Dr. Lois Yamauchi, in a news release from the school, said the courses are designed to increase the use of the Center for Research on Education, Diversity and Excellence Standards for Effective Teaching and Learning, research-based principles of effective practice for culturally diverse students.

Yamauchi was a part of a team of researchers at the center that developed the principles. The courses, which include introductory and advanced seminars, are free and worth three university credits.

Teachers receive a $750 stipend for their first year of participation and a $1,000 stipend for their second year of participation. The grant also provides airfare and accommodations for Neighbor Island participants. The team gave priority to teachers with higher concentrations of Native Hawaiian students and teachers who were willing to participate for two years, and teachers who are a part of a group from the same school or complex.

In August 2007, 10 teachers from Maui and Nanakuli began the first professional development course. Next year, 15 additional educators will be involved — 10 from two Neighbor Islands and five from O'ahu. "Our research team will study the effects of the professional development on teacher and student outcomes," Yamauchi said.