The federal policy landscape: A look at how legislation affects professional development. By M. René Islas Specific elements in federal laws have the potential to impact practices at state and local levels. Professional development’s definition and importance in federal legislation, particularly the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, has evolved over the last couple of decades. Key points in learning Forward’s definition of professional development. Learning Forward described high-quality professional development in detail to influence the reauthorization of theElementary and Secondary Education Act. Research from within and beyond education supports the specific strategies and elements of the definition. The view inside the beltway: Seattle teacher trades in her chalk for a chance to be alegislative fellow. By Kristina Peterson Working as an aide to the House