Professional Learning
About Us
At NEISD, we believe great schools are built by educators who feel supported, inspired, and empowered to grow. That’s why professional learning here is more than a required training — it’s an ongoing investment in teachers, leaders, and the students they serve.
Whether you’re beginning your career, joining NEISD from another district, or looking to expand your impact as an experienced educator, you’ll find opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow throughout the year.
A District That Invests in Educators
The Professional Learning Department supports teachers and campus leaders through meaningful learning experiences, coaching, collaboration, and instructional support designed to strengthen classroom practice and student success.
Our goal is simple: help educators thrive so students can thrive.
At NEISD, professional learning is intentionally connected to daily practice and classroom impact. Educators are supported through experiences that strengthen instruction, build leadership capacity, and create opportunities for collaboration across campuses and grade levels.
Contact Us:
Cathy Hinojosa
Director of Professional Learning
(210) 407-0112
chinoj2@neisd.net
Matt Ahlgren
PLC and Teacher Clarity Coordinator
(210) 407-0306
mahlgr@neisd.net
Sandy Guerra
Asst. Director of Professional Learning
(210) 407-0116
sguerr7@neisd.net
Angela Sherwood
PLC and Teacher Clarity Coordinator
(210) 407-0126
asherw1@neisd.net
PD Transcript Request
Teachers who need copies of their professional development transcripts may submit the online Professional Development Transcript Request. NEISD will provide a copy of your Eduphoria portfolio upon request.
Contact: Sandy Guerra, Assistant Director of Professional Learning — Request Transcripts
What Educators Can Expect at NEISD
Support for Beginning Teachers
Starting your career can feel overwhelming — but you won’t do it alone here.
NEISD invests in first- and second-year teachers through mentorship, targeted training, coaching, and ongoing guidance designed to build confidence and strengthen instructional practice. New teachers receive support that helps them navigate the realities of the classroom while continuing to grow professionally.
Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)
Starting your career can feel overwhelming — but you won’t do it alone here.
Collaboration is part of the culture at NEISD.
Teachers work together in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) focused on essential standards, student learning, instructional planning, and timely support for students. PLCs help educators problem-solve collaboratively, share effective practices, and stay connected to a shared mission of helping all students succeed at high levels.
Professional Learning Opportunities Throughout the Year
NEISD educators have access to a variety of professional learning experiences designed to meet educators where they are and support growth throughout every stage of their career.
Opportunities include:
- Summer professional learning experiences
- District conferences and workshops
- Campus-based coaching and training
- Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)
- Virtual learning sessions
- Self-paced learning opportunities
- Teacher-led collaboration and learning experiences
Learning That Leads to Impact
Professional learning at NEISD is designed to be practical, collaborative, and immediately meaningful to classroom instruction. Educators are encouraged to explore new strategies, reflect on practice, and continue growing alongside colleagues who are committed to student success.
When educators continue to grow, students benefit — and that’s the heart of the work we do.
Our Services
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Leaders promote and encourage effective implementation of professional learning through collaboration, ongoing support, and follow up to determine next steps.
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Leaders collaborate with the professional learning department in order to guide and support professional goals, student growth goals, and campus based initiatives.
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Teachers seek, attend, and engage in professional learning to enhance student achievement.
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Teachers utilize professional learning to seek clarity, enhance instructional practices and engage in the PLC process.
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Teachers implement strategies and instructional practices to meet the needs of all learners.
Collective Commitments
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We commit to professional learning opportunities that align to the DIIP and Instructional Framework that support campus based initiatives and Professional Growth Goals.
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We commit to instructional strategies that promote success for all learners.
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We commit to creating and facilitating a collaborative environment for all learners.
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We commit to professional learning that enables educators to build a shared understanding of effective instructional practices to achieve Campus Goals, Professional Goals and Student Growth Goals.
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We commit to professional learning that informs educator practice to make decisions in response to student learning.
Why it matters
When educators have clarity, collaboration, and support, classrooms transform. Students experience instruction that is purposeful, responsive, and anchored in meaningful learning. Teachers experience professional growth that strengthens their practice and renews their passion. Campus leaders gain partners who help turn vision into sustainable action.
The Professional Learning Department exists to make this possible. We are here to champion learning—for educators, for teams, and ultimately, for every student in NEISD.