Follett announced today it has launched a new Professional Development series for educators to help them make the most of Follett technology and products through hands-on experience and real-life examples. The series, available now to PreK-12 school districts, supports the implementation of national and statewide programs and teaches educators how to help students build key 21st-century skills.

The on-site courses range from three to six hours, are targeted for a broad range of educators, and cover a full range of topics in educational technology, specifically:

•    Simplifying Complex Text
•    Mastering Information Literacy
•    Keeping a Seat at the Table with Google™
•    Transforming Reading Programs with Technology
•    Fire Up Reading with Great Classroom Libraries

A one-hour webinar, “Opening the Door to Close Reading,” also is available.

“We've listened to our customers, who have been asking for help as they learn new ways to maximize the use of their Follett resources,” said Nader Qaimari, President, Follett School Solutions. “Our new PD series is intended to provide a true end-to-end solution with real-world examples the participants can immediately apply within the classroom and library.”

Gwen Schmitt calls herself a “loyal Follett user for 23 years,” and recently served as a beta tester of the new PD series along with other librarians in her central California district.

“It was of so much value to our district library staff to ensure we are fully using the resources we have,” said Schmitt, elementary school librarian with Oakdale Joint Unified School District. “Our trainers were amazing resources of information, patient and gave specific answers to our many questions. I now feel like I am current with Follett’s improved offerings, and can share that knowledge with our students and staff.”

For more information about Follett’s Professional Development offerings, visit www.follettlearning.com/professional-services/simplify/professional-development.