Collegial Circles


An alternative in-service opportunity available throughout the year.

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Q.  What is a Collegial Circle?
A.  A collegial circle is a group of teachers who meet to discuss a common goal, need, interest or essential question that impacts learning in the classroom.  There is a shared commitment to the purpose of the group.  Each group will explore and evaluate its purpose following its own schedule. 

Q.  How many people can be in a Collegial Circle?
A.  A minimum of 4 people, no more than 9 people, plus 1 facilitator.

Q. How is a Collegial Circle conducted? Where do they meet?  When do they meet?
A.  Each circle will select a facilitator who will be responsible for submitting the necessary paperwork such as a list of participates and the Action Plan.  After the Action Plan is approved, the group may meet wherever and whenever they want as long as it is not during normal school hours.  You may choose to meet at someone's house, the library, at school or wherever you can accomplish the goals set out in the Action Plan.

Q.  What kinds of projects would qualify for a Collegial Circle?
A.  Anything that directly impacts instruction may qualify for a Collegial Circle.  Participates could share lessons and ideas, explore new teaching strategies, or read and discuss literature related to your subject area.

Q.  How many hours is a Collegial Circle?
A.  The group must meet for at least 15 hours to receive 1 in-service credit.  The hours may be completed at whatever pace is determined by the group.  All Collegial Circles must be completed by April 30, 2011.

Q.  I don't need anymore in-service credits.  Can I get paid for participating in a Collegial Circle?
A.  Yes!  For the 2010-11 school year, the rate to participate in a Collegial Circle is ______ per hour.  For a facilitator, the rate is ______ per hour.

Q.  What are the responsibilities of being a facilitator?  Why would I want to be a facilitator?
A.  Every Collegial Circle must have a facilitator and his/her responsibilities are as follows:

  • Advise members of meeting dates/times and locations

  • Set agenda for each session

  • Organize materials for each session

  • Maintain focus for the group

  • Keep a log of all sessions to include signed attendance sheets and summaries of topics discussed, ideas shared and decisions and recommendations made.  The log must be handed in when the Collegial Circle is completed.

  • Ensure that each participate submits a reflection when the Collegial Circle is completed

In return for the extra work involved in facilitating a Collegial Circle, the facilitator receives _____________________________________.

Q. I would like to initiate a Collegial Circle.  How do I get started?
A.  Identify an area on which your group will focus.  Speak to your colleagues and secure at least 4 colleagues who would be interested in exploring the area that you chose.  Download and fill out the application and submit it to the Teacher Center.  When your application is approved, you may begin meeting.

Q.  When the Collegial Circle has completed its Action Plan, what do I need to hand in to receive credit?
A.  The facilitator must submit a detailed log of meeting dates, times and topics discussed.  In addition, all group members must submit a reflection on what they learned and how it will impact instruction in their classroom (approximately two pages typed).

 

 

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