PD FAQs

def. (from BCTF Members’ Guide) Professional development is a process of ongoing growth, through involvement in programs, services, and activities designed to enable teachers, both individually and collectively, to enhance professional practices. For more information, please see the PD Lens.

As a professional, you can choose the activity that helps you become a better teacher. You do not necessarily have to do what others are doing but keep in mind as professionals we are part of a team, and working collegially is sometimes a necessary thing.

This information outlines the procedure for applying for Professional Development (PD) funding through the Delta Teachers’ Association (DTA). Here’s a summary for both Regular PD applications and Credit Course applications:

Regular PD Application Process:

1. Read Policies & Checklist: Understand the policies to ensure you meet all requirements for timely reimbursement.
2. Complete: Fill out the application form.
3. Obtain Principals Signature: Approach your Principal and request school/district funding and have your Principal sign your application regardless of the amount of funding they are willing to offer.
4. Attach your conference or workshop supporting documents (including date, location, cost, and a brief description)
5. Submit Application: Send the completed form along with the conference/workshop details (date, location, and cost) to the DTA office via email (brianna@deltateachers.org) or fax (604-946-1629).
6. Approval: Once approved by the PD Chair, you’ll receive a copy via school mail with a reference number for follow-ups regarding application/payment status.

Credit Course Application Process:

1. Read the Policy: Ensure you understand the policy for Credit Course funding.
2. Complete the Form: Fill out the application, and attach relevant university documents:
   • Course number & description
   • Course dates (start & finish)
   • Course tuition cost breakdown
3. Submit and Receive Confirmation: Once approved, you will get a copy with a reference number for future inquiries regarding your application/payment.

This process ensures that active DTA members can efficiently apply for and track their PD funding.

For Regular PD funding and Self-Directed PD, the application must be submitted at least 14 days before the event. For Credit Course applications, they must be submitted before the course begins.

Late applications will not be accepted, ensuring enough time for processing and for applicants to receive confirmation of approval. This timeline is crucial for members seeking timely feedback on their applications.

This depends on what you are applying for.

Regular funding is often shared by the school. The annual maximum from the DTA is $800.

Credit Courses and Self-Directed are covered solely by the DTA.  Credit course max is annually $1,500.  For Self-Directed, the cost of 1 TTOC per year per member is allowed.

Yes, this is the only time we will waive the 14 day deadline. Your application must be received by the DTA office no later than 4:00 pm the day prior to the October PSA conferences day.

Good question! Yes, there are occasions when funding will be denied or modified.

A list of reasons is noted in the policies for the PD funding application and on the Credit Course application, which will be noted on your approved or denied application.

Have your applications submitted on time to avoid the situation where you have registered for a conference/workshop which you will not receive funding for.

Yes, there is an appeal process you can follow if your PD funding application is denied. Here are the steps:

Appeal Process (see DTA Constitution 12:04):

• Step 1: Submit an appeal in writing to the DTA PD Committee, stating your grounds for appeal. This must be done within 30 days of the denial. Send your appeal via email to brianna@deltateachers.org.

• Step 2: If you are dissatisfied with the committee’s decision, you are entitled to a final and binding ruling by a special panel. This panel will consist of the DTA President and two members of the Executive Committee who were not involved in the original appeal. The appeal must be submitted within 30 days of receiving the step one denial letter. Send this appeal to brianna@deltateachers.org.

Lastly, remember that PD days are working days. Misusing them could jeopardize their availability in the future.