Yes, we build in 4 PD days a year that we are closed, so staff can focus on training. Each day usually has 5 hours of training and the rest of the day they can work on rooms or have meetings with colleagues in other rooms. Our state mandates 16 hours per year of PD, but our school requires 20, so that is fulfilled in this structure. We've changed the days somewhat over the years, but there is usually one in February, one in July, one in December during our school's winter break, and this year we've closed the day before Thanksgiving, because we are usually low on children that week anyway. However you do it, we've found parents are very understanding of the need and with advanced notice like putting it on the school calendar months ahead of time, they can plan, and it's really no big deal. With a full day, you can build in team building activities and meals, and the staff just really enjoy it. It's worth it, make it happen if you can.
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Amy Gottschamer
Executive Director
Googols of Learning Child Development Center
Lawrence KS
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Original Message:
Sent: 11-02-2021 10:40 AM
From: Laura Davis
Subject: Training
Does anyone close the daycare during the year for a day to complete training for your staff? We are only closed on major holidays, but I've been thinking of closing for a day to have a training day for my staff to get their hours in for their PDL. We are based in Oklahoma.
Thanks,
Laura
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Laura Davis
Director
FIRST KIDZ ACADEMY
Marlow OK
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