Q. What happens if I have to drop out of the program? [back to list of questions]
A. You need to be part of a Learning Community (LC) for its life - this provides a continuous foundation. If you need to drop out for a time, you can join another LC starting later and receive credit for all of your previous work. However, you will be expected to participate from the beginning to the end - even though you will not pay for the work you have already experienced.

Because the curriculum spirals throughout the program, it may be necessary to do special work to complete the courses being taken at the time you drop out. Fielding withdrawal policies and deadlines will apply.

Q. Should I have a team from my school join this program? [back to list of questions]
A. It helps to have other people from your school in the program, but it is not required. Having even one or more colleagues to talk with and share these learning experiences increases the pleasure and the depth of the learning. However, single teachers have participated and done well. Everyone has a collegial support group within the LC and they usually connect with other LC members from nearby schools for any support needed between sessions.

Q. How is this program connected to and/or supported by the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards? [back to list of questions]
A. The standards you will develop for your professional development plan (PDP) will be focused by the NBPTS five (5) propositions. Furthermore, once you have completed the program, you may elect to join a cohort of LC members preparing to become Board certified, and be supported throughout the process.

This additional work can be embedded in a graduate course, making it possible to use financial aid support. If this is of interest to you, talk with your facilitators during the first semester of the program.

Q. How long do I have to complete the MA-CEL? [back to list of questions]
A. LC candidates will almost always complete their work in two years because of the nature of the approach. Some students take more time to complete the Capstone Project. If you need an extension of more than a semester to complete the Capstone Project once the LC has graduated, you may have to make special arrangements with your facilitator/advisor and pay for the additional support of your learning. However, this will be the exception.

Q. What is the typical make-up of a LC? [back to list of questions]
A. A LC is made up of a minimum of 20 candidates and as many as 60 or more. A community may include early childhood, elementary, middle level, high school, social workers, school nurses, librarians, special education teachers, technical and junior college instructors and people involved in supporting professional development in the business world. The years of professional experience for participants varies from two or three to 30 or more. Those attending a LC value personal and professional learning, respect their profession, like to have fun, and thrive on the opportunity to learn with others, linking the best of the affective and cognitive worlds.