Program Patterns, and Policy Choices

This staff delivery policy study was initiated by the legislature and governor in response to a steady escalation in the number and costs of staff development programs in the California public schools. The report is based on four main data sources: (1) descriptions of local patterns of staff development; (2) teacher and administrator surveys; (3) survey of districts and counties; and (4) state-level program descriptions and evaluations. Detailed information on the year-long study is contained in six chapters: (1) summary of findings and overview of the study; (2) summary of staff development investment by taxpayers; (3) the organization and delivery of staff development; (4) teachers participation in and appraisal of staff development; (5) staff development for administrators; and (6) policy issues and alternatives. More specific data are presented on appended tables, and references are included