Teacher Development Program

Our Teacher Development Program aims to improve the skills of experienced teachers and help painters who want to become teachers.

What is a Teacher of Decorative Arts?

A Teacher of Decorative Arts (TDA) is a dedicated teacher of decorative painting who has furthered his or her professional career by undertaking a systematic study of teaching principles and methodology through the Teacher Development Program. The TDA designation is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed a two-part training process. The successful completion of this program is an indication that he or she has knowledge of teaching techniques and principles, has had teaching experience, and has demonstrated an ability to apply these principles and practices in a classroom setting.

Part I

Participants will receive the Teacher Development Program Manual, which is an outstanding reference manual developed through the collaborative effort of internationally esteemed teachers, painters and business members. After studying the manual, participants will take the open book, written test and return it to SDP. Topics include:
  • Learning theory
  • Identifying student needs
  • Managing student behavior
  • Teaching children
  • Classroom preparation
  • Business management
  • Copyright and ethics

Part II

After participants have passed the written test, they will be required to complete 100 hours of teaching time in a setting of no less than four students per class. In addition, participants will record a teaching video and prepare supporting class materials. Three copies of the video and three copies of the supporting class materials must be submitted for evaluation.

Why Participate?

Upon completing the Teacher Development Program, you receive:

  • Distinctive enameled Teacher of Decorative Arts pin with a gold tone brush charm
  • Personalized diploma, signed by the current SDP Board President
  • Entitlement to use the designation TDA (Teacher of Decorative Arts) after your name on all pertinent printed and online materials, and painting correspondences
  • Listing as a TDA on the SDP website
  • Opportunity to evaluate Teacher Development Program video submissions
  • Serve as mentor for aspiring TDAs

Who Can Apply

Members in good standing who is willing to serve as a Teacher Development Program evaluator upon successful completion of the program.

Get started by ordering the Teacher Development Program Manual.