Program Development

The Program Development Department manages the development of programs for the IEA-NEA, with emphasis on training; Research Services; Computer Services; Professional Development; and in providing support for Higher Education; Educational Support Professionals; the IEA-NEA Student Program; the IEA Retired Program; and managing the IEA and NEA Representative Assemblies. The Department also manages the lEA Professional Development Center. Programs included are:

Winter Advocacy Conference

This annual conference provides training and information to strengthen locals in negotiations and contract enforcement.

Summer Leadership Academy

This three-day training session assists leaders in developing the skills to build strong local associations. Elective sessions are available for local presidents ,bargainers, grievance representatives, local treasurers, association representatives, and others. In addition, the SLA offers professional development courses for all members. These courses qualify for credit toward recertification for K-12 teachers.

Instruction and Professional Development Training

Training sessions examining the professional, educational, organizational, and personal issues that influence the work and lives of today’s educational employees are offered in conjunction with the annual Winter Advocacy Conference, the Summer Leadership Academy, the ESP Professional Conference, and at other venues throughout the year.

Minority Involvement Training Program

A selected cadre of minority leaders are trained in the Minority Involvement Program and other NEA Minority Training Programs. Use of the cadre in conducting training for minority members (and potential members) in the program emphasizes involvement in the Association.

IEA-NEA Representative Assembly and the NEA Convention

Coordination of the program and activities for the delegates are the primary areas addressed here.

IEA-NEA Staff Development and Training

The purpose of this program is to provide systematic and comprehensive development opportunities for professional and support staff. The primary objective is to develop skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to deliver services to lEA members.

I Can Do It Program

This is a classroom management training program for lEA members in their first five years of teaching. it focuses on successful classroom management, communications and learning styles, interventions for difficult behaviors, creating a smoothly flowing classroom. and building positive parent/teacher relationships.

Professional Development Center

The Illinois Education Association’s Professional Development Center is a 32,000 square foot facility providing professional development training, meeting and conference space. The technology throughout the building is state of the art. Through the PDC, the IEA provides continuing education to faculty and staff of the state’s public pre-K-12 and higher education institutions.