UNIVERSITY 97 was developed by a collaborative agreement between the Oak Park Teachers Association and District 97 in 1993. UNIVERSITY 97 is considered an exemplary staff development program because it allows teachers to receive credit for in-house courses and to apply these credits to salary lane advancement. The in-district courses are free to district staff and are usually taught by District 97 personnel.

The Life-long Learning Committee, an advisory group made up teachers, secretaries, educational assistants and administrators, is charged with implementing staff development in Oak Park School District 97. This program includes courses designed to complement the curriculum and teaching in Oak Park District 97. Courses change over time as research reveals new information about best practices.

Updated: December 11, 2009