What process involves continuing to update, improve, and expand skills to remain current as an educator?

• A. National Association of Special Education Teachers aka NASET
• B. Pervasive development disorder and bipolar disorder
• C. Standards for credentials and employment for Special education professionals
• D. Professional development

Answer: (D)

Professional development is the ongoing process of updating, improving, and expanding an educator's skills to stay current. It includes activities like workshops, graduate courses, conferences, coaching, and collaborative planning that help teachers learn new instructional strategies, stay informed about current research and policy changes, and implement inclusive practices. This continual learning is essential in Special Education, where practices and requirements evolve, enabling teachers to better support students with severe-profound disabilities.

Other options point to an organization that supports teachers, conditions that describe student diagnoses, or credential standards that outline qualifications—none of these describe the ongoing practice of growing professionally in the role.