Message from the Quest Center
Professional Development is Union Work!
Teaching is a complex, demanding profession -- cognitively and physically. No one knows that better than those who are involved in the daily task of educating children. Given the importance of teacher quality in improving student achievement, teacher training has emerged as an important tool in improving education.
The role of the Chicago Teachers Union Quest Center is to promote efficacy and excellence in classroom practice that lead to school improvement. We do this by exposing our members to the newest research-based principles, strategies, and practices that have been proven to enhance teaching and learning.
Our venues for continuous professional learning are built on the premise that workshops should be rigorous yet convenient to our members. We believe that all children can be successful…no exceptions, with the expert help of Chicago Teachers Union members.
Celebrating its eighteenth anniversary in 2010, the Chicago Teachers Union Quest Center was launched with a generous grant from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. The CTU Quest Center has been instrumental in supporting teachers and paraprofessionals in the dialogue and debate on the transformation of Chicago's public schools.
Mission
To build and sustain a community of Union professionals by providing continuous professional learning opportunities that enhance members' knowledge and skills in "best practice;" to foster staff effectiveness in implementing comprehensive school reform; and to nurture teacher leadership in order to improve student performance.
Vision
To strengthen the Chicago Teachers Union through professional development.
Functions
The CTU Quest Center serves as a citywide catalyst for improving the quality of teaching and learning by
- encouraging, developing and nurturing teacher leadership and collaboration;
- facilitating implementation of comprehensive school reform;
- promoting Board/Union partnerships which result in improved student achievement;
- and fostering dissemination of cutting-edge research and information.
CTU 2010 Fall Program Class Schedule
Graduate/Undergraduate Program
All classes will be held at Chicago Teachers Union Headquarters
222 Merchandise Mart PLAZA, Suite 400
Click here to download the class registration form with detailed information on classes offered.
CTU 2010 Fall Program Class Schedule
Graduate/Undergraduate Program
All classes will be held at Chicago teachers union Headquarters
222 Merchandise Mart PLAZA, Suite 400
Philosophy, Curriculum, and Instructional Methods for the Middle School (3)
Examination of the origin and development of the middle school concept, responsibilities
of the middle school classroom teacher, and developmentally appropriate instructional practices for middle school teaching, including content area reading.
(Middle Grade Endorsement Class)
Fridays - September 24 - December 10, 2010
5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
PSYC 4210/5210 Adolescent Psychology for Middle Grade Teachers (3)
Explores the development issues of early adolescence as they pertain to
middle school education. Explores the advisory role of middle school teachers
in assessing, coordinating and referring students to health and social service
agencies. (Middle Grade Endorsement Class)
Saturdays - September 25 - December 11, 2010
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
READING 5000 Teaching Beginning Reading (3)
Study of the concept of reading readiness and the methods, materials, and
skills employed in the teaching of beginning reading.
Fridays - September 24 - December 10, 2010
5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Best Practices in Middle School Reading (3)
Middle school philosophy and specific reading practices geared to the middle school
learner. Emphasis is on best practices in instructional planning and preparation, interactive learning strategies and assessment.
Saturdays - September 25 - December 11, 2010
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.