The Zachary Community School District (ZCSD) utilizes research-based best practices to plan for effective professional development (PD) opportunities in our district to impact student learning.  A variety of PD models is used to accomplish this goal.  Job-embedded professional development is designed to ensure that professional growth is ongoing, interactive and linked to student achievement.  We utilize mentors, demonstrations of practice, feedback on performance,  online collaboration, professional communities and expert consultants noted in their fields of study. Throughout the implementation and follow-up components of professional development, teachers analyze the impact on student learning and make adjustments in instruction.

Many of our educators have presented at local and state conferences.   The professional development opportunities provided include best practices for students including but not limited to critical and creative thinking skills and differentiation for learners.