Professional Development

Professional Development with the Program for Inclusive Education is not one-size-fits-all, much like the expectation for an inclusive classroom. Educators and students alike learn in multiple ways, and our goal is to offer many options to meet your needs. Educators can select form a variety of content modules and courses to advance their practices based on their own professional journeys. Additionally, schools/(arch)dioceses can create PD packages combining several offerings at a reduced rate. PIE is very intentional about differentiating its content based on specific needs. Contact PIE for a consultation to customize your experience.

The Holy Father reminds us that "our communities still have difficulties in practicing true inclusion and a full participation that finally becomes ordinary and normal. This requires not only specific techniques and programs, but first of all acknowledgement and welcoming of faces, tenacious and patient certainty that each person is unique and unrepeatable, and excluded face is an impoverishment of the community." Our professional development is constructed on the foundational understanding of the assets our diversity of learners present in our schools. 

Professional development establishes a theoretical framework, instills a culture of service, and provides the necessary skills to ensure success for all learners in the classroom. PD is research-based and cultivates best practice.

Prospective content topics include the following:

• Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (e.g., Response to Intervention and Positive Behavior Supports)
• Behavior - Foundation and theory, practical applications, and accommodations
• Instruction - Differentiation, data analysis, interventions, and accommodations
• Student Support Teams - Collaboration and data-based decision making
• Executive Functioning - Foundation and theory, practical applications, and accommodations
• Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and the interface of technological supports
• Strategic support for students with learning differences

(Arch)Diocesan keynote sessions and online modules are available. General professional development offerings are being restructured. Title funds may be used for these opportunities. Contact Christie Bonfiglio, PIE Director at cbonfiglio@nd.edu for more information.