§18-2I-4. Coordination, development and evaluation of professional development programs.

(a) On or before November 1, 2018, the state board shall promulgate a rule in accordance with §29A-3B-1 et seq.  of this code to ensure the coordination, development and evaluation of high-quality professional development programs. The rule shall include, but is not limited to, the following:

(1) Standards for quality professional development that all professional development providers shall use in designing, implementing, and evaluating professional development that shall become part of the system for the coordinated delivery of high-quality professional development established by the state board;

(2) Processes for aggregating information, in part from school and school district strategic plans, to determine areas of common need for professional development, as well as those more varied, to assist in the design of the most effective and efficient method and level of delivery;

(3) Processes for assuring professional development resources are appropriately allocated to identified areas of need;

 (4) Processes for evaluating the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of the professional development;

(5) Processes for ensuring all stakeholders, including affected principals and classroom teachers, have a voice in the identification of needed professional development and various delivery models;

(6) Processes for collaboration among West Virginia Department of Education, county boards, principals and classroom teachers; and

(7) Processes for ensuring that the expertise and experience of state institutions of higher education with teacher preparation programs are included in developing and implementing professional development programs.

(b) The Center for Professional Development, formerly provided for under §18A-3A-1 et seq. of this code before the effective date of the amendment and reenactment of this section during the 2018 regular session of the Legislature, is hereby transferred to be under the authority and control of the state board. To assist in the delivery of high quality professional development for teachers, principals, and other school employees, the state board shall incorporate within the Department of Education the Center for Professional Development whose general mission shall be under the direction of the state board to advance the quality of teaching and learning in the schools of West Virginia through programs, technical assistance and support to schools and school systems to meet the legislative findings and goals of this article. The center shall perform other duties that may be assigned to it by the state board. In addition, the center shall provide statewide coordination for the continued growth and development of advanced placement programs in West Virginia high schools, including, but not limited to, serving as a liaison for The College Board, Inc., and providing for the training of advanced placement teachers.