and Teacher Professional Development
9. AI in /current and Future Careers
10. AI for Early Intervention
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Technology in Motion (ATiM)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
APLDS Clock Hour(s):
15
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320656
2024-25 Principal Act State-Approved Professional Learning Conference List
You can search state-approved conferences below.
For more information about session details (e.g., date, time, location), please contact the professional learning provider.
Principal Act State-Approved Professional Learning Request Form
Superintendents, district administrators, and vendors may request state approval for high-quality professional learning experiences. To request approval, the Principal Act State-Approved Professional Learning Request Form must be completed through DocuSign.
Submission Received By | Review Window |
|---|---|
July 1 - 31, 2024 | August 1-31, 2024 |
August 1- September 30, 2024 | October 1-31, 2024 |
October 1 – November 30, 2024 | December 1-31, 2024 |
December 1, 2024 – January 31, 2025 | February 1-28, 2025 |
February 1 – March 31, 2025 | April 1-30, 2025 |
April 1 – May 31, 2025 | June 1-30, 2025 |
June 1 – July 31, 2025 | August 1-31, 2025 |
Principals and assistant principals are encouraged to reach out to the district APLDS program contact for additional guidance.
State-Approved List Support
For questions about the state-approved list, reach out to Dr. Anna Shepherd-Jones at:
Email: anna.jones@alsde.edu
Phone: 334.694.0785
Technical Support
For questions and support with PowerSchool Professional Learning, reach out to Rhett Cutts at:
Email: rcutts@alsde.edu
Phone: 334.694.4828