VietTESOL International Convention 2026

As English shifts from foreign language to second language, sustained professional development for educators is becoming increasingly important. Teachers must be equipped with the skills needed to meet evolving instructional demands and to progress professionally. They not only need to be given opportunities to pursue continuing professional development (CPD), but also recognition for their professional learning achievements. Meaningful acknowledgement of teachers’ accomplishments, when extended beyond the individual to the wider department, institution, or teaching community, can play a key role in sustaining motivation, reinforcing professional identity, and encouraging ongoing engagement in CPD. While several widely used CPD frameworks support both self- and top-down assessment, recognition of completed training or professional development activities can be overlooked. Drawing on institutional initiatives and educator feedback, this presentation will explore practical approaches that schools, departments, or centers can use to acknowledge and celebrate professional learning, from individual achievement to shared, collective success. Attendees will leave the session with ideas to promote a culture of continuous professional learning that supports educators and ultimately benefits learners.