Core Principles

... Teachers at every level -- from kindergarten through college --  are the agents of reform through professional development  in partnership with universities and schools.

... Writing can and should be taught, not just assigned, at every grade level and in every subject area; professional development programs should provide opportunities for teachers to work together to understand the full spectrum of writing development.

...Knowledge about the teaching of writing comes from research, the analysis of practice, and the experience of writing; effective professional development programs provide frequent and ongoing opportunities for teachers to write and to examine theory, research, and practice.

...There is no single right approach to teaching writing; however, some practices prove to be more effective than others. A reflective and informed community of practice is in the best position to design and develop comprehensive writing programs.

... Teachers who are well informed and effective in their practices can be successful teachers of other teachers as well as partners in educational research, development, and implementation.