There are a variety of professional learning opportunities offered by specialist groups, businesses, universities or other parties that could be acceptable use of Pro-D funds, as alternative events.
Before applying for funding for an alternative event, members are encouraged to consider the factors the Pro-D Committee must assess to determine whether or not to approve the funding claim: STA Pro-D Policy, the BCTF Pro-D Lens and Canada Revenue Agency. (see sections 3.3, 3.4, and Appendix B)
Pre-Approval applications must be received at least 15 days prior to the event, but one month’s lead time is strongly recommended.
Pre-approval must demonstrate relevance to the applicant’s teaching practice now or in the future.
Each member must submit their own individual application.
Alternative Pro-D claims can include classroom observations outside of the CRD.
Alternative Pro-D claims can include conferences or workshops held outside of BC, provided that they:
are a significant workshop or conference,
are currently unavailable in BC (including similar offerings),
present costs that are deemed reasonable by the Pro-D committee, and
do not have students in care for any portion of the event
Special consideration can be granted for any event or activity.
All members attending events on instructional days must complete an LOA form https://sooketeachers.org/pro-d-expense-claim/ a minimum of 10 business days in advance. It is STA policy that all teachers be replaced, including non-enrolling positions.
