Image: Module Developing Activities that Support Students

Professional development for teachers is allocable under Title IV-A. But it also must be necessary and reasonable for the success of a Title IV-A program or activity. There should be a clear distinction between professional development with the objective of teacher improvement, and professional development with the objective of providing student support.

When developing Title IV-A programs that require teacher professional development, the objectives or intent of the professional development determines the difference between allowable under Title II-A and/or Title IV-A.

Professional development that allows teachers to be better teachers, or understand their content more clearly or deeply is a Title II-A objective.

Professional development that allows teachers to deliver a student support program effectively is a Title IV-A objective.

Read for Insight and Understanding

Example 1: Professional development in Math

Title II-A Activity: Professional development in new ways to teach math for understanding so that teachers are able to teach math better.
Title IV-A Activity: Professional development in new ways to teach math for understanding so that those teachers can deliver an alternative after school program that provides supplemental support for math students in need.

Example 2: Professional development in Social/Emotional Learning

Title II-A Activity: Professional development in social/emotional learning techniques, so that teachers can better understand how social/emotional learning works and potentially incorporate some principals into their teaching.
Title IV-A Activity: Professional development in social/emotional learning techniques, so that those teachers can deliver a social/emotional learning program to students having difficulties in school.

Reflection Questions: Know. Want. Learn.

What do you know about the allowability of professional development under the Title IV-A program?
What more do you want to understand about how professional development is allowed under Title IV-A?
How has your understanding of how Title IV-A can be used to support the professional development of teachers been changed?

Next Steps: Things to Make or Do.

Plan a joint meeting between the Title IV-A Stakeholder Team and the Professional Development Team to discuss professional development needs.
Plan large scale activities that can have greater impact on students and blend use of Title IV-A and Title II-A, or other Title Program funds to support them.