Just Thinking… About How Professional Learning Among Teachers Can Boost Student Outcomes

With roughly half of the new teachers in Texas stepping into classrooms without full certification, the need for strong and practical professional learning has never been more urgent. According to research, effective professional development among teachers can boost student achievement by up to 21 percentile points—yet many educators frequently report lacking both the time and support to implement what they learn. With rapid advances in technology, shifting student needs, and the rise of AI in education, ensuring educators are equipped to think critically and adapt has become an urgent priority. So, how can professional learning be transformed to truly support teachers—both new and veteran—as they prepare students for an unpredictable future? Welcome to Just Thinking. In the latest episode, host Kevin Dougherty sits down with Terri Iles, Educational Consultant, and Debi Tanton, Director of Business Operations, both with Learning Forward Texas. Together, they explore the evolving role of professional learning in sustaining teacher growth, fostering critical thinking among learners, and strengthening school communities in a post-pandemic and AI-driven world. The main topics of conversation… The growing challenge of preparing and supporting new teachers entering classrooms without certification, and why differentiated professional learning is key to retention. How Learning Forward Texas leverages research-based strategies, free resources, and an annual statewide conference to model best practices for adult learning. Why reflection, relationships, and structured collaboration are essential for turning professional development into classroom transformation. Terri Iles has served in education for over four decades as a teacher, principal, Executive Director for Teaching and Learning, and as the former Executive Director of Learning Forward Texas. She is now a senior consultant with both Learning Forward Texas and Jim Shipley & Associates. Her lifelong commitment centers on elevating teacher practice and ensuring every child has an excellent educator. Debi Tanton recently retired from a 30-year career in Mesquite ISD, where she served as a teacher, instructional coach, principal, and in the Professional Learning Department. Now the Director of Business Operations at Learning Forward Texas, she brings her deep passion for teacher advocacy and designing impactful professional learning to statewide initiatives. Article written by MarketScale.