Jefferson Davis Co. School Dist.-RISING UP 2026 Elevating Teaching, Learning, Leadership, and Culture DISTRICTWIDE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

RISING UP 2026: Elevating Teaching, Learning, Leadership, and Culture is a districtwide professional development experience designed to strengthen instructional practices, promote consistent district expectations, and improve student achievement across Jefferson Davis County School District. The day will begin with opening remarks from Superintendent Mr. Ike Haynes, followed by whole-group sessions on District Non-Negotiables and the Code of Ethics.  Throughout the day, educators will participate in differentiated sessions based on their grade levels, content areas, and professional responsibilities. Sessions will focus on standards-coupled ELA instruction, the eight Mathematical Practices, inquiry-based science, computer science integration, writing instruction, gradual release of responsibility, student engagement, and classroom management. Each session will provide practical, research-based strategies that educators can immediately apply in their classrooms and schools.  Participants will leave each session with a meaningful take-back artifact, such as a lesson-planning template, implementation toolkit, instructional framework, or action plan. The overall purpose of the professional development is to build educator capacity, strengthen instructional alignment, support positive learning environments, and ensure that all employees understand their role in advancing the district’s expectations for excellence.