Each teacher employed in schools designated as below average or unsatisfactory who participate in the professional development activities and the improvement actions of the school which go beyond the normal school day and year may earn credits toward recertification according to the criteria established by the State Board of Education. To receive credit, activities must be based on identified professional development needs outlined in the school's improvement plan and must include at least one of the following:

1. (1) summer institute with follow-up activities;
2. (2) practice of new teaching strategies with peers regularly throughout the school year;
3. (3) work with peer study groups during the academic year in planning lessons; and

4. (4) observing and coaching regularly in one another's classrooms.

   The activities must be approved by the Department of Education and the department shall determine the amount of credit earned by the participation.