High-Quality Professional Learning
We know that what is learned and how it's learned matters if principal professional learning is going to have an impact on student and school outcomes (Darling-Hammond et al., 2022). We are dedicated to providing high-quality professional learning (HQPL) for principals and assistant principals in the state of Alabama. HQPL experiences target school leadership development and are comprehensive, sustained, job-embedded, and collaborative approaches to improving the effectiveness of school administrators in elevating student achievement through professional study. Additionally, HQPL experiences align with the Alabama Standards for School Leadership and the Alabama Standards for Professional Learning.
One requirement for successful completion of the Alabama Principal Leadership Development System (APLDS) program each year is that principals and assistant principals must complete
at least 30 APLDS Clock Hours of high-quality professional learning from the state-approved list.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
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Please contact the professional learning provider for further information about session offerings, details, and being awarded APLDS Clock Hour credit.
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The deadline for completing APLDS Clock Hours, add evidence of new learning in the APLDS Evaluation System, and certify APLDS program completion is May 1, 2025 for retiring school administrators and June 20, 2025 for school administrators not retiring.
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All APLDS Clock Hour credit must be awarded through PowerSchool PL.
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Elementary school administrators (principals and assistant principals) are required to participate in early literacy professional learning if you serve grades K-3 and early numeracy professional learning if you serve grades K-5.
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Please note PowerSchool PL registration deadlines for state-approved conferences.
Selecting Professional Learning
Consider the following questions when selecting
high-quality professional learning from the following state-approved lists.
PLP Goals
Will the professional learning help me meet my PLP goals related to growth, achievement, and school climate?
Standards
What skills and practices in the Alabama Standards for School Leadership do I need to develop?
Context
What areas of professional growth do I need to focus on the most right now based on my leadership context?
Reviewing Transcripts for APLDS Clock Hours
All APLDS Clock Hours must be awarded through the
PowerSchool Professional Learning platform under the
Office of APLDS (Alabama Principal Leadership Development System).
Video Tutorial
Step-by-Step Directions
Other Guidance
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Please contact the professional learning provider with questions regarding session offerings.
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The state-approved list will continue to be updated throughout the school year.
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For ACLD PLUs, participants must also register for the PLU course in PowerSchool Professional Learning to receive PLU credit.
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Professional learning must be approved by supervisors (e.g., through the PLP).
Upcoming Featured Sessions
Are you looking for professional learning experiences to deepen your school leadership practices
and complete at least 30 APLDS Clock Hours?
Check out these upcoming FREE opportunities brought to you by the ALSDE!
WestEd Session:
Strategic Leadership for Effective Recruitment, Retention, and School Improvement
3 APLDS Clock Hours
April 7, 2025
A+ Best Practices Center Session:
The Visible Learning Approach to School Success
2 APLDS Clock Hours
April 10, 2025
April 17, 2025
Maxwell Leadership Series: Generational Communication for School Leaders
2 APLDS Clock Hours
April 14, 2025
Peter DeWitt &
Michael Nelson Session:
Collective Leader Efficacy -Strengthening Instructional Leadership Teams
2 APLDS Clock Hours
April 30, 2025
Requirements for Elementary School Administrators
(Principals and Assistant Principals)
In accordance with the law, elementary school administrators (principals and assistant principals) are required to participate in early literacy professional learning if you serve grades K-3 and early numeracy professional learning if you serve grades K-5. You can find approved professional learning experiences that meet this requirement below.
Please contact the professional learning provider for further information about session offerings, details, and being awarded APLDS Clock Hour credit.
Title
Early Numeracy (K-5)
Title
APLDS - OMI: Everyone Counts (PLUACLD1320)
Description
TO RECEIVE PLU CREDIT, PARTICIPANTS MUST ALSO REGISTER FOR THE ACLD PLU COURSE IN POWERSCHOOL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING.
To receive APLDS Clock Hour credit, please contact your OMI Regional Coordinator for more information.
This Professional Learning Unit provides an opportunity for building administrators in Alabama public schools to participate in quarterly sessions designed to address distinct needs of building level administrators within all Alabama schools catering to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Through these professional learning sessions, participants will develop foundations required to build strong awareness and response to mathematics instruction as well as to ensure that all students' needs are bring met through academic and behavioral structures. Through AL-MTSS participants will refine their academic, behavioral, and foundations wellness supports to ensure success for ALL students.
Expectations for full and active participation to achieve a Professional Learning Unit include the following:
1. Active participation in two face-to-face Everyone Counts sessions hosted by OMI and MTSS regional staff and two virtual sessions hosted by OMI. The sessions will focus on professional learning communities (PLCs), Evidence Based Practices, Student Mathematical Practices and Engagement.
2. Completion of both virtual and between session activities assigned based on selected sessions. Participants will complete four learning walks (two focused on mathematical language and two focused on student engagement) in addition to four of the following activities listed below:
Complete a collaboration survey, complete a building a collaborative culture document, engage in self-reflections, plan next steps, conduct a Math School Improvement Team Meeting (MSIT), participate in a PLC that focus on sorting student work and create next instructional steps, and participate in a learning walk with a focus on formative assessment.
Participants will earn 1 ACLD PLU. This professional study is available during the 2024-2025 school year. The professional study will focus on Keys 3 and 4 and from Activating the Vision by Bill Barnes and Mona Toncheff.
Professional Learning Provider:
Office of Mathematics Improvement (OMI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Clock Hour(s):
20
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
327292
Title
Early Numeracy (K-5)
Title
APLDS - OMI: Book Study - Intentional Talk: How to Structure and Lead Productive Mathematical Discussion
Description
This is a book study of Intentional Talk: How to Structure and Lead Productive Mathematical Discourse by Elham Kazemi & Allison Hintz. The goals for each session are:
Session 1- Chapters 1-2: Four guiding principles of classroom discussions, a brief introduction to the targeted discussion strategies with a focus on Open Sharing Strategy.
Session 2 - Chapters 3-4: This session would focus on two targeted discussion strategies: Compare and Connect and Why? Let's Justify. There are planning documents associated with each strategy.
Session 3 - Chapters 5-6: This session would focus on two targeted discussion strategies: What's Best and Why? And Define and Clarify. There are planning documents associated with each strategy.
Session 4 - Chapters 7-8: This session would focus on the final discussion strategy Troubleshoot and Revise and reflecting on the learning with discussions that include topics like: When discussions are student-centered, what is the role of the teacher? Time constraints? Planning for targeted discussions?
There will be four 90-minute virtual sessions with "homework" in between to grow the understanding of math discourse and make connections to the evidence-based practices. This book study is structured so that the principal and/or math coach could lead the book study at their school based on their learning in the sessions. Because of this, administrators may invite their math coach to attend with them. However, it is not a requirement.
Professional Learning Provider:
Office of Mathematics Improvement (OMI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Clock Hour(s):
6
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
326337
Title
Early Numeracy (K-5)
Title
APLDS - OMI: Planning and Effective Tier 1- Through the Lens of a Principal
Description
This 90 minute session will give principals valuable insights into the key components of an effective Tier 1 math class. Participants will receive resources that will help sustain high-quality Tier 1 instruction and support planning using state-approved curricula (ANA p.14) through effective monitoring.
Professional Learning Provider:
Office of Mathematics Improvement (OMI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Clock Hour(s):
1.5
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
328183
Title
Early Numeracy (K-5)
Title
APLDS - AMSTI: Math Foundational Training (K-5)
Description
To view a calendar of events and REGISTER for this professional learning experience, please go to the link: https://www.amsti.org/professional-learning
APLDS clock hour credit will be awarded for this course after the professional learning session. For questions, please contact your AMSTI facilitator.
This training is a prerequisite for AMSTI K-5 Math Content Area Trainings. This 1-day training is designed to provide an overview of pedagogical strategies to be implemented with any mathematics content. The session focuses on the mathematics teaching practices and the formative assessment cycle.
Professional Learning Provider:
Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Clock Hour(s):
6
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
320539
State-Approved List
updated April 15, 2025
You can search all state-approved professional learning experiences below by provider and Regional Inservice Center.
Please contact the professional learning provider for further information about session offerings, details, and being awarded APLDS Clock Hour credit.
Title
APLDS - CLAS: AAESA Fall Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
Elementary principals will gather for the annual fall conference themed “Leadership Through Mentoring: Signs Leading to improvement.” Sessions will cover achievement, growth, climate, culture, leadership, intervention, retention prevention, and mental health. Informative speakers, state department leaders, and building principals will present the latest information. This conference also offers a great opportunity to network and learn with peers from across the state.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
Elementary Principals and Assistant Principals
Clock Hour(s):
12
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
322808
Title
APLDS - CLAS: AAPASS Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Alabama Association for Prevention, Attendance and Support Services invites you to join our diverse organization and attend our annual conference held in March. Active AAPASS membership consists of those current CLAS members who are presently engaged in work in the student services support area in Alabama schools. The following are examples of jobs that can join our affiliation- attendance, technology, student discipline, transportation, athletics, at-risk, safe and drug-free schools, Children's First, character education, counselors, nurses, assistant principals, etc. Membership is open to professionals who work in any of these areas, either at the local school or district levels.
Education personnel who work in these areas of student support are encouraged to consider joining AAPASS, as regional meetings and state conferences focus on equipping administrators with knowledge and information to ensure student support in all areas of education. Our annual conference focuses on areas involving attendance and truancy, homelessness, mental health, residency, specialized treatment centers, and a variety of other issues that impact the wellbeing of children in Alabama.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
12
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
322841
Title
APLDS - CLAS: AASCD Fall Bootcamp
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Alabama State Department of Education, along with AASCD and CLAS, invite you to lead by example by participating in a transformative day of learning, all while staying in your own office. These professional learning sessions will address some of today’s most relevant topics. Presenters will meet you where you are, answer your questions, and give a boost to your leadership skills as we all seek to lead with purpose. This one day virtual workshop will provide you with valuable information that you will be able to use immediately to impact your school in a positive way. It’s a day that will be well worth your time no matter where your areas of growth or need might be.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
6
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
322836
Title
APLDS - CLAS: AASCD Winter Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
It’s time to get away and collaborate with other curriculum directors across the state. Join educational leaders for the AASCD Winter Conference, January 27 - 28, 2025, at Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach, Alabama. This two-day conference will explore effective practices designed to transform teaching and learning in school districts. Make connections and take home tools and strategies to understand and implement effective practices in classrooms, schools, and districts. Join AASCD and improve your skills as you participate in this powerful learning opportunity. The conference will be a perfect combination of general sessions led by nationally-recognized speakers and smaller breakout sessions led by outstanding state and local school district presenters. Outstanding curriculum leaders will also be recognized during the Awards Breakfast on Tuesday morning.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
10.5
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
322837
Title
APLDS - CLAS: AASCD Spring BootCamp
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Alabama State Department of Education, along with AASCD and CLAS, invite you to dive into a time of learning to develop innovative curriculum and instruction strategies that will inspire and empower. For your convenience, you can stay right in your office while fostering access to this cutting-edge professional development. If you are passionate about shaping the future of learning in your schools and leading with impact, join us on this one day virtual workshop. We want to fill your bucket with new learning on a variety of topics that will enhance your leadership skills. You don’t want to miss this convenient, yet impactful, opportunity!
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
6
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
322839
Title
APLDS - CLAS: AASCD Women In Leadership Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Women S.H.I.N.E. in Leadership Conference is an intensive, full-day event designed to address the unique challenges and celebrate the achievements of women in leadership roles. Through a series of structured sessions, including a keynote address, a leadership panel, and an interactive solution-oriented workshop, attendees will gain valuable insights and practical tools to enhance their personal and professional development.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
5
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
322848
Title
APLDS - CLAS: AASSP Fall Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Alabama Association of Secondary & Middle School Principals 2024 Fall Conference will be held from November 10-13, 2024. This year's theme is “Relentless Resilience: What’s Your Superpower?” Experienced speakers will present sessions on Data Driven Instruction, Student Growth and Achievement, Building an Intentional Culture and Climate, and Chronic Absenteeism.
Administrators will reflect on and expand their leadership capacity with content focused on enhancing student achievement. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network and share best practices with other administrators.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
Middle/High School Principals and Assistant Principals
Clock Hour(s):
8
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
322810
Title
APLDS - CLAS: ACTA Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Association of Career and Technical Administrators (ACTA) 2025 Spring Conference emphasizes the importance of professional development and collaboration in the evolving landscape of career and technical education. This conference will provide engaging hands-on workshops led by industry experts; dedicated networking sessions with fellow administrators, educators, and industry leaders; insightful presentations showcasing innovative practices across Alabama; and opportunities to explore the latest products and services from leading vendors in the field to support programs and improve student outcomes.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
17
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
325933
Title
APLDS - CLAS: AL-ABSE State Meeting
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
Join the AL-ABSE Statewide Conference hosted by the Alabama Alliance of Black School Educators on January 22-24, 2025, at the City Club Birmingham. This annual event will feature renowned keynote speakers, engaging interactive breakout sessions, and presentations by school districts with cutting-edge programs. This conference is a must-attend for superintendents, administrators, teachers, and board members dedicated to leading the charge in educating Alabama scholars.
If you attend both the Aspiring Superintendents session and the conference, you can earn up to 16 APLDS clock hours. You can earn up to 10 APLDS clock hours for the conference.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
16
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
322847
Title
APLDS - CLAS: ALA-CASE Fall Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Fall ALA-CASE Legal Conference provide legal and practical guidance on hot topic issues such as FAPE and best practices in behavioral intervention, tiered instruction, services provision, etc. Attendees will leave each conferred prepared to face the many and varied challenges regarding provision of special education and related services that are applicable to all in education.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
11
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
323240
Title
APLDS - CLAS: ALA-504 Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Annual ALA-504 Conference offers a comprehensive overview of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, focusing on essential topics such as eligibility criteria, evaluation procedures, and safeguards to protect students' rights. Key discussions include discipline protocols, the distinction between FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) and non-FAPE services, and a review of the newly released 504 Process Manual. Attendees will explore hot topics and advanced issues, providing an in-depth understanding of current trends and challenges in implementing 504 plans in educational settings.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
10.5
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
323241
Title
APLDS - CLAS: ALA-CASE Spring Conference
Description
PLEASE NOTE: If you are participating in this professional learning experience in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an ACLD PLU, you may be awarded credit for this PowerSchool Professional Learning Course but not be awarded full credit for the clock hours stated in the PLU.
The Spring ALA-CASE Legal Conference provide legal and practical guidance on hot topic issues such as FAPE and best practices in behavioral intervention, tiered instruction, services provision, etc. Attendees will leave each conferred prepared to face the many and varied challenges regarding provision of special education and related services that are applicable to all in education.
Note: You can earn up to 8 APLDS Clock Hours for attending the conference and 11 APLDS Clock Hours if you also attend the Novice Coordinator Academy.
Professional Learning Provider:
Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)
Regional Inservice Center:
All
Target Audience:
All
Clock Hour(s):
11
PowerSchool Professional Learning Number:
323243
State-Approved Conference List
You can search state-approved conferences below.
Please note PowerSchool PL registration deadlines.
Please contact the professional learning provider for further information about the conference and being awarded APLDS Clock Hour credit.
Archived State-Approved Conference List
The deadline has passed to receive APLDS Clock Hour credit for the following state-approved conferences.
Principal Act State-Approved Professional Learning Request Form
Superintendents, district administrators, and vendors may request state approval for high-quality professional learning experiences. To request approval, the Principal Act State-Approved Professional Learning Request Form must be completed through DocuSign.
Request Forms are no longer being reviewed and approved for the 2024-25 school year.
The Request Form for the 2025-26 school year is now available.
Submission Received By | Reviewed By |
|---|---|
July 31, 2025 | September 30, 2025 |
September 30, 2025 | November 30, 2025 |
November 30, 2025 | January 31, 2026 |
January 31, 2026 | March 31, 2026 |
March 31, 2026 | April 30, 2026 |
Principals and assistant principals are encouraged to reach out to the district APLDS program contact for additional guidance.
Graduate Courses
Each three-hour course included on the Principal Act State-Approved Graduate Course List may be used as 30 APLDS Clock Hours if the following criteria are met:
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The graduate course credit must be awarded July 1, 2024 - June 20, 2025 to count toward the 2024-25 APLDS program requirements.
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Credit will only be awarded to principals and assistant principals.
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The final course grade must be at least a B.
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An official transcript must be submitted for verification.
For more information, please contact Dr. Anna Shepherd-Jones at anna.jones@alsde.edu.
State-Approved List Support
For questions about the state-approved list, reach out to Dr. Anna Shepherd-Jones at:
Email: anna.jones@alsde.edu
Phone: 334.694.0785
Technical Support
For questions and support with PowerSchool Professional Learning, reach out to Rhett Cutts at:
Email: rcutts@alsde.edu
Phone: 334.694.4828
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