Academic Excellence
Professional Growth Model
Our Professional Development Model
Our teachers participate in PIER group meetings to foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth and create a teaching environment that is both Christ-centered and excellence-driven.
PIER stands for Plan, Implement, Examine, Reflect. It is a structured professional development model created by the Teaching Better Institute and is specifically designed to foster collaboration among educators around shared challenges in instructional practices.
PIER stands for Plan, Implement, Examine, Reflect. It is a structured professional development model created by the Teaching Better Institute and is specifically designed to foster collaboration among educators around shared challenges in instructional practices.
Connection to Christian Vocation
The PIER model emphasizes a cycle of continuous improvement through collaboration, reflection, and evidence-based decision-making. Connecting this model to Christian vocation and stewardship involves seeing teaching and leadership as callings to serve others, nurture their development, and manage resources responsibly for God's glory.
Service to Others: The PIER model aligns with the Christian principle of serving others by focusing on collaborative planning and implementing strategies that meet the needs of students and communities.
Commitment to Growth: Teachers and leaders participating in the PIER model demonstrate a commitment to professional and personal growth, reflecting the biblical call to excellence in one’s work (Colossians 3:23).
Purposeful Reflection: The Reflect phase echoes the Christian practice of examining one’s actions and motives, aligning efforts with God’s purposes and striving for continuous improvement.
Core Components
- Job-Alike Teams: Teachers within the same subject area or grade level collaborate to share experiences and expertise.
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Research Lessons: Structured studies focus on observing, analyzing, and improving lessons through collaborative feedback.
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Reflection Protocols: Built-in reflection ensures thoughtful evaluation of teaching strategies and outcomes.
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Leadership Development: The program builds leadership capacity among faculty by encouraging shared accountability and decision-making.
- Mentorship and Support: Participants receive ongoing mentorship from TBI experts, including Dr. Brad Ermeling, the founder of the program.
Why PIER is Unique
Unlike traditional professional development models, PIER emphasizes sustained, collaborative cycles of improvement rather than one-time workshops. This approach ensures that changes are deeply embedded in instructional practices and align with Lutheran South’s Christ-centered educational philosophy (see below for connections to Christian vocation and service).
PIER Teams Distinguishing Features
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Grounded in principles of faith and vocation
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Derived award-winning studies in peer-reviewed, scientific journals
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Sustained implementation support with year-long guidance and training
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All services provided directly by original program developers
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Teacher-tested tools and processes for building skills and knowledge about teaching and learning
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Comprehensive system of support and implementation resources
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Systemic approach with cascading settings and capacity building for administrators, teacher-leaders, and teachers
Inspiring students through a Christ-centered lens to live courageously and serve faithfully
