FAQ's

What is PD?
def. (from BCTF Members’ Guide) Professional development is a process of ongoing growth, through involvement in programs, services, and activities designed to enable teachers, both individually and collectively, to enhance professional practices.

Do I need to do PD?
As a professional, you can choose the activity that helps you become a better teacher. You do not necessarily have to do what others are doing but bear in mind as professionals we are part of a team, working collegially is sometimes a necessary thing.

How do I apply for PD funds?
Complete the appropriate form; all forms are available on this website as well as on First Class. Once you have completed the form, have it signed by your PD Contact and your Principal. Submit the signed form to the DTA office along with the conference/workshop information (this information should include date, location and cost). Please read all the guidelines that are attached to your application, it contains all the information you will need to apply for funds and obtain your reimbursement. Once your application has been approved, you will be given a tally # and your approved application will be sent back to you via the school mail.

When should I send in my application?
For regular funding and self-directed you need to have your application into the office 14 days prior to the event, no late applications will be accepted!  This will ensure there is enough time to have it processed and for you to receive an answer as to whether or not it has been approved. Credit Course applications must be received by the DTA office before the course begins.

Is it true I can apply for PD funding for an October PSA conference less than 14 days prior to the event?
Yes, this is the only time we will waive the 14 day deadline. We will take your application up to a day in advance of the October PSA conferences, however the application must  be received in the DTA office the day before the conference to be eligible for funding!

What portion of the funding does the DTA cover?
This depends on what you are applying for. Regular funding is shared by the school, as indicated in the guidelines of the form. Credit Courses, Self-Directed are covered solely by the DTA.

Are there limits to the amount of funding I can receive?
Yes, currently the limits for Regular PD funding and Credit Courses are up to a maximum of $650.00 per year* to a maximum of $1000.00 over three years*. Self-Directed is one TOC per year*.
*Note – PD funding is based on the school calendar year July 1 – June 30th.

Once I have used my $1000 over 3 years, is my entitlement finished, or does it begin again after the 3 year period is up?
A good question. You do not start from zero again after the three year period. Here is an example using funding periods of the 2009-10 to 2012-13 school years:
You used $650.00 in 2009-10, $150.00 in 2010-11 and you use the remaining $200 in 2011-12 for a total of $1000. In 2012-13 that $650 from 2009-10 drops off the $1000 and becomes available for you to use again (providing the yearly amounts stay the same at that time).
If you need further explanation please contact the DTA office 604-946-0391

Is there any reason my funding application would be denied or modified?
Good question! Yes, there are occasions when funding will be denied or modified, a list of reasons can be found in the guidelines of the PD funding application. Have your applications submitted on time to avoid a situation where you have registered for a conference/workshop you will not receive funding for.

Is the cost of the TOC included in the $650.00 limit?
If your school is not covering the TOC cost, then yes, when you require a TOC the cost incurred is included in the $650.00 allotted. The cost of the TOC is not paid to you, we are invoiced by the Board office and we pay them directly. The reimbursement you receive is what you have been allotted minus the TOC cost.

How do I receive my reimbursement?
Once you have completed your course or workshop you need to submit all receipts to the DTA office accompanied with your approved application that includes your tally #. All receipts need to be received by the DTA office no later than June 30th no cheques will be issued for receipts received after this date! Your cheque will be sent to you via the school mail.

If my application has been denied do I have any other options?
Yes. There is an appeal process you can utilize, below are the steps.
Appeal Process (see DTA Constitution 12:04):
Step 1.  Appeal in writing to the DTA PD committee stating grounds for the appeal, within 30 days of denial.
Step 2.  If dissatisfied with the committee ruling, the colleague is entitiled to a final and binding ruling by a special panel composed of 3 of the following DTA Executive members: President, Second Vice-President and one of Secretary or Treasurer.

Lastly, a reminder that PD days are working days – don’t misuse them or we may lose them altogether.