Professional Development Points (PDPs) Q&A

How can SHIELD courses be used to count as PDPs

1. What are PDPs?

   • These are Massachusetts-specific professional development points (PDP) that are a set of coherent learning experiences that are systematic, purposeful, and structured over a sustained period of time with the goal of improving teacher practice and student outcomes. PDP providers can provide a certificate with PDP points that can be used. 

2. Is SHIELD a PDP provider?

   • Yes, SHIELD is a Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)-approved provider

3. How do PDPs compare to nursing contact hours provided by SHIELD?

   • 10 nursing contact hours = 1 PDP
   • Please note that nursing contact hours differ from continuing education units (CEUs). CEUs are also referred to as nursing continuing professional development (NCPD).  10 nursing contact hours = 1 CEU 

4. How does SHIELD provide PDPs?

   • SHIELD will provide a PDP certificate for courses completed that are at a minimum of 10 nursing contact hours.
   • The following SHIELD courses currently qualify for PDPs:
     • Strengthening Your Leadership Presence and Management Practices
     • Attending all four sessions of the Comprehensive School Health Services (CSHS) Meetings
       • These meetings are open to all MA school nurses, regardless of grant status 

5. Can I combine and convert any nursing contact hours into a PDP, even if the contact hours are less than 10 hours?

   • Yes, you can combine contact hours together. DESE provides directions on how to combine certificates, and they can be found here

6. Is there a DESE-approved resource document for any additional questions about PDPs?

   • Yes, DESE has an updated FAQ webpage here: https://www.doe.mass.edu/pd/faq.html 

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