Faculty Professional Development | Academia | Avon Old Farms

Our Expert Faculty

Avon Old Farms School is expert in educating boys, and that expertise comes in part from our faculty’s dedication to ongoing professional development.

Faculty engage in professional development throughout the year, and there are two ongoing summer study programs for faculty to participate in.

Faculty Professional Development 

As part of our ongoing commitment to excellence, Avon has offered faculty a series of engaging professional development sessions. Notable among them was the session on "A.I. in Education," led by Nate Green from Sidwell Friends School. This enlightening discussion provided our faculty with valuable insights into the intersection of technology and education.

Another noteworthy session was "Thinking About Equitable Practice," presented by Kate Doemland and Alison Young from our very own Avon Old Farms English Department. The focus on Culturally Responsive Teaching, led by Gwen Couch and Lynette Freeman, further enriched our faculty's understanding and implementation of equitable practices in the classroom.

Prior to that, our entire faculty underwent comprehensive training and certification in Mental Health First-Aid. This initiative reinforces our commitment to the well-being of our students and ensures that our faculty is well-equipped to address the diverse needs of the individuals in our care.

Professional Development Programs

• Ann K. Kirby Summer Sabbatical

Our Ann K. Kirby Summer Sabbatical Program is designed to promote study, writing, or other creative work that contributes to the professional growth and effectiveness of the recipient as a scholar and teacher. With two recipients annually – one representing math and sciences and another in the humanities – this program empowers our faculty to acquire valuable ideas and practices, enhancing their professional growth and classroom instruction.

• McDevitt Professional Development Program

In 2020, Wade ’82 and Wendy McDevitt established the McDevitt Professional Development Program. This initiative encourages our faculty to travel and explore diverse opportunities for professional development that might not be available within the confines of our campus. By acknowledging the dedication of our faculty, this program aims to nurture the pivotal role they play in shaping the lives of our students.