School boards approve professional development spending every year — but how do you know if it's actually working? This session breaks down the three levers of effective PD and shows why the real marker of success is teacher growth, not just completion certificates. We'll explore what separates PD that truly changes practice from PD that checks a box, and why the strongest predictor of student outcomes is instruction. We will explore approaches that build on the strengths already in your district, rather than starting from scratch. Board members and trustees will leave with a practical checklist for evaluating PD providers and holding them accountable for results.