Required Professional Learning: August 2026 Kickoff

As we prepare for the return of our staff on August 13 and our students on August 24, we are excited to launch the 2026-2027 Systemic Professional Learning Guide, centered on this year's theme, Strengthening our Culture of Learning. Our collective success depends on a unified approach to improving/accelerating student achievement, and our August kickoff is the critical foundation for this work.

The Importance of Our Focus: MTSS 
The primary focus of our systemic professional learning (PL) this August is the launch of our districtwide implementation of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Together, we will build a shared understanding of why MTSS matters, what a fully implemented MTSS framework looks like in HCPSS, and the foundational role of high-quality instruction in ensuring every student has access to high-quality learning and support. These sessions will establish the common language, expectations, and practices that will guide our work throughout the school year as we build our MTSS framework together. 

Preservice PL Schedule 
To ensure we are prepared for our students, the following sessions are required:

Middle & High School

• Friday, August 14: Required in-person Systemic Professional Learning on MTSS (8:00-11:00 a.m. at designated sites), paired with required asynchronous professional learning (telework option) during the remaining half of the day. Please refer to the PL Canvas Page for your assigned schedule and designated location. 
• Tuesday, August 18: Required in-person Countywide Professional Learning at designated sites (see PL Canvas Page). 

Elementary School

• Friday, August 14: Required in-person Systemic Professional Learning on MTSS (half day at designated sites), paired with required asynchronous professional learning (telework option) during the other half of the day. Please refer to the PL Canvas Page for your assigned schedule, designated location, and whether your in-person session is scheduled for the morning or afternoon.
• Tuesday, August 18: Required in-person Countywide Professional Learning at designated sites (see PL Canvas Page). 

Attendance and Accountability 
As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we have redesigned this year's professional learning based on feedback from staff across the system. Our goal is to provide learning experiences that are more relevant, collaborative, and directly connected to instructional practice and student success.

These sessions are intentionally designed to build individual and collective capacity, provide opportunities to collaborate with colleagues, engage in shared problem-solving, and establish a common understanding of key district initiatives. Your participation strengthens not only your own practice but also the consistency and quality of instruction across our schools.

Because these sessions are an essential component of our districtwide implementation efforts, attendance is expected for all staff. We recognize that unforeseen emergency circumstances may occasionally prevent participation.

Staff members who are unable to attend a required systemic professional learning session will be expected to complete the corresponding Vector module independently during the Professional Improvement Plan (PIP) time within the first two weeks of school. The Vector module will ensure access to the essential learning; however, it does not replace the collaborative discussions and shared learning that occur during the live session.

Thank you for your professionalism, your commitment to continuous learning, and your dedication to ensuring every student has access to high-quality instruction. We look forward to learning alongside you in August.